Storage management system and storage management support system equipped therewith

Abstract

To provide a storage management system capable of properly managing the inventory of stored goods in containers, and a storage management support system equipped with the same. [Solution] The storage management system 1 according to the present invention comprises a weighing device 10 capable of measuring the amount of storage stored in a container C, an IC tag reader 20 that reads IC tag data that can identify the container C from an IC tag T attached to the container C, and a management device 30 having a storage unit that stores storage amount information indicating the amount of paint stored as measured by the weighing device 10 and the IC tag data read by the IC tag reader 20 in association.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a storage management system for managing the storage amount of stored items stored in a container and a storage management support system including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a paint management device that associates and stores in a storage unit identification information for identifying paint by can, a storage state, a disposal state, information on the location of the paint, the capacity (storage amount) of the paint stored in the can, and the expiration date of the paint.

[0003] According to such a paint management device, it is possible to manage the total storage amount of the paint stored in the storage location.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, Patent Document 1 does not mention what value the storage amount in the can to be stored in the storage unit is based on. Therefore, if this value lacks accuracy (for example, human error such as incorrect input, or a slight error in the paint), there arises a problem that the inventory management of the paint cannot be properly performed.

[0006] In view of this point, it can be said that the paint management device described in Patent Document 1 is hardly an apparatus that can properly perform the inventory management of paint, and there is still room for improvement.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a storage management system that enables more appropriate inventory management of stored goods in containers, and a storage management support system equipped with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The storage management system according to the present invention is a storage management system for managing the amount of storage stored in a container, comprising: a measuring device capable of measuring the amount of storage stored in the container; a reading device that reads identification information for identifying the container from an identifier provided on the container; and a management device having a storage unit that stores storage amount information indicating the amount of storage measured by the measuring device and the identification information read by the reading device in association.

[0009] Furthermore, the term "storage" as used herein includes paints, chemicals, food products, and other liquids and solids (including powders) that can be stored in a "container." Moreover, the term "container" as used above is not limited to those made of metal, but may also be made of other materials (for example, resin), as long as it is capable of storing the "storage."

[0010] Preferably, the identifier is an IC tag on which the identification information is written, and the reader is an IC tag reader capable of reading the identification information from the identifier when the measuring device measures the amount of the stored item.

[0011] Preferably, the measuring device is a device for measuring the weight of the container, and the amount of stored goods is determined based on the value obtained by subtracting the body weight of the container from the weight of the container measured by the measuring device.

[0012] The storage management support system in the present invention is a storage management support system comprising a plurality of storage management systems, and includes a management server that stores the amount of storage stored in each of the storage units of the plurality of storage management systems. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, even with a relatively simple configuration, it is possible to automatically acquire the amount of stored goods in the container, thereby enabling proper inventory management of stored goods. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the storage management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of the weighing device that constitutes the storage management system. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of the control devices that make up the storage management system. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of control processing in a storage management system. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of IC tag data written to an IC tag. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an input section that makes up a control device. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the information stored in the memory unit that constitutes the management device. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing an overview of a storage management support system equipped with a storage management system. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of control processing in a storage management support system. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of an image displayed in the storage management system, which is part of the storage management support system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals are used for the same elements in all drawings, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the storage management system according to the present embodiment, FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a weighing device constituting the storage management system, FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a management device constituting the storage management system, FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of control processing in the storage management system, FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of IC tag data written in an IC tag, FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an input unit constituting the management device, and FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information stored in a storage unit constituting the management device.

[0017] <Overall Configuration of Storage Management System 1> As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 1 shows a state in which the storage amount of paint stored in a container C (containers C1, C2) is managed using the event support system 1 according to the present embodiment. The event support system 1 includes a weighing device 10 as a measuring device, an IC tag reader 20 as a reading device, and a management device 30. <Other Storage Objects>

[0018] In the following, the case where the stored object stored in the container C is paint will be described as an example, but other stored objects, such as chemicals and foods, may also be used. Further, the stored object is not limited to a liquid state, and may be in a solid state (including powder). Furthermore, in the present embodiment, as a container for storing the stored object, a metal container C (container C1 which is a one - bucket can, container C2 which is a round can) is used, but other members, such as a resin container, may also be used.

[0019] (Weighing Device 10) As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the weighing device 10 according to the present embodiment is a device that measures the weight of the container C in which the paint is stored, and is connected to the management device 30 via a communication line 2 in a wired or wireless manner.

[0020] The weighing device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a measurement unit 13, and a communication unit 14, and these are connected to each other via a bus 15.

[0021] The control unit 11 is composed of a microcomputer, for example, a storage unit 12 (memory device), etc. As will be described in more detail later, the control unit 11 is configured to transmit data indicating the weight of the container C in which the paint is stored, along with various data read by the IC tag reader 20, to the management device 30.

[0022] The measuring unit 13 is a device for measuring the weight of the container C in which the paint is stored (hereinafter referred to as the "measured weight"). In this embodiment, the "measured weight" can be measured by placing the container C on the loading plate 13A (see Figure 1). In this embodiment, a so-called platform scale is used as the weighing device 10 for measuring the "measured weight," but other types of scales, such as a top-loading scale, can also be used.

[0023] The communication unit 14 is an interface that can communicate with other communication devices. The management device 2 is connected to the communication unit 14 via the communication line 2, and the IC tag reader 20 is connected to it via wired or wireless connection.

[0024] (IC tag reader 20) The IC tag reader 20 is a device that reads various information transmitted from the IC tag T via wireless communication. As such an IC tag reader 20, for example, a commercially available IC tag reader can be used depending on the type of IC tag T (e.g., whether or not it has a battery, frequency band).

[0025] Here, we will explain the IC tag T with reference to Figures 1 and 5. Since the IC tag T has a configuration similar to that of known IC tags, a detailed explanation will be omitted. However, in this embodiment as well, it is configured to transmit and receive various data by wirelessly communicating with an external communication device. For example, known NFC (Near Field Communication) tags and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags can be used as such IC tag T.

[0026] The IC tag T is configured to be attached to the bottom surface of container C after various data has been written to it (see Figure 1). Note that the attachment of the IC tag to container C is not limited to attachment; it can also be done by embedding, for example. Furthermore, the following explanation assumes that data is written to the IC tag T using the management device 30, but it is also possible to do so using other devices, such as a known IC tag reader / writer.

[0027] The data written to the IC tag T (hereinafter referred to as "IC tag data") includes information necessary for managing paint inventory, such as as shown in Figure 5. • "Lot number," which is information that can identify container C for storing paint. • "Product Name" indicating the paint product name, • "Color, etc." indicating the color of the paint and other special notes. • In two-component paints, the term "main component / hardener" indicates whether it is the main component or the hardener. • "Container type" indicating the type of container T (for example, container C1 being a 18-liter can, container C2 being a round can), • "Container weight" indicates the weight of the main body of container C. • "Storage amount at the time of manufacture," which indicates the amount of paint stored at the time of manufacture. • "Storage start date" indicating the date when storage began for container C where the paint is stored. • "Storage location" indicating the place where container C, in which the paint is stored, is kept. This is just one example of the kind of information that can be cited.

[0028] In this embodiment, the IC tag T on which IC tag data is written is used When the ordered paint is delivered, • When paint delivered to another location (for example, a construction site) is returned due to being left over, It is designed to be attached to container C.

[0029] Subsequently, container C to which the IC tag T is attached is to be stored in a predetermined storage location (hereinafter simply referred to as the "storage location"). For example, if the "storage location" is written on the IC tag T, it is to be stored in that location.

[0030] The IC tag reader 20 is preferably positioned to receive IC tag data transmitted from the IC tag T attached to the container C when measuring the weight of the container C in which the paint is stored. Examples of such positions include the back surface of the loading plate 13A of the weighing device 10 (see Figure 1) or a position close to the loading plate 13A.

[0031] The IC tag data read by the IC tag reader 20 is transmitted to the management device 30 along with data indicating the measured weight of the measured container C, under the control of the control unit 11 of the weighing device 10 (see Figure 2).

[0032] In the following explanation, we will use the case where IC tag data is transmitted to the management device 30 via the weighing device 10 as an example (see Figure 2), but it is also possible to transmit the data directly from the IC tag reader 20 to the management device 30.

[0033] Furthermore, although an IC tag T was used in this embodiment, a two-dimensional code (for example, a QR code (registered trademark), or a barcode) can be used instead. In this case, a known two-dimensional code reader can be used instead of the IC tag reader 20.

[0034] As will be explained in more detail later, when the management device 30 receives data indicating the "measured weight" measured by the weighing device 10, and IC tag data read by the IC tag reader 20 (see Figure 5), • "Measured weight" (weight of container C including paint) - "Container weight" (information contained in IC tag data) The system is configured to perform calculations to determine the weight of the paint alone (hereinafter referred to as "paint weight"). This makes it possible to automatically and accurately determine the amount of paint to be stored in container C.

[0035] Furthermore, in the following, • The IC tag T is configured to write information indicating the "container weight". Based on this information, the control device 30 is configured to calculate the "paint weight". The present invention is explained based on the premise described above, but is not limited to this. For example, the information indicating the "container weight" can be pre-stored in the memory unit 13 (see Figure 2) of the weighing device 10. With this configuration, the "paint weight" can be calculated on the weighing device 10 (control unit 11) side, which reduces the control burden on the management device 30. Alternatively, the information indicating the "container weight" can be pre-stored in the memory unit 32 (see Figure 3) of the management device 30.

[0036] (Management device 30) As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the management device 30 according to this embodiment is a device for managing the inventory of paints stored in a storage location.

[0037] The management device 30 comprises a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a display unit 33, an input unit 34, and a communication unit 35, which are connected to each other via a bus 36. Such a management device 30 can be configured, for example, using a known personal computer system.

[0038] The control unit 31, for example, consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), reads various programs stored in the memory unit 32, performs predetermined calculations, and executes controls such as displaying a predetermined image on the display unit 14.

[0039] As will be explained in more detail later, the control unit 31 mainly consists of, (1) When storing container C in which new paint (for example, ordered paint) is stored, the IC tag data (see Figure 5) is written to the IC tag T and the data is registered in the storage unit 32 ("Step S103" in Figure 4), (2) When paint is taken out of storage to a construction site or the like, the process of storing data related thereto (hereinafter referred to as "outbound data") in the storage unit 32 ("Step S106" in Figure 4), (3) When leftover paint is returned from a construction site, etc., the process of storing data related thereto (hereinafter referred to as "leftover paint return data") in the storage unit 32 ("Step S110" in Figure 4), (4) When a used paint container C is returned from a construction site or the like, the process of storing data related to it (hereinafter referred to as "waste can data") in the storage unit 32 ("Step S112" in Figure 4), Perform the following actions.

[0040] For the sake of explanation, in the following, The act of taking container C, in which paint is stored, from the storage location to a construction site, etc., is called "deployment." The act of initially receiving container C, which will store the paint, into the storage location is called "receiving into storage." The act of returning container C, which contains leftover paint after it has been shipped, to the storage location is called "returning leftover paint." The act of returning empty paint container C to the storage location after it has been released is called "returning the empty can." The act of disposing of container C, which has been returned as an empty can, is called "waste can". Let's assume that's the case.

[0041] The memory unit 32 consists of semiconductor memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), and has a memory area for storing programs (applications for operating the storage management system 1) for the control unit 31 to execute the processes (1) to (4) above, as well as a storage memory area 32A for storing data related to the paints stored in the storage location.

[0042] The storage memory area 32A contains, for example, the following: • IC tag data written to the IC tag T, such as "lot number," "main component / hardener," "container weight," and "storage start date" (see Figure 5). • Paint inventory management data such as "Outbound data" (e.g., "Site name", "Cooperating company", "Outbound date", "Paint weight at outbound"), "Returned excess paint data" (e.g., "Return date", "Paint weight at return"), and "Waste can data" (e.g., "Waste can date", "Paint weight at waste can"), This is how it is stored.

[0043] The display unit 33 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and is a device that displays a predetermined image based on a command from the control unit 31.

[0044] The input unit 34 consists of known input devices such as keyboards and touch panels (see Figure 1) and other input devices (see Figure 6), and is a device capable of inputting various types of information.

[0045] Figure 6 shows the other input devices mentioned above. The input device shown in Figure 6 is a mechanical switch with multiple buttons such as "Site Name," "Outbound," "Inbound," and "Use Up."

[0046] The "Site Name" button is used when entering the "Site Name" (see Figure 7) included in the "Outbound Data," and the "Outbound" button is used to specify that the "Measured Weight" measured by the weighing device 10 is the value at the time of "Outbound."

[0047] The "In" button is used to specify whether the "measured weight" measured by the weighing device 10 is the value at the time of "returning excess paint" or "returning empty cans," and the "Use Up" button is used to specify that the "measured weight" measured by the weighing device 10 is the value at the time of "returning empty cans." In other words, in this embodiment, by operating (pressing) only the "In" button, it is possible to specify that the "measured weight" is the value at the time of "returning excess paint," and by operating both the "In" button and the "Use Up" button, it is possible to specify that the "measured weight" is the value at the time of "returning excess paint."

[0048] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the "Deposit," "Receive," or "Use Up" buttons are operated, the date and time of the operation are stored in the stored item storage area 32A (see "Deposit Date," "Return Date," and "Discarded Can Date" in Figure 7).

[0049] In this embodiment, the input device shown in Figure 6 is configured as a mechanical switch, but it is also possible to configure it to display on, for example, a touch panel image display device. Furthermore, such an input device can be omitted if necessary.

[0050] As shown in Figure 3, the communication unit 35 is an interface that can communicate with communication devices such as the weighing device 10 via the communication line 2.

[0051] <Control processing in the storage management system 1> Next, the control process in the storage management system 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1 and 4 to 7.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, the control processing in the storage management system 1 is performed between the weighing device 10 and the management device 30, and is mainly executed in the control unit 31 of the management device 30 (see Figure 3).

[0053] (Step S101) As shown in Figure 4, the control process in this storage management system 1 begins with the control unit 31 determining whether or not an operation to write IC tag data (see Figure 5) has been performed to the IC tag T (step S101).

[0054] The IC tag data can be written to the IC tag T by operating the input unit 34 of the management device 30 (see Figures 1 and 3), and is mainly done when the container C in which the paint is stored is "stored" for the first time (for example, when paint is ordered from a paint manufacturer, etc., or when "excess paint" is "returned").

[0055] As shown in Figure 4, if the control unit 31 determines that an operation to write IC tag data has occurred, it moves to step S102, and if it determines that no such operation to write data has occurred, it moves to step S104.

[0056] (Step S102) In step S102, the control unit 31 performs the process of writing IC tag data to the IC tag T (IC tag creation process).

[0057] In this embodiment, the IC tag T is configured to be attached to the bottom surface of the container C after the IC tag data has been written to it. This allows the IC tag reader 20 to automatically read the IC tag data written to the IC tag T when the container C containing the paint is placed on the loading plate 13A of the weighing device 10 (see Figure 1).

[0058] After performing the IC tag data creation process described above, the control unit 31 proceeds to step S103.

[0059] (Step S103) In step S103, the control unit 31 performs a process (IC tag data registration process) to store the IC tag data written to the IC tag T in the process of step S102 in the storage area 32A of the storage unit 32 (see "IC tag data" in Figure 7).

[0060] In this embodiment, after the processing in steps S102 and S103, the container C containing the paint is stored in a predetermined storage location (the "storage location" written to the IC tag T). This makes it possible to manage the paint inventory for each container C to which a "lot number" or the like has been assigned (see Figure 7).

[0061] After performing the IC tag data registration process described above, the control unit 31 proceeds to step S104.

[0062] (Step S104) In step S104, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation to "deposit" the paint container C has occurred.

[0063] Specifically, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not the "Depart" button on the operation unit 34 in Figure 6 has been operated. In this embodiment, the system is configured to input the name of the site to which the goods are departed and the cooperating company (construction company) that will perform the work by operating the "Site Name" button on the operation unit 34 in Figure 6 (see "Site Name" and "Cooperating Company" in Figure 7).

[0064] As shown in Figure 4, if the control unit 31 determines that there has been an "outbound" operation, it moves to step S105, and if it determines that there has been no "outbound" operation, it moves to step S107.

[0065] (Step S105) In step S105, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not IC tag data has been received. This IC tag data is transmitted to the management device 30 along with data indicating the "measured weight" of the container C to which the IC tag T is attached when the container is measured (by placing it on the loading plate 13A of the weighing device 10) (see Figure 5).

[0066] If the control unit 31 determines that IC tag data has been received, it proceeds to step S106. If it determines that IC tag data has not been received, it repeats this process.

[0067] (Step S106) In step S106, the control unit 31 performs a process (outbound data storage process) to update the paint inventory management data (see Figure 7) corresponding to the IC tag data (lot number) received in the process of step S105.

[0068] For example, if the "rod number" included in the received IC tag data is "YYYYY" (see Figure 7), the control unit 31 will... (1) Search for and extract data with "Rod Number: YYYYY" from the data registered in the storage memory area 32A. (2) The extracted "Rod Number: YYYYY" data stores the data regarding the shipping destination ("Site Name" and "Cooperating Company") received in step S104, as well as the "Measured Weight" and the date and time it was measured ("Shipping Date") received in step S105. These processes are carried out in sequence. This makes it possible to manage the "deployment" status of paint stored in the storage location on the system.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, after performing the above-described outbound data storage process, the control unit 31 terminates the control processing in the storage management system 1. In this embodiment, after such processing, the container C in which the paint is stored is shipped to the construction site, which is the outbound destination.

[0070] Thus, in this embodiment, the paint "dispensing" process can be automated, making it possible to significantly reduce the work time compared to conventional "dispensing" processes, which were entirely done manually, from "about 5 minutes to about 2 minutes."

[0071] (Step S107) In step S107, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether an operation has been performed to indicate that the container C that was "deposited" has been returned to storage ("return of excess paint" or "return of empty can"). Specifically, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether the "return" button provided on the input unit 34 in Figure 6 has been operated.

[0072] As shown in Figure 4, if the control unit 31 determines that an operation indicating re-entry has occurred, it proceeds to step S108. If it determines that no such operation has occurred, it terminates the control process in the storage management system 1.

[0073] (Step S108) In step S108, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not an operation has been performed to indicate that the container C that was "deposited" has been "returned as an empty can" (used up). Specifically, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not the "used up" button provided on the operation unit 34 in Figure 6 has been operated.

[0074] If the control unit 31 determines that there has been an operation indicating "empty can return" (spent), it proceeds to step S111. On the other hand, if it determines that there has been no operation indicating "empty can return", that is, if it determines that the dispensed container C has been "returned as excess paint", it proceeds to step S109.

[0075] (Step S109) In step S109, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not IC tag data has been received. Specifically, the control unit 31 performs the same process as in step S105 described above. This IC tag data is transmitted to the management device 30 along with data indicating the "measured weight," as in step S105 described above (see Figure 5).

[0076] If the control unit 31 determines that IC tag data has been received, it proceeds to step S110. If it determines that IC tag data has not been received, it repeats this process.

[0077] (Step S110) In step S110, the control unit 31 performs a process (storage of excess paint return data) to update the paint inventory management data (see Figure 7) corresponding to the IC tag data (lot number) received in the process of step S109 described above.

[0078] For example, as shown in Figure 7, the control unit 31, if the "rod number" included in the received IC tag data is "YYYYY", (1) Search for and extract data with "Rod Number: YYYYY" from the data registered in the storage memory area 32A. (2) The extracted "Rod Number: YYYYY" data stores the "Measured Weight" received in step S109 and the date and time it was measured ("Return Date"). These processes are carried out in order. This allows us to understand the status of "return of excess paint" at the storage location, making it possible to manage paint inventory more reliably.

[0079] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 31 terminates the control processing in the storage management system 1 after performing the above-described excess paint return data storage processing. In this embodiment, after performing such processing, the container C is stored in a predetermined storage location (see "Storage Location" in Figure 5).

[0080] Thus, in this embodiment, the "return of excess paint" process can be performed automatically, making it possible to significantly reduce the work time compared to the conventional "return of excess paint" process, which was entirely done manually, from "about 7 minutes to about 4 minutes."

[0081] (Step S111) In step S111, the control unit 31 performs a process to determine whether or not IC tag data has been received, similar to steps S105 and S109 described above. Step S111 is a process that is executed when the container C that has been "deployed" is "returned with excess paint" (step S108). The IC tag data is data that is transmitted to the management device 30 along with data indicating the "measured weight," similar to step S105, etc., described above (see Figure 5).

[0082] If the control unit 31 determines that IC tag data has been received, it proceeds to step S112. If it determines that IC tag data has not been received, it repeats this process.

[0083] (Step S112) In step S112, the control unit 31 performs a process (waste can data storage process) to update the paint inventory management data (see Figure 7) corresponding to the IC tag data (lot number) received in the process of step S109 described above.

[0084] For example, as shown in Figure 7, the control unit 31, if the "rod number" included in the received IC tag data is "YYYYY", (1) Search for and extract data with "Rod Number: YYYYY" from the data registered in the storage memory area 32A. (2) The extracted "Rod Number: YYYYY" data stores the "Measured Weight" received in step S111 and the date and time it was measured ("Discarded Can Date"). These processes are carried out in order. This allows us to understand the status of "waste cans" at the storage location, making it possible to manage paint inventory more reliably.

[0085] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 31 terminates the control processing in the storage management system 1 after performing the waste can data storage processing described above. In this embodiment, after performing such processing, the container C is configured to be moved to a predetermined waste can storage area or the like.

[0086] Thus, in this embodiment, the "waste can" disposal process can be automated, making it possible to reduce the work time compared to conventional "waste can" disposal processes, which were entirely done manually, from "about 3 minutes to about 2 minutes."

[0087] <Configuration and Effects of the Embodiment> As described above, the storage management system 1 according to this embodiment is a storage management system 1 for managing the amount of paint stored in container C, and comprises a measuring device (weighing device 10) capable of measuring the amount of paint stored in container C, a reading device (IC tag reader 20) that reads identification information (IC tag data including "lot number") that identifies container C from an identifier (IC tag T) provided on container C, and a management device 30 having a storage unit 32 that stores storage amount information indicating the amount of paint received from the measuring device and identification information received from the reading device (IC tag reader 20) in association. Because of this configuration, in this embodiment, it is possible to automatically acquire the amount of paint stored in container C, thereby enabling proper inventory management of the paint.

[0088] Furthermore, the storage unit 32 (storage storage area 32A) of the management device 30 stores information such as "product name," "color, etc.," "storage location," "amount stored at the time of manufacture," and "weight of paint at the time of return" for each "lot number" that can identify container C (see Figures 5 and 7). Therefore, in the storage management system 1 according to this embodiment, the total amount or total number of cans of each paint, the location of container C in the storage location, etc., can be easily confirmed by searching the data stored in the storage storage area 32A.

[0089] Furthermore, the storage memory area 32A stores information such as the "delivery date" for each "lot number" (see Figures 5 and 7). Therefore, the storage management system 1 according to this embodiment makes it easy to identify paints that are approaching or have exceeded their predetermined expiration date (e.g., "1 year"), and also enables so-called first-in, first-out (FIFO) storage. Furthermore, if there are paints or other items that have exceeded their expiration date, the system can automatically notify the user, for example, by highlighting them in a different color (gray) on the display unit 33 (see Figure 7).

[0090] Furthermore, the storage memory area 32A stores the type of main agent and hardener for each "lot number" (see "Main Agent / Hardener" in Figure 7), making it possible to manage these sets together. In such cases, it is easy to confirm whether the main component and hardener are stored in the storage location in the weight corresponding to a predetermined mixing ratio (for example, "main component:hardener = 1:1"). Furthermore, if either the main agent or the hardener is insufficient, the system can automatically notify the user, for example, by highlighting it in a different color (gray) on the display unit 33, similar to how it does when paints or other materials near their expiration date are found (see Figure 7).

[0091] Furthermore, the storage memory area 32A stores information such as the "site name," "paint weight at dispatch," and "paint weight at return" for each "lot number," making it possible to check the paint usage weight for each site. Therefore, the storage management system 1 according to this embodiment allows for cost management on a site-by-site basis, and also makes it possible to grasp usage conditions such as whether the main agent and hardener are being used in an appropriate mixing ratio. Furthermore, if the intended use of the paint used on-site (for example, exterior finishes or gutters) is known, this can also be stored in the storage memory area 32A. In such cases, it is possible to estimate the "weight of paint upon return" (see Figure 7), and based on this, the amount of paint to be ordered can be reduced, thereby effectively preventing situations such as an unnecessary increase in paint inventory.

[0092] Furthermore, the identifier is an IC tag T on which IC tag data is written, and the reader is an IC tag reader 20 that can read IC tag data from IC tag T when the amount of paint stored by the weighing device 10 is measured. Because of this configuration, in this embodiment, identification information (IC tag data) assigned to each container C can be automatically acquired when measuring the weight of container C, thus ensuring increased work efficiency.

[0093] Furthermore, the measuring device is a device that measures the weight of container C in which the paint is stored, and the amount of paint stored is determined based on the value obtained by subtracting the weight of the container C itself from the weight of container C measured by the measuring device. This configuration allows for accurate measurement of the amount of paint stored.

[0094] <Variation> In the above embodiment, a single storage management system 1 was described, but it is also possible to connect multiple storage management systems 1 to each other via a network. Below, a configuration in which multiple storage management systems 1 are connected (hereinafter referred to as the "storage management support system 100") will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 10.

[0095] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of a storage management support system equipped with a storage management system, Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of control processing in the storage management support system, and Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed in the storage management system that constitutes the storage management support system.

[0096] <Overall configuration of the storage management support system 100> As shown in Figure 8, the storage management support system 100 is composed of a plurality of the above-described storage management systems 1 (storage management systems 1A, 1B, 1C, etc.) and a management server 110, which are connected to each other via a network 101.

[0097] (Management Server 110) The management server 110 is a system for managing the inventory status of paints in multiple storage management systems 1, and includes a control unit (e.g., CPU, not shown) and a memory unit (e.g., RAM, not shown). For such a management server 110, a known computer system similar to the management device 1 can be used.

[0098] As will be described in more detail later, the storage management support system 100 according to this embodiment is configured to enable the trading of paint among owners (hereinafter referred to as "members") who own the storage management system 1.

[0099] For example, as shown in Figure 10, if a member wants to obtain paint with the product name "△△△ex", • Access (log in to) the management server 110 from your own storage management system 1, and enter the desired words such as "Product name: △△△ex" and "Color, etc.: Ruby Red" to search. After receiving the search results list, select the paint that matches your criteria from the search results list (for example, the paint in stock for "Member Number: YYYYY"). It is structured to be carried out in the following steps.

[0100] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit of the management server 110 mainly consists of: (1) When data indicating the paint inventory status (for example, the data shown in Figure 7) is received from the storage management system 1, the data is stored in the storage unit and a database (hereinafter referred to as the "paint inventory database," not shown in the figure) is created. (2) When search data such as "product name △△△ex" or "storage quantity" is received from the storage management system 1, data matching the search criteria is extracted from the "paint inventory database" to generate a list of search results (hereinafter simply referred to as the "list," see Figure 10) (Step S202 in Figure 9). (3) The list generated in (2) above is sent to the corresponding storage management system 1 (Step S203 in Figure 9). (4) After performing (3) above, if data indicating a desire to conduct business with a specific member is received from the storage management system 1, data indicating this is sent to the storage management system 1 of that member ("Step S206" in Figure 9). The following processes are performed.

[0101] The storage unit of the management server 110 is provided with a storage area for storing the "paint inventory database." The "paint inventory database" is created based on data indicating the inventory status of paint transmitted from each of the multiple storage management systems 1, for example, as shown in Figure 10. • Information that can identify the storage management system 1 (hereinafter referred to as "member number") • Information regarding the name and address of the corporation or other entity that owns the storage management system 1, • Information regarding paint inventory transmitted from the storage management system 1 (see Figure 7), It is composed of the following:

[0102] <Control processing in the storage management system 1> Next, the control processing in the storage management support system 100 will be explained with reference to Figures 8 to 10. The following explanation assumes that the aforementioned "paint inventory database" is stored in the storage unit of the management server.

[0103] The control processing in the storage management support system 100 is performed between multiple storage management servers 1 and the management server 110, and is mainly executed in the control unit (not shown) of the management server 110.

[0104] (Step S201) As shown in Figure 8, the control process in this event support management system 100 begins with the control unit of the management server 110 determining whether or not it has received search data from the storage management server 1 (step S201). This search data is, for example, search words such as "product name" and "color, etc." entered by a member who wants "product name: △△△ex" and "color, etc.: ruby ​​red" from their own storage management system 1 (for example, "product name: △△△ex", "color, etc.: ruby ​​red", "storage quantity: 10 kg", "address of other members: Saitama Prefecture") (see Figure 10).

[0105] If the management server 110 determines that it has received a search term, it proceeds to step S202. If it determines that it has not received a search term, it terminates the control processing in the event support management system 100.

[0106] (Step S202) In step S202, the management server 110 performs the search result data generation process. Specifically, the management server 110 extracts data that matches the search data from the "paint inventory database" and executes the process of creating a list as shown in Figure 10.

[0107] Furthermore, the management server 110 can also create a list by assigning priority to the extracted data. For example, such priority levels could be: (1) In order of oldest delivery date or manufacturing date of the paint, (2) Search for members and sort by proximity to their address. (3) The most frequently used event support management system 100, (4) The evaluation results, as evaluated using known evaluation methods, are ranked in descending order (see the number of "☆" under "Evaluation" in Figure 10). These are some examples.

[0108] By prioritizing in this way, in case (1) above, it is possible to prevent waste such as discarding paint due to ordering errors or excess inventory; in case (2) above, it is possible to make it easier for members to choose paint that can be obtained in a relatively short period of time while keeping delivery costs down; in case (3) above, it is possible to encourage the active use of the event support management system 100; and in case (4) above, it is expected to contribute to the improvement of services provided by each member.

[0109] After performing the search result data generation process described above, the management server 110 moves on to step S203.

[0110] (Step S203) In step S203, the management server 110 performs a process (search result data transmission process) to send the search result data generated in step S202, for example, the list data shown in Figure 10, to the corresponding storage management system 1. As a result, the list is displayed on the display unit 33 of the storage management system 1 (see Figure 10).

[0111] After performing the search result data transmission process described above, the management server 110 proceeds to step S204.

[0112] (Step S204) In step S204, the management server 110 performs a process to determine whether or not it has received search data again from the storage management server 1.

[0113] If the management server 110 determines that it has received the search data again, it moves the process to step S205. If it determines that it has not received the data, it returns the process to step S202.

[0114] (Step S205) In step S205, the management server 110 determines whether it has received data indicating a desire to trade from the storage management system 1, which sent the list in step S203. Such data indicating a desire to trade can be sent by operating the "Trade" icon for a specific member ("Member Number") in the case of the list shown in Figure 10. It is preferable to also send requests such as the desired quantity of paint (weight or volume, hereinafter referred to as "Desired Transaction Quantity") at this time.

[0115] If the management server 110 determines that it has received data indicating a desire to conduct a transaction, it proceeds to step S206. If it determines that it has not received such data, it terminates the control processing in the storage management support system 100.

[0116] (Step S206) In step S206, the management server 110 performs a process (transaction request data transmission process) to send data to the inventory management system 1 of the counterparty that has requested a transaction, indicating that another member has requested a transaction. For example, when the "Transaction button" for "Member Number: YYYYY" displayed in the list in Figure 10 is pressed, the management server 110 executes a process to send data indicating that the member has requested a transaction, as well as other data (for example, "Desired Transaction Quantity").

[0117] After performing the transaction request data transmission process described above, the management server 110 proceeds to step S207.

[0118] (Step S207) In step S207, the management server 110 performs a process to determine whether or not a transaction has been completed between members. This determination can be made, for example, by checking whether or not the "Transaction Completed" icon has been clicked on the display screen where the transaction negotiation takes place.

[0119] If the management server 110 determines that a transaction has been completed, it proceeds to step S208. If it determines that a transaction has not been completed, it terminates the control processing in the storage management support system 100.

[0120] (Step S208) In step S208, the management server 110 performs a transaction completion process, such as registering information indicating that a transaction has taken place between members, for example, "product name," the quantity of paint being traded, and the destination for delivery of the paint (transaction information), in its storage unit. At this time, the management server 110 can also provide the above transaction information to a delivery company or the like to request delivery of the paint.

[0121] After performing the transaction completion process described above, the management server 110 terminates the control processing in the storage management support system 100.

[0122] <Configuration and Effects of the Embodiment> As described above, the storage management support system 100 according to this embodiment is a storage management support system 100 comprising a plurality of storage management systems 1, and includes a management server that stores the amount of storage stored in each of the storage units 32 (see Figure 3) of the plurality of storage management systems 1. With this configuration, members using the inventory management support system 100 can give away excess paint (surplus paint) that is left over due to ordering errors or excess inventory to other members who need it. In other words, according to the storage management support system 100 of this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the total inventory of all members using the system, and as a result, it is possible to contribute to the effective use of resources, that is, to initiatives related to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

[0123] In this embodiment, the explanation was based on the premise that all members are using the storage management system 1, but it is also possible to configure the system so that the storage management support system 100 can be used even if the storage management system is not being used.

[0124] The embodiments described above are not intended to limit the present invention, and any modifications that do not depart from the spirit of the invention are included within the scope of the rights of the present invention.

[0125] Furthermore, the structure, system, program, etc., of the present invention can be modified in various ways without altering the essence of the invention.

[0126] For example, it is possible to combine two or more components into one, or conversely, to construct one component from two or more other components and connect them.

[0127] Furthermore, each of the above embodiments is merely one of the best possible forms at present.

[0128] Furthermore, control functions may be controlled by higher-level control units or by lower-level control units.

[0129] Furthermore, the order of control can be changed as appropriate, provided that it achieves the desired effect. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 1,1A~1C: Storage Management System 2: Communication lines 10: Weighing device (measuring device) 11: Control Unit 12: Storage section 13: Measurement Unit 13A: Loading plate 14: Communications Department 15: Bus 20: IC tag reader (reading device) 30: Management device 31: Control Unit 32: Storage section 32A: Storage memory area 33:Display section 34: Input section 35: Communications Department 36: Bus 100: Storage Management Support System 101: Network 110: Management Server C,C1,C2: Container T: IC tag (identifier)

Claims

1. A storage management system for managing the amount of stored goods stored in containers, A measuring device capable of measuring the amount of the stored item stored in the container, A reading device that reads identification information for identifying the container from an identification element provided on the container, A management device having a storage unit that stores storage quantity information indicating the amount of stored goods measured by the measuring device and identification information read by the reading device in association with each other, A storage management system equipped with this feature.

2. The identifier is an IC tag on which the identification information is written. The storage management system according to claim 1, wherein the reading device is an IC tag reader capable of reading the identification information from the identification body when the storage amount of the storage item is measured by the measuring device.

3. The measuring device is a device for measuring the weight of the container in which the stored material is stored. The storage capacity of the storage material is determined based on the value obtained by subtracting the body weight of the container from the weight of the container measured by the measuring device, according to claim 1.

4. A storage management support system comprising a plurality of storage management systems according to any one of claims 1 to 3, A storage management support system comprising a management server that stores the amount of storage stored in each of the storage units of a plurality of storage management systems.

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