Excess inventory management system, excess inventory management method, and weighing device

Abstract

This invention provides a surplus inventory management system S1 that appropriately manages inventory materials 1 subject to transfer or other transactions, and enables various users to effectively utilize inventory materials 1. [Solution] The system comprises a management unit (server 30), a weight measurement unit 10 for measuring the weight of inventory materials 1, an identification information acquisition unit 10f for acquiring unique identification information (tag ID) corresponding to each inventory material 1, and a communication unit (first communication unit 10c) for transmitting the weight of inventory materials 1 and their unique identification information to the management unit. The management unit updates the weight information of inventory materials 1 based on the received unique identification information and transmits the updated weight information to at least one predetermined user terminal (business user terminal 3a, general user terminal 4a).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an excess inventory management system for managing excess inventory, an excess inventory management method, and a weighing device for measuring weight.

Background Art

[0002] In the construction industry, it is common for contractors to purchase materials from manufacturers or wholesalers and secure inventory in advance. The secured materials are transported to the construction site and used for construction. After the construction is completed, the surplus is often taken back by the contractor and stored as inventory again. In order to prevent stockouts, contractors need to secure more materials than the quantity assumed in the plan, and as a result, excess inventory may occur. Among the inventory materials, for example, paint must be discarded when its expiration date has passed. In this case, the contractor needs to bear the disposal cost, and if the disposal is not properly carried out, there is also concern about the adverse impact on the environment. From this perspective, there is a need to construct a mechanism for effectively utilizing excess inventory by transferring it to a third party or the like.

[0003] As a technology to reduce waste by transferring surplus inventory to a third party, for example, a trading support device equipped with an inventory management function that can manage the inventory of multiple types of materials purchased and received by multiple users on a per-user basis, comprising: an inventory material registration means that registers materials purchased by a user as inventory materials upon registration request from the user; a remaining quantity update means that updates the remaining quantity of inventory materials registered by the inventory material registration means upon update request from the user; a trading target material setting means that sets the inventory materials that are the target of the listing request from the inventory material registration means as trading target materials upon listing request from the user; and a user's request for the type of inventory materials A transaction support device is known that includes: a request receiving means for receiving quest information; a matching means for identifying a user who possesses the type of inventory material requested by the user from the inventory materials registered in the inventory material registration means and set as transaction target materials, based on the request information received by the request receiving means; an inquiry material setting means for setting the type of inventory material possessed by the user identified by the matching means as inquiry material; and an inquiry information output means for outputting information regarding the inquiry material set by the inquiry material setting means to the user identified by the matching means and the user who output the request information. (Patent Document 1)

[0004] According to Patent Document 1, it is possible to provide a transaction support device that contributes to the efficient utilization of surplus materials while suppressing human resource costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7285033 [Disclosure of the Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 updates the remaining quantity of inventory materials (paint) registered by the inventory material registration means based on update requests from users. In such a configuration, for example, if many transactions involving the transfer of small amounts of paint occur, it becomes necessary to update the remaining quantity each time, which inevitably leads to a decrease in work efficiency. As a result, it becomes a factor that increases human resource costs.

[0007] This invention was devised to solve the problems of the prior art, and its purpose is to provide a surplus inventory management system that appropriately manages inventory materials subject to transfer or other transactions, and enables various users to effectively utilize inventory materials. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present invention, made to solve the aforementioned problems, is a surplus inventory management system comprising: a management unit; a weight measurement unit for measuring the weight of inventory materials; an identification information acquisition unit for acquiring unique identification information corresponding to the inventory materials; and a communication unit for transmitting the weight of the inventory materials and the unique identification information to the management unit. The management unit updates the weight information of the inventory materials based on the received unique identification information and transmits the updated weight information to at least one predetermined user terminal. This eliminates the need to measure the remaining amount of inventory materials each time, such as when a portion of the paint used as inventory material is transferred, thereby reducing human resource costs.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention enables the management unit to transmit first information relating to the inventory materials associated with the unique identification information to at least one predetermined user terminal. This allows users of the surplus inventory management system to obtain information such as the manufacturer or sales company, product name, color tag number (color information), manufacturing lot number, shipping plant name, and expiration date for each inventory material available as surplus inventory.

[0010] Furthermore, the present invention enables the management unit to transmit second information relating to the quality of the inventory materials, associated with the unique identification information, to at least one predetermined user terminal. This allows users of the surplus inventory management system to understand the quality (rank, deterioration indicator) of each inventory material available as surplus inventory.

[0011] Furthermore, in this invention, the unique identification information is stored in an IC tag provided on the inventory material, and the identification information acquisition unit acquires the unique identification information by wirelessly communicating with the IC tag. This makes it possible to acquire identification information corresponding to each inventory material using a simple method.

[0012] Furthermore, in this invention, the IC tag is detachably attached to the inventory material. This allows users who list inventory materials for sale to easily reuse the IC tag.

[0013] Furthermore, in this invention, the stock material is paint, and the IC tag is provided at the bottom of the paint can containing the paint. This ensures that the transmission and reception characteristics between the identification information writing unit and identification information acquisition unit, which transmit radio waves upward at the top of the weighing device, and the IC tag remain constant. Moreover, it prevents paint from adhering to the IC tag, eliminating the need for cleaning when the IC tag is peeled off and reused.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention further includes an identification information writing unit, wherein the management unit determines the unique identification information corresponding to the inventory material, and the identification information writing unit writes the unique identification information determined by the management unit to the IC tag. This makes it possible to prevent duplication of tag IDs stored in each IC tag.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention enables the management unit to acquire the first information based on an image of a two-dimensional code attached to the inventory material. This allows a user listing inventory material 1 to transmit information related to the inventory material to the management unit in a simple procedure.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention allows users of the user terminal to specify the weight of the inventory materials they wish to receive from the management unit, and the management unit extracts at least one of the inventory materials based on the specified weight. This makes it possible for users to procure the necessary inventory materials at a low cost, even when they require a relatively large quantity of inventory materials.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention generates the second information related to the quality of the inventory materials based on images taken of the inventory materials. This makes it possible to easily determine the condition of the inventory materials.

[0018] Furthermore, the present invention generates second information related to the quality of the inventory materials based on environmental information regarding the environment in which the inventory materials are stored and the first information. As a result, by using the second information (deterioration index) as a guide, users receiving the inventory materials can conduct transactions safely.

[0019] Furthermore, in this invention, the stock material is paint, and the management unit determines the information to be transmitted to the user terminal based on image data of the object on which the paint will be used. This allows the user to procure the paint necessary for construction by transmitting an image of the construction target to the management unit.

[0020] Further, the present invention is a weighing device including a weighing unit that weighs materials, an identification information acquisition unit that acquires unique identification information corresponding to the materials, and a communication unit that transmits the weight of the materials and the unique identification information to the outside. As a result, in addition to the weight of the materials, the weighing device can transmit information related to the materials to the outside.

Advantages of the Invention

[0021] According to the present invention as described above, it becomes possible to appropriately manage inventory materials that are the subject of transactions such as transfer, etc., and various users can effectively utilize the inventory materials.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] Explanatory drawing showing an overview of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention [Figure 3] Flowchart showing the process of registering inventory material 1 and the process of disclosing information related to inventory material 1 [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the process of registration and deletion [Figure 5] Block diagram showing the configuration of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an explanatory drawing showing an overview of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The surplus inventory management system S1 includes a server 30 as a management unit, and is used by selling users 2 (first selling user 2_1 to Nth selling user 2_N), business users 3 (first business user 3_1 to Pth business user 3_P), and general users 4 (first general user 4_1 to Mth general user 4_M).

[0024] Listing User 2 is the person who lists surplus inventory (Inventory Material 1). Business User 3 is the person who uses Inventory Material 1 in their business. If Inventory Material 1 is paint, Business User 3 is, for example, a painting contractor. Business User 3 is allowed to use Inventory Material 1 listed by Listing User 2 free of charge. General User 4 is the person who uses Inventory Material 1 for purposes such as DIY (Do It Yourself) or hobbies. General User 4 can purchase Inventory Material 1 listed by Listing User 2 for a fee. In the following explanation, when Business User 3 and General User 4 are not distinguished, they may be referred to as "Business User 3, etc."

[0025] Inventory material 1 is, for example, paint managed in units of paint cans. Inventory material 1 may be single or multiple units, and in the case of paint, the paint cans may be opened, and some of the paint may have been used. Here, one weighing device 10 is prepared for each unit of inventory material 1. The weighing device 10 may be owned by each seller user 2, or it may be lent to each seller user 2 by the administrator of the surplus inventory management system S1, etc. Seller users 2 manage their normal purchase and inventory receipt using a system they have built themselves. On the other hand, inventory material 1 that is recognized as surplus is traded with business users 3, etc. using the surplus inventory management system S1.

[0026] Users of the surplus inventory management system S1 must register with server 30 in advance, and each user is assigned a user ID. During user registration, each user specifies one of the following user attributes: seller user 2, business user 3, or general user 4. However, it is permitted for a user to be both seller user 2 and business user 3. That is, business user 3 can list items as seller user 2, and conversely, seller user 2 can use inventory materials 1 listed by other seller users 2 free of charge as business user 3. On the other hand, it is prohibited for a user to be both business user 3 and general user 4, and furthermore, it is prohibited for a user to be both seller user 2 and general user 4. In the surplus inventory management system S1, user attributes are managed as user attribute flags (note that the term "flag" includes variables; the same applies hereafter).

[0027] Server 30 has a user database (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "User DB") for managing users. The User DB stores user IDs, user attributes, and user personal information (address, name, contact information, etc.). Here, user attributes and user personal information are associated with the user ID. Server 30 extracts user attributes and user personal information based on the user ID received from an external source.

[0028] Server 30 is equipped with a surplus inventory management database (details will be described later) that manages information about the listed inventory material 1. Listing user 2 can submit a "registration request" to Server 30 to request the registration of inventory material 1 when listing it, a "disclosure request" to request that the information about the registered inventory material 1 be made public to business users 3, etc., and a "deletion request" to request the cancellation of the registration. Business users 3, etc. can also send predetermined search conditions and commands to Server 30. Server 30 searches the inventory management DB based on the search conditions, etc., and sends the extracted information to business users 3, etc. Server 30 also executes predetermined processes based on the received commands.

[0029] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The surplus inventory management system S1 consists of a listing user terminal 2a, a business user terminal 3a, a general user terminal 4a, a server 30, a weighing device 10, and IC tags 1a provided on the inventory materials 1. The listing user terminal 2a, business user terminal 3a, and general user terminal 4a are, for example, mobile information terminals such as smartphones and tablet terminals, or PCs (Personal Computers). These terminals are equipped with user interfaces such as input units and display units (not shown), a control unit, a storage unit, and a communication unit (none of which are shown).

[0030] The communication unit includes a communication module (not shown) that conforms to wireless communication standards such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G, or 5G, or to a known wired communication standard, and each terminal connects to the network 50 via the communication unit. The exhibitor user terminal 2a includes a first imaging unit 2b, the business user terminal 3a includes a second imaging unit 3b, and the general user terminal 4a includes a third imaging unit 4b. As described above, each user can be both an exhibitor user 2 and a business user 3, so the exhibitor user terminal 2a and the business user terminal 3a can be used interchangeably. In the following explanation, when the business user terminal 3a and the general user terminal 4a are not distinguished, they may be referred to as "business user terminal 3a, etc."

[0031] Server 30 is a known computer system that functions as a management unit and consists of a server control unit 30a, a server storage unit 30b, and a server communication unit 30c. The server control unit 30a is equipped with an arithmetic unit consisting of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and operates according to a control program stored in a storage unit such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random access memory). The server storage unit 30b is equipped with storage consisting of ROM and RAM as well as RAID (Redundant Arrays of Independent Disks). A surplus inventory management database (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "inventory management DB") is built on this storage.

[0032] The inventory management database stores registration application information (described later), a storage state flag for inventory material 1 (a flag indicating whether inventory material 1 is actually stored at the management location), the transfer price (for example, the price per unit weight applied at the time of transfer; it may also be the price per unit area), and a transaction state flag indicating the status of the transaction. Server 30 connects to network 50 via server communication unit 30c. Server 30 is also capable of accessing an NTP server or a time server (neither of which is shown) to obtain time information.

[0033] The weighing device 10 consists of a first control unit 10a, a first storage unit 10b, a first communication unit 10c, a weight measurement unit 10d, an identification information writing unit 10e, and an identification information acquisition unit 10f. The first control unit 10a includes an arithmetic unit (not shown) composed of a processor such as a CPU, and operates according to a control program stored in the first storage unit 10b, which is composed of ROM, RAM, etc. The first control unit 10a controls other components via a bus 10g, etc. The weighing device 10 is connected to a network 50 via the first communication unit 10c. Here, the server 30, the exhibitor user terminal 2a, the business user terminal 3a, the general user terminal 4a, and the weighing device 10 are able to send and receive information from each other. The first control unit 10a is also provided with a timer (not shown).

[0034] The weight measurement unit 10d is composed of a so-called electronic scale, which includes, for example, a load cell. The load cell is equipped with a strain gauge, and when weight is applied and the load cell deforms, the resistance value of the strain gauge changes. Based on this change in resistance value, the first control unit 10a measures the weight of the inventory material 1. The identification information writing unit 10e has the function of a so-called RFID writer, and the identification information acquisition unit 10f has the function of an RFID reader. The identification information writing unit 10e and the identification information acquisition unit 10f are located on the top of the weighing device 10 and transmit radio waves upward.

[0035] In the first embodiment, an IC tag 1a is provided on the stock material 1. The IC tag 1a is a tag (RF tag) that conforms to wireless communication standards (RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) communication standards) such as the ISO / IEC 18000 series, and is preferably a passive type that does not have an internal power supply and operates using electromagnetic waves emitted by an RFID reader or RFID writer as a power source. Of course, an active type with a power supply may also be used as the IC tag 1a. When the stock material 1 is paint, it is preferable that the IC tag 1a is provided on the bottom of the paint can in which the paint is stored. This ensures that the IC tag 1a is positioned opposite the identification information writing unit 10e and the identification information acquisition unit 10f, and that the transmission and reception characteristics between the identification information writing unit 10e and the identification information acquisition unit 10f and the IC tag 1a are kept constant. Furthermore, this prevents paint from adhering to the IC tag 1a, making it possible to omit cleaning when peeling off and reusing the IC tag 1a.

[0036] Furthermore, considering situations where the paint can is made of metal or contains water-based paint, the IC tag 1a may be a metal-compatible RF tag equipped with an antenna that takes into account reflection from metal, or a water-compatible RF tag with an optimized antenna length and shape. In addition, the bottom of the paint can and the IC tag 1a may be separated by a predetermined distance to reduce the effects of metal and moisture. It is also preferable to place the IC tag 1a in a predetermined enclosure, for example, and to make the enclosure detachable from the stock material 1 via a hook-and-loop fastener or the like. This makes it possible for the exhibiting user 2 to easily reuse the IC tag 1a.

[0037] The IC tag 1a stores unique identification information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "tag ID"). That is, the tag ID is associated with each inventory material 1 on a one-to-one basis. In the initial state, the tag ID is set to a specific value, such as NULL. The identification information writing unit 10e and the identification information acquisition unit 10f may use any of the LF band, HF band, UHF band, or microwave band frequency bands to communicate wirelessly with the IC tag 1a. In particular, if the IC tag 1a and the identification information acquisition unit 10f are located in close proximity, and the IC tag 1a is attached to a metal paint can, or if the paint can contains water-based paint, it is preferable to use the LF band, which has a relatively short communication range but is less affected by moisture and metal.

[0038] Furthermore, the bottom edge of the paint can has a rim that extends downwards, and the IC tag 1a is placed in the space formed by the bottom of the paint can and this rim. This rim also forms a shield, reducing the leakage of electromagnetic waves output by the identification information writing unit 10e and the identification information acquisition unit 10f. As a result, false detections are prevented in situations where multiple paint cans are stored in close proximity to each other, and it becomes possible to reliably acquire the tag ID corresponding to each paint can.

[0039] Here, the inventory material 1 may be provided with a two-dimensional code 1b. The two-dimensional code 1b is printed on, for example, a resin sheet-like member, and the sheet-like member is affixed to the inventory material 1. If the inventory material 1 is paint, it is preferable that the sheet-like member on which the two-dimensional code 1b is recorded is affixed to the side or top surface of the paint can. A matrix-type code (e.g., JIS X0510) composed of multiple white / black cells can be suitably used as the two-dimensional code 1b. Of course, a barcode or the like may also be used as the two-dimensional code 1b. The exhibiting user 2 can capture the two-dimensional code 1b with the first imaging unit 2b of the exhibiting user terminal 2a and transmit the captured image data to the server 30. The uses of the two-dimensional code 1b will be described later.

[0040] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the process of registering inventory material 1 and the process of disclosing information about inventory material 1. Hereafter, assuming that inventory material 1 is paint, we will continue the explanation using Figures 1 and 2 in conjunction with Figure 3. Here, the seller user terminal 2a has a predetermined application software (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "app") installed. In the following explanation, when "seller user terminal 2a" is used as the subject, it includes situations where seller user 2 inputs instructions according to the user interface provided by the app, and seller user terminal 2a executes processing based on those instructions (the same applies to business user terminal 3a and general user terminal 4a).

[0041] Listing user 2 operates the listing user terminal 2a to launch the application and then uses the application to configure settings for listing inventory material 1. Listing user 2 also manages weighing devices 10. There may be multiple weighing devices 10 under management, and each weighing device 10 is distinguished based on predetermined unique identification information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "weighing device ID"). When listing inventory material 1, listing user 2 specifies the weighing device ID and selects the weighing device 10 to use.

[0042] Exhibitor User 2 inputs information about the paint contained in each paint can (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "First Information") into Exhibitor User Terminal 2a (ST001). Here, First Information includes the paint manufacturer or distributor, product name, color tag number (color information), classification information (classification from the perspective of water-based / oil-based, or / or classification from the perspective of material such as urethane-based / silicone-based), manufacturing lot number, shipping plant name, manufacturing date, expiration date (use-by date), standard retail price per unit weight, transfer price, etc. Thus, First Information includes information for identifying the product, such as the type of paint, expiration date, and transfer price.

[0043] Here, the first information may be recorded in a two-dimensional code 1b by the administrator of the surplus inventory management system S1 or the paint manufacturer, etc. The exhibiting user 2 can easily obtain the first information (or at least a part of it) by taking a picture of the two-dimensional code 1b with the first imaging unit 2b and decoding it. Of course, for example, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) may be recorded as the two-dimensional code 1b, and the exhibiting user terminal 2a may access the URL via the network 50 to obtain the first information, or the image data of the two-dimensional code 1b may be sent to the server 30, and the server control unit 30a may decode the image data to obtain the first information.

[0044] Thus, in this embodiment, the management unit (server 30) may acquire the first information based on an image of the two-dimensional code 1b attached to the inventory material 1. This makes it possible for the user listing the inventory material 1 (listing user 2) to send information related to the inventory material 1 to the server 30 in a simple procedure.

[0045] Furthermore, seller user 2 inputs information related to the quality of the paint (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "secondary information") into seller user terminal 2a (ST002). Here, secondary information is, for example, a rank (level), and assuming that the paint's expiration date has not passed, it is defined as follows: "Rank A: Essentially new, and the paint can is unopened," "Rank B: Already used, but the top of the paint can has not been cut open," and "Rank C: Any condition other than Rank A or B." Here, Rank C refers to a condition where, for example, the paint has deteriorated to a certain extent, and while business user 3 can use it, it is judged to be difficult for general user 4 to use. Paint that has already passed its expiration date is designated as "Rank D."

[0046] The entered rank constitutes at least part of the second piece of information as rank information. The second piece of information may also include information on quality changes (deterioration) other than rank. Examples of information on quality changes include an index that shows the degree of paint deterioration (deterioration index, described later). The transfer price stored in the inventory management DB may also be linked to the rank and deterioration index. Specifically, for example, Transfer price = Deterioration index × Standard retail price per unit weight (or unit area) It may also be calculated as follows. Alternatively, for example, the degradation index may be set to 0.8 for rank A and 0.6 for rank B.

[0047] Furthermore, seller user 2 may input location information (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "third information") of the place (location) where the paint is managed into seller user terminal 2a. Third information may be geographic coordinate values ​​such as latitude and longitude or an address. If the location of the inventory material 1 to be listed and seller user terminal 2a are close together, the third information may be obtained by the GPS (Global Positioning System) module or the like installed in seller user terminal 2a. Of course, seller user 2 may also specify the address where the inventory material 1 is stored and perform geocoding on seller user terminal 2a to obtain geographic coordinate values. Alternatively, the address may be obtained from the geographic coordinate values ​​by reverse geocoding. Of course, the geocoding process may be performed on server 30.

[0048] The seller user terminal 2a determines, based on the input, whether the rank of inventory material 1 meets the listing criteria (ST003). Here, the seller user terminal 2a determines that if the rank is A to C, the listing criteria are met, while if the rank is D, the listing criteria are not met. If the rank of inventory material 1 meets the listing criteria (Yes in ST003), the seller user terminal 2a notifies seller user 2 via the display unit, etc., to place the paint can on the weighing device 10 (ST004). The seller user terminal 2a then sends a command to the weighing device 10 to start the weighing device 10 (ST005). On the other hand, if the rank does not meet the listing criteria (No in ST003), the process ends. At this time, the seller user terminal 2a may also inform seller user 2 that the rank of inventory material 1 does not meet the criteria.

[0049] When user 2 places a paint can on the weighing device 10, the first control unit 10a measures the weight of the paint can based on the output of the weight measurement unit 10d (ST006). If the weight of the paint can itself is known, the weight information may be the actual measured weight minus the weight of the paint can. The first control unit 10a determines whether the measured weight is greater than a predetermined value (ST007). If the weight is greater than a predetermined value (Yes in ST007), the first control unit 10a determines that a paint can has been placed on the weighing device 10. The measured weight is then temporarily stored as weight information in the first storage unit 10b. On the other hand, if the weight is less than or equal to a predetermined value (No in ST007), the first control unit 10a determines that there is no paint remaining in the paint can or that a paint can has not been placed on the weighing device 10, and terminates the process. In this case, the weighing device 10 may send error information, such as that there is no paint remaining, to user 2a.

[0050] Next, the first control unit 10a controls the identification information acquisition unit 10f to obtain a tag ID from the IC tag 1a (ST008). Then, it determines whether the obtained tag ID is NULL or not (ST009). If the tag ID is not NULL (No in ST009), it is determined that the tag ID (i.e., the paint (paint can) to be offered for sale) is already registered, and the process is terminated. At this time, the weighing device 10 may send error information to the listing user terminal 2a indicating that the item to be offered for sale is already registered.

[0051] If the tag ID is NULL (Yes in ST009), the first control unit 10a notifies the listing user terminal 2a that inventory material 1 can be listed (ST010). Upon receiving this notification, listing user 2 enters their user ID into the listing user terminal 2a. At this time, the measuring device ID may also be entered along with the user ID. The listing user terminal 2a then submits a registration request to the server 30 (ST011). In the registration request, the listing user terminal 2a transmits the user ID, weighing device ID, first information, second information, third information, and weight information (hereinafter, these may be collectively referred to as "registration request information") to the server 30.

[0052] The registration application information may include an IP address, and the seller user terminal 2a may, for example, send the IP addresses of both the seller user terminal 2a and the weighing device 10 to the server 30. Of course, the user DB or the like mentioned above may already store IP addresses corresponding to user IDs and IP addresses corresponding to measuring device IDs. By using these IP addresses, the server control unit 30a can send predetermined information to the seller user terminal 2a or send predetermined commands to the weighing device 10 to control it. The server control unit 30a may also notify the weighing device 10 of its own IP address, in which case the weighing device 10 can send the weight measurement result (weight information) to the server 30.

[0053] When the server control unit 30a receives registration application information, it generates a tag ID by concatenating, for example, the timestamp value at the time of reception with a random value. Of course, the method used to generate the tag ID is not limited. For example, a predetermined variable may be incremented each time a listing request is received and this may be used as the tag ID, or the tag ID may be generated using a method such as a UUID. The tag ID generated in this way is sent from the server 30 to the listing user terminal 2a (ST012). The registration application is approved when the tag ID is sent. The server control unit 30a associates the generated tag ID with the registration application information and stores it in the inventory management DB. The tag ID is then used as the primary key when searching the inventory management DB.

[0054] The seller user terminal 2a, whose registration application has been approved, transmits the received tag ID to the weighing device 10 (ST013). If there are multiple weighing devices 10, the seller user 2 specifies the weighing device 10 based on the weighing device ID and transmits the tag ID. If the IP address of the weighing device 10 is stored in the inventory management DB, the server control unit 30a may transmit the tag ID to both the seller user terminal 2a and the weighing device 10. When the first control unit 10a of the weighing device 10 receives the tag ID, it controls the identification information writing unit 10e to write the tag ID to the IC tag 1a (ST014). Then, it stores the tag ID in the first storage unit 10b (ST015).

[0055] As described above, this embodiment includes an identification information writing unit 10e, where the management unit (server 30) determines a unique identification information (tag ID) corresponding to the inventory material 1, and the identification information writing unit 10e writes the unique identification information determined by the management unit to the IC tag 1a. This makes it possible to prevent duplication of tag IDs stored in each IC tag 1a.

[0056] Once the registration application is complete, inventory material 1 is placed under the management of server 30. At this time, the transaction state flag, which indicates the status of the transaction, is initialized to 0 (transaction not completed). Subsequently, the listing user terminal 2a sends a predetermined command to server 30 to submit a disclosure application (ST016). Upon receiving the disclosure application, the server control unit 30a publishes the first information, second information, third information, weight information, and the storage state flag of inventory material 1 (hereinafter, these may be collectively referred to as "disclosed information") from the registration application information to business users 3, etc. (ST017). Of course, listing user 2 may be allowed to select which information to actually disclose from the disclosed information. This allows business user terminals 3a, etc. to access the inventory management DB and view the disclosed information. Inventory material 1 with a transaction state flag other than 0 (transaction not completed), i.e., a completed transaction, may be excluded from disclosure. Furthermore, based on the rank information described above, information regarding rank C paint may be restricted from being published to general users 4.

[0057] Upon publication, the server control unit 30a sends the tag ID along with the publication information for each inventory material 1 to the business user terminal 3a, etc. When the server control unit 30a receives a predetermined command from the business user terminal 3a, etc., it executes processing according to the command. At this time, the tag ID is sent from the business user terminal 3a, etc. to the server 30 for the purpose of specifying the individual inventory material 1.

[0058] The operation of the weighing device 10 after it has been placed under the management of the server 30 will be explained below using Figure 2. The weighing device 10 normally operates in low power consumption mode in order to reduce power consumption. However, even in low power consumption mode, a timer (not shown) provided in the first control unit 10a is always in operation. The timer outputs an interrupt signal to the first control unit 10a at a predetermined period (for example, 10 minutes). When the interrupt signal is input, the first control unit 10a returns to normal operation. It then controls the identification information acquisition unit 10f and transmits radio waves to the IC tag 1a. When the identification information acquisition unit 10f detects the IC tag 1a, the tag ID stored in the IC tag 1a is read and transmitted to the first control unit 10a. Furthermore, the first control unit 10a acquires paint weight information based on the output of the weight measurement unit 10d.

[0059] Thus, in the first embodiment, unique identification information (tag ID) is stored in an IC tag 1a provided on the inventory material 1, and the identification information acquisition unit 10f acquires the unique identification information by wirelessly communicating with the IC tag 1a. This makes it possible to acquire identification information corresponding to each inventory material 1 using a simple method.

[0060] Next, if the weight measurement unit 10d outputs weight information greater than a predetermined value (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "valid weight information"), the first control unit 10a transmits the tag ID and weight information to the server 30. After that, the weighing device 10 transitions to low power consumption mode. The first control unit 10a may also notify the server 30 that there is an abnormality with the IC tag 1a if the identification information acquisition unit 10f cannot read the IC tag 1a and valid weight information has been measured. If the IC tag 1a cannot be read and no valid weight information has been measured, the server may also notify the server that "the paint can is being taken out." In these cases, since the tag ID cannot be read from the IC tag 1a, the first control unit 10a uses the tag ID stored in the first storage unit 10b (see ST015 in Figure 3) to notify the server 30. Of course, when the weighing device 10 returns to normal operation and the IC tag 1a can be read again, the weight information is transmitted.

[0061] When the server control unit 30a receives the tag ID and weight information from the weighing device 10, it searches the inventory management DB using the tag ID as a key and stores (updates) the weight information in the record associated with the tag ID. In the first embodiment, the users of the inventory materials 1 include business users 3 and general users 4, as described above. The weight of paint required by these business users 3, etc., varies depending on the object to be painted. As the proportion of small-quantity transactions increases, the human cost of managing the remaining amount of paint increases. However, according to the first embodiment, since the remaining amount of paint (weight information) placed on the weighing device 10 is constantly updated at a predetermined interval, no human cost is incurred for measuring the weight. When the server control unit 30a receives valid weight information, it sets the storage state flag to ON. On the other hand, if the paint can is being taken out, the weight information is set to 0, and the storage state flag is further set to OFF. As described above, the storage state flag is included in the public information.

[0062] In this way, the public information is updated. Business users 3, etc., can view at least a portion of the public information in list format. The information available for viewing may be limited to certain parts, for example, for each inventory material 1, the manufacturer of the paint, product name, color sample number (color information), expiration date included in the first information, the rank included in the second information, the address included in the third information, as well as weight information and storage state flag. Furthermore, business users 3, etc., may be able to specify the relevant inventory material 1 to obtain more detailed information. In this case, a tag ID is sent from the business user terminal 3a, etc., to the server 30. The server control unit 30a searches the inventory management DB using the tag ID and sends the information associated with the tag ID (for example, all public information regarding the specified inventory material 1) to the business user terminal 3a, etc.

[0063] As described above, the first embodiment includes a management unit (server 30), a weight measurement unit 10d for measuring the weight of inventory material 1, an identification information acquisition unit 10f for acquiring unique identification information (tag ID) corresponding to inventory material 1, and a communication unit (first communication unit 10c) for transmitting the weight of inventory material 1 and the unique identification information to the management unit. The management unit updates the weight information of inventory material 1 based on the received unique identification information and transmits the updated weight information to at least one predetermined business user terminal 3a, etc. This eliminates the need for the seller 2 to measure the remaining amount (weight) of paint each time, such as when a portion of the paint as inventory material 1 is transferred, thereby reducing human costs. Furthermore, business users 3, etc., can effectively utilize surplus inventory based on the latest paint weight.

[0064] Furthermore, the weighing device 10 of the first embodiment includes a weight measuring unit 10d for measuring the weight of the material, an identification information acquisition unit 10f for acquiring unique identification information (tag ID) corresponding to the material (inventory material 1), and a communication unit (first communication unit 10c) for transmitting the weight of the material and the unique identification information to an external party (in this case, a server 30). This enables the weighing device 10 to transmit not only the weight information of the material but also information related to the material to an external party.

[0065] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the management unit transmits first information regarding inventory material 1 associated with a unique identification information (tag ID) to at least one predetermined user terminal (business user terminal 3a, etc.). This allows business users 3, etc., to find out the manufacturer or sales company, product name, color tag number (color information), manufacturing lot number, shipping factory name, expiration date, etc., for each inventory material 1 available as surplus inventory.

[0066] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the management unit transmits second information regarding the quality of inventory material 1, associated with a unique identification information (tag ID), to at least one predetermined user terminal (business user terminal 3a, etc.). This makes it possible for business users 3, etc., to understand the quality (rank or deterioration indicator described later) of each inventory material 1 that is available as surplus inventory.

[0067] In the example described above, the weighing device 10 transmits the tag ID to the server 30 at predetermined intervals. Alternatively, the server 30 may transmit an instruction (trigger) to the weighing device 10 at predetermined intervals to read the IC tag 1a. In this case as well, upon receiving the instruction, the weighing device 10 returns from low-power mode to normal operation and transmits the tag ID and weight information together to the server 30.

[0068] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the registration cancellation process. The exhibiting user terminal 2a submits a registration cancellation request to the server 30 (ST101). When the server control unit 30a receives the registration cancellation request, it sends a predetermined command to the weighing device 10 (ST102). When the first control unit 10a receives the command, it controls the identification information writing unit 10e to write NULL to the IC tag 1a (ST103). Furthermore, the first control unit 10a controls the identification information acquisition unit 10f to read the IC tag 1a (ST104). It then determines whether the tag ID has been changed to NULL or not (ST105). If the tag ID has been changed to NULL (Yes in ST105), the first control unit 10a notifies the server 30 that the initialization of the IC tag 1a is complete (ST106). Upon receiving the notification, the server control unit 30a deletes the record containing the information associated with the tag ID before initialization (registration application information, storage state flag of inventory material 1, transfer price, etc.) (ST107). This completes the registration cancellation. Once this process is complete, the listing user 2 can remove the IC tag 1a from the paint can and place it on another inventory material 1, thereby enabling the reuse of the IC tag 1a.

[0069] On the other hand, if the tag ID is not NULL (No in ST105), the first control unit 10a notifies the server 30 that the registration deletion could not be successfully performed (error) (ST108), and terminates the process. Note that if the tag ID is not NULL, the process in ST105 may be executed multiple times, and an error may be notified if the tag ID is still not changed to NULL after multiple attempts.

[0070] The following describes the functions of server 30 in a situation where information regarding inventory material 1 is publicly available, using Figures 1 and 2. [1] Transaction support Business user 3, etc., specifies the inventory material 1 they wish to receive based on the publicly available information provided by server 30. A tag ID is sent to server 30 upon this specification. Furthermore, business user 3, etc., specifies the quantity of paint they wish to receive (estimated weight to be used, or the area to which the paint will be applied [m²]). 2 It is possible to specify the area [m²]. The server control unit 30a, if an area is specified, will then specify that area [m²]. 2 ] and standard paint weight / m 2 Based on this, the weight of the paint is calculated. Then, the inventory management database is searched in conjunction with other conditions (for example, the product name and color number associated with the specified inventory material 1) to extract paint cans with a remaining amount equal to or greater than the specified weight.

[0071] However, if there are multiple inventory materials 1 that satisfy this condition, the server control unit 30a calculates "weight of paint - weight of paint to be transferred" for each extracted inventory material 1 and prioritizes extracting the inventory material 1 with the smallest difference. The extracted results are sent from the server 30 to the business user terminal 3a, etc. When the business user 3, etc. approves the received extraction results (i.e., the transaction is completed), the business user terminal 3a, etc. sends this approval result to the server 30. The server control unit 30a sends the approval result to the listing user terminal 2a, searches the inventory management DB, associates it with the tag ID, and writes 1 (transaction completed) to the transaction state flag. Of course, the transfer may be done in units of paint cans, in which case it is not necessary to consider the weight of the paint cans.

[0072] After a transaction is completed, no monetary settlement procedures occur between seller user 2 and business user 3; instead, inventory materials 1 are sent and received between these users. On the other hand, if a transaction is completed between seller user 2 and general user 4, procedures including the exchange of money and the sending and receiving of inventory materials 1 occur between seller user 2 and general user 4. The surplus inventory management system S1 may support electronic transactions, etc., in this case using known methods.

[0073] [2] Notification of transfer price to general user 4 In the surplus inventory management system S1, inventory material 1 is handed over to business user 3 and general user 4 who wish to receive it. The transfer price is free for business user 3 and charged to general user 4. This fee structure encourages the active utilization of surplus inventory between painting contractors and the system. General user 4 views the public information, specifies the inventory material 1 they wish to receive, and also specifies the required weight. Following these specifications, the general user terminal 4a transmits the user ID, tag ID, and required weight to the server 30.

[0074] As described above, a user database is built in the server storage unit 30b, and business users 3 and general users 4 are distinguished by user attribute flags. The server control unit 30a searches the user database based on the received user ID and obtains the user attribute flag corresponding to the user ID. If the user attribute flag represents general user 4, the server control unit 30a searches the inventory management database based on the tag ID and obtains the transfer price corresponding to the tag ID. Here, the transfer price is, for example, (i) the price per unit weight of paint (e.g., 1 kilogram), or (ii) the price per unit area (e.g., 1 m²). 2 ) This is the price per unit, (i) Transfer price = Required weight × Transfer unit price (ii) Transfer price = Area to be painted × Transfer price per unit The calculation is performed, and the result is sent to the general user terminal 4a. This presents the transfer price to general user 4.

[0075] [3] Batch extraction of multiple inventory materials 1 When business user 3 requires a relatively large amount of paint, the amount of paint contained in a single paint can may be insufficient. In this case, the server control unit 30a extracts combinations of inventory materials 1 that meet the weight specified by business user 3. Specifically, it sorts the paint cans in descending order of remaining amount and prioritizes extracting paint cans containing more paint for transfer. This minimizes the total number of paint cans to be transferred, potentially reducing transportation costs. Public information regarding the extracted inventory materials 1 is then provided to business user 3.

[0076] Thus, in this embodiment, users of a user terminal (business user terminal 3a, etc.) (business user 3, etc.) can specify the weight of the inventory material 1 they wish to receive from the management unit (server 30), and the management unit extracts at least one inventory material 1 based on the specified weight. This makes it possible for business users 3, etc. to procure the necessary inventory material 1 at a low cost, even when they require a relatively large quantity of inventory material 1.

[0077] [4] Generation of deterioration indicators (deterioration index) As described above, the listing user 2 specifies second information (rank information) when listing an item. In this case, for example, the first imaging unit 2b may photograph the inventory material 1, and the listing user terminal 2a may determine the rank (here, rank A or rank B) based on the captured image data. In this case, a learning model can be constructed in advance using image data corresponding to each rank, and the rank can be determined by inputting the image into the learning model. Thus, in the first embodiment, the listing user terminal 2a generates second information related to the quality of the inventory material 1 based on an image of the inventory material 1. This makes it possible to easily determine the rank (state) of the inventory material 1. Of course, the image captured by the listing user terminal 2a may be sent to the server 30, and the server control unit 30a may perform the rank determination.

[0078] In addition, seller user 2 may specify information about the environment in which inventory material 1 is stored, along with (or instead of) specifying the rank. Here, environmental information includes, for example, the average temperature of the place (storage facility) where the paint is stored, the range of temperature fluctuations, whether inventory material 1 is exposed to direct sunlight, whether the storage location is indoors or outdoors, and whether or not temperature control is in place. A learning model is pre-constructed with this environmental information, the elapsed time since the manufacturing date, and the first piece of information (in this case, for example, the paint's product name) as explanatory variables, and the actual degree of paint deterioration (for example, the degree of gelation) as the dependent variable. When this learning model is inputted the product name of the item to be listed, the elapsed time since the manufacturing date, and the environmental information provided by seller user 2, it outputs a real value between, for example, 0 (high degree of deterioration) and 1 (low degree of deterioration). In other words, the output of the learning model is used as a deterioration index.

[0079] Here, the first piece of information includes the product name and manufacturing date of inventory material 1. The server control unit 30a also obtains the NTP time by accessing, for example, an NTP server. The NTP time can be converted to a year, month, and day, and the server control unit 30a uses the manufacturing date and the NTP time to derive the elapsed time from the manufacturing date to the present. The server control unit 30a then inputs the product name, elapsed time, and environmental information into a trained model to obtain a degradation index. In deriving the degradation index, the rank may be referenced. That is, for inventory material 1 of rank B, where the paint can has already been opened, the degradation index may be corrected by assuming a large acceleration coefficient. Also, depending on the weight of the paint, the acceleration coefficient may be increased as the weight decreases. The degradation index is stored in the inventory management DB as part of the second piece of information and is made available to business users 3, etc. The server control unit 30a may also determine or update the transfer price using the degradation index. This allows, for example, the transfer price to general users 4 to decrease as degradation progresses, leading to the active utilization of surplus inventory.

[0080] Thus, in the first embodiment, the management unit (server 30) generates second information (here, a deterioration index) related to the quality of the inventory material 1 based on environmental information regarding the environment in which the inventory material 1 is stored and first information (here, the product name and manufacturing date). This allows users (business users 3, general users 4) who receive the inventory material 1 to conduct safe transactions by using the deterioration index as a guideline. Of course, the process of deriving the deterioration index may also be performed on the listing user terminal 2a.

[0081] [5] Expiration date notification, deterioration indicator notification, registration cancellation notice As described above, the first piece of information includes the paint's expiration date (in this case, year, month, and day). The server control unit 30a derives the number of days remaining until the expiration date from the acquired NTP time and the expiration date. When the number of remaining days falls below a predetermined number of days, it sends a message to the seller user terminal 2a indicating that the expiration date is approaching (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "expiration date notification"). In addition to or instead of the expiration date notification, a deterioration indicator may also be notified. The seller user 2 can decide whether or not to discard the paint they have listed based on the notified expiration date or deterioration indicator. The seller user 2 may decide at their discretion whether to prioritize the expiration date or the deterioration indicator as a guideline for disposal. This is because there is no clearly defined expiration date for paint, and if stored properly, it may be usable beyond the expiration date set by the manufacturer, etc. However, conversely, if stored poorly, it may become unusable before the expiration date.

[0082] Furthermore, when the later of the following two dates arrives—the day the remaining days until the expiration date become zero or the day the deterioration indicator becomes zero—the server control unit 30a notifies the seller 2 that the registration of the listed inventory material 1 will be deleted (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "registration deletion notice"). Then, for example, after a predetermined number of days have passed since the registration deletion notice was issued, the server control unit 30a deletes the information (record) related to inventory material 1, which is subject to registration deletion, from the inventory management DB. Upon receiving the registration deletion notice, seller 2 executes the registration deletion process described using Figure 4 before the information related to inventory material 1 is deleted from the inventory management DB. By executing the registration deletion process, the IC tag 1a becomes reusable. Of course, the timing of issuing the registration deletion notice can be arbitrarily determined; for example, it may be set a few days before the day the remaining days until the expiration date become zero.

[0083] [6] Paint selection support Business users 3, etc., can capture images of objects to be painted during construction (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "painted objects") using the second imaging unit 3b of the business user terminal 3a (the third imaging unit 4b of the general user terminal 4a), and transmit the captured image data to the server 30 along with a predetermined command. The server storage unit 30b has a pre-built learning model in which image data of painted objects that have been painted in the past, captured before painting (or feature quantities such as color information extracted based on the image data), and the sunlight conditions at the time the images were taken (sunny, cloudy, rainy, etc.) are used as explanatory variables, and the color code number of the paint used (for example, a number determined by the Japan Paint Manufacturers Association) and the classification information of the paint (for example, a classification based on the material of the paint) are used as objective variables. When the image data of the painted object and the sunlight conditions are input to this learning model, the color code number of the paint and the classification information are output.

[0084] The business user terminal 3a, etc., transmits image data of the object to be painted, along with the sunlight conditions at the time of shooting, to the server 30. The server control unit 30a inputs the received information into a learning model to obtain the paint color sample number and classification information. Based on this information, it searches the inventory management DB and extracts candidate inventory materials 1. When photographing the object to be painted, a reference object with a known area (e.g., A4 paper) is placed on the object to be painted. Based on the received image data, the server control unit 30a traces the outline of the wall surface of the object to be painted to extract the area P to be painted. Then, by comparing area P with the reference object, it derives the painting area and estimates the weight of the required paint based on this painting area. Furthermore, based on the estimated weight, it extracts inventory materials 1 or combinations of inventory materials 1 that satisfy the weight from the candidate inventory materials 1. This extraction result is transmitted to the business user terminal 3a, etc.

[0085] Thus, in this embodiment, the inventory material 1 is paint, and the management unit (server 30) determines the information to be sent to the user terminal (business user terminal 3a, etc.) based on the image data of the object on which the paint will be used. As a result, business users 3, etc., can procure the paint necessary for construction by sending an image of the construction target to the management unit.

[0086] [7] Business collaboration and joint bid-taking of construction projects In the surplus inventory management system S1, a business management database (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "business management DB") may be constructed in the server storage unit 30b. The business management DB manages individual construction projects. When seller user 2 and business user 3 register as users in the surplus inventory management system S1, they also gain access to the business management DB. Server 30 is capable of receiving construction requests from third parties, and when such a request is received, a record is added to the business management DB. When the server control unit 30a receives a construction request, it inquires with seller user 2 and business user 3 whether or not they wish to participate in the construction project. When each user who wishes to participate responds to Server 30, their user ID is stored in the business management DB, and details of the construction project (construction date, desired delivery date, wages, etc.) are distributed to the user. This allows seller user 2 and business user 3 to collaborate using the business management DB and jointly accept a large number of construction projects.

[0087] (Second Embodiment) Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the first embodiment, the weighing device 10 is provided with an identification information acquisition unit 10f and an identification information writing unit 10e. In contrast, in the second embodiment, an RFID reader / writer 40 equipped with an identification information acquisition unit 10f and an identification information writing unit 10e is provided independently of the weighing device 10. In this embodiment, the IC tag 1a is housed in a predetermined housing, which is preferably placed on the side or top surface of the inventory material 1, for example. The weighing device 10 and the RFID reader / writer 40 are connected via a short-range communication unit 10j. The short-range communication unit 10j includes a communication module compliant with a short-range wireless standard such as Bluetooth® or BLE. Tag IDs are transmitted and received between the weighing device 10 and the RFID reader / writer 40 via the short-range communication unit 10j, and the tag IDs are further shared between the weighing device 10, the server 30, and each user terminal via the first communication unit 10c of the weighing device 10.

[0088] In other words, in the second embodiment as well, the surplus inventory management system S1 includes a management unit (server 30), a weight measurement unit 10d for measuring the weight of inventory materials 1, an identification information acquisition unit 10f for acquiring unique identification information (tag ID) corresponding to inventory materials 1, and a communication unit (short-range communication unit 10j, first communication unit 10c) for transmitting the weight of inventory materials 1 and the unique identification information to the management unit. The management unit updates the weight information of inventory materials 1 based on the received unique identification information and transmits the updated weight information to at least one predetermined business user terminal 3a or the like.

[0089] As a modification, the RFID reader / writer 40 may be configured to include a second communication unit (not shown) that is compliant with wireless communication standards such as LTE, 4G, or 5G, and to transmit and receive tag IDs between the RFID reader / writer 40 and the server 30 using the second communication unit. In this case as well, the tag IDs are shared between the weighing device 10, the server 30, and each user terminal. In the modified example, where the RFID reader / writer 40 can be directly connected to the network 50, the short-range communication unit 10j of the weighing device 10 may be omitted.

[0090] The surplus inventory management system S1 according to the present invention has been described in detail above based on specific embodiments, but these embodiments are merely illustrative, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, assuming that the generated tag ID is unique, the tag ID may be generated by a device other than the server control unit 30a. Specifically, the tag ID may be generated in advance by another information terminal (not shown), this tag ID may be transmitted to a separately prepared RFID writer (an RFID reader / writer 40 may be used), written to the IC tag 1a by the RFID writer, and the IC tag 1a with the tag ID written on it may be placed in the inventory material 1.

[0091] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, business user 3 was able to receive the inventory materials 1 free of charge, but the transfer to business user 3 may be made for a fee. This would further accelerate the utilization of inventory materials 1 when the transfer price of inventory materials 1 is reduced based on the deterioration indicator.

[0092] Furthermore, although the first embodiment described paint stored in a paint can as inventory material 1, the present invention can also be applied when multiple paint cans are managed as a group and individual paint cans are subject to transfer or other transactions, as the weight of the group changes due to the transactions. Furthermore, the inventory material 1 is not limited to paints, and the present invention can also be applied to the management of surplus inventory of materials such as steel, secondary steel products / non-ferrous metals, cement / ready-mix concrete, wood, temporary materials, adhesives, asphalt, road materials, water and sewage materials, land improvement materials, bridge and river materials, general civil engineering materials, landscaping and greening materials, masonry / PC panels, waterproofing materials, stone materials, tiles, roofing materials, building hardware, plastering materials, wooden joinery, metal joinery, joinery hardware, glass, exterior materials, cables / electric wires, conduit materials / ducts, power distribution equipment, lighting fixtures, induction motors, communication equipment, disaster prevention equipment, overhead lines / grounding materials, handholes / storage batteries, power generation equipment, piping materials, instruments, heat / cold insulation materials, pumps, air conditioning equipment, ducts, valve devices, sanitary equipment, water supply equipment, drainage equipment, hot water supply equipment, construction machinery, tools, etc., as listed in the construction materials classification table.

[0093] Furthermore, while the explanation of business user 3 etc. was given using a painting contractor as an example, business user 3 etc. is of course not limited to painting contractors. The surplus inventory management system S1 according to the present invention can be effectively utilized, for example, when businesses or government agencies engaged in civil engineering, building construction, carpentry, plastering, scaffolding and earthwork, stonework, roofing, electrical work, plumbing, tile, brick and block work, steel structure construction, rebar work, paving, dredging, sheet metal work, glass work, waterproofing, interior finishing, machinery and equipment installation, thermal insulation work, telecommunications work, landscaping, well drilling, joinery, water supply facility construction, fire protection facility construction, cleaning facility construction, demolition work, wallpapering, etc. transfer the above-mentioned materials.

[0094] Furthermore, inventory materials 1 may also include waste materials. Even if they are waste materials, they may be useful to some business users 3 and general users 4. In particular, for materials with long shelf lives, such as metals, stone materials, and glass materials (including their processed products and composite materials), making waste materials available to business users 3 and general users 4 can promote the reuse and recycling of waste. Moreover, for such inventory materials 1, attaching rank information indicating that they are waste materials and making them available can enable safer transactions. In other words, the surplus inventory management system S1 according to the present invention can also be operated as a waste material management system, a waste material transaction support system, etc. [Industrial applicability]

[0095] The surplus inventory management system S1 according to the present invention can be widely used in surplus inventory transactions, etc., because it appropriately manages inventory materials 1 that are subject to transfer or other transactions, and enables various users to effectively utilize inventory materials 1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0096] 1. Inventory materials 1a IC tag 1b Two-dimensional code 2. Sellers 2a Listing user terminal 3. Business Users 3a Business user terminals 4. General users 4a General user terminal 10 Weighing device 10d Weight measurement unit 10e Identification information writing section 10f Identification information acquisition section 30 servers 40 RFID Reader / Writer 50 Networks S1 Excess Inventory Management System

Claims

1. Management Department, A weight measurement unit for measuring the weight of inventory materials, An identification information acquisition unit that acquires unique identification information corresponding to the aforementioned inventory materials, A communication unit that transmits the weight of the inventory materials and the unique identification information to the management unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned management department, Based on the received unique identification information, the weight information of the inventory materials is updated. A surplus inventory management system characterized by transmitting the updated weight information to at least one predetermined user terminal.

2. The aforementioned management department, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 1, characterized in that it transmits first information relating to the inventory materials associated with the unique identification information to at least one predetermined user terminal.

3. The aforementioned management department, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 2, characterized in that it transmits second information relating to the quality of the inventory materials, associated with the unique identification information, to at least one predetermined user terminal.

4. The aforementioned unique identification information is stored in an IC tag provided on the inventory material. The surplus inventory management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the identification information acquisition unit performs wireless communication with the IC tag to acquire the unique identification information.

5. The surplus inventory management system according to claim 4, characterized in that the IC tag is detachably attached to the inventory material.

6. The aforementioned stock material is paint. The surplus inventory management system according to claim 5, characterized in that the IC tag is provided at the bottom of the paint can in which the paint is stored.

7. Furthermore, it is equipped with an identification information writing unit, The management unit determines the unique identification information corresponding to the inventory materials, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 4, characterized in that the identification information writing unit writes the unique identification information determined by the management unit to the IC tag.

8. The aforementioned management department, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 2, characterized in that it acquires the first information based on an image of a two-dimensional code attached to the inventory material.

9. The user of the user terminal can specify the weight of the inventory materials they wish to receive from the management unit. The aforementioned management department, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 1, characterized in that it extracts at least one of the inventory materials based on a specified weight.

10. The surplus inventory management system according to claim 3, characterized in that it generates the second information relating to the quality of the inventory materials based on images taken of the inventory materials.

11. The surplus inventory management system according to claim 3, characterized in that it generates second information related to the quality of the inventory materials based on environmental information relating to the environment in which the inventory materials are stored and the first information.

12. The aforementioned stock material is paint. The aforementioned management department, The surplus inventory management system according to claim 1, characterized in that it determines information to be transmitted to the user terminal based on image data of the object on which the paint is used.

13. We weighed the inventory materials, Obtain unique identification information corresponding to each of the aforementioned inventory materials, The weight of the inventory materials and the unique identification information are transmitted to the management unit. The management unit updates the weight information of the inventory materials based on the received unique identification information. A method for managing surplus inventory, characterized by transmitting the updated weight information to at least one predetermined user terminal.

14. A weight measuring unit that measures the weight of materials, An identification information acquisition unit that acquires unique identification information corresponding to the aforementioned material, A communication unit that transmits the weight of the material and the unique identification information to an external source, A weighing device characterized by being equipped with [a specific feature].

15. The aforementioned unique identification information is stored in an IC tag placed on the material. The weighing device according to claim 14, characterized in that the identification information acquisition unit performs wireless communication with the IC tag to acquire the unique identification information.

Images