Important Material Management Device

Abstract

The objective is to provide a critical asset management device that can suppress the decline in operational efficiency. [Solution] The system includes a loan period setting unit 65 for setting a loan period for an item, and a control unit 65. The control unit 65 performs a time-over process to notify the system of items that have not been returned within the loan period, and before the time-over process, it is possible to extend or change the loan period for the item.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an important item management device. [Background Art]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been an important item management device for managing important items. As an example of such an important item management device, there is a key management device for managing various keys used in financial institutions, distribution institutions, etc. For example, there is known a key management device having a function of issuing a warning when a key is not returned within a predetermined time after being taken out or when a specified time has elapsed in the taken-out state (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-029571 [Summary of the Invention] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] In the key management device as described above, the operator needs to perform an operation after the warning is issued, and there is a possibility that the work efficiency will decrease.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an important item management device capable of suppressing a decrease in work efficiency. [Means for Solving the Problems]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention includes an article that can be managed by the device main body, a lending period setting unit that sets a lending period for the article, and a control unit. The control unit performs a time-over process of notifying the article that has not been returned within the lending period, and before the time-over process, it is possible to extend and change the lending period for the article. This is a feature. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a valuable item management device that can suppress a decline in operational efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing the front cover of an important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention in an open state. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the key and storage section of an important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram of the main parts of an important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a front view showing an example of the display screen of the operation display unit of the important item management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] An embodiment of the important item management device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, "front" refers to the front side in the front-to-back direction, i.e., the side facing the operator; "rear" refers to the rear side in the front-to-back direction, i.e., the side facing the operator; "left" refers to the left side from the operator's perspective; and "right" refers to the right side from the operator's perspective.

[0010] The important item management device 11 of this embodiment is used, for example, in the branches of financial institutions such as banks, and as shown in Figure 1, has a device body 14 consisting of a main unit 12 and a sub-unit 13. The sub-unit 13 is located to the right of the main unit 12 and is fixed to the main unit 12. The main unit 12 has a unit body 21 and a front cover 22 that opens and closes the front side of the unit body 21.

[0011] As shown in Figure 2, the lower front of the unit body 21 is an opening / closing section 31 which is opened and closed by a front cover 22. The upper part of the unit body 21 above the opening / closing section 31 is an upper front component 32 which is always exposed and not opened and closed by the front cover 22, and the right side of the opening / closing section 31 is a right front component 33 which is always exposed and not opened and closed by the front cover 22. The front cover 22 is rotatably connected to the unit body 21 at one end via a hinge 34 provided on the left edge of the unit body 21, and opens and closes the front of the opening / closing section 31. The important item management device 11 is portable as a carrying handle 35 is provided on the top surface of the unit body 21.

[0012] The unit body 21 is equipped with an IC card reader 41 (authentication unit) on the left side of the upper front component 32, which reads data (authentication information) from the IC chip of an IC card. The unit body 21 is equipped with an operation display unit 42 (loan period setting unit, authentication unit) on the right side of the upper front component 32, which accepts operation input from the operator and displays information to the operator. The operation display unit 42 is a touch panel type liquid crystal display that displays the date and time, operation status, alarm information, and guidance. The unit body 21 is equipped with an audio output unit 43 on the right side of the upper front component 32, which outputs sound to the outside. The unit body 21 is equipped with a magnetic card reader 45 (authentication unit) on the right front component 33, which reads data (authentication information) from a magnetic card.

[0013] Subunit 13 is equipped with a biometric reader 51 (authentication unit) at its top for reading the operator's biometric information (authentication information). In this embodiment, finger vein information (authentication information) is read as the user's biometric information. Subunit 13 is equipped with a printer unit 56 in the middle of its vertical section for printing necessary information onto the paper and ejecting it from the paper output slot 55. IC cards and magnetic cards are individually prepared for each person authorized to use the important item management device 11, and each card stores operator ID (operator identification information), which is individual operator identification information for identification and authentication from others. In the following explanation, we will use the case where the item managed by the main body 14 of the important item management device 11 is a key 61 as an example, but the item managed by the important item management device 11 is not limited to a key 61.

[0014] The opening / closing section 31, which is opened and closed by the front cover 22 of the unit body 21, is provided with multiple storage sections 62 at its front position for storing the key 61 shown in Figure 3, which is the item to be managed, so that it can be taken out and returned. As shown in Figure 2, multiple storage sections 62 are arranged horizontally, specifically in 10 locations, with their vertical positions aligned. These 10 storage sections 62 are arranged in multiple rows vertically, specifically in 3 rows.

[0015] The unit main body 21 is provided with a control unit 65 (rental period setting unit, authentication unit) shown in FIG. 4 that controls an IC card reader 41, an operation display unit 42, an audio output unit 43, a magnetic card reader 45, a biometric reader 51, a printer unit 56, and a plurality of storage units 62, and a storage unit 66 that stores various information.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 3, the key 61 has a key body 71 that is inserted into an object to be unlocked and locked for unlocking and locking, and a key holder 72 that is connected to at least one key body 71 and holds it. The key holder 72 is composed of a detachable member 75 that is detachably provided in the storage unit 62 of the apparatus main body 14, and a wire-shaped connecting member 76 that connects the key body 71 to the detachable member 75. The detachable members 75 have different shapes from each other. In other words, the plurality of key holders 72 have different shapes from each other. The storage unit 62 holds the detachable member 75 of the corresponding key holder 72 in a locked state so that it cannot be removed. The holder identification number, which is holder identification information for identifying one key holder 72 from all other key holders 72, becomes identification information for identifying the storage unit 62 corresponding to the one key holder 72 from all other storage units 62. Here, it is assumed that the key holder 72 and the storage unit 62 corresponding to each other are managed with the same holder identification number. The storage unit 62 holds the detachable member 75 of the corresponding key holder 72 in a locked state so that it cannot be removed.

[0017] Here, the use of the key body 71 is for opening and closing the door of a conference room, for opening and closing the door of a safe installed in a financial institution, for opening and closing the door of a cash processing machine, for opening and closing the door of a cash storage bin inside the door of a cash processing machine, for opening and closing the door of a collection bin inside the door of a cash processing machine, for switching on and off the main power supply of a cash processing machine, etc. The storage unit 62 holds the key holder 72, that is, the key 61, as an object to be stored (in other words, a management object).

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the unit body 21 is equipped with an electromagnetically driven cover lock mechanism 81, shown in Figure 2, which locks an engagement portion (not shown) on the front cover 22 when the front cover 22 is in the closed state, closing the opening / closing section 31. The cover lock mechanism 81 is controlled by a control unit 65, shown in Figure 4. The unit body 21 is also equipped with a fully closed detection sensor 82, shown in Figure 4, which detects whether the front cover 22 is in the fully closed state by detecting a detection portion (not shown) on the front cover 22 when the front cover 22 is in the closed state, as shown in Figure 1. The cover lock mechanism 81 locks (cannot be opened) the front cover 22 by, for example, locking (engaging) with an engagement portion (not shown) on the front cover 22. When the control unit 65 releases the lock state of the cover lock mechanism 81, the lock on the engagement portion of the front cover 22 by the cover lock mechanism 81 is released. Then, as shown in Figure 2, the front cover 22 can be opened relative to the unit body 21. In this embodiment, the cover lock mechanism 81 is configured to keep the front cover 22 locked at all times by a spring mechanism, except when the control unit 65 has released the lock state of the cover lock mechanism 81. Therefore, except when the control unit 65 has released the lock state of the cover lock mechanism 81, the cover lock mechanism 81 locks the engaging portion of the front cover 22, and as a result, the front cover 22 is locked to the unit body 21 in the closed state, as shown in Figure 1.

[0019] As shown in Figure 3, each of the multiple storage units 62 has an individual key holder storage unit 84 that detachably stores the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72 connected to the key body 71. The key holder storage unit 84 has an individual insertion hole 85 into which the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72 is inserted and removed. The attachment / detachment member 75 is detachable from the key holder storage unit 84 and is locked in the attached state. Each of the multiple storage units 62 has an attachment sensor 87 shown in Figure 4 that detects when the attachment / detachment member 75 is inserted into the insertion hole 85 to a predetermined mounting position, and an electromagnetically driven key lock mechanism 86 (locking mechanism) shown in Figure 5 that locks the attached attachment / detachment member 75, when inserted into the insertion hole 85 to a predetermined mounting position, into the key holder storage unit 84 so that it cannot be removed, and can also be unlocked. Each insertion hole 85 is shaped such that only the attachment / detachment member 75 that corresponds one-to-one can be inserted to the predetermined mounting position. Therefore, even if a detachable member 75 other than the one-to-one corresponding detachable member 75 is inserted into the insertion hole 85, the insertion is restricted, stopping the detachable member 75 before the predetermined mounting position. In other words, only detachable members 75 that have a one-to-one correspondence with the insertion hole 85 can be mechanically inserted to the predetermined mounting position (the position where it can be locked by the key locking mechanism 86).

[0020] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, each of the multiple storage units 62 has an operation button 91 with an integrated indicator lamp. The operation button 91 with a lamp is positioned vertically close to the insertion hole 85 that constitutes the same storage unit 62, with its horizontal position aligned with the insertion hole 85. The operation button 91 with a lamp is pressed when unlocking the lock by the key lock mechanism 86 shown in Figure 4, which constitutes the same storage unit 62. The operation button 91 with a lamp guides the user through, for example, the color of the lamp and the state in which the lamp is lit. Here, the state in which the lamp is lit includes the lamp being off, on, and flashing. For example, the operation button 91 with a lamp can be lit and flash in blue, yellow, light blue, or white. The color of the lamp on the operation button 91 with a lamp is not limited to the above. This allows multiple operations to be guided through the color of the lamp and the state in which the lamp is lit on the operation button 91 with a lamp. In the storage unit 62, for example, when an operation button 91 with a lamp that is illuminated in a specific color is pressed, the control unit 65 unlocks the key lock mechanism 86 of the storage unit 62 where the operation button 91 is located, allowing the key holder 72 to be removed from the storage unit 62.

[0021] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, each of the multiple storage units 62 has a display unit 95 that displays individual storage unit identification information for the storage unit 62. The display unit 95 is positioned above the lamp-equipped operation button 91 and the insertion hole 85, with its left-right position aligned with the insertion hole 85 that constitutes the same storage unit 62. The display unit 95 may be a recess for attaching, for example, a sticker that displays the identification information of the key 61. Here, instead of displaying the identification information of the key 61 on the display unit 95, the identification information may be displayed on the surface of the lamp-equipped operation button 91. As a method for displaying the identification information on the surface of the lamp-equipped operation button 91, for example, a sticker that displays the identification information may be attached to the surface of the lamp-equipped operation button 91. The identification information may be a number, for example, as shown in the figure, or it may be a name, for example. In the lamp-equipped operation button 91 of this embodiment, the identification information (an identification number in the illustrated example) is displayed on the surface, and the part of the lamp-equipped operation button 91 that lights up and flashes is provided in a frame shape that surrounds the lamp-equipped operation button 91.

[0022] Each of the multiple storage units 62 has a mounting sensor 87, as shown in Figure 4, which detects whether or not the attachment / detachment member 75 is in a predetermined mounting position, and detects the removal of the key holder 72, i.e., the key 61, and the return of the key holder 72, i.e., the key 61. The important item management device 11 can manage the removal and return of the key 61 as a managed item based on the detection by the mounting sensor 87. That is, in one storage unit 62, when the mounting sensor 87 changes from a state in which it detects the attachment / detachment member 75 that corresponds one-to-one with this storage unit 62 to a state in which it does not detect the attachment / detachment member 75, it is detected that the key 61, which is a stored item that corresponds one-to-one with this storage unit 62, has been removed from the important item management device 11. Also, in this storage unit 62, when the mounting sensor 87 changes from this state to a state in which it detects the attachment / detachment member 75 that corresponds one-to-one with this storage unit 62, it is detected that the key 61, which is a stored item that corresponds one-to-one with this storage unit 62, has been returned to the important item management device 11.

[0023] The control unit 65 controls the retrieval of the key 61 from the storage unit 62 and the return of the key 61 to the storage unit 62. The control unit 65 also performs a retrieval process in which related information is stored in the storage unit 66 when the key 61 is retrieved from the storage unit 62, and a return process in which related information is stored in the storage unit 66 when the key 61 is returned to the storage unit 62.

[0024] Next, the main operation of the important item management device 11 will be explained.

[0025] [Authentication process] In the important item management device 11, operator authentication is performed by reading the operator ID stored on an IC card using the IC card reader 41, reading the operator ID stored on a magnetic card using the magnetic card reader 45, reading finger vein information using the biometric reader 51, or inputting the operator ID number into the operation display unit 42, along with inputting the corresponding password into the operation display unit 42. That is, for example, if the operator ID that is entered as a number into the operation display unit 42 matches the operator ID in the list of operable user IDs stored in the storage unit 66, the control unit 65 displays a password input screen on the operation display unit 42 that accepts password input. When a password is entered on the password input screen, if the control unit 65 finds that the entered password corresponds one-to-one with the operator ID stored in the storage unit 66, it authenticates the account of this operator ID and password as valid and enters an authentication success state, and stores this operator ID and the authentication date and time information, which is the date and time information at that time, in the storage unit 66. The IC card reader 41, operation display unit 42, magnetic card reader 45, biometric reader 51, and control unit 65 are all capable of authenticating the operator ID, which is the operator identification information of the operator.

[0026] [Storage Unit Usage Processing] In the important item management device 11, when authentication processing is performed from the standby state and the operator ID authorized to use the storage unit becomes authenticated, and an operation to start the storage unit use process is input to the operation display unit 42, the control unit 65 unlocks the cover lock mechanism 81, making the front cover 22 open, and reads the holder identification number of the storage unit 62 authorized for use in the storage unit use process from the storage unit 66 for the operator ID that became authenticated in the authentication process for starting the storage unit use process. At the same time, the control unit 65 displays a storage unit use display screen on the operation display unit 42 prompting the user to input whether to perform the process of retrieving the key 61 from the storage unit 62 or returning the key 61 to the storage unit 62, and waits for selection input. This storage unit use display screen includes a "Retrieve" button that is touched when the retrieval process is selected, and a "Return" button that is touched when the return process is selected.

[0027] {Removal process} On the above storage unit usage display screen, the "Retrieve" button is selected by touch operation. Then, the control unit 65 performs the retrieval process. During the retrieval process, when the fully closed detection sensor 82 detects that the front cover 22 has been opened, the control unit 65 flashes the lamp-equipped operation button 91 of the storage unit 62 that has a holder identification number authorized for use by the operator ID authenticated as appropriate in the authentication process at the start of this retrieval process. Among the flashing lamp-equipped operation buttons 91 of the authorized storage unit 62, when the lamp-equipped operation button 91 of the storage unit 62 with a key 61 is pressed, the control unit 65 drives the key lock mechanism 86 of that storage unit 62 to release the lock. Of course, even if a lamp-equipped operation button 91 that is not lit is pressed, the control unit 65 will not release the lock of the key lock mechanism 86 of the storage unit 62 equipped with this lamp-equipped operation button 91. The control unit 65 accepts operation of the lamp-equipped operation button 91 when the purpose of retrieval is entered into the operation display unit 42.

[0028] In the retrieval process, even if the "Retrieve" button is not touched on the storage unit usage display screen, the control unit 65 opens the front cover 22, and when the blinking lamp-equipped operation button 91 of a storage unit 62 that has a key 61 is pressed, the control unit 65 drives the key lock mechanism 86 of that storage unit 62 to release the lock.

[0029] When the mounting sensor 87 detects that the key holder 72, i.e., the key 61, has been removed from the storage unit 62, the control unit 65 associates the operation name information indicating that an retrieval operation has been input, the operator ID and authentication date and time information authenticated as appropriate during the authentication process at the start of this retrieval process, the authentication identification information indicating the authentication method, and the holder identification number of the storage unit 62, and stores this information in the storage unit 66 as retrieval history information, which is log information related to this retrieval process. If the key 61 is retrieved from multiple storage units 62 in a single retrieval process, the control unit 65 stores the retrieval history information for each of the multiple storage units 62 in the storage unit 66. The retrieval history information is a history of operations performed by the operator.

[0030] After the retrieval history information is stored in the storage unit 66, when the fully closed detection sensor 82 detects that the front cover 22 has been closed, the control unit 65 releases the authentication success state, turns off the blinking lamp-equipped operation button 91, drives the cover lock mechanism 81 to lock the front cover 22 in the closed position, ends the retrieval process, and returns the important item management device 11 to the standby state. The retrieval history information can be displayed on the operation display unit 42 for confirmation in response to operations on the operation display unit 42, or printed on paper by the printer unit 56.

[0031] {Return Processing} On the storage unit usage display screen, the "Return" button is selected by touch operation. Then, the control unit 65 performs the return process. During the return process, when the fully closed detection sensor 82 detects that the front cover 22 has been opened, the control unit 65 flashes the lamp-equipped operation button 91 of the storage unit 62 that has the holder identification number of the storage unit 62 that is permitted to be used by the operator ID authenticated as appropriate in the authentication process at the start of this return process. Then, when the control unit 65 detects that the key holder 72 of the key 61 has been inserted into a storage unit 62 that does not have a key 61, by detecting the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72 with the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72, the control unit 65 drives the key lock mechanism 86 of that storage unit 62 to lock the key holder 72.

[0032] Furthermore, even if the "Return" button is not touched on the storage unit usage display screen, if the front cover 22 is open, usage is permitted, and the operation button 91 with a lamp is flashing, and the mounting sensor 87 of a storage unit 62 without a key 61 detects the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72, the control unit 65 drives the key lock mechanism 86 of that storage unit 62 to lock the key holder 72.

[0033] The control unit 65 associates the operation name information indicating that a return operation has been input, the operator ID and authentication time information authenticated as appropriate in the authentication process at the start of this return process, the authentication identification information indicating the authentication method, and the holder identification number of this storage unit 62. Together with the retrieval history information of a series of retrieval processes performed on the same storage unit 62 as this return process, the control unit 65 stores the return history information in the storage unit 66 as log information related to this return process. If the key 61 is returned to each of the multiple storage units 62 in a single return process, the control unit 65 stores the return history information in the storage unit 66 for each of the multiple storage units 62. The return history information is a history of operations performed by the operator.

[0034] Furthermore, even if an attempt is made to insert the attachment / detachment member 75 of the key holder 72 into the insertion hole 85 of the storage unit 62 which is not compatible, the insertion will be mechanically prevented, and therefore the control unit 65 will not lock the key holder 72 into the storage unit 62.

[0035] After the return history information is stored in the storage unit 66, when the fully closed detection sensor 82 detects that the front cover 22 has been closed, the control unit 65 releases the authentication success state, turns off the blinking lamp-equipped operation button 91, drives the cover lock mechanism 81 to lock the front cover 22 in the closed position, ends the return process, and returns the important item management device 11 to the standby state. Even during the return process, if the "Home" button on the display screen is touched, the control unit 65 releases the authentication success state at that point, turns off the blinking lamp-equipped operation button 91, and ends the return process. Subsequently, when the fully closed detection sensor 82 detects that the front cover 22 has been closed, the control unit 65 drives the cover lock mechanism 81 to lock the front cover 22 in the closed position, and returns the important item management device 11 to the standby state.

[0036] As described above, the important item management device 11 is configured to manage the retrieval and return of the key 61, which has a key body 71 and a key holder 72 to which the key body 71 is attached, with the key holder 72 being mounted in a lockable and unlockable manner.

[0037] In the important item management device 11, the control unit 65 can be configured in advance to set a loan period for each key holder 72, either individually or collectively, based on the input operation to the operation display unit 42, and to perform a time-over process that notifies the user via the operation display unit 42 and the voice output unit 43 if a key holder 72 is not returned within the loan period.

[0038] [Timeout processing settings] When setting up time-over processing for the key holder 72, if authentication is performed from the standby state and the operator ID authorized to set up time-over processing for the key holder 72 is authenticated successfully, the control unit 65 displays an "Alarm Setting" screen (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, which allows the user to select the operation to set up time-over processing for the key holder 72. If the operation to set up a holder alarm, which is time-over processing for the key holder 72, is selected on this "Alarm Setting" screen, the control unit 65 displays a "Holder Alarm" screen 100 on the operation display unit 42, as shown in Figure 5, which allows the user to select either "Holder Timer Setting," which sets the loan period for time-over processing for the key holder 72 from the time the key holder 72 is taken out until it is returned, or "Holder Time Setting," which sets the deadline for taking out the key holder 72.

[0039] Furthermore, if the setting is configured to perform time-over processing for the key holder 72, it may be required that authentication be successful for multiple operator IDs authorized to operate the important item management device 11. These multiple operator IDs could, for example, be multiple different operator IDs authorized to retrieve the key holder 72, or a combination of an operator ID authorized to retrieve the key holder 72 and the operator ID of a higher-level administrator.

[0040] {Holder Timer Settings} On the "Holder Alarm" screen 100, when the "Holder Timer" selection button 101 is touched, i.e., selected, to set the holder timer setting which is the allowable lending time from the removal to the return of the key holder 72, the control unit 65 displays the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" on the operation display unit 42, as shown in Figure 6, which allows the user to select the holder identification number to set, change, or cancel the holder timer setting from the holder identification numbers of all key holders 72, i.e., the holder identification numbers of all storage units 62.

[0041] The first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" has a holder identification number selection unit 111 from which a holder identification number can be selected. The holder identification number selection unit 111 has "Holder Identification Number" buttons 112 corresponding to all holder identification numbers. Each "Holder Identification Number" button 112 displays the corresponding holder identification number and its setting information. Here, in the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" shown in Figure 6, the holder identification number selection unit 111 indicates that holder identification numbers No. 1 to No. 10 are in the "OFF" state, meaning the holder timer setting is not set.

[0042] On the first screen 110 of this "Holder Alarm Timer," the holder identification number selection unit 111 is touched, i.e., selected. Here, the selected "Holder Identification Number" button 112 on the holder identification number selection unit 111 is displayed in a different way from the unselected "Holder Identification Number" button 112, allowing for visual identification, and each touch operation alternates between selected and unselected. On the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer," when the target "Holder Identification Number" button 112 is selected on the holder identification number selection unit 111 and the "Change Settings" button 113 is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 displays a second screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, prompting the user to choose whether to set the key holder 72 of the selected holder identification number to perform a time-over process or to cancel the set time-over process.

[0043] This section describes the case where a selection operation to set the time-over processing to be performed is entered on the second screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer". When this selection operation is entered, the control unit 65 displays the third screen 120 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" on the operation display unit 42, as shown in Figure 7, which is used to input the allowable lending time from the removal to the return of the key holder 72 as the lending period that serves as the criterion for determining when to perform the time-over processing. This third screen 120 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" has a numerical input unit 121 including a numeric keypad for entering numerical values, and a numerical display unit 122 that displays the numerical values ​​entered in the numerical input unit 121.

[0044] When a loan time (for example, 10 minutes) is entered on the third screen 120 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" by operating the numerical input unit 121, and this loan time is displayed on the numerical display unit 122, and the "Next" button 123 is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 stores the setting to perform a time-over process for the holder identification number selected on the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" that was operated in this series, using the loan time entered on the third screen 120 of the "Holder Alarm Timer," as selected on the second screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer." Then, the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" is displayed again on the operation display unit 42, and the settings for the next holder identification number are made. Furthermore, on the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" display, if you select multiple "Holder Identification Number" buttons 112 or "Select All" buttons 114 by touch operation, and then touch the "Change Settings" button 113 (i.e., select it) to perform the same settings as described above, you can apply the same settings to multiple selected holder identification numbers, or to all holder identification numbers.

[0045] After repeating the above setting operations as necessary, when the "Next" button 115 is touched, i.e., selected, on the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" on the displayed operation display unit 42, the control unit 65 displays a confirmation screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, which displays the setting information (loan time, if applicable) for each holder identification number. When the "Complete" operation is entered on this "Holder Alarm Timer" confirmation screen, the control unit 65 stores the displayed setting contents in the storage unit 66. For example, the control unit 65 confirms and stores that for the holder identification number selected on the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Timer" in a series of operations, the setting to perform time-over processing as selected on the second screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer" is the loan time entered on the third screen 120 of the "Holder Alarm Timer". If a loan time is entered for each of the multiple holder identification numbers, the loan times entered for each of the multiple holder identification numbers are set as the loan time for each time-over processing and stored in the storage unit 66.

[0046] {Holder time setting} In the "Holder Alarm" screen 100 shown in Figure 5, when the "Holder Time" selection button 102 is touched, i.e., selected, to set the holder time setting for setting the deadline for removing the key holder 72, the control unit 65 displays a first screen of "Holder Alarm Time" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, similar to the first screen 110 of the "Holder Alarm Time" setting, which allows the user to select the holder identification number to set, change, or cancel the holder time setting from the holder identification numbers of all key holders 72, i.e., all storage unit 62.

[0047] In the holder identification number selection section of the first screen of this "Holder Alarm Time," when the target "Holder Identification Number" button is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 displays a second screen of the "Holder Alarm Time" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, similar to the second screen of the "Holder Alarm Timer" for the holder timer setting, which prompts the user to choose whether to set the key holder 72 of the selected holder identification number to perform a time-over process or to cancel the set time-over process.

[0048] This section describes the case where a selection operation to set time-over processing is entered on the second screen of "Holder Alarm Time". When this selection operation is entered, the control unit 65 displays the third screen 130 of "Holder Alarm Time" on the operation display unit 42, as shown in Figure 8, which prompts the user to input the time at which the key holder 72 can be removed, as this is the loan period that serves as the criterion for determining whether to perform time-over processing. This third screen 130 of "Holder Alarm Time" has a time input display unit 131 that prompts the user to input and display the removal deadline time. The time input display unit 131 displays the current time as the default, for example, and the user inputs an operation to advance the default "hour" value by touching the "+" key, or delay it by touching the "-" key, or advance the default "day" value by touching the "+" key, or delay it by touching the "-" key, and the removal deadline time is entered.

[0049] On the third screen 130 of "Holder Alarm Time," when the retrieval deadline time (for example, 15:00) is entered by operating the time input display unit 131, and the "Next" button 132 is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 stores the setting to perform time-over processing on the holder identification number selected on the first screen of "Holder Alarm Time," based on the retrieval deadline time entered on the third screen 130 of "Holder Alarm Time," as selected on the second screen of "Holder Alarm Time." Then, the operation display unit 42 displays the first screen of "Holder Alarm Time" again, allowing the user to set the next holder identification number. Note that if multiple "Holder Identification Number" buttons or the "Select All" button are selected by touching them on the first screen of "Holder Alarm Time" in a single display, and then the "Change Settings" button is touched, i.e., selected, the same settings can be applied to multiple selected holder identification numbers, or to all holder identification numbers.

[0050] After repeating the above setting operations as necessary, when the "Next" button is touched, i.e., selected, on the first screen of "Holder Alarm Time" on the displayed operation display unit 42, the control unit 65 displays a confirmation screen of "Holder Alarm Time" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, which displays the respective setting information (extraction deadline time if there is one) for each holder identification number. When the "Complete" operation is entered on this "Holder Alarm Time" confirmation screen, the control unit 65 stores the displayed setting contents in the storage unit 66. For example, the control unit 65 confirms and stores that for the holder identification number selected on the first screen of "Holder Alarm Time" in a series of operations, the time-over processing will be set to the time-over processing selected on the second screen of "Holder Alarm Time" with the time-over deadline time entered on the third screen 130 of "Holder Alarm Time". If a time-over deadline time is entered for multiple holder identification numbers, the time-over deadlines entered for each of the multiple holder identification numbers are set as the time-over deadline times for each time-over processing and stored in the storage unit 66.

[0051] [Time-over monitoring process in holder timer settings] The control unit 65 performs time-over monitoring processing for the holder identification numbers of the key holder 72 and storage unit 62, which are set to perform time-over processing in the holder timer setting and have a set lending time, from the time they are removed from the device body 14 in the above-mentioned retrieval process. That is, the control unit 65 monitors the time after retrieval from the time they are removed from the device body 14 in the above-mentioned retrieval process until they are returned to the device body 14 in the above-mentioned return process. If the time after retrieval does not exceed the lending time (e.g., 10 minutes) while the above-mentioned return process is not performed, it determines that no time-over has occurred. If the time after retrieval exceeds the lending time (e.g., 10 minutes), it determines that a time-over has occurred.

[0052] When a key holder 72, which is subject to time-over monitoring in the holder timer settings, is returned to the device body 14 in the return process without the time since retrieval exceeding the loan period (e.g., 10 minutes), the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 in the storage unit 66 and terminates the time-over monitoring in the holder timer settings.

[0053] [Timeout handling in holder timer settings] In the holder timer setting time-over monitoring process, if a key holder 72 experiences a time-over in the holder timer setting, the control unit 65 performs a holder timer setting time-over process. Specifically, the control unit 65 displays a warning message on the operation display unit 42 that includes the holder identification number of the key holder 72 that experienced a time-over in the holder timer setting and a statement that a time-over in the holder timer setting has occurred, and also generates an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43. Furthermore, for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 that experienced a time-over in the holder timer setting, the control unit 65 performs a holder timer setting time-over process by adding a statement that a time-over in the holder timer setting has occurred, the lending time set in the holder timer setting, and the time the time-over in the holder timer setting occurred to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress, and stores it in the storage unit 66.

[0054] Subsequently, when a key holder 72 that has timed out according to the holder timer setting is returned to the main unit 14 during the return process, the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 in the storage unit 66, and terminates the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, thereby ending the time-out process for the holder timer setting.

[0055] As described above, the control unit 65 performs a time-over process to notify the user if the key holder 72, which is set with a holder timer, is not returned within the loan period.

[0056] [Timeout reset process in holder timer settings] Furthermore, if authentication is performed during the holder timer setting time-over processing and authentication is successful with an operator ID authorized to cancel the holder timer setting time-over processing alarm, the control unit 65, based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42, resets the retrieval time after retrieval and the loan time, terminates the display of the warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of the alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, and from that point onward, resets the loan time to the same amount as before (e.g., 10 minutes) and restarts the holder timer setting time-over monitoring processing. Until the holder timer setting time-over reset processing is performed, the holder timer setting time-over processing continues, and the display of the warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of the alarm sound on the audio output unit 43 continue.

[0057] Here, the operator IDs that are permitted to cancel the alarm for time-over processing in the holder timer settings are pre-set based on the input operation to the operation display unit 42 in the state of successful authentication by an operator ID with setting authority (for example, a maintenance worker's operator ID). For example, the setting may be configured to allow the operator ID that retrieved the key holder 72, or to allow the operator ID of a specific category, such as a higher-level administrator category.

[0058] Subsequently, the control unit 65 repeats the time-over monitoring process, time-over processing, and time-over reset process described above for the holder identification number of the retrieved key holder 72 until the return process is performed.

[0059] Furthermore, if authentication is performed during the holder timer setting time-over processing and the operator ID authorized to cancel the alarm for the holder timer setting time-over processing is authenticated successfully, the control unit 65 may be configured to terminate the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, even if no return processing is performed, and to not perform the subsequent holder timer setting time-over monitoring processing, holder timer setting time-over processing, and holder timer setting time-over reset processing, based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42.

[0060] [Timeout monitoring process based on holder time settings] The control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder identification number of a key holder 72 that is set to perform a time-over processing in the holder time setting and has a set retrieval deadline, starting from the time it is retrieved from the device body 14 in the retrieval process described above. That is, the control unit 65 monitors the current time from the time it is retrieved from the device body 14 in the retrieval process described above until it is returned to the device body 14 in the return process described above. If the return process described above has not been performed and the current time has not exceeded the retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:00), the control unit 65 determines that a time-over in the holder time setting has occurred. If the current time has exceeded the retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:00), the control unit 65 determines that a time-over in the holder time setting has occurred.

[0061] When a key holder 72, which is subject to time-over monitoring processing in the holder time setting, is returned to the device body 14 by the retrieval deadline (for example, 15:00) through the return processing, the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 in the storage unit 66 and terminates the time-over monitoring processing in the holder time setting.

[0062] [Timeout handling in holder time settings] In the holder time setting time-over monitoring process, if a key holder 72 experiences a time-over in the holder time setting, the control unit 65 performs the holder time-over processing. Specifically, the control unit 65 displays a warning message on the operation display unit 42 that includes the holder identification number of the key holder 72 that experienced a time-over in the holder time setting and a statement that a time-over in the holder time setting has occurred, and also generates an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43. Furthermore, for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 that experienced a time-over in the holder time setting, the control unit 65 adds the retrieval deadline time (e.g., 15:00), a statement that a time-over in the holder time setting has occurred, and the time the time-over in the holder time setting occurred (e.g., 15:01) to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress, and stores it.

[0063] Subsequently, when a key holder 72 that has timed out in the holder time setting is returned to the main unit 14 in the return process, the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 in the storage unit 66, and terminates the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, thereby ending the time-out processing for the holder time setting.

[0064] As described above, the control unit 65 performs a time-over process to notify the user if the key holder 72, which has a set holder time, is not returned by the retrieval deadline time, which is the loan period.

[0065] [Timeout reset process in holder time settings] Furthermore, if authentication is performed during the holder time setting time-over processing and the operator ID authorized to cancel the holder time setting time-over processing alarm is authenticated successfully, the control unit 65, based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42, terminates the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, and resets a new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:10) that is pre-set for that time or pre-set for the previous retrieval deadline, and starts the holder time setting time-over monitoring processing described above, thereby performing a holder time setting time-over reset processing. Furthermore, until the holder time setting time-over reset processing is performed, the holder time setting time-over processing continues, and the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43 continue.

[0066] Here, the operator IDs that are permitted to cancel the alarm for time-over processing in the holder time setting are pre-set based on the input operation to the operation display unit 42 in the state of successful authentication by an operator ID with setting authority (for example, the operator ID of a maintenance worker). For example, the setting may be configured to allow the operator ID that retrieved the key holder 72, or to allow the operator ID of a specific category, such as a higher-level administrator category.

[0067] Subsequently, the control unit 65 repeats the time-over monitoring process, time-over processing, and time-over reset process described above for the holder identification number of the retrieved key holder 72 until the return process is performed.

[0068] Furthermore, if the control unit 65 is performing an authentication process during the holder time setting time-over processing and the operator ID authorized to cancel the alarm for the holder time setting time-over processing is authenticated successfully, even if no return processing is performed, the control unit 65 may be configured to terminate the display of a warning message on the operation display unit 42 and the generation of an alarm sound on the audio output unit 43, and to not perform the subsequent holder time setting time-over monitoring process, holder time setting time-over processing, and holder time setting time-over reset processing, based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42.

[0069] The control unit 65 is capable of performing a timeout extension modification process to extend the loan period for the holder identification number of the key holder 72 being retrieved, based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42, during the timeout monitoring process before the timeout processing in the holder timer setting and during the timeout monitoring process before the timeout processing in the holder time setting. The control unit 65 enables the timeout extension modification process, which is an extension of the loan period, only if the operator ID authenticated in the authentication process is authorized to extend the loan period.

[0070] [Timeout extension modification process in holder timer settings] During the time-over monitoring process in the holder timer settings, if authentication is performed and the operator ID is successfully authenticated with an operator ID that has been previously authorized to change the timeout extension in the holder timer settings, the control unit 65 displays a "menu" screen (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, which allows the user to select the setting operation for changing the timeout extension in the holder timer settings. When the setting operation for changing the timeout extension in the holder timer settings is selected on this "menu" screen, the control unit 65 displays the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension" as shown in Figure 9. Here, the operator IDs that are authorized to change the timeout extension in the holder timer settings are set in advance based on the input operation to the operation display unit 42 in a state of successful authentication by an operator ID with setting authority (for example, a maintenance worker's operator ID). For example, the setting may be configured to allow the operator ID that retrieved the key holder 72, or to allow the operator ID of a specific category, such as a higher-level administrator category.

[0071] The first screen 140 of this "Timeout Extension" has a holder selection section 142 that displays the "Holder Identification Number" buttons 141 for all key holders 72. In this holder selection section 142, the "Holder Identification Number" buttons 141 for holder identification numbers that are currently undergoing time-over monitoring processing in the holder timer settings and for which timeout extension modification processing in the holder timer settings is possible are displayed in a different form from the other "Holder Identification Number" buttons 141, and one of the "Holder Identification Number" buttons 141 for which timeout extension modification processing in the holder timer settings is possible can be selected.

[0072] In this holder selection unit 142, when the desired "holder identification number" button 141 is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 displays a second screen of "Timeout Extension" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, allowing the user to select one of the following as a change to extend the loan period: "Setting an extension of the loan time," "Setting an extension of the time from the current time until return," and "Resetting the retrieval deadline." In other words, before the time-over processing, the control unit 65 enables the target key holder 72 to perform one of the following changes to extend the loan period: "Setting an extension of the loan time," "Setting an extension of the time from the current time until return," and "Resetting the retrieval deadline." Note that the control unit 65 only needs to enable at least one of the following as a change to extend the loan period: "Setting an extension of the loan time," "Setting an extension of the time from the current time until return," and "Resetting the retrieval deadline."

[0073] {Extended loan time setting} On the second screen of "Timeout Extension," if "Extend Loan Time Setting" is selected as the change to extend the loan period, the control unit 65 displays the third screen 150 of "Timeout Extension" as shown in Figure 10. This third screen 150 of "Timeout Extension" has a target information display unit 151 that displays the holder identification number of the holder to be extended selected in the holder selection unit 142 of the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension" and the date and time of the current retrieval, and a loan time input display unit 152 that allows input of the extended loan time and displays the input value.

[0074] The loan time input display unit 152 displays the default loan time (e.g., 10 minutes) set in the holder timer before extension. The loan time can be changed by increasing it with the "+" key touch operation, or decreasing it with the "-" key touch operation after it has been increased. The time that can be displayed on the loan time input display unit 152 is greater than or equal to the default value and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit (e.g., 1440 minutes as shown in Figure 10). After the loan time has been changed on the loan time input display unit 152, if the "Execute" button 153 is touched, i.e., input is performed, the control unit 65 extends the loan time for the holder identification number to be extended, selected on the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension," to the loan time entered on the third screen 150 of "Timeout Extension." The control unit 65 then adds extension history information as log information to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress. This information includes a statement that the loan time has been extended, the extended loan time (e.g., 20 minutes), the ID of the operator who performed the extension, and the date and time the extension was performed. The control unit 65 stores this information in the storage unit 66. On the third screen 150 of "Timeout Extension," in addition to changing the loan time, the user may also be prompted to input the reason for the extension change. In this case, this reason will be included in the extension history information. Multiple selection options for the reason for the extension change may be set in advance, and the user may be prompted to select from these options.

[0075] In this way, when the lending time is extended, the control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder timer setting based on the extended lending time (e.g., 20 minutes) for the holder identification number to be extended. Specifically, the control unit 65 monitors the time after retrieval for the key holder 72 of the holder identification number to be extended, from the time it is retrieved from the device body 14 in the above-described retrieval process until it is returned to the device body 14 in the above-described return process. If this time after retrieval does not exceed the extended lending time (e.g., 20 minutes) while the above-described return process is not performed, it determines that a time-over has not occurred in the holder timer setting. If this time after retrieval exceeds the extended lending time (e.g., 20 minutes), it determines that a time-over has occurred in the holder timer setting and performs the same time-over processing as in the case of the holder timer setting. If a key holder 72, which is undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder timer settings, is returned to the device body 14 in the return process without the time since its removal exceeding the extended loan time (e.g., 20 minutes), the control unit 65 stores the return history information, including that it is a return during an extended loan time, in the storage unit 66 for the holder identification number of the target key holder 72, and terminates the time-over monitoring process in the holder timer settings. At this time of return, the control unit 65 may also display on the operation display unit 42 that it is a return during an extended loan time.

[0076] For a key holder 72 undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder timer settings, if the time since removal from the device body 14 exceeds the extended loan time (e.g., 20 minutes), the control unit 65 will perform time-over processing in the holder timer settings. At that time, in addition to the removal history information, the extension history information stored in the storage unit 66 will include a note indicating that the time-over occurred while the loan time was extended. In other words, the storage unit 66 will distinguish between time-overs caused by exceeding the loan time before the extension and time-overs caused by exceeding the loan time after the extension.

[0077] Furthermore, the loan period may be extended again after the initial extension. In the case of further extension, the loan period input display unit 152 defaults to the loan period after the previous extension, and the loan period can be set to a value greater than or equal to the default and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. When the loan period is extended again in this manner, if the time from the time of removal from the device body 14 to the time of removal exceeds this further extended loan period, the control unit 65 determines that a timeout has occurred in the holder timer setting based on the loan period, and performs a timeout process in the holder timer setting based on the loan period. Further extensions of the loan period may be limited to a predetermined number of times, or it may be possible to extend it any number of times as long as it is within a predetermined upper limit (for example, 1440 minutes).

[0078] {extension time setting} On the second screen of the "Timeout Extension" described above, if "Set extension time from the current time until return" is selected as a change to extend the loan period, the control unit 65 displays the fourth screen of the "Timeout Extension" (not shown). This fourth screen of the "Timeout Extension" has a target information display unit that displays the holder identification number of the holder to be extended selected in the holder selection unit 142 of the first screen 140 of the "Timeout Extension", its retrieval date and time, and its set loan time, and an extension time input display unit that allows the user to input the extension time from the current time and displays the input value.

[0079] The extension time input and display section, for example, displays the remaining time until time-over (e.g., 5 minutes), which is the remaining time after the original rental period (e.g., 10 minutes), as the default. By increasing this remaining time until time-over with a touch operation of the "+" key, or decreasing it with a touch operation of the "-" key after increasing it, the extension time, which is the remaining time until time-over after extending the original time until time-over (e.g., 5 minutes), is set within a range of more than the default remaining time until time-over (e.g., 5 minutes) and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. On the fourth screen of "Timeout Extension," after the extension time (for example, 5 minutes remaining until the timeout before the change + 10 minutes = 15 minutes) is set, if the "Execute" button is touched, i.e., inputted, the control unit 65 sets the extension time (for example, 15 minutes), which is the remaining time until the timeout set on the fourth screen of "Timeout Extension," for the holder identification number to be extended selected on the first screen 140 of Timeout Extension, instead of the remaining time until the timeout before the change in the loan time. The control unit 65 then adds extension history information as log information, including the fact that the loan time was extended, the extension time, the ID of the operator who performed the extension, and the date and time the extension was performed, to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress, and stores this information in the storage unit 66. Note that on the fourth screen of "Timeout Extension," in addition to setting the extension time, the reason for the extension change may also be entered, in which case this reason will be included in the extension history information. Multiple selection candidates for the reason for the extension change may be set in advance, and the user may be allowed to select from these.

[0080] In this way, when an extension time is set, the control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder timer setting based on the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes) for the holder identification number to be extended. Specifically, the control unit 65 monitors the extended retrieval time from the time the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes) is set until the holder is returned to the device body 14 in the return process described above. If the return process described above is not performed and this extended retrieval time does not exceed the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes), the control unit 65 determines that a time-over has occurred in the holder timer setting based on the extension time, and performs the time-over processing in the holder timer setting based on the extension time. When a key holder 72, which is undergoing time-over monitoring processing based on the holder timer setting of the extended time, is returned to the device body 14 during the return process without the extended retrieval time exceeding the extended time (e.g., 15 minutes), the control unit 65 stores the return history information, including that the return occurred during the extended time, in the storage unit 66 for the holder identification number of the target key holder 72, and terminates the time-over monitoring processing based on the holder timer setting. At the time of this return, the control unit 65 may also display on the operation display unit 42 that the return occurred during the extended time.

[0081] For a key holder 72 undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder timer settings, if the time to retrieve the key after the extension (e.g., 15 minutes) from the point when the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes) is set exceeds the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes), the control unit 65 will perform time-over processing in the holder timer settings. At that time, the extension history information added to the retrieval history information will include a note indicating that the time-over occurred due to the extension time. In other words, time-overs caused by exceeding the lending time before the extension and time-overs caused by exceeding the extension time are distinguished and stored in the storage unit 66. Here, different notification methods may be used, such as changing the alarm sound that sounds for time-overs before and after the extension.

[0082] Furthermore, the extension time may be made further extendable. In the case of further extension, the extension time input display unit defaults to the remaining time until time-over at the first extension time immediately before the further extension (e.g., 15 minutes) (e.g., 3 minutes). By increasing this remaining time until time-over with a touch operation of the "+" key, or decreasing it after increasing it with a touch operation of the "-" key, it becomes possible to set a second extension time after further extension of the remaining time until time-over (e.g., the remaining time until time-over before the change of 3 minutes + 17 minutes = 20 minutes) within a range of more than the default remaining time until time-over at the first extension time (e.g., 15 minutes) (e.g., 3 minutes) and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. When a second extension time (e.g., 20 minutes) is set for further extension, the control unit 65 determines that a timeout has occurred in the holder timer setting based on the second extension time if the extended retrieval time from the time of this setting exceeds this second extension time (e.g., 20 minutes), and performs the timeout processing in the holder timer setting based on the second extension time. Further extensions of the extension time may be possible a predetermined number of times. Here, the conditions for enabling the operation may be changed, such as requiring two people to operate for the initial extension, but requiring two people to operate for subsequent extensions. In addition, the extension time input display unit may, for example, display "0" as the default value, and allow the user to increase this "0" by touching the "+" key, or decrease it by touching the "-" key after increasing it, so that a set time (e.g., 10 minutes) is set within a range of 0 minutes or more and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. The control unit 65 may then subtract the current time from the time when the time-over occurred before the extension to calculate the remaining time until the time-over (e.g., 5 minutes), and add the set time (e.g., 10 minutes) to this remaining time (e.g., 5 minutes) to obtain the extension time (e.g., 15 minutes).

[0083] {Reset the retrieval deadline} On the second screen of the "Timeout Extension" described above, if "Reset Retrieval Deadline" is selected as the change to extend the loan period, the control unit 65 displays the fifth screen of the "Timeout Extension" (not shown). This fifth screen of the "Timeout Extension" has a target information display unit that displays the holder identification number of the holder to be extended selected in the holder selection unit 142 of the first screen 140 of the "Timeout Extension", its retrieval date and time, and loan time, and a retrieval deadline time input display unit that inputs the retrieval deadline time and displays the input value.

[0084] In the retrieval deadline time input and display section, the retrieval deadline time is displayed by default as, for example, the original retrieval deadline time used to determine if the time has expired. Within the configurable range, and within a range later than the original retrieval deadline time used to determine if the time has expired, the default "hour" value can be advanced by touching the "+" key, or delayed by touching the "-" key, or the "day" value can be advanced by touching the "+" key, or delayed by touching the "-" key, thereby resetting the retrieval deadline time (for example, 15:30). On the fifth screen of "Timeout Extension" (not shown), after the new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) has been reset, if the "Execute" button is touched, i.e., inputted, the control unit 65 resets the new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) set on the fifth screen of "Timeout Extension" (not shown) instead of the loan time for the holder identification number to be extended selected on the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension". The control unit 65 then adds extension-related information, including a statement that the loan period will be extended, the set new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30), the operator ID that reset the new retrieval deadline, and the date and time the new retrieval deadline was reset, to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress. Note that on the fifth screen of "Timeout Extension", in addition to resetting the new retrieval deadline, the user may be prompted to input the reason for the extension change, in which case this reason is included in the extension history information. For reasons for extension or change, you can pre-set several options and allow the user to choose from these.

[0085] In this way, when a new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) is reset, the control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder time setting based on this new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) for the holder identification number subject to extension. Specifically, the control unit 65 monitors the current time until the holder is returned to the device body 14 in the return process described above. If the return process described above has not been performed and the current time has not exceeded this new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30), it determines that a time-over has occurred in the holder time setting and performs the holder time setting time-over process. If a key holder 72 that is undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder time setting is returned to the device body 14 in the return process by the current time, before the new retrieval deadline (for example, 15:30), the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the target key holder 72 in the storage unit 66, including that the return is due by the new retrieval deadline that has been reset for the extension, and terminates the time-over monitoring in the holder time setting. At the time of this return, the control unit 65 may also display on the operation display unit 42 that the return is due by the new retrieval deadline that has been reset for the extension.

[0086] For key holder 72 that is undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder time setting, if the current time exceeds the new retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) that has been reset due to the extension change, the control unit 65 will perform time-over processing in the holder time setting. At that time, the extension history information added to the retrieval history information will include a note indicating that the time-over occurred at the new retrieval deadline that has been reset due to the extension. In other words, the storage unit 66 will distinguish between a time-over caused by exceeding the loan time before the extension and a time-over caused by exceeding the new retrieval deadline that has been reset due to the extension, and store them accordingly.

[0087] Furthermore, the newly reset retrieval deadline time, which has been extended, may be reset again after the initial reset. In the case of a second reset, the first retrieval deadline time set immediately before becomes the default in the retrieval deadline time input display unit, and it becomes possible to set a second retrieval deadline time after this first retrieval deadline time but before a predetermined limit time. When the second retrieval deadline time is reset in this way, if the current time exceeds this second retrieval deadline time, the control unit 65 determines that a timeout has occurred in the holder timer setting based on this second retrieval deadline time, and performs a timeout process in the holder timer setting based on this second retrieval deadline time. The retrieval deadline time may be reset to a predetermined number of times, or it may be possible to reset it any number of times within the range before the limit time.

[0088] [Timeout extension modification process in holder time settings] During the time-over monitoring process in the holder time settings, if authentication is performed and the user ID is previously authorized to change the timeout extension in the holder time settings, the control unit 65 displays a "menu" screen (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, which allows the user to select the setting operation for changing the timeout extension in the holder time settings. When the setting operation for changing the timeout extension in the holder time settings is selected on this "menu" screen, the control unit 65 displays the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension," similar to the timeout extension change operation in the holder timer settings. Here, the user IDs authorized to change the timeout extension in the holder time settings are the same as the user IDs authorized to change the timeout extension in the holder timer settings.

[0089] On the first screen 140 of this "Timeout Extension," when a "Holder Identification Number" button 141 is touched, i.e., selected, the control unit 65 displays a sixth screen of the "Timeout Extension" (not shown) on the operation display unit 42, allowing the user to select one of the following as an extension of the loan period: "Reset the retrieval deadline" or "Set an extension time from the current time until return." In other words, before the time-over processing, the control unit 65 enables the target key holder 72 to perform one of the following as an extension of the loan period: "Reset the retrieval deadline" or "Set an extension time from the current time until return." Note that the control unit 65 only needs to enable at least one of the following as an extension of the loan period: "Reset the retrieval deadline" or "Set an extension time from the current time until return."

[0090] {Reset the retrieval deadline} On the sixth screen of the "Timeout Extension" described above, if "Reset Retrieval Deadline" is selected as a change to extend the loan period, the control unit 65 displays the seventh screen of the "Timeout Extension" (not shown). This seventh screen of the "Timeout Extension" has a target information display unit that displays the holder identification number of the holder to be extended selected in the holder selection unit 142 of the first screen 140 of the "Timeout Extension", its retrieval date and time, and the currently set retrieval deadline, and a retrieval deadline input display unit that allows the retrieval deadline to be entered and displays the input value.

[0091] In the retrieval deadline time input and display section, the retrieval deadline time is displayed by default as, for example, the currently set retrieval deadline time. Within the range of after the currently set retrieval deadline time (for example, 15:00) but before a predetermined limit time, the retrieval deadline time (for example, 15:30) is entered by inputting operations such as advancing the default "hour" value by touching the "+" key, delaying it by touching the "-" key, or advancing the "day" value by touching the "+" key, or delaying it by touching the "-" key. On the seventh screen of "Timeout Extension" (not shown), after the retrieval deadline time (e.g., 15:30) is entered, if the "Execute" button is touched, i.e., inputted, the control unit 65 resets the currently set retrieval deadline time for the holder identification number to be extended selected on the first screen 140 of "Timeout Extension" to the retrieval deadline time entered on the seventh screen of "Timeout Extension" (e.g., 15:30). The control unit 65 then adds extension history information as log information to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress. This log information includes a statement that the loan period will be extended, the reset retrieval deadline time (e.g., 15:30), the operator ID that reset the retrieval deadline time, and the date and time the retrieval deadline time was reset. The extension history information is then stored in the storage unit 66. Note that on the seventh screen of "Timeout Extension," in addition to resetting the retrieval deadline time, the user may also be prompted to input the reason for the extension change. In this case, this reason is included in the extension history information. For reasons for extension or change, you can pre-set several options and allow the user to choose from these.

[0092] In this way, when the retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) is reset, the control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder time setting based on the reset retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30) for the holder identification number subject to extension. Specifically, the control unit 65 monitors the current time until the holder is returned to the device body 14 in the return process described above. If the return process described above has not been performed and the current time has not exceeded the reset retrieval deadline (e.g., 15:30), it determines that a time-over has occurred in the holder time setting and performs the holder time setting time-over processing. If a key holder 72 that is undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder time setting is returned to the device body 14 in the return process before the current time reaches the reset retrieval deadline (for example, 15:30), the control unit 65 stores the return history information for the holder identification number of the target key holder 72 in the storage unit 66, including that the return was made before the reset retrieval deadline for extension, and terminates the time-over monitoring in the holder time setting. At this time of return, the control unit 65 may also display on the operation display unit 42 that the return was made before the reset retrieval deadline for extension.

[0093] For key holder 72 that is undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder time setting, if the current time exceeds the retrieval deadline time (e.g., 15:30) that has been reset due to the extension change, the control unit 65 will perform time-over processing. At that time, the extension history information added to the retrieval history information will include a note indicating that the time-over occurred at the retrieval deadline time that has been reset due to the extension. In other words, the storage unit 66 will distinguish between time-overs caused by exceeding the retrieval deadline time before the extension and time-overs caused by exceeding the retrieval deadline time that has been reset due to the extension and store them accordingly.

[0094] Furthermore, the retrieval deadline time may be allowed to be reset after the initial reset. In the case of an additional reset, the retrieval deadline time set immediately before will become the default in the retrieval deadline time input display section, and the retrieval deadline time can be set to a time after this default retrieval deadline time but before a predetermined limit time. When the retrieval deadline time is reset in this way, if the current time exceeds this reset retrieval deadline time, it will be determined that a timeout has occurred in the holder time setting based on the retrieval deadline time, and a timeout process will be performed in the holder time setting based on the retrieval deadline time. The retrieval deadline time may be reset to a predetermined number of times, or it may be possible to reset it any number of times as long as it is within the range before the limit time.

[0095] {extension time setting} On the sixth screen of the "Timeout Extension" described above, if "Set extension time from the current time until return" is selected as a change to extend the loan period, the control unit 65 displays the eighth screen of the "Timeout Extension" (not shown). This eighth screen of the "Timeout Extension" has a target information display unit that displays the holder identification number of the holder to be extended selected in the holder selection unit 142 of the first screen 140 of the "Timeout Extension", its retrieval date and time, and the currently set retrieval deadline time, and an extension time input display unit that allows the user to input the extension time from the current time and displays the input value.

[0096] The extension time input display unit displays, for example, 0 minutes as the default. By increasing this extension time with a touch operation of the "+" key, or decreasing it with a touch operation of the "-" key after it has been increased, the extension time from the current time can be set within a range of 0 minutes or more and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. On the 8th screen of "Timeout Extension," after the extension time (for example, 10 minutes) is set, when the "Execute" button is touched, i.e., input operation is performed, the control unit 65 sets the extension time (for example, 10 minutes) set on the 8th screen of "Timeout Extension" instead of the retrieval deadline time for the holder identification number to be extended selected on the 1st screen 140 of Timeout Extension. The control unit 65 then adds extension history information as log information, including the fact that the loan time has been extended, the extension time, the ID of the operator who performed the extension, and the date and time the extension was performed, to the retrieval history information stored in the storage unit 66 for the retrieval process in progress, and stores it in the storage unit 66. Note that on the 8th screen of "Timeout Extension," in addition to setting the extension time, the reason for the extension change may also be entered, in which case this reason is included in the extension history information. For reasons for extension or change, you can pre-set several options and allow the user to choose from these.

[0097] In this way, when an extension time is set, the control unit 65 performs a time-over monitoring process for the holder timer setting based on the extension time (e.g., 10 minutes) for the holder identification number to be extended. Specifically, the control unit 65 monitors the extended retrieval time from the time the extension time (e.g., 10 minutes) is set until the holder is returned to the device body 14 in the return process described above. If the return process described above is not performed and this extended retrieval time does not exceed the extension time (e.g., 10 minutes), it determines that a time-over has occurred in the holder timer setting based on the extension time, and performs the time-over processing in the holder timer setting based on the extension time. When a key holder 72, which is undergoing time-over monitoring processing based on the holder timer setting of the extended time, is returned to the device body 14 during the return process without the extended retrieval time exceeding the extended time (e.g., 10 minutes), the control unit 65 stores the return history information, including that the return occurred during the extended time, in the storage unit 66 for the holder identification number of the target key holder 72, and terminates the time-over monitoring processing based on the holder time setting. At this time of return, the control unit 65 may also display on the operation display unit 42 that the return occurred during the extended time.

[0098] For a key holder 72 undergoing time-over monitoring in the holder time setting, if the retrieval time after the extension (e.g., 10 minutes) from the time the extension period (e.g., 10 minutes) is set exceeds the extension period (e.g., 10 minutes), the control unit 65 will perform time-over processing in the holder timer setting. At that time, the extension history information added to the retrieval history information will include a note indicating that the time-over was due to the extension period. In other words, time-overs caused by exceeding the retrieval deadline time and time-overs caused by exceeding the extension period are distinguished and stored in the storage unit 66.

[0099] Furthermore, the extension time may be extended again. In the case of further extension, the extension time input display unit defaults to 0, and the extension time can be set to 0 or greater and less than or equal to a predetermined upper limit. When a further extension time is set in this manner, if the retrieval time after the extension from the time of this setting exceeds this extension time, it is determined that a timeout has occurred in the holder timer setting based on the extension time, and the timeout processing in the holder timer setting based on the extension time is performed. Further extensions of the extension time may be limited to a predetermined number of times, or may be allowed any number of times as long as they are within a predetermined upper limit.

[0100] The control unit 65 can display information for each key holder 72 on the operation display unit 42 by receiving an operation input to the operation display unit 42. The information for each key holder 72 to be displayed includes the holder identification number of the key holder 72, a statement indicating that it has been removed from the device body 14 if applicable, the operator ID and name of the operator who removed it, the time of removal, and the set removal deadline time and loan time as part of the set loan period. In addition, if the loan period has been extended, the extended loan period, i.e., the set portion of the set loan time, set extension time, and extended removal deadline time, is also included. This information can also be displayed on the operation display unit 42 by pressing the lamp-equipped operation button 91 provided on the corresponding storage unit 62.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 65 can have the printer unit 56 print appropriate information from the retrieval history information and return history information, including extension history information, stored in the storage unit 66 onto paper. In this case as well, printing is only performed after authentication processing has been carried out and authentication has been successfully completed with an operator ID authorized to print. For example, the control unit 65 has the printer unit 56 print the operation history for a predetermined holder identification number onto paper. The printed content includes, for example, the date and time of printing, the holder identification number of the key holder 72, the name of the key holder 72, and the purpose of the key holder 72. In addition to these, it also includes information about each retrieval process, information about each return process, information about each timeout extension change process, and information about each timeover process. The information about the retrieval process includes a statement that it is a retrieval process, process identification information to distinguish this retrieval process from other processes, the operator ID and name who performed this retrieval process, and the time when this retrieval process was performed. Information regarding the return process includes a statement that it is a return process, process identification information to distinguish it from other processes, the operator ID and name who performed the return process, and the time the return process was performed. Information regarding the timeout extension change process includes a statement that it is a timeout extension change process, process identification information to distinguish it from other processes, the operator ID and name who performed the timeout extension change process, the time the timeout extension change process was performed, and the extension details. Information regarding the timeover process includes a statement that it is a timeover process, process identification information to distinguish it from other processes, the operator ID and name who retrieved the key holder 72 that was the target of the timeout process, and whether it was due to exceeding the loan time or exceeding the retrieval deadline. If the reason for the timeout occurred is to be entered into the operation display unit 42 during the timeover reset process, the information regarding the timeover process may also include that reason. By using this type of printing, it becomes possible to distinguish between, for example, the operator ID who retrieved the item and the operator ID who extended the timeout, if they are different. Similarly, it becomes possible to distinguish between the operator ID who returned the item and the operator ID who extended the timeout, if they are different.

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit 65 can display appropriate information from the retrieval history information, including extension history information, and return history information stored in the storage unit 66 on the operation display unit 42. In this case as well, the control unit 65 will only display the information if authentication processing has been performed and authentication has been successful with an authorized operator ID. For example, the control unit 65 will display the operation history for a predetermined holder identification number on the operation display unit 42. The content of this display can be the same as the printed content described above.

[0103] Furthermore, the control unit 65 can output appropriate information from the retrieval history information, including extension history information, and return history information stored in the storage unit 66 to an external medium. In this case as well, the control unit 65 will only output the information if authentication processing is performed and authentication is successful with an authorized operator ID. For example, the control unit 65 will output the operation history for a predetermined holder identification number to an external medium. The output content can be the same as the printed content described above.

[0104] As described above, in the embodiment of the important item management device 11, the control unit 65 sets a loan period for the key holder 72 based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42. If the key holder 72 is not returned within the set loan period, a time-over process is performed, which notifies the user via the operation display unit 42 and the voice output unit 43. However, before this time-over process, it is possible to extend or change the loan period for the key holder 72. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in work efficiency and improve usability. In other words, in conventional key management devices, once a time-over process accompanied by notification is performed, in order to cancel it, it is necessary to return the key in question or to perform an operation to temporarily cancel it with the approval of an authorized administrator. However, the temporary cancellation of a time-over process accompanied by notification cannot be performed until the time-over process has been performed. Even if a delay in returning the key is anticipated, it is necessary to either return the key and retrieve it again, or wait for the time-over process accompanied by notification before performing the temporary cancellation. Therefore, the operation may become complicated or the timing of operations may be restricted, potentially reducing work efficiency. The important item management device 11 of this embodiment can solve these problems.

[0105] Furthermore, the important item management device 11, through its control unit 65, sets the loan period for the key holder 72 based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42, specifying the time from retrieval to return. If the key holder 72 is not returned within the set loan period, the control unit 42 and the audio output unit 43 will trigger a time-over process to notify the user. However, before this time-over process, it is possible to extend the loan period for the key holder 72 by setting an extension of the loan time, an extension of the time from the current time until return, and a retrieval deadline. This makes it easy to extend the loan period, thereby further suppressing the decline in operational efficiency. Note that it is sufficient for at least one of the following to be possible as an extension of the loan period: setting an extension of the loan time, an extension of the time from the current time until return, and a retrieval deadline.

[0106] Furthermore, in the important item management device 11, the control unit 65 sets the retrieval deadline time as the loan period based on the operation input to the operation display unit 42. If the key holder 72 is not returned by the set retrieval deadline time, the operation display unit 42 and the audio output unit 43 will perform a time-over process to notify the user. However, before this time-over process, it is possible to change the loan period for the key holder 72 by resetting the retrieval deadline time and setting an extension time from the current time until return. Therefore, it becomes easier to change the loan period, and thus it is possible to further suppress the decline in operational efficiency. Note that it is sufficient if at least one of the following is possible as a change to extend the loan period: resetting the retrieval deadline time and setting an extension time from the current time until return.

[0107] Furthermore, the important item management device 11 has improved security because the control unit 65 can authenticate the operator's operator ID based on input from the IC card reader 41, operation display unit 42, magnetic card reader 45, and biometric reader 51, and it is possible to extend or change the loan period only if permission to do so is granted for the authenticated operator ID.

[0108] Furthermore, the important item management device 11 may be configured to enable wireless communication between the device body 14 and the key holder 72, and the key holder 72 may be equipped with notification means such as sound or text. In this case, the control unit 65 can cause the notification means of the target key holder 72 to notify the device body 14 when a timeout extension change process is executed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 11...Important item management device, 14...Device body, 41...IC card reader (authentication unit), 42...Operation display unit (loan period setting unit, authentication unit), 45...Magnetic card reader (authentication unit), 51...Biometric reader (authentication unit), 65...Control unit (loan period setting unit, authentication unit), 61...Key (item), 71...Key body, 72...Key holder.

Claims

1. Items that can be managed by the device itself, A loan period setting unit sets a loan period for the aforementioned item, Control unit and Equipped with, The control unit will perform a time-over process to notify the user of the item that has not been returned within the loan period, and before the time-over process, it will be possible to extend or change the loan period for the item. A device for managing important items, characterized by the following features.

2. The loan period setting unit sets the loan period to the time from retrieval to return. The control unit will perform a time-over process to notify the unit of any items that have not been returned within the loan period set by the loan period setting unit, and before the time-over process, it will enable at least one of the following for the item as an extension of the loan period: setting an extension of the loan time, setting an extension of the time from the current time until return, and setting a retrieval deadline. The important item management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a device for managing important items.

3. The loan period setting unit sets the retrieval deadline time as the loan period. The control unit will perform a time-over process to notify the unit of any items that have not been returned by the retrieval deadline set by the loan period setting unit, and before the time-over process, it will enable at least one of the following for the item as an extension of the loan period: resetting the retrieval deadline and setting an extension time from the current time until return. The important item management device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a device for managing important items.

4. It has an authentication unit capable of authenticating the operator's operator identification information, The control unit enables the extension or modification of the loan period if permission is granted for the operator identification information authenticated by the authentication unit. The important item management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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