Key box device

Abstract

This technology provides a way to suppress the increasing maintenance costs of key box devices. [Solution] The key box device 101 comprises a plurality of storage units 3, a drive unit 4, and a reading unit 2. Each of the plurality of storage units is capable of individually storing a key folder 200. The drive unit is capable of transporting a key folder to any one of the plurality of storage units. The reading unit is capable of reading the first identification information of a key folder before it is transported to a storage unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a key box device.

Background Art

[0002] Key box devices for storing multiple keys are known. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-265604 (Patent Document 1) describes a key management device including a plurality of box parts for accommodating keys, a plurality of insertion parts into which each of the plurality of box parts is inserted, locking and unlocking means provided in each of the plurality of insertion parts, and a locking and unlocking control mechanism. An identification tag is provided at the insertion tip of each box part. A receiver pre-associated with the identification tag is provided in each insertion part. Each identification tag can only be inserted into the insertion part pre-associated with it. Each locking and unlocking means can only lock the box part when the box part is inserted into the insertion part associated with the identification tag. Each locking and unlocking means consists of a solenoid and a locking lever, and mechanically locks and unlocks the box parts inserted into each insertion part.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the key management device described in Patent Document 1, the locking and unlocking means for mechanically locking and unlocking the box parts in each insertion part are prone to failure. When a failure occurs in each locking and unlocking means, it is necessary to replace the locking and unlocking means and the insertion part as an integrated unit. Therefore, in the above key management device, the maintenance cost tends to increase.

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a technology that can suppress the increase in maintenance costs of key box devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The key box device according to this disclosure comprises a plurality of storage units, a drive unit, and a reading unit. Each of the plurality of storage units is capable of individually storing a key folder. The drive unit can transport a key folder to any one of the plurality of storage units by moving the key folder and at least one of the plurality of storage units. The reading unit is capable of reading the first identification information of a key folder before it is transported to a storage unit, or the first identification information of a key folder stored in a storage unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, it is possible to suppress the increase in maintenance costs of the key box device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing a key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the internal structure of the housing of a key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a key holder for a key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a key holder for a key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a key holder for a key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for the storage process performed by the key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7]This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for the retrieval process performed by the key box device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing a key box device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram showing a key box device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram showing a key box device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for the storage process performed by the key box device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 12] This flowchart shows an example of the procedure for the retrieval process performed by the key box device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram illustrating a modified key holder in the key box device according to Embodiments 1 to 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals will be used for identical components, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0010] The key box device according to the embodiment of this disclosure is installed at the entrances and exits of a facility such as a building having multiple security compartments. Each security compartment is assigned identification information (hereinafter referred to as "first identification information") for identifying the security compartment. The key box device stores the keys for opening and closing the entrance doors of each security compartment, in a key folder containing the first identification information of the security compartment. Each security compartment has one or more users who are allowed to enter and exit. Each security compartment may have multiple users. Each pre-authenticated user has user identification information assigned to them for identifying the user. The key box device can manage each key using each user identification information. The key box device may be included in an access control system that manages users' entry and exit to and from the facility.

[0011] In each figure, a first direction DR1, a second direction DR2, and a third direction DR3 that are orthogonal to each other are introduced. For example, the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 are along the horizontal direction, and the third direction DR3 is along the vertical direction. Note that the first direction DR1 or the second direction DR2 may be along the vertical direction.

[0012] Embodiment 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a key box device 101 according to Embodiment 1 includes a housing 1. The housing 1 is provided with, for example, a first opening 11 and a second opening 12. The first opening 11 is an opening for inserting a key folder 200 containing first identification information into the housing 1. The opening shape of the first opening 11 is, for example, rectangular. The second opening 12 is an opening for taking out the key folder 200 from the housing 1. Each of the first opening 11 and the second opening 12 opens, for example, facing the first direction DR1. The housing 1 may have doors that can open and close each of the first opening 11 and the second opening 12. The key box device 101 can store a plurality of key folders 200 inside the housing 1.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the key box device 101 further includes a reading unit 2, a plurality of storage units 3, a driving unit 4, a memory unit 5, a control unit 6, and an input unit 7.

[0014] The reading unit 2 can read the first identification information of the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11. The reading unit 2 can transmit the read first identification information to the control unit 6. The reading unit 2 is provided inside the housing 1. The reading unit 2 is positioned, for example, in the housing 1. The reading unit 2 includes, for example, a plurality of reading elements 2A and 2B. The plurality of reading elements 2A and 2B are arranged to face each other with the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 therebetween. The plurality of reading elements 2A and 2B can read the first identification information regardless of the orientation of the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 (the relative position of the second housing portion 202 with respect to the first housing portion 201 described later). Note that the reading unit 2 only needs to include at least one reading element.

[0015] The reading unit 2 includes, for example, at least one of an IC card reader, a microchip reader, and an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader. Preferably, the reading method of the reading unit 2 is a non-contact method.

[0016] Each of the plurality of storage units 3 can store the key folder 200 individually. Each of the plurality of storage units 3 includes second identification information. The plurality of storage units 3 are provided inside the housing 1. Each of the plurality of storage units 3 is arranged, for example, below the first opening 11 and above the second opening 12. Preferably, the plurality of storage units 3 are not visible from the outside of the housing 1.

[0017] Each of the multiple storage units 3 is capable of accepting a key folder 200 when it does not currently store one. Each of the multiple storage units 3 is unable to accept another key folder 200 when it is storing one key folder 200. Each of the multiple storage units 3 maintains the state of storing one key folder 200, except when user identification information corresponding to the first identification information of that key folder 200 is input to the input unit 7 described later. Each of the multiple storage units 3 releases the storage state of one key folder 200 only when user identification information corresponding to the first identification information of that key folder 200 is input to the input unit 7 described later.

[0018] Each of the multiple storage units 3 may have any structure. Each of the multiple storage units 3 may have a frame and a door. The frame may be provided with an opening through which the key holder 200 can enter and exit, and a storage unit connected to the opening in which the key holder 200 is housed. In each storage unit 3, the door may be able to open and close at least a portion of the opening, and may be able to switch between a state in which the key holder 200 can pass through the opening and a state in which the key holder 200 cannot pass through the opening. The door of each storage unit 3 may be opened and closed by a drive unit 4.

[0019] Each storage unit 3 may be mechanically or electrically switchable between a state in which the door closing the opening is locked to the frame and a state in which the door is not locked to the frame. The doors of each storage unit 3 may be designed to open when subjected to mechanical, electrical, or magnetic force when they are not locked to the frame.

[0020] Each of the multiple storage units 3 can be controlled as needed. The doors of each storage unit 3 may be opened only when a key folder 200 is loaded into or removed from each storage unit 3, and kept closed at all other times. Alternatively, the doors of each storage unit 3 may be kept open at all times when no key folder 200 is stored in that unit.

[0021] The multiple storage units 3 each have, for example, a central axis of rotation and are rotatable around that central axis. Each of the multiple storage units 3 is arranged side by side with respect to the central axis of rotation. In Figure 2, a sequential number starting from 1 is shown inside each of the multiple storage units 3 to identify them from one another. The second identification information for each storage unit 3 includes, for example, this number.

[0022] The rotational axes of the multiple storage units 3 are positioned, for example, relative to the housing 1. The rotational axes are set to extend, for example, along the horizontal direction. The openings of each storage unit 3 open outward in the radial direction with respect to the rotational axis. Alternatively, the openings of each storage unit 3 may open facing one side in the axial direction along the rotational axis.

[0023] The drive unit 4 can load the key holder 200, whose first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, into any one of the multiple storage units 3. The drive unit 4 can unload the key holder 200 stored in any one of the multiple storage units 3 to the second opening 12. The drive unit 4 rotates the multiple storage units 3 around a central axis of rotation. The drive unit 4 includes, for example, a motor. The drive unit 4 is located inside the housing 1.

[0024] In the key box device 101, the storage location for each key folder 200 is not predetermined. The second identification information for each of the multiple storage units 3 is not pre-associated with the first identification information and the user identification information. The drive unit 4 is provided to store the key folder 200 in one of the storage units 3 that is arbitrarily selected from the multiple storage units 3.

[0025] The storage unit 5 stores a database that defines which users are allowed to enter and exit each security area. The storage unit 5 stores the first identification information for each of the multiple security areas, linked to the user identification information assigned to users who have been pre-authenticated as being allowed to enter and exit each security area. In other words, the storage unit 5 stores information that links the first identification information contained in each key folder 200 with the user identification information assigned to users who have been pre-authenticated as being able to use each key folder 200. Furthermore, when a key folder 200 is moved into one storage unit 3 by the drive unit 4, the storage unit 5 can store the first identification information of the key folder 200 linked to the second identification information of that storage unit 3. Furthermore, when a key folder 200 is removed from one storage unit 3 by the drive unit 4, the storage unit 5 can erase the information that previously linked the first identification information and the second identification information, or overwrite that information with information that does not link the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0026] The memory unit 5 is a storage device that stores information, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0027] The control unit 6 controls the operation of the drive unit 4. For example, the control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport the key folder 200, from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, to a storage unit 3 that contains second identification information not stored in association with the first identification information in the storage unit 5. For example, the control unit 6 controls the discharge of the key folder 200 by the drive unit 4 based on the user identification information input to the input unit 7 (described later) and the user identification information, first identification information, and second identification information stored in the storage unit 5. The control unit 6 is provided, for example, inside the housing 1.

[0028] The control unit 6 is a system controller that includes, for example, a processing circuit 61 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory 62 such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The processing circuit 61 executes the program stored in the memory 62.

[0029] The input unit 7 accepts user identification information from the user. The input unit 7 can transmit the entered user identification information to the control unit 6. At least a portion of the input unit 7 is exposed to the outside of the housing 1. The user identification information includes at least one of an ID, password, fingerprint, voiceprint, vein pattern, face, retina, and iris. The input unit 7 includes, for example, at least one of a keyboard, touch panel, microphone, camera, and biometric authentication sensor.

[0030] The storage unit 5 and the control unit 6 are included in a management device 10, which is provided, for example, inside the housing 1. Alternatively, the storage unit 5 and the control unit 6 may be provided outside the housing 1. The key box device 101 may include a management server, and the storage unit 5 and the control unit 6 may be included in the management server. Alternatively, the key box device 101 may be part of an access control system, and the storage unit 5 and the control unit 6 may be included in a management server that oversees the access control system.

[0031] Preferably, the key box device 101 further includes a guide section 8. The guide section 8 is provided inside the housing 1. The guide section 8 is positioned, for example, relative to the housing 1. The guide section 8 adjusts the orientation of the key holder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 so that the reading section 2 can read the first identification information. The guide section 8 is provided, for example, so that the first identification information of the key holder 200 is oriented in one or the other direction (second direction DR2 in Figure 2) that is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the key holder 200 (third direction DR3 in Figure 2) and in which the reading elements 2A and 2B face each other.

[0032] More preferably, the guide section 8 is provided to adjust the orientation of the key holder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 so that one reading element of the reading section 2 can read the first identification information. The guide section 8 is provided, for example, so that the first identification information of the key holder 200 is orthogonal to the direction of travel of the key holder 200 (third direction DR3 in Figure 2) and the reading elements 2A and 2B face each other in one direction (second direction DR2 in Figure 2).

[0033] If the reading unit 2 includes only one reading element, the guide unit 8 should be provided such that the first identification information of the key holder 200 is facing that single reading element.

[0034] More preferably, the guide portion 8 is provided to adjust the orientation of the key holder 200 as it descends from the first opening 11 and guide it to one of the storage portions 3. For example, the guide portion 8 is provided to guide the key holder 200 to the uppermost of the multiple storage portions 3 that are arranged in a circumferential direction.

[0035] The drive unit 4 can, for example, move the multiple storage units 3 relative to the guide unit 8, thereby loading the key holder 200 that has passed through the guide unit 8 into any one of the multiple storage units 3. When loading the key holder 200 into one storage unit 3, for example, the drive unit 4 positions one of the storage units 3 that does not contain the key holder 200 below the guide unit 8. When unloading the key holder 200 from one storage unit 3, for example, the drive unit 4 positions that storage unit 3 above the second opening 12.

[0036] <Example of key folder structure> The key folder 200 stored in the key box device 101 may have any configuration as long as it contains the first identification information in a manner that can be read by the reading unit 2.

[0037] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the key holder 200 includes, for example, a first storage section 201 capable of accommodating a key 301 and a second storage section 202 capable of accommodating an ID card 302. The first storage section 201 may be capable of accommodating multiple keys 301. If there are other security areas that must be passed through in order to move between the entrance / exit of the facility and the destination security area, it is preferable that the first storage section 201 be capable of accommodating multiple keys for opening and closing the doors of the entrance / exit of the destination security area and each of the other security areas.

[0038] Preferably, the external shape of the key holder 200 is set according to the opening shape of the first opening 11 so as to restrict the posture of the key holder 200 when it is inserted into the first opening 11 of the key box device 101.

[0039] The key holder 200 has, for example, the longest side or axis. Preferably, the key holder 200 is insertable into the first opening 11 only when the direction of extension of the longest side or axis is aligned with the first direction DR1. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the key holder 200 has, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The key holder 200 may also have an ellipsoidal shape.

[0040] The first storage section 201 is composed of, for example, a storage space opening at one end of the key holder 200 in the longitudinal direction, and a rack 203 that is slidable within the storage space. The second storage section 202 is, for example, a storage space opening at one end of the key holder 200 in the longitudinal direction. The second storage section 202 is arranged alongside the first storage section 201, for example, in the thickness direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0041] Furthermore, the key holder 200 may have any external shape. The external shape of the key holder 200 may be asymmetrical in the direction in which the first storage section 201 and the second storage section 202 are arranged side by side. From a different perspective, the key holder 200 The first storage section 201 may consist of a storage space opening at one end of the key holder 200 in the longitudinal direction and a rack that is slidable within the storage space. Each of the first storage section 201 and the second storage section 202 may consist of a storage space opening at one end of the key holder 200 in the longitudinal direction and a door that opens and closes the opening of the storage space. At least one of the first storage section 201 and the second storage section 202 may have a storage space opening in the short direction of the key holder 200.

[0042] The ID card 302 includes an identifier 303 representing first identification information. The identifier 303 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of one-dimensional codes, two-dimensional codes, IC chips, characters, numbers, symbols, patterns, and colors. If the user cannot visually identify the identifier 303, the ID card 302 may further include a second identifier 304 that is visually identifiable by the user and represents first identification information. The second identifier 304 includes, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of characters, numbers, symbols, colors, and shapes. The identifier 303 and the second identifier 304 are provided, for example, on the same surface of the ID card 302.

[0043] The ID card 302 may be a security card provided in the access control system. For example, if the key 301 and the security card are required to enter a security area that is the destination, the key holder 200 may be configured to house the key 301 in the first storage section 201 and the security card in the second storage section 202. One example of a situation where the key 301 and the security card are required to enter a security area that is the destination is that one of the key 301 and the security card is the key to enter the security area that is the destination, and the other of the key 301 and the security card is the key to enter other security areas that must be passed through in order to move to the security area that is the destination.

[0044] Next, an example of the storage and retrieval processes for the key folder 200, performed by the key box device 101, will be described. The storage process for the key folder 200 is performed, for example, when a user leaves the security area. The retrieval process for the key folder 200 is performed, for example, when a user enters the security area.

[0045] As shown in Figure 6, in the key box device 101's key folder 200 storage process, when the reading unit 2 reads the first identification information of the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11, the control unit 6 determines whether or not the key folder 200 is to be stored (step S10). Specifically, the control unit 6 determines whether or not the first identification information read by the reading unit 2 matches the first identification information stored in the storage unit 5.

[0046] If the first identification information of the key holder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 cannot be read in step S10, or if the first identification information read by the reading unit 2 in step S10 is determined not to match the first identification information stored in the storage unit 5 (NO in S10), the key box device 101 will not perform any further processing and will eject the key holder 200 to the second opening 12.

[0047] If, in step S10, the reading unit 2 determines that the first identification information read by the reading unit 2 matches the first identification information stored in the storage unit 5 in association with user identification information (YES in S10), the key folder 200 containing the first identification information is transported to one empty storage unit 3 that does not store the key folder 200 (step S20). The control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 so that, for example, the key folder 200 is transported to one storage unit 3 that contains second identification information that is not stored in the storage unit 5 in association with any first identification information.

[0048] If there are multiple empty storage units 3 that do not store the key folder 200, the control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport the key folder 200 to any one of these storage units 3. Preferably, the control unit 6 moves the storage unit 3 that is closest to the position where the key folder 200 that has passed through the guide unit 8 can be loaded, from among the multiple storage units 3 that do not store the key folder 200, to that position, and controls the drive unit 4 so that the storage unit 3 can accept the key folder 200. For example, the door of the storage unit 3 that has moved to the position where it can be loaded is opened, and the key folder 200 that has passed through the guide unit 8 is loaded into the storage unit 3.

[0049] Figure 2 shows that when the three storage compartments 3 numbered 3, 4, and 10 are empty, storage compartment 3 numbered 3 is the closest to the position where the key folder 200 that has passed through the guide section 8 can be loaded. In this state, the key folder 200 that has passed through the guide section 8 is loaded into storage compartment 3 numbered 3.

[0050] As a result, the key holder 200 is moved into any one of the storage units 3 that had not previously stored the key holder 200.

[0051] The memory unit 5 stores the first identification information of the key folder 200 that has been brought into one storage unit 3, linked to the second identification information of that storage unit 3 (step S30). However, the memory unit 5 may store the first identification information of the key folder 200 linked to the second identification information of the storage unit 3 to which it is being brought, before the delivery of the key folder 200 to one storage unit 3 is completed in step S20.

[0052] In this way, the key box device 101 receives the key folder 200 from the user and stores the key folder 200.

[0053] As shown in Figure 7, in the key box device 101's key holder 200 retrieval process, when the input unit 7 receives user identification information from the user, the control unit 6 determines whether the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information, respectively (S110). Specifically, the control unit 6 determines whether the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information. Furthermore, if it is determined that the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information, the control unit 6 determines whether the first identification information linked to the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the second identification information.

[0054] If, in step S110, it is determined that the user identification information is not stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information respectively (NO in S110), the key box device 101 will not execute any further processing.

[0055] If, in step S110, it is determined that the user identification information is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information respectively (YES in S110), the control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport out the key folder 200 in one storage unit 3 containing the second identification information to the second opening 12.

[0056] As a result, the key holder 200 is transported from one storage section 3 to the second opening 12 (step S120).

[0057] In step S130, the memory unit 5 erases the information that linked the first identification information of the key folder 200 removed from one storage unit 3 with the second identification information of the said storage unit 3, or overwrites that information with information that does not link the first identification information and the second identification information (step S130).

[0058] In this way, the key box device 101 lends a key holder 200 to a pre-authenticated user, allowing that user to enter the security area from which they are permitted to enter and exit.

[0059] In the key box device 101, the reading unit 2 is capable of reading the first identification information of each of the multiple key folders 200 that are individually inserted through the first opening 11. Furthermore, the drive unit 4 is capable of loading the key folders 200 whose first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2 into any one of the multiple storage units 3.

[0060] The key box device 101 can store multiple keys individually without using multiple types of receiving devices that are mechanically compatible only with pre-associated identification tags, which are provided in each insertion part of the conventional key management device described above. Therefore, the key box device 101 can suppress the increase in maintenance costs compared to the conventional key management device. Furthermore, with such a key box device 101, the storage process of the key folder 200, which is initiated when the key folder 200 is inserted into the first opening 11 by the user, can be automated.

[0061] Furthermore, in the key box device 101, the reading unit 2, multiple storage units 3, and drive unit 4 are provided inside the housing 1, and the housing 1 is provided with a first opening 11 for inserting the key holder 200 into the housing 1 and a second opening 12 for ejecting the key holder 200 to the outside of the housing 1. Therefore, in the key box device 101, during normal operation including the storage and retrieval of the key holder 200, it is difficult to ascertain the storage status of each of the multiple storage units 3 and the storage status of a specific key holder 200 from outside the housing 1. Thus, the key box device 101 offers enhanced security compared to the conventional key management device described above.

[0062] In the key box device 101, the second identification information is not pre-associated with either the first identification information or the user identification information. The storage unit 5 stores the first identification information of a key folder 200 that has been brought into one storage unit 3 by the drive unit 4, associating it with the second identification information of that storage unit 3. The control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport the key folder 200, whose first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, to one storage unit 3 that contains second identification information not stored in the storage unit 5 as being associated with the first identification information. If there are multiple storage units 3 that contain second identification information not stored in the storage unit 5 as being associated with any first identification information, the control unit 6 can control the drive unit 4 to move the storage unit 3 that is closest to the position where the key folder 200 that has passed through the guide unit 8 can be brought in, to that position. In a key box device 101 equipped with such a control unit 6, the time required for the storage processing of the key folder 200 can be shortened.

[0063] Furthermore, conventional key management devices have difficulty preventing the incorrect insertion of box components. Specifically, if a box component is forcefully pushed into an insertion section that has a receiver that does not correspond to the identification tag of the box component, there is a risk that the box component may become locked to the insertion section. In contrast, with the key box device 101, the first identification information and the second identification information are not pre-linked, and the first identification information is linked to the second identification information of one storage section 3 that is arbitrarily selected when the key folder 200 is brought in, and the key folder 200 is managed accordingly. Therefore, with the key box device 101, the problem of the key folder 200 being incorrectly inserted into a storage section 3 other than the predetermined storage section 3 can be prevented.

[0064] The key box device 101 further includes an input unit 7 that receives user identification information. The control unit 6 controls the dispensing of the key folder by the drive unit 4 based on the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 and the user identification information, first identification information, and second identification information stored in the storage unit 5. With such a key box device 101, the process of retrieving the key folder 200, which is initiated when user identification information is entered into the input unit 7 by the user, can be automated.

[0065] In the key box device 101, the drive unit 4 can transport key folders 200 whose first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2 into one storage unit 3. From a different perspective, the reading unit 2 can read the first identification information of the key folders 200 before they are transported to one storage unit 3 by the drive unit 4. In the key box device 101, the first identification information of each key folder 200 can be read easily and accurately by a single reading unit 2 positioned inside the housing 1.

[0066] The key box device 101 further includes a guide section 8 provided inside the housing 1. The guide section 8 adjusts the orientation of the key holder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 so that the reading unit 2 can read the first identification information. The guide section 8 can prevent the reading unit 2 from failing to read the first identification information of the key holder 200 inserted by the user through the first opening 11. <Modified form of key box device 101> In the key box device 101, the drive unit 4 may be configured to move the key folder 200 from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, and to load and unload the key folder 200 into or out of any one of the multiple storage units 3. Alternatively, the drive unit 4 may be configured to move both the multiple storage units 3 and the key folder 200 from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, and to load and unload the key folder 200 into or out of any one of the multiple storage units 3.

[0067] The key box device 101 may further include a restricting unit (not shown) for temporarily restricting the movement of the key folder 200 after the reading unit 2 has read the first identification information. The restricting unit may be able to restrict the movement of the key folder 200 until the key folder 200, after the reading unit 2 has read the first identification information of the key folder 200, can be transported to one of the storage units 3. The restricting unit may be able to hold the key folder 200 after the reading unit 2 has read the first identification information of the key folder 200 until one of the storage units 3 moves directly below the restricting unit.

[0068] The housing 1 only needs to be provided with at least a first opening 11. The housing 1 may only be provided with the first opening 11. In this case, the first opening 11 is provided as an opening for inserting the key holder 200 into the housing 1 and an opening for removing the key holder 200 from the housing 1, and the drive unit 4 is provided to transport the key holder 200 to the first opening 11.

[0069] Embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 8, the key box device 102 according to Embodiment 2 has the same configuration and effects as the key box device 101 according to Embodiment 1 unless otherwise specified, and is also modifiable in the same way as the key box device 101. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in Embodiment 1, and the descriptions are not repeated.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8, in the key box device 102, the reading unit 2 is provided to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 that has been loaded into one storage unit 3. The reading unit 2 is provided to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 that has been loaded into one storage unit 3 when the multiple storage units 3 are stopped, before the multiple storage units 3 rotate. The guide unit adjusts the orientation of the key folders 200 that are loaded into each storage unit 3 so that the reading unit 2 can read the first identification information of the key folders 200 in each storage unit 3.

[0071] The reading unit 2 only needs to be able to read the first identification information of the key folder 200 in any one of the multiple storage units 3. For example, the reading unit 2 can read the first identification information of the key folder 200 in the storage unit 3 located at the bottom of the multiple storage units 3.

[0072] Each storage unit 3 may be configured to maintain the orientation of the key folder 200 placed inside it. The reading unit 2 may be configured to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 placed in one storage unit 3 at any time when the multiple storage units 3 are stopped. The reading unit 2 may be configured to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 in one storage unit 3 that is positioned at a predetermined position in the circumferential direction or passes through such predetermined position. The reading unit 2 may be configured to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 in the uppermost storage unit 3 when the multiple storage units 3 are rotating or stopped. The reading unit 2 may be configured to read the first identification information of a key folder 200 in the lowermost storage unit 3 when the multiple storage units 3 are rotating or stopped.

[0073] The key box device 102 may include a plurality of guide parts, each of which is integrated with each of the plurality of storage sections 3. Each of the plurality of guide parts may be fixed to the frame of each storage section 3 and be provided to adjust and maintain the orientation of the key holder 200 as it is carried into the storage section through the opening of the frame.

[0074] Embodiment 3. As shown in Figure 9, the key box device 103 according to Embodiment 3 has the same configuration and effects as the key box device 101 according to Embodiment 1 unless otherwise specified, and is also modifiable in the same way as the key box device 101. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in Embodiment 1, and the descriptions are not repeated.

[0075] As shown in Figure 9, in the key box device 103, the multiple storage units 3 are arranged in a line along the third direction DR3. Each of the multiple storage units 3 has, for example, a third opening that opens on one side of the second direction DR2 and a fourth opening that opens on the other side of the second direction DR2. The third opening is an entrance through which the key holders 200 being loaded into the storage unit 3 pass. The fourth opening is an exit through which the key holders 200 being loaded out of the storage unit 3 pass. The third opening of each storage unit 3 is located, for example, below the first opening 11 and the reading unit 2. The fourth opening of each storage unit 3 is located, for example, above the second opening 12.

[0076] The drive unit 4 includes an input plate 41, an output plate 42, and a rail 43. The input plate 41 is provided to transport the key holders 200 inserted from the first opening 11 into each of the multiple storage units 3. The input plate 41 is provided to transport the key holders 200, whose orientation has been adjusted by, for example, the guide unit 8, to one of the storage units 3. The input plate 41 is, for example, extendable.

[0077] The loading plate 41 may also be provided to guide the key holder 200, which moves (falls) from the guide section 8 in the third direction DR3, to one storage section 3. In this case, the loading plate 41 may not be extendable or retractable.

[0078] The discharge plate 42 is provided to discharge the key holders 200 from each of the multiple storage sections 3 to the second opening 12. The discharge plate 42 is provided, for example, to push out the key holders 200 from each storage section 3. The discharge plate 42 enters, for example, from the third opening of each storage section 3 and discharges the key holders 200 from the fourth opening. The discharge plate 42 is, for example, extendable and retractable.

[0079] The rail 43 guides the movement of the loading plate 41 and the unloading plate 42 in the third direction DR3. The rail 43 may be rotatable around a pivot axis extending along the third direction DR3. In this case, the loading plate 41 may be spaced apart from the unloading plate 42 in the circumferential direction around the pivot axis. The rail 43 may also be movable in the second direction DR2. In this case, the unloading plate 42 may not be extendable or retractable.

[0080] Embodiment 4. As shown in Figure 10, the key box device 104 according to Embodiment 4 has the same configuration and effects as the key box device 101 according to Embodiment 1 unless otherwise specified, and is also deformable in the same way as the key box device 101. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for components identical to those in Embodiment 1, and the descriptions are not repeated.

[0081] In the key box device 104, one storage section 3 for storing each key folder 200 is predetermined. The memory unit 5 stores the second identification information of each of the multiple storage sections 3, linking it to the first identification information and the user identification information, respectively. The control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport the key folder 200, whose first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2, to one of the storage sections 3 that contains the second identification information stored in the memory unit 5, linked to the first identification information.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the key box device 104 further includes a limiting unit 9 for temporarily restricting the movement of the key folder 200 from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit 2. The limiting unit 9 can restrict the movement of the key folder 200, for example, by holding the key folder 200.

[0083] Figure 10 shows the state in which the restriction unit 9 is restricting the movement of the key folder 200. This state is maintained from the time the reading unit 2 reads the first identification information, which is linked to the second identification information of the storage unit 3 numbered 12 in the storage unit 5, until the storage unit 3 numbered 12 moves to a position where it can accept the key folder 200 containing the first identification information. After the storage unit 3 numbered 12 moves to a position where it can accept the key folder 200, the restriction unit 9 releases the restriction on the movement of the key folder 200. As a result, the key folder 200 is loaded into the storage unit 3 numbered 12.

[0084] Next, with reference to Figures 11 and 12, an example of the storage and retrieval processes of the key folder 200 performed by the key box device 104 will be described.

[0085] As shown in Figure 11, in the key box device 104's key folder 200 storage process, when the reading unit 2 reads the first identification information of the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11, the control unit 6 determines whether or not the key folder 200 is to be stored (step S210). Step S210 can be performed in the same way as step S10 described above. If the first identification information of the key folder 200 inserted through the first opening 11 cannot be read in step S210, or if the reading unit 2 determines in step S210 that the first identification information read by the reading unit 2 does not match the first identification information stored in the storage unit 5 (NO in S210), the key box device 104 discharges the key folder 200 through the second opening 12 without performing any further processing.

[0086] If, in step S210, the first identification information read by the reading unit 2 is determined to match the first identification information stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the user identification information (YES in S210), the control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport the key folder 200 containing the first identification information to one storage unit 3 containing the second identification information stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information.

[0087] As a result, the key holder 200 is moved into one predetermined storage unit 3 (step S220). In this way, the key box device 101 receives the key holder 200 from the user and stores it.

[0088] As shown in Figure 12, in the key box device 104's key holder 200 retrieval process, when the input unit 7 receives user identification information from the user, the control unit 6 determines whether the user identification information entered into the input unit 7 is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information, respectively (S310).

[0089] If, in step S310, it is determined that the user identification information is not stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information respectively (NO in S310), the key box device 104 will not execute any further processing.

[0090] If, in step S310, it is determined that the user identification information is stored in the storage unit 5 in association with the first identification information and the second identification information respectively (YES in S310), the control unit 6 controls the drive unit 4 to transport out the key folder 200 in one storage unit 3 containing the second identification information to the second opening 12.

[0091] As a result, the key holder 200 is removed from one predetermined storage section 3 to the second opening 12 (step S320). In this way, the key box device 104 lends a key holder 200 to a pre-authenticated user, allowing that user to enter the security area from which they are permitted to enter and exit.

[0092] The key box device 104 may have the same configuration as the key box device 102 or the key box device 103, except for the points mentioned above.

[0093] <Other key folder configuration examples> As described above, the key folders stored in the key box devices 101 to 104 can have any configuration as long as they contain the first identification information in a manner that can be read by the reading unit 2.

[0094] The key holder 210 shown in Figure 13 is a modified version of the key holder 200 described above. As shown in Figure 13, the key holder 210 includes a first storage section 201, but does not necessarily include a second storage section capable of accommodating an ID card. An identifier 303 representing the first identification information may be provided on the key holder 210. The identifier 303 representing the first identification information may be embedded in the key holder 210. A second identifier 304 that is visually identifiable by the user and represents the first identification information may be provided on the key holder 210.

[0095] The embodiments and variations thereof disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims rather than the foregoing description and is intended to include all modifications in the sense and scope equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0096] 1 Housing, 2 Reading unit, 2A, 2B Reading elements, 3 Storage unit, 4 Drive unit, 5 Memory unit, 6 Control unit, 7 Input unit, 8 Guide unit, 9 Limiting unit, 10 Management device, 11 First opening, 12 Second opening, 41 Loading plate, 42 Loading plate, 43 Rail, 61 Processing circuit, 62 Memory, 101, 102, 103, 104 Key box device, 200, 210 Key holder, 201 First storage unit, 202 Second storage unit, 203 Rack, 301 Key, 302 Card, 303 Identifier, 304 Second identifier.

Claims

1. It comprises multiple storage units, a drive unit, and a reading unit. Each of the aforementioned multiple storage units is capable of individually storing a key folder containing the first identification information. The drive unit can transport the key folder to any one of the storage units by moving the key folder and at least one of the multiple storage units. The reading unit is capable of reading the first identification information of the key folder before it is transported to the storage unit, or the first identification information of the key folder stored in the storage unit, in a key box device.

2. The storage unit stores the first identification information of the key folder in association with user identification information assigned to a user who has been pre-authenticated as a person who can use the key folder. Each of the aforementioned storage units includes second identification information, The second identification information is not pre-associated with the first identification information and the user identification information, The key box device according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is capable of storing the first identification information of the key folder in association with the second identification information of the one storage unit that stores the key folder.

3. A control unit that controls the drive unit, The system further comprises an input unit that receives the user identification information, The key box device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit controls the discharge of the key folder by the drive unit based on the user identification information input to the input unit and the user identification information, the first identification information, and the second identification information stored in the storage unit.

4. The key box device according to claim 2, wherein the drive unit is capable of transporting the key folder from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit to the one storage unit.

5. Each of the aforementioned storage units includes second identification information, A storage unit that stores the second identification information of each of the plurality of storage units in association with the first identification information of the key folder and the user identification information assigned to a user who has been pre-authenticated as a person who can use the key folder, The system further comprises a control unit that controls the drive unit, The key box device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the drive unit to transport the key folder from which the first identification information has been read by the reading unit to one storage unit which contains the second identification information stored in the storage unit in association with the first identification information.

6. The system further includes an input unit that receives the aforementioned user identification information, The key box device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit controls the discharge of the key folder by the drive unit based on the user identification information input to the input unit and the user identification information, the first identification information, and the second identification information stored in the storage unit.

7. The casing and The housing further comprises the aforementioned plurality of storage units, the drive unit, and the reading unit, along with a guide unit provided inside the housing. The housing is provided with a first opening for inserting the key holders individually into the housing, The key box device according to claim 6, wherein the guide portion adjusts the orientation of the key holder inserted through the first opening so that the reading portion can read the first identification information.

8. The key box device according to claim 7, wherein the guide portion is provided to adjust the orientation of the key folder inserted from the first opening and guide it to the one storage section.

9. The aforementioned plurality of storage units have a rotational central axis, Each of the aforementioned storage units is arranged in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis, The key box device according to claim 8, wherein the drive unit rotates the plurality of storage units around the rotational axis to change the relative position between the guide unit and each of the plurality of storage units.

10. The key box device according to claim 8, wherein the drive unit includes a loading plate for loading the key holder into the one storage unit and a loading plate for loading the key holder out of the one storage unit.

11. The aforementioned key folder further comprises, The key box device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the key holder includes a first storage section for storing keys and a second storage section for storing an ID card including an identifier representing the first identification information.

12. The key box device according to claim 11, wherein the identifier includes at least one selected from the group consisting of one-dimensional codes, two-dimensional codes, IC chips, characters, numbers, symbols, patterns, and colors.

Images