Information input / output device and delivery support system

Abstract

This invention provides an information input / output device and a delivery support system that enable logistics companies to easily remove restrictions on movement along the delivery route to the destination, thereby facilitating smooth delivery operations. [Solution] The delivery support system comprises a movement restriction device 10 that restricts movement within a building, such as through doors; an information input / output device 20 that inputs source data used for authentication to release the movement restriction by the movement restriction device 10 and performs authentication; a logistics company terminal 40 operated by a logistics company; an authentication registration server 30 that performs authentication using the authentication information input by the information input / output device 20; a user terminal 50 operated by the user at the delivery destination of the delivered goods; a storage device 60 that stores the delivered goods addressed to the user in a locked state; and a wired, wireless, or a combination thereof network 100 that connects these devices 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 in a communication-enabled manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information input / output device and a delivery support system, and more particularly to an information input / output device and a delivery support system that assist smooth delivery operations by a logistics company in an environment where the recipient of a delivered item can select various delivery methods.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the changes in lifestyle in ordinary households and the improvement of logistics quality, the use of e-commerce has been increasing. In recent years, along with the prosperity of e-commerce, while delivered items such as purchased goods are often delivered to each household, the cases of leaving the house unattended are increasing due to the increase in the proportion of dual-income couples, etc., and an environment and facilities that can smoothly receive the above-mentioned delivered items are desired.

[0003] In response to the above needs, in recent years, logistics companies are increasing the cases of delivering by a delivery method called "leave-at-door" in addition to directly handing over the delivered items face-to-face. One type of leave-at-door is depositing into a storage device equipped with a plurality of storage boxes called so-called delivery lockers. This storage device is installed, for example, in a common area of an apartment building, a commercial facility, or a public facility, etc., temporarily stores the delivered items delivered to the residents of the apartment building by express delivery, etc., and stores them in the storage boxes in a lockable manner, so that even when the resident is absent, the delivered item addressed to oneself can be smoothly received by taking it out from the storage device without requesting a redelivery.

[0004] Furthermore, for leave-at-door, there is also a delivery method of completing the delivery work by placing the delivered item around the delivery destination such as in front of the entrance of the proprietary part of the apartment building or a gas meter box of the delivery destination.

[0005] In this way, logistics companies can complete deliveries using a variety of methods, including direct handover of goods in person, storage in parcel lockers, and leaving packages at the front door or gas meter box. This significantly reduces the need for redelivery and improves the efficiency of delivery operations.

[0006] In addition to the direct handover of deliveries as described above, an intercom system disclosed in Patent Document 1 has been proposed as one of the conventional technologies to support delivery operations using other delivery methods. In the intercom system disclosed in Patent Document 1, if a delivery person from a shipping company operates the main entrance unit and the recipient of the package is absent, they use a delivery locker to store the package inside the locker. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-287610 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, the intercom system described in Patent Document 1 above requires delivery personnel to use the main entrance unit to confirm whether the person at the delivery address is present. Furthermore, if the person at the delivery address is present, the delivery personnel must use the main entrance unit to confirm with the resident at the delivery address each time whether to hand over the delivery item directly in person or leave it in a delivery locker or similar location. This makes the delivery process extremely cumbersome.

[0009] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide an information input / output device and a delivery support system that enable smooth delivery operations when logistics companies deliver goods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To achieve this objective, the present invention provides an information input / output device installed within an area including the delivery destination of goods delivered by a logistics company, characterized in that when information about the delivery destination of the goods is input, it outputs delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the person at the delivery destination.

[0011] Furthermore, the information input / output device of the present invention is characterized in that authentication information is input by operation by a logistics company, and if authentication using the input authentication information is successful, delivery method information is output.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a delivery support system that assists logistics operators in the delivery of goods, comprising an information input / output device installed within an area including the delivery destination, and a movement restriction device that restricts the logistics operator from entering the area including the delivery destination. The information input / output device, upon receiving information about the delivery destination of the goods, outputs delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the person at the delivery destination, and registers authentication information, including the biometric information of the logistics operator, to the device for the purpose of lifting the restrictions imposed by the movement restriction device. After the registration of the authentication information, upon receiving authentication information, the system compares the entered authentication information with the registered authentication information to perform authentication, and if authentication is successful, it lifts the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device.

[0013] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, the information input / output device is characterized in that authentication information is input by a logistics company through operation, and when authentication using the input authentication information is successful, it outputs delivery method information.

[0014] Furthermore, the delivery support system of the present invention further comprises an authentication registration server that sends registration authentication information used to register authentication information in an information input / output device, and a logistics operator terminal operated by a logistics operator. The authentication registration server transmits the registration authentication information to the logistics operator terminal, the logistics operator terminal outputs the registration authentication information received from the registration authentication server to the outside, and the information input / output device, upon receiving authentication information and registration authentication information, permits the registration of the input authentication information to its own device.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, the information input / output device sends a request for registration of authentication information to the authentication registration server, and when the authentication registration server receives the request for registration of authentication information from the information input / output device, it generates registered authentication information and sends it to the logistics company terminal.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, the information input / output device sends a registration request for authentication information, including contact information indicating the contact information of a logistics company terminal, to the authentication registration server, and the authentication registration server sends the registered authentication information to the logistics company terminal indicated by the contact information.

[0017] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, the information input / output device sends a registration request for authentication information, including the telephone number of the logistics company terminal as contact information, to the authentication registration server, and the authentication registration server uses SMS to send the registered authentication information to the logistics company terminal based on the telephone number of the logistics company terminal.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, when registration authentication information is input to the information input / output device, the input registration authentication information is transmitted to the authentication registration server, and when registration permission information for permitting the registration of authentication information is received from the authentication registration server, the authentication information is registered to the device, and when the authentication registration server receives the registration authentication information from the information input / output device, it performs authentication based on the received registration authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it transmits registration permission information to the information input / output device.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the delivery support system of the present invention, when an information input / output device registers authentication information in its own device, it transmits the registered authentication information to an authentication registration server. When the authentication registration server receives authentication information from the information input / output device, it transmits the received authentication information to other information input / output devices other than the information input / output device. When the other information input / output device receives authentication information from the authentication registration server, it registers it in its own device.

[0020] Note that any combination of the above components, or those obtained by mutually replacing the components and expressions of the present invention among methods, apparatuses, systems, computer programs, recording media storing computer programs, etc., are also effective as aspects of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0021] In the present invention, when information on the delivery destination of a delivered item is input to an information input / output device installed in an area including the delivery destination of the delivery work of the delivered item by a logistics operator, the information input / output device outputs delivery method information indicating the delivery method desired by the person at the delivery destination. Therefore, when the logistics operator delivers the delivered item, it becomes possible to realize a smooth delivery operation.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a delivery support system in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a movement restriction device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a diagram showing the configuration of an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of an authentication DB of an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of a user DB of an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of an authentication history DB of an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing the configuration of an authentication registration server in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a logistics operator terminal in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10]This is a plan view showing an example of the installation location of a movement restriction device and an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view showing an example of the installation location of a movement restriction device and an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This figure shows an example of the installation location of a movement restriction device and an information input / output device in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] This is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a user registers their desired delivery method in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a logistics company registers authentication information in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a logistics company registers authentication information in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of the front view of an information input / output device used for registering authentication information of a logistics company in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] This is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by a delivery support system when a logistics company delivers goods addressed to a user, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] This figure shows an example of the front view of an information input / output device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This figure shows an example of the front view of an information input / output device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] [First Embodiment] (Summary of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment of the present invention, a logistics company delivers goods to users who reside in facilities such as apartment buildings or to users who use facilities such as office buildings (hereinafter, such facilities are referred to as "user facilities" or simply "facilities"). The delivery support system in this embodiment displays or outputs delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the user (direct handover in person, or delivery to a location near the user's private area or storage device), thereby making the delivery method known to the logistics company and enabling the logistics company to deliver the goods addressed to the user smoothly. Furthermore, the delivery support system in this embodiment registers authentication information based on the logistics company's facial image, etc., when the logistics company performs delivery work, and uses the registered authentication information to lift the restrictions on the user's movement inside and outside the facility.

[0024] In the embodiment described below, the user's facility is assumed to be an apartment building, and the users at the delivery destination are residents living in each unit within that apartment building. Furthermore, the explanation continues by stating that the authentication information registered by logistics companies is based, for example, on the user's own facial image.

[0025] (Configuration of the first embodiment) (1) Overall configuration of the delivery support system Figure 1 shows the configuration of the delivery support system in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the delivery support system is comprised of a movement restriction device 10 that restricts movement within a building, such as through doors; an information input / output device 20 that receives and performs authentication to release the movement restriction by the movement restriction device 10, and outputs delivery method information; a logistics company terminal 40 operated by a logistics company; an authentication registration server 30 that performs authentication using the authentication information input by the information input / output device 20; a user terminal 50 operated by the user at the delivery destination of the delivered goods; a storage device 60 that stores the delivered goods addressed to the user in a locked state; and a wired, wireless, or a combination thereof network 100 that enables communication between these devices 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60.

[0026] When a logistics company visits a user's facility to deliver goods addressed to the user and operates the information input / output device 20 installed at the user's facility, the information input / output device 20 outputs delivery method information. The logistics company will check the outputted delivery method information and carry out the delivery work according to the delivery method specified in that information. For example, if the delivery method information indicates "face-to-face" as the delivery method, the logistics company will, through authentication, remove the movement restrictions imposed by the movement restriction device 10 placed along the delivery route, move to a location where it can meet the user face-to-face, and hand the delivery item directly to the user. Furthermore, if "storage device" is indicated as the delivery method in the delivery method information, the logistics company will not hand the delivered goods directly to the user, but will instead store them in a storage device 60 installed at the user's facility.

[0027] Logistics operators use the information input / output device 20 to register authentication information based on their own facial image data to the information input / output device 20 and the authentication registration server 30 during or in advance of delivery operations. After registration, when a logistics operator approaches the information input / output device 20 installed near the movement restriction device 10, the information input / output device 20 reads the logistics operator's facial image. The information input / output device 20 performs authentication between the authentication information based on the facial image it reads and the previously registered authentication information. If authentication is successful, the information input / output device 20 releases the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10, and the logistics company moves along the delivery route that has become passable as a result of the release and delivers the goods addressed to the user to the user's desired location.

[0028] (2) Configuration of the movement restriction device 10 The movement restriction device 10 is a device or equipment installed inside or outside a facility such as an apartment building, which restricts the movement of people along pathways inside and outside the facility. For example, the movement restriction device 10 may be various lockable doors along the flow of movement, such as elevator hall doors that restrict entry from the entrance to the elevator hall, or apartment corridor doors that restrict entry from the elevator hall on each floor to the corridors of apartments on each floor, or elevators used for movement between floors. The movement restriction device 10 may be configured as a gate instead of the above-mentioned door.

[0029] If the movement restriction device 10 is in the form of a door, each door is normally closed and locked. Once the logistics operator successfully authenticates using the information input / output device 20, each door of the movement restriction device 10 is unlocked and can be opened, the movement restriction is lifted, and the logistics operator can pass through the opened movement restriction device 10. When a logistics worker passes through each door of the movement restriction device 10 and closes the door, the doors of the movement restriction device 10 may be automatically locked and movement restriction may be restarted, or the doors may be automatically closed and locked after a predetermined time has elapsed after unlocking.

[0030] If the movement restriction device 10 is an elevator, the elevator is usually restricted from going up or down to other floors. Once the logistics company's authentication is successful, the movement restriction on the elevator of the movement restriction device 10 is lifted, and the logistics company can use the elevator to move to other floors. The elevator may be designed so that once a logistics company uses it to reach its destination floor, it becomes impossible to use the elevator to ascend or descend to any other floor. Furthermore, the elevator of the movement restriction device 10 may be configured to allow the logistics company to ascend or descend to any floor upon successful authentication, or it may be configured to restrict ascent or descent to predetermined floors. Alternatively, the elevator doors of the movement restriction device 10 may be configured to open upon successful authentication.

[0031] Figure 2 shows the configuration of the movement restriction device 10 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the movement restriction device 10 is composed of a control unit 11 which is made up of a CPU and the like and controls the entire movement restriction device 10, a movement restriction unit 12 which restricts movement on routes inside and outside the facility by locking doors, closing doors, and restricting ascent and descent to other floors, and a communication unit 13 which communicates with the information input / output device 20 and the authentication registration server 30 via the network. Each of the parts 11 to 13 is connected to an internal bus, through which various information is input and output, and various processes are executed under the control of the control unit 11.

[0032] For example, if the movement restriction device 10 is a door, the movement restriction unit 12 consists of the door body, an opening and closing mechanism for opening and closing the door, a locking and unlocking device for locking and unlocking the door, and other general door components, and the control unit 11 opens and closes the door and / or locks and unlocks it based on the control signal input.

[0033] For example, if the movement restriction device 10 is an elevator, the movement restriction unit 12 consists of an elevator car, a drive mechanism, an operating unit, and other general components of an elevator. A control signal from the control unit 11 brings the elevator car up to the floor where the user is currently located, and after the user has boarded the elevator car, it ascends or descends to a predetermined floor. Here, the elevator may ascend or descend to a designated floor by the authenticated logistics operator pressing the button for the destination floor, or it may automatically ascend or descend to a floor requested by the information input / output device 20 as a result of the authentication.

[0034] Furthermore, the movement restriction device 10 may be configured to restrict movement in both directions, or to restrict movement in only one direction. For example, if the movement restriction device 10 is a door between the entrance and the elevator hall in an apartment building, it may be configured so that authentication using the information input / output device 20 is required to release the restriction on movement in both directions, from the entrance to the elevator hall and from the elevator hall to the entrance. Alternatively, it may be configured so that authentication is required only when releasing the restriction on movement from the entrance to the elevator hall, and there is no restriction on movement from the elevator hall to the entrance, and therefore no authentication is required. Examples of situations where there are no movement restrictions include cases like regular automatic doors, where the door opens without restriction when a logistics worker stands in front of it.

[0035] (3) Configuration of the information input / output device 20 The information input / output device 20 is an information processing device installed inside or outside a facility such as an apartment building, and is, for example, a tablet terminal or control panel connected to the network 100 wirelessly or by wire, but is not limited thereto. The information input / output device 20 may be fixed to the wall of the facility or the like, or it may be fixed to the floor of the facility using a stand or the like.

[0036] In this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 outputs delivery method information, such as characters, symbols, or graphics, or provides voice information, to the user upon operation by the logistics company, indicating the user's preferred delivery method for items addressed to them.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 performs two operations in addition to the output operation of the delivery method information: the registration operation of authentication information and the authentication operation using the authentication information.

[0038] The following is an overview of the authentication information registration operation by the information input / output device 20. When a logistics company inputs various information about the logistics company (hereinafter referred to as "logistics company information"), along with the source data for authentication information (its own facial image data), using the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 generates authentication information based on the input facial image data and registers it with the logistics company information. Subsequently, the information input / output device 20 transmits the generated authentication information and logistics company information to the authentication registration server 30. The authentication registration server 30 registers the authentication information and logistics company information received from the information input / output device 20, and also transmits the authentication information and logistics company information to other information input / output devices 20 other than the information input / output device 20 that sent the information. The above-mentioned other information input / output device 20 registers the authentication information and logistics company information received from the authentication registration server 30 to itself. In this way, the authentication information and logistics provider information generated by one or more information input / output devices 20 are shared among the authentication registration server 30 and all information input / output devices 20, enabling authentication operations using that authentication information to be performed by all information input / output devices 20.

[0039] The following is an overview of the authentication operation using the above authentication information by the information input / output device 20. The logistics company inputs the source data (facial image data) used for authentication into the information input / output device 20. The information input / output device 20 performs authentication by comparing the authentication information it generates based on the input facial image data with the authentication information registered to it. If authentication is successful, it transmits information indicating that it is instructing the movement restriction to be lifted (hereinafter referred to as "lifting instruction") to the movement restriction device 10. When the movement restriction device 10 receives the release instruction from the information input / output device 20, it releases the movement restriction.

[0040] For example, if the movement restriction device 10 is a door or elevator, the information input / output device 20 is installed near the door or elevator, and when a logistics worker approaches the information input / output device 20 and inputs their facial image data into the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 performs authentication based on the logistics worker's facial image data. The movement restriction device 10 may be connected to the information input / output device 20 via a network 100, as shown in Figure 1, or it may be configured to be connected one-to-one with the information input / output device 20, which performs authentication to release the movement restriction, via a dedicated wired or wireless line. When connected via the dedicated line described above, the information input / output device 20 may be configured to only release the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10 connected via that dedicated line.

[0041] Figure 3 shows the configuration of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the information input / output device 20 is configured to include a control unit 21 that controls the entire information input / output device 20, an information storage unit 22 that stores various information, a communication unit 23 that sends and receives various information between the movement restriction device 10 and the authentication registration server 30, a display unit 24 that displays various information, an operation unit 25 equipped with various keys for inputting information, and an authentication information input unit 26 consisting of a camera or the like that inputs authentication information. Each of the units 21-26 is connected to an internal bus, through which various information is input and output, and various processes are executed under the control of the control unit 21.

[0042] The authentication information input unit 26 is composed of, for example, a camera, and inputs raw data for authentication information, such as facial image data of logistics workers. For example, during both the registration and authentication of authentication information, the authentication information input unit 26 uses its camera function to capture a video image of the logistics worker's face. The control unit 21 generates still image data representing a portion of the video data of the face image input by the authentication information input unit 26. The authentication information may be the still image data of the generated face image itself, or it may be authentication feature data extracted by the control unit 21 based on the still image data of the face image.

[0043] (4) Database stored in the information storage unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 Furthermore, Figure 3 shows the databases 221 to 223 stored in the information storage unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the diagram, the information storage unit 22 stores an authentication DB 221 that manages the authentication information of logistics operators who are permitted to enter the facility, a user DB 222 that manages delivery method information indicating the delivery method to the delivery destination (user), and an authentication history DB 223 that manages the authentication history of logistics operators.

[0044] Figure 4 shows an example of the data configuration of the authentication DB 221 of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown in the diagram, the authentication DB221 associates each logistics company authorized to enter the facility with a vendor ID, and manages the name / company name of that logistics company, the organization to which that logistics company belongs, the logistics company's contact information (telephone number in this example), the logistics company's authentication information, the validity period of that authentication information, and valid / invalid information indicating whether the authentication information is currently valid or invalid.

[0045] When generating new authentication information as described above, the control unit 21 issues a new vendor ID sequentially with an already registered vendor ID, and registers it in the authentication DB 221 in association with the authentication information.

[0046] Among the information managed in the authentication DB221, the name / company name, affiliated organization, and contact information (telephone number in this example) of the logistics company are included in the logistics company information. When a logistics company inputs this logistics company information using the information input / output device 20, the control unit 21 registers the logistics company information in the authentication DB 221, associating it with the above-mentioned company ID.

[0047] As described above, when the control unit 21 registers the authentication information and logistics provider information in the authentication DB 221, it sets the validity period of the authentication information and registers it in the authentication DB 221. The validity period is not particularly limited, but for example, the control unit 21 may set a certain period (3 hours, 1 day, 1 month, etc.) from the time the authentication information is registered as the validity period.

[0048] Among the information managed in authentication DB221, the validity period and valid / invalid information are collectively referred to as "authentication period information."

[0049] The control unit 21 compares the current time with the registered authentication period information to determine whether the authentication information is currently valid or invalid, and registers the valid / invalid information in the authentication DB 221. Specifically, during delivery operations by logistics companies, the control unit 21 determines that authentication information entered within the validity period is valid, and authentication information entered after the validity period has expired is invalid. During the authentication process, the control unit 21 determines that authentication has failed even if the authentication information generated from the input source data matches the authentication information already registered in the authentication DB 221, if the registered authentication information is invalid.

[0050] Figure 5 shows an example of the data configuration of the user DB 222 of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown in the diagram, User DB222 associates a User ID with the user at the delivery destination when a logistics company delivers goods, and manages the user's name / organization (e.g., name of the resident, company using the service), information indicating the delivery destination (e.g., address, room number, tenant location number), and delivery method information indicating the delivery method specified by the delivery destination.

[0051] The information registered in the above user DB222 will be collectively referred to as "user information" below.

[0052] When a user uses the user terminal 50 to send their name / company name, information indicating their delivery address, and delivery method information to the authentication registration server 30, the authentication registration server 30 issues a new user ID, for example, sequentially with an already registered user ID, associates it with the information received from the user terminal 50, and registers it as user information in the user DB 322 described later. Subsequently, the authentication registration server 30 transmits the user ID and user information to each information input / output device 20. Each information input / output device 20 receives user information from the authentication registration server 30 and registers this received information in its own device's user database 222.

[0053] The delivery methods specified by the above delivery method information include, for example, "face-to-face delivery" and a delivery method known as "leave-at-door delivery," in which the logistics company completes the delivery by leaving the package at a designated delivery location without directly handing it to the user. This "leave-at-door delivery" method may involve leaving the package in the "front door of the dwelling," "gas meter box," or "storage device," as described below. Furthermore, the above delivery methods may include other delivery methods besides "in person" and "leave at door," and there may also be other types of "leave at door" besides those described above.

[0054] "Face-to-face" delivery refers to a delivery method where a logistics company directly hands over a delivery item to a user in person.

[0055] "Delivery to the front door of each individual residence" is a delivery method in which the logistics company places the delivered items in front of the front door of each user's residence to complete the delivery process.

[0056] The "gas meter box" delivery method involves a logistics company placing the delivered items into a gas meter box, which is installed near the entrance of each user's dwelling, and completing the delivery process.

[0057] As a delivery method, "storage device (delivery locker)" refers to a delivery method in which the delivered items are placed inside a storage device 60, which is installed, for example, in the entrance of a facility such as an apartment building, and the delivery process is completed there.

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 5, the delivery method information for user ID "0005" is registered in two types: "storage device" and "in front of the apartment entrance". In such cases, the logistics company may choose any of these two delivery methods and carry out the delivery work.

[0059] Figure 6 shows an example of the data configuration of the authentication history DB223 of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown in the diagram, the authentication history DB223 manages the following, associated with a history number assigned to each authentication process: an input device ID that identifies the information input / output device 20 into which authentication information was entered during that authentication process; a vendor ID that identifies the logistics company that entered the authentication information; the authentication date of that authentication process; the authentication information entered by the logistics company during that authentication process; the image captured by the information input / output device 20 during that authentication process; and the authentication result indicating the result of that authentication process (success or failure).

[0060] The information registered in the above authentication history DB223 will be collectively referred to as "authentication history information" below.

[0061] Each information input / output device 20's information storage unit 22 stores an input device ID that identifies the device itself, along with identification information that identifies the movement restriction device 10 for which the device will release the movement restriction. The information storage unit 22 also contains information that specifies which movement restriction device 10 the device will authenticate for releasing the movement restriction. For example, when an information input / output device 20 performs authentication to release the movement restriction on a movement restriction device 10, which is an elevator hall door, the information storage unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 stores the device's own input device ID along with the identification information of the movement restriction device 10, which is the elevator hall door. Furthermore, for example, when an information input / output device 20 performs authentication to release the movement restriction of a movement restriction device 10, which is an elevator, the information storage unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 stores the input device ID of the device itself, along with the identification information of the movement restriction device 10 (which is an elevator) and the floor on which the device is installed.

[0062] In the example in Figure 6, the authentication result for the authentication process with history number "00004" is "failed". When the authentication process "fails", it is not possible to identify the person who received the authentication, so the vendor ID and authentication information fields are left blank. Furthermore, even if the authentication fails, the authentication history DB223 stores information other than the vendor ID and authentication information. Therefore, even if the person who failed the authentication is a malicious third party, the system administrator can check their facial image and other information, thereby improving the security of the facility where the movement restriction device 10 is installed.

[0063] (4) Configuration of the authentication registration server 30 The authentication registration server 30 is an information processing device that manages authentication information and user information for releasing movement restrictions imposed by the movement restriction device 10, and may be installed either inside or outside the facility.

[0064] Figure 7 shows the configuration of the authentication registration server 30 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the authentication registration server 30 is configured to include a control unit 31 that controls the entire authentication registration server 30, an information storage unit 32 that stores authentication information and the like, and a communication unit 33 that sends and receives various information between the movement restriction device 10, the information input / output device 20, the logistics company terminal 40, and the user terminal 50. Each of the units 31 to 33 is connected to an internal bus, through which various information is input and output, and various processes are executed under the control of the control unit 31.

[0065] The control unit 31 is a processing unit that oversees the control of the entire authentication registration server 30, and is composed of, for example, electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and integrated circuits such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 31 reads information from the information storage unit 32 and also writes information to the information storage unit 32.

[0066] The information storage unit 32 is, for example, a device that stores information such as a hard disk, memory, or semiconductor element. The information storage unit 32 has an area for storing programs to be executed by the control unit 31, and a temporary work area (such as RAM) that the control unit 31 uses when executing processing. The control unit 31 reads the program stored in its information storage unit 32, expands it into the work area, and executes various processes. As will be described later, the information storage unit 32 stores the authentication DB 321, the user DB 322, and the authentication history DB 323.

[0067] The communication unit 33 is an interface that controls communication with the information input / output device 20, the logistics company terminal 40, and the user terminal 50 via the network 100, and includes a LAN adapter, etc. The communication unit 33 is equipped with a wireless transceiver and may be connected to a LAN or the Internet via wireless communication, or it may be connected via a wired connection such as a cable.

[0068] (5) Database stored in the information storage unit 32 of the authentication registration server 30 Furthermore, Figure 4 shows the databases 321 to 323 stored in the information storage unit 32 of the authentication registration server 30 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the information storage unit 32 stores an authentication DB 321 that manages the authentication information of logistics operators who are permitted to enter the facility, a user DB 322 that manages delivery method information indicating the delivery method to the delivery destination, and an authentication history DB 323 that manages the authentication history of logistics operators.

[0069] When the information input / output device 20 receives raw data such as user information and authentication information, or generates authentication history information, it registers it in the respective databases 221 to 223 within the device. When the information input / output device 20 transmits the information it has registered in each of its own databases to the authentication registration server 30, the authentication registration server 30 registers it in each of its own databases 321 to 323. In this way, the authentication registration server 30 shares user information, authentication information, and authentication history information registered in one or more information input / output devices 20. Furthermore, the authentication registration server 30 transmits the shared information to other information input / output devices 20 other than the information input / output device 20 that sent the shared information, and each information input / output device 20 registers the information transmitted from the authentication registration server 30 in its respective databases 321 to 323. In this way, each piece of information registered in one information input / output device 20 is shared among all information input / output devices 20 and the authentication registration server 30 of the entire delivery support system.

[0070] (6) Configuration of the logistics operator terminal 40 The logistics operator terminal 40 is an information processing device operated by the logistics operator. A logistics provider is a person who uses an information input / output device 20 to authenticate the user in order to enter the facility where the user resides or uses the facility, performs delivery work for the goods addressed to the user, and receives information on the delivery method at the time of delivery work.

[0071] The logistics operator terminal 40 is, for example, a portable information processing device such as a smartphone, tablet, wearable device, mobile phone, PDA, PHS, or PC.

[0072] When a logistics company attempts to register its authentication information with the information input / output device 20, it inputs logistics company information, including contact information (SMS address, phone number, email address, etc.) from the logistics company terminal 40 that it operates, into the information input / output device 20. When the authentication registration server 30 receives logistics company information, including contact information, from the information input / output device 20, it sends registration authentication information (such as a password for registering the logistics company's authentication information) to the logistics company terminal 40 identified by the contact information. When the logistics operator terminal 40 receives registration authentication information from the authentication registration server 30, it displays the received registration authentication information. When a logistics company inputs the displayed registration authentication information into the information input / output device 20 using the operation unit 25 of the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 registers the authentication information based on the facial image data of the logistics company that it has captured.

[0073] Figure 8 shows the configuration of the logistics company terminal 40 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the logistics operator terminal 40 is composed of a control unit 41 which controls the entire logistics operator terminal 40 and consists of a CPU, etc., an information storage unit 42 which stores various information, a communication unit 43 which communicates with the authentication registration server 30 via the network 100, a display unit 44 which displays various information, and an operation unit 45 which is equipped with various keys and used for inputting information. Furthermore, the display unit 44 and the operation unit 45 may be integrated to form a touch panel. Each of the units 41-45 is connected to an internal bus, through which various information is input and output, and various processes are executed under the control of the control unit 41.

[0074] The control unit 41 is a processing unit that oversees the control of the entire logistics operator terminal 40, and is composed of, for example, electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and integrated circuits such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 41 reads information from the information storage unit 42 and also writes information to the information storage unit 42.

[0075] The information storage unit 42 is, for example, a device that stores information such as a hard disk, memory, or semiconductor element. The information storage unit 42 has an area for storing programs to be executed by the control unit 41, and a temporary work area (such as RAM) that the control unit 41 uses when executing processing. The control unit 41 reads the program stored in its information storage unit 42, expands it into the work area, and executes various processes.

[0076] The communication unit 43 is an interface that controls communication with the authentication registration server 30 via the network 100, and includes a LAN adapter, etc. The communication unit 43 is equipped with a wireless transceiver and may be connected to a LAN or the Internet via wireless communication, or it may be connected via a wired connection such as a cable. In this embodiment, the communication unit 43 can communicate with the authentication registration server 30 using SMS (Short Message Service) which uses a telephone number as an address.

[0077] The display unit 44 is a display device such as a display or lamp. The control unit 41 reads an image from the information storage unit 42 and performs image output processing to generate screen information. The control unit 41 also performs image output processing on the image information received by the communication unit 43 from the authentication registration server 30 to generate screen information. The control unit 41 outputs the generated image information to the display unit 44. The display unit 44 displays the input image information on a screen such as a display. Furthermore, the control unit 41 can output control signals to the display unit 44, which can then light up the lamps on the display unit 44.

[0078] The operation unit 45 includes an information input device, for example, consisting of various keys, and this information input device works in conjunction with the display unit 44 to provide a pointing device. The operation unit 45 receives various operations from logistics companies, etc., and outputs signals indicating the content of those operations to the control unit 41, etc. When the control unit 41 receives a signal indicating the operation content, it outputs a control signal to the display unit 44 indicating that it will display a screen corresponding to the operation content, in accordance with the content of the signal. When the display unit 44 receives the control signal, it displays information on the screen in accordance with the control signal. The display unit 44 and the operation unit 45 may be integrated to form a touch panel.

[0079] The logistics operator terminal 40 can receive and display emails from the authentication registration server 30, which functions as a mail server, and can also receive and display screen information (e.g., web pages) from the authentication registration server 30, which functions as a web server. The logistics provider terminal 40 has a control unit 41 that generates and sends an HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) request in response to a request from the logistics provider, and a control unit 41 that interprets the HTTP response (an example of a response) and presents it to the user. For example, the information storage unit 42 stores a web browser as one example. The control unit 41 interprets the HTTP response, generates image data and audio data, and presents the HTTP response to the logistics company by displaying it on the display unit 44 or outputting the audio from the speaker of the logistics company terminal 40.

[0080] As described above, the logistics operator terminal 40 receives and obtains a password for registering authentication information from the authentication registration server 30 using a predetermined method, but the method of obtaining it is not particularly limited. For example, the logistics company terminal 40 receives and displays a message via SMS (Short Message Service) from the authentication registration server 30 as a method for obtaining the above password.

[0081] (7) Configuration of user terminal 50 The user terminal 50 is an information processing device operated by the user. A user is a resident of a facility or a user of the facility, and is the recipient of the delivered goods.

[0082] The user terminal 50 is, for example, a portable information processing device such as a smartphone, tablet, wearable device, mobile phone, PDA, PHS, or PC.

[0083] The user enters their desired delivery method by operating their user terminal 50 and sends it to the authentication registration server 30 for registration. The user, using the user terminal 50 described above, can specify, for example, either "face-to-face" delivery, where the logistics company directly hands the delivered item to the user, or "leave at designated location" delivery, where the item is left at a designated location without being handed over directly, or both, as the delivery method entered. Furthermore, when a user selects "leave at door" as their delivery method, they must also specify the delivery location. The delivery location can be one or more of the following: storage device 60 (delivery locker), in front of the apartment entrance, or gas meter box.

[0084] Figure 9 shows the configuration of the user terminal 50 in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the user terminal 50 is composed of a control unit 51 which is made up of a CPU and the like and controls the entire user terminal 50, an information storage unit 52 which stores various information, a communication unit 53 which communicates with the authentication registration server 30 via the network 100, a display unit 54 which displays various information, and an operation unit 55 which is equipped with various keys and the like and used for inputting information. Furthermore, the display unit 54 and the operation unit 55 may be integrated to form a touch panel. Each of the parts 51 to 55 is connected to an internal bus, through which various information is input and output, and various processes are executed under the control of the control unit 51.

[0085] The control unit 51 is a processing unit that is responsible for controlling the entire user terminal 50, and is composed of, for example, electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and integrated circuits such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 51 reads information from the information storage unit 52 and also writes information to the information storage unit 52.

[0086] The information storage unit 52 is, for example, a device that stores information such as a hard disk, memory, or semiconductor element. The information storage unit 52 has an area for storing programs to be executed by the control unit 51, and a temporary work area (such as RAM) that the control unit 51 uses when executing processing. The control unit 51 reads the program stored in its information storage unit 52, expands it into the work area, and executes various processes.

[0087] The communication unit 53 is an interface that controls communication with the authentication registration server 30 via the network 100, and includes a LAN adapter, etc. The communication unit 53 is equipped with a wireless transceiver and may be connected to a LAN or the Internet via wireless communication, or it may be connected via a wired connection such as a cable.

[0088] The display unit 54 is a display device such as a display or lamp. The control unit 51 reads an image from the information storage unit 52 and performs image output processing to generate screen information. The control unit 51 also performs image output processing on the image information received by the communication unit 53 from the authentication registration server 30 to generate screen information. The control unit 51 outputs the generated image information to the display unit 54. The display unit 54 displays the input image information on a screen such as a display. Furthermore, the control unit 51 can output control signals to the display unit 54, which can then light up the lamps on the display unit 54.

[0089] The operation unit 55 includes an information input device, for example, consisting of various keys, and this information input device works in conjunction with the display unit 54 to provide a pointing device. The operation unit 55 receives various operations from the user and outputs a signal indicating the content of the operation to the control unit 51, etc. When the control unit 51 receives a signal indicating the operation content, it outputs a control signal to the display unit 54 indicating that it will display a screen corresponding to the operation content, according to the content of the signal. When the display unit 54 receives the control signal, it displays information on the screen in accordance with the control signal. The display unit 54 and the operation unit 55 may be integrated to form a touch panel.

[0090] The user terminal 50 can receive and display screen information, such as a web page, from the authentication registration server 30, which functions as a web server. The user terminal 50 has the function of generating and sending an HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) request in response to a user's request, and the function of interpreting an HTTP response (an example of a response) and presenting it to the user. For example, the information storage unit 52 stores a web browser as one example. The control unit 51 interprets the HTTP response, generates image data and audio data, and presents the HTTP response to the user by displaying it on the display unit 54 or outputting the audio from the speaker of the user terminal 50.

[0091] (8) Configuration of the storage device 60 The storage device 60 comprises multiple lockable storage boxes, and stores delivery items addressed to the user in these storage boxes. The storage device 60 may be, for example, what is commonly called a delivery locker, and its configuration will not be explained. The storage device 60 is installed, for example, in a common area (entrance) of the facility.

[0092] In this embodiment, the user can specify "storage device 60" as one of the delivery methods for the delivered goods.

[0093] (9) Other components Although not shown in the figures, in this embodiment, the administrator of the delivery support system can use a terminal to check the information in the databases of the information input / output device 20 and the authentication registration server 30 via the network 100.

[0094] (Arrangement of each device in the first embodiment) (1) Example on the first floor of an apartment building Figure 10 is a plan view showing an example of the installation locations of the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the entrance and elevator hall on the first floor of an apartment building as seen from above. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing an example of the installation location of the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the first floor of the apartment building shown in Figure 10. Figures 10 and 11 show the movement paths (1) to (5) of logistics companies delivering packages addressed to users, indicated by dashed lines with arrows. The following explanation will use these diagrams to describe a specific example in which the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 are installed in the entrance and elevator hall on the first floor of an apartment building.

[0095] The movement restriction device 10a functions as an elevator hall door that restricts movement from the entrance to the elevator hall. In this example, the movement restriction device 10a does not restrict movement in the reverse direction from the elevator hall to the entrance, and may function like a typical automatic door, for example. The information input / output device 20a is operable by logistics operators at the entrance, and the logistics operators operate the information input / output device 20a to perform authentication in order to release the movement restrictions imposed by the movement restriction device 10a.

[0096] A storage device 60 is installed in the wall separating the entrance and the elevator hall, and the storage device 60 itself constitutes part of the wall. As described above, the storage device 60 has doors for storage boxes on both the front and back sides (entrance side and elevator hall side), allowing goods to be stored and retrieved from both sides. Logistics companies can store deliveries addressed to users in the storage device 60 from the entrance side. Users can retrieve their delivered items from the storage device 60 from the elevator hall side.

[0097] The movement restriction device 10b functions as an elevator (including elevator doors) that moves between floors of an apartment building from the first floor to other floors. The information input / output device 20b is operable by logistics operators in the elevator hall, and the logistics operators operate the information input / output device 20b to perform authentication in order to release the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10b.

[0098] Movement between the entrance and the elevator hall is restricted by a movement restriction device 10a. The movement restriction device 10a functions as a lockable elevator hall door installed between the entrance and the elevator hall. As shown in the diagram "Logistics carrier's movement (1)", when a logistics carrier delivers goods to a user residing in an apartment building, they enter the building's entrance through an unlocked entrance door that does not restrict movement. After entering the entrance, the logistics company moves to the location where the information input / output device 20a is installed, as shown in "Logistics Company Movement (2)" in the diagram, and operates the information input / output device 20a to confirm the delivery method for the goods to be delivered to the user.

[0099] When the information input / output device 20a instructs the delivery method for items addressed to a user to be stored in the storage device 60, the logistics company moves to the location of the storage device 60's entrance within the entrance, as shown in "Logistics Company Movement (3)" in the figure, and stores the items. In this case, since the logistics company does not need to move from the entrance to the elevator hall, they do not use the information input / output device 20a to release the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10a.

[0100] On the other hand, if the information input / output device 20a instructs the delivery method for a delivery item to a user to be face-to-face, in front of the entrance of the dwelling, or to the gas meter box, the logistics company needs to move to the user's dwelling or its vicinity, and therefore operates the information input / output device 20a to perform authentication. Upon successful authentication, the movement restriction on the movement restriction device 10a is released. Specifically, the movement restriction device 10a, which functions as an elevator hall door, is unlocked and opened, allowing the logistics company to move from the entrance to the elevator hall, as shown in "Logistics Company Movement (4)" in the diagram.

[0101] After moving to the elevator hall, the logistics operator moves to the location of the information input / output device 20b, as shown in "Logistics Operator's Movement (5)" in the diagram, and operates the information input / output device 20b installed in the elevator hall to perform authentication. If authentication is successful, the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10b is released. Specifically, the movement restriction device 10b, acting as an elevator, opens its elevator doors, allowing the logistics operator to ascend or descend to the desired floor. The logistics company moves to the elevator-like movement restriction device 10b and then proceeds to the delivery destination floor.

[0102] (2) Examples in apartment buildings other than the first floor (5th floor) Figure 12 shows an example of the installation location of the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the elevator hall, corridor, and user's dwelling unit on a floor other than the first floor of an apartment building (hereinafter simply referred to as "other floors"; in this example, the 5th floor), as seen from above. The diagram shows the movement of logistics companies delivering packages to users, indicated by dashed lines with arrows. The following explanation will use this diagram to describe an example in which the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 are installed on other floors of an apartment building.

[0103] As described above, the movement restriction device 10b functions as an elevator (including the elevator door) that allows movement between the first floor and other floors of an apartment building. The movement restriction device 10b allows movement to the first floor or other floors without undergoing authentication processing by the information input / output device 20 on other floors.

[0104] The movement restriction device 10c functions as a door that restricts movement from the elevator hall on another floor to the corridor leading to each dwelling unit on the same floor. The information input / output device 20c can be operated by logistics personnel in elevator halls on other floors, and the logistics personnel operate the information input / output device 20c to perform authentication in order to release the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10c.

[0105] On other floors, movement between the elevator hall and the corridor is restricted by a movement restriction device 10c. The movement restriction device 10c functions as a lockable corridor door installed between the elevator hall and the corridor on other floors.

[0106] When a logistics company delivers goods to a user residing in an apartment building, the logistics company boards the elevator (movement restriction device 10b) to the delivery floor and then moves to the elevator hall on that floor. As shown in the diagram, "Logistics worker's movement (6)," the logistics worker moves to the elevator hall on another floor, then moves to the location where the information input / output device 20c is installed, and operates the information input / output device 20c to perform authentication.

[0107] When the information input / output device 20c instructs the delivery method for a delivery addressed to a user, such as face-to-face delivery, delivery to the front door of the dwelling unit, or delivery to a gas meter box, the logistics company operates the information input / output device 20c installed in the elevator hall on another floor to perform authentication. If authentication is successful, the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10c is released. Specifically, the movement restriction device 10c, which acts as a corridor door, is unlocked and opened, allowing the logistics company to move from the elevator hall to the corridor. Furthermore, if the logistics company has already confirmed the contents of the delivery method information using the information input / output device 20a installed in the entrance on the first floor, the information input / output device 20c may output the delivery method information as described above, or it may not output it since the logistics company has already confirmed the delivery method information using the information input / output device 20a.

[0108] Then, as shown in "Logistics worker's movement path (7)" in the diagram, the logistics company passes through the unlocked movement restriction device 10c and moves from the elevator hall to the corridor, visits the user's apartment entrance, and delivers the goods in person, or leaves the goods in the gas meter box installed in the corridor or in front of the apartment entrance.

[0109] (Operation of the first embodiment) (1) User registration of preferred shipping method Figure 13 is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a user registers their desired delivery method in the first embodiment of the present invention. The following explanation will describe the process of registering a shipping method, following the diagram provided.

[0110] First, the user operates the control panel 55 of the user terminal 50 to input user information (step S101). For example, user information includes the user's name and the user's preferred shipping method (information). As described above, delivery methods include, for example, face-to-face delivery, leaving the product in front of the entrance of each user's dwelling unit, placing it in a gas meter box near the dwelling unit, or storing it in the storage device 60.

[0111] Next, the communication unit 53 of the user terminal 50 transmits user information to the authentication registration server 30 (step S102).

[0112] When the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 receives user information from the user terminal 50, the control unit 31 of the authentication registration server 30 registers the received user information in the user DB 322 of the information storage unit 32 (step S103).

[0113] Next, the communication unit 32 of the authentication registration server 30 transmits the registered user information to each information input / output device 20 (step S104).

[0114] When the communication unit 23 of each information input / output device 20 receives the above user information from the authentication registration server 30, it registers it in the user DB 222 of the information storage unit 22 of its own device (step S105). This completes the registration process for user information, specifically the information indicating the user's preferred shipping method.

[0115] As described above, each information input / output device 20 can register the user's preferred delivery method in advance before the delivery of the goods addressed to the user, and transmit the details of that delivery method to the logistics company via the information input / output device 20. Therefore, users can avoid the cumbersome task of informing the logistics company of their preferred delivery method each time, and can use the delivery service in the way they prefer.

[0116] The information input / output devices 20 to which the authentication registration server 30 transmits user information may be all of the information input / output devices 20, or it may be only a specific (partial) information input / output device 20, such as the information input / output device 20a described above.

[0117] (2) Registration of authentication information of logistics operators As described above, in this embodiment, a movement restriction device 10 is installed within a facility such as an apartment building to restrict movement. When a logistics company delivers goods into a facility, it uses its own authentication information to authenticate itself, releases the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10, and then carries out the delivery work inside the facility. Before actually performing the above-mentioned delivery work, the logistics company must register authentication information in the delivery support system to release the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10. The following describes the registration process for this logistics company's authentication information.

[0118] Figures 14 and 15 are sequence charts showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a logistics company registers authentication information in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the front view of the information input / output device 20 when registering authentication information of a logistics company in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Figure 16 shows an example of the display unit 24, operation unit 25, and authentication information input unit 26 of the information input / output device 20, which is used by a logistics company to register its own authentication information.

[0120] In the example shown in Figure 16, the front side of the information input / output device 20 shows a display unit 24 (241, 242) such as a display, an operation unit 25 (251-253) consisting of various keys or buttons, and an authentication information input unit 26 such as a camera.

[0121] In addition, in the example shown in Figure 16, the operation unit 25 includes an authentication start button 251 for starting the authentication process using authentication information, a registration start button 252 for starting the registration process of authentication information, and various keys 253 for inputting information.

[0122] In the example shown in Figure 16, the display unit 24 has two display screens 241 and 242 that display screen information for registering authentication information. The display screen 241 shows the face of the logistics worker currently being captured by the authentication information input unit 26 in video mode. Display screen 242 shows the input fields for logistics company information (name input field 2421, affiliation input field 2422, contact information input field 2423), which are the personal information of the logistics company when registering authentication information.

[0123] The following explanation will describe the registration process for authentication information of logistics companies, using Figures 10 and 11, along with Figures 14-16 mentioned above.

[0124] First, the logistics company visits the locations where the information input / output devices 20 are installed, both inside and outside the facility, in order to register their authentication information. The information input / output device 20 used for registering this authentication information is preferably installed in a location where unlocking the movement restriction device 10 is unnecessary. For example, it may be installed in an entrance that can be accessed by passing through an unlocked door. In this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 used for registering this authentication information will be described as the information input / output device 20a shown in the example in Figures 10 and 11.

[0125] In the examples in Figures 10 and 11, the entrance door is unlocked, and logistics workers can pass through without any restrictions on movement being lifted. In other words, authentication is not required for logistics workers to enter the entrance. The information input / output device 20a is installed inside the entrance and is located in a position where logistics personnel can operate it without authentication. The logistics company visits the location where the information input / output device 20a is installed and operates the information input / output device 20a to register their own authentication information.

[0126] When a logistics company requests the delivery support system to start registering authentication information by operating the registration start button 252 on the operation unit 25 of the information input / output device 20a, the control unit 21 instructs each unit to start the authentication information registration operation, the display unit 24 displays a screen as shown in the example in Figure 16, the operation unit 25 enables the input of logistics company information into the input field of the display unit 24, and the authentication information input unit 26 starts capturing a facial image of the logistics company (step S201).

[0127] Next, the logistics company operates the various keys 25c on the control unit 25 to input their own logistics company information into the information input / output device 20a (step S202). The control unit 21 displays the input logistics company information on the display screen 24b of the display unit 24. The logistics provider information entered here must include at least the logistics provider's contact information. In this embodiment, the logistics provider information includes the name of the logistics provider, the company the logistics provider belongs to (such as the company they work for), and a telephone number that can be received on the logistics provider terminal 40 as contact information.

[0128] Next, the communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20a sends a registration request for authentication information, including the input logistics company information, to the authentication registration server 30 (step S203). This authentication information registration request includes the input device ID of the information input / output device 20a.

[0129] When the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 receives a registration request for the above authentication information from the information input / output device 20a, the control unit 31 registers the logistics company information included in the received registration request for authentication information in the authentication DB 321 of the information storage unit 32 (step S204).

[0130] Next, the control unit 31 of the authentication registration server 30 generates a password that the logistics company will use when registering authentication information (step S205). For example, this password may consist of letters, symbols, or a combination of letters and symbols. The control unit 31 of the authentication registration server 30 associates the generated password with the input device ID included in the received authentication information registration request and stores it in the information storage unit 32.

[0131] Next, the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 transmits the registration authentication information, including the generated password, to the logistics company terminal 40 (step S206). In this embodiment, as an example, the authentication registration server 30 determines the destination of the password (logistics company terminal 40) based on the contact information (telephone number) of the logistics company included in the logistics company information entered in step S202, and sends the registration authentication information, including the password, to the logistics company terminal 40 via a general communication line and communication equipment (omitted in the figure, but included in network 100) using so-called SMS (Short Message Service).

[0132] When the communication unit 43 of the logistics operator terminal 40 receives the above-mentioned registration authentication information from the authentication registration server 30, the display unit 44 of the logistics operator terminal 40 displays the password included in the received registration authentication information (step S207).

[0133] The logistics company confirms the password displayed on the logistics company terminal 40 and inputs the password into the information input / output device 20a using the operation unit 25 of the information input / output device 20a (step S208).

[0134] Next, the communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20a sends the entered password to the authentication registration server 30, associating it with the input device ID of its own device (step S209).

[0135] When the communication unit 23 of the authentication registration server 30 receives the password from the information input / output device 20a, the control unit 31 of the authentication registration server 30 compares the received password with the password generated in step S205 to determine whether or not to permit the registration of the logistics company's authentication information (step S210). Here, the control unit 31 compares the password received from the information input / output device 20a with the password it generated in step S205. If the two passwords match, it determines that authentication was successful; otherwise, it determines that authentication failed. In this case, the control unit 31 may also determine whether the input device IDs associated with both passwords match, and if they match, perform authentication using both passwords; otherwise, determine that authentication has failed.

[0136] The control unit 31 of the authentication registration server 30 determines that authentication has failed if both passwords do not match (step S210 / No), and terminates its operation without allowing the registration of the logistics company's authentication information. In this case, the authentication registration server 30 may transmit information indicating authentication failure to the information input / output device 20a, and when the information input / output device 20a receives the information indicating authentication failure, it may display that fact on the display unit 24 and inform the logistics company of the content.

[0137] On the other hand, the control unit 31 determines that authentication is successful if both passwords match (step S210 / Yes), and the communication unit 33, under the control of the control unit 31, transmits permission information for registration of authentication information (hereinafter referred to as "registration permission information") to the information input / output device 20 (step S211).

[0138] The communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20a receives the registration permission information from the authentication registration server 30, and when the control unit 21 recognizes the registration permission information, the authentication information input unit 26 generates authentication information based on the facial image data of the logistics company that has been captured (step S212).

[0139] Next, the control unit 21 associates the generated authentication information with the logistics company information and registers it in the device's authentication DB 221 (step S213).

[0140] Here, we will explain in more detail the operations in steps S212 and S213. The control unit 21 generates still image data (source data for authentication information) of the logistics worker's face based on the video of the logistics worker's face captured by the authentication information input unit 26. Next, the control unit 21 performs feature point and feature quantity extraction processing on the generated face image data. Feature points refer to points that can serve as features for recognizing a face image. For example, local patterns of facial features (nose, eyebrows, eyes, mouth, etc.) may be called feature points, and the grayscale features of the image surrounding these feature points may be defined as feature quantities. Furthermore, face recognition is not limited to the above technology; other general face recognition technologies may be used. Next, the control unit 21 refers to the logistics company DB 321, generates face image data after performing the feature point and feature quantity extraction process described above, and registers it in the authentication DB 221 as authentication information. As described above, the control unit 21 performs the authentication information registration operation.

[0141] Next, the control unit 21 determines the validity period of the registered authentication information and registers the validity period for the corresponding authentication information in the authentication DB 221 (step S214).

[0142] The validity period of this authentication information may be fixed for each facility (e.g., each apartment building) or it may differ for each logistics provider (e.g., each individual provider or each delivery company). During the registered validity period described above, the logistics operator can use the registered authentication information to lift the movement restriction on the movement restriction device 10 of the relevant facility. On the other hand, after the expiration of the above-mentioned validity period, the logistics operator will not be able to lift the movement restriction on the movement restriction device 10 of the relevant facility, even if they use the registered authentication information. Thus, the delivery support system in this embodiment sets an expiration period for authentication information, making it possible to effectively improve the security of authentication.

[0143] Next, the communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20a transmits the registered authentication information and its validity period to the authentication registration server 30 (step S215).

[0144] When the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 receives the authentication information and its validity period information from the information input / output device 20, the control unit 31 registers the received authentication information and validity period information in the authentication DB 321 of the information storage unit 32, associating it with the logistics company information registered in step S204 (step S216).

[0145] Next, the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 transmits the registered authentication information, its validity period information, and logistics company information to other information input / output devices 20 other than information input / output device 20a (for example, information input / output devices 20b, 20c, ...) (step S217).

[0146] When each communication unit 23 of the other information input / output devices 20 other than the information input / output device 20a receives the authentication information, validity period information, and logistics provider information from the authentication registration server 30, each control unit 21 of the other information input / output devices 20 other than the information input / output device 20a registers the received authentication information, validity period information, and logistics provider information in the authentication DB 221 of each information storage unit 22 (step S218). This completes the authentication information registration process.

[0147] As described above, when logistics companies register their authentication information based on their facial image, they do not have to go to a special location or go through complicated procedures. Instead, they can easily register their authentication information by using the information input / output device 20, which is installed in the entrance of the delivery destination facility and can be visited at any time. Furthermore, they can simply stand in front of the camera of the authentication information input section 26 of the information input / output device 20 and have their picture taken.

[0148] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, as described above, when a logistics company operates the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 sends a request for registration of the logistics company's authentication information to the authentication registration server 30. The authentication registration server 30, in response to the request for registration of the authentication information, sends the registered authentication information to the logistics company terminal 40. The logistics company terminal 40 outputs the registered authentication information externally (display or audio output, etc.). When the logistics company inputs the externally outputted registered authentication information into the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 registers the authentication information. Therefore, since malicious third parties do not possess the logistics operator terminal 40, it is difficult for them to register authentication information during the authentication information registration process, making it easy to prevent fraudulent registration of authentication information.

[0149] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the authentication registration server 30 registers logistics company information (including contact information such as telephone numbers) and authentication information received from the information input / output device 20. Therefore, even if a malicious third party impersonates a logistics company and registers authentication information, the malicious third party can be easily identified based on the registered logistics company information and authentication information, thus preventing the unauthorized registration of authentication information. In particular, if authentication information is based on facial image data or contact information is a phone number, malicious third parties can be easily identified.

[0150] In this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 generated authentication information from facial image data. However, the information input / output device 20 may also transmit the raw data for authentication information, such as facial image data, to the authentication registration server 30, and the authentication registration server 30 may generate authentication information based on the facial image data.

[0151] (3) Display of delivery method and release of movement restrictions Figure 17 is a sequence chart showing the flow of operations by the delivery support system when a logistics company delivers goods addressed to a user, in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figures 18 and 19 show an example of the front view of the information input / output device 20 in the first embodiment of the present invention. In Figures 18 and 19, components that are the same as or corresponding to the components shown in Figure 16 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those shown in Figure 16. The following explanation will proceed using Figures 17-19.

[0152] In the examples in Figures 18 and 19, similar to the example in Figure 16, the front side of the information input / output device 20 shows a display unit 24 (241, 242) such as a display, an operation unit 25 (251-253) consisting of various keys or buttons, and an authentication information input unit 26 such as a camera.

[0153] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the operation unit 25 has an authentication start button 251 for starting the authentication process using authentication information, a registration start button 252 for starting the registration process of authentication information, and various keys 253 for inputting information.

[0154] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the display unit 24 has two display screens 241 and 242. In the examples in Figures 18 and 19, display screens 241 and 242 show authentication screen information using authentication credentials. The display screen 241 shows, in video mode, the faces of logistics workers currently being filmed by the authentication information input unit 26 during delivery operations. The display screen 242 shows a delivery destination input field 2424 for entering delivery destination information to identify the user at the delivery destination of the logistics company during the delivery operation, and a display area 2425 for displaying delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the user at that delivery destination.

[0155] In the operation to lift the movement restrictions, first, the logistics company operates the authentication start button 251 on the operation unit 25 of the information input / output device 20 to request the delivery support system to start authentication using the authentication information (step S301).

[0156] In response to the request to start authentication, the control unit 21 instructs each unit to start the authentication operation, the display unit 24 displays a screen as shown in Figure 18, the operation unit 25 and the authentication information input unit 26 start capturing the facial image of the logistics worker.

[0157] Next, the information input / output device 20 performs the operation to input the authentication information of the logistics company (step S302). Specifically, the operation to input the authentication information is as follows. When the logistics operator moves the authentication information input unit 26 to a position where it can capture an image of their face, the authentication information input unit 26 captures the face image and generates face image data (original data for authentication information). The captured image is displayed on the display screen 241. The control unit 21 generates authentication information based on the facial image data. In this way, the authentication information input process is performed.

[0158] Next, the control unit 21 compares the input (generated) authentication information with the authentication information registered in the authentication DB 221 and authenticates the logistics company (step S303). Here, the control unit 21 determines that authentication is successful if authentication information matching the input authentication information is registered in the authentication DB 221. On the other hand, the control unit 21 determines that authentication has failed if no authentication information matching the input authentication information is registered in the authentication DB 221.

[0159] If the control unit 21 determines that authentication has failed (step S303 / No), the movement restriction device 10 terminates its operation without releasing the movement restriction. In this case, because the doors inside the facility cannot be unlocked or the elevators cannot be operated, the logistics company is unable to carry out delivery work.

[0160] On the other hand, in step S303, if the control unit 21 determines that authentication is successful (step S303 / Yes), it permits the input of delivery address information into the delivery address input field 2424 on the display screen 242 of the display unit 24 (step S304).

[0161] Next, the logistics operator operates the control unit 25 to enter the delivery destination information into the delivery destination input field 2424 (step S305). This delivery destination information is not particularly limited as long as it is information that can identify the user at the delivery destination of the logistics company. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed to be the unit number (room number) of the dwelling where the user at the delivery destination resides in an apartment building. In the example in Figure 19, the room number "301" of the user at the delivery destination, entered by the logistics company, is displayed in the delivery destination input field 2424.

[0162] Next, the control unit 21 refers to the user DB 222 and extracts the delivery method information associated with the entered delivery destination information (step S306).

[0163] Next, the display area 2425 of the display unit 24 displays the extracted delivery method information (step S307).

[0164] The above shipping method information indicates the shipping method preferred by the user at the delivery destination of the above logistics company. Logistics operators check the delivery method information displayed on the display unit 24 of the information input / output device 20 and then carry out the delivery of the goods. For example, in this embodiment, if the desired delivery method is "in person" or "delivery to the front door of the dwelling (leave at door)", it is necessary to release the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10, such as a door or elevator. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since the storage device 60 is installed in an entrance with no restrictions on entry, if the desired delivery method is "storage device," it is not necessary to release the movement restriction of the movement restriction device 10, and the logistics company completes the delivery work by placing the delivered items into the storage device 60. In the example shown in Figure 19, the delivery method information display area 2425 shows the message, "Delivery will be made to the front door of the dwelling."

[0165] Next, the control unit 21 registers the authentication history, which shows the history of the authentication process of the logistics company, in the authentication history DB 223 (step S308).

[0166] Next, the communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 transmits a release instruction to the movement restriction device 10 (step S309).

[0167] The communication unit 13 of the movement restriction device 10 receives a command to release the movement restriction from the information input / output device 20, and when the control unit 11 recognizes the command to release the movement restriction, it instructs the movement restriction unit 12 to release the movement restriction (step S310). By lifting the movement restrictions imposed by the movement restriction device 10 (such as unlocking the door or allowing the use of the elevator), the logistics company will be able to carry out delivery work using the delivery method specified by the logistics company.

[0168] Next, the communication unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 transmits the authentication history to the authentication registration server 30 (step S311).

[0169] When the communication unit 33 of the authentication registration server 30 receives the authentication history from the information input / output device 20, the control unit 31 registers the authentication history in the authentication history DB 323 (step S312). This concludes the process of removing the movement restrictions by the delivery support system.

[0170] The following will explain in detail the process of releasing movement restrictions, using the examples shown in Figures 10 and 11. For example, when a logistics company delivers an item to a user residing on the 5th floor, it operates the information input / output device 20a installed in the entrance on the 1st floor to perform authentication, releases the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10a, and moves from the entrance to the elevator hall. Next, the logistics company operates the information input / output device 20b installed in the elevator hall to perform authentication, release the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10b, and then uses the movement restriction device 10b (elevator) to move from the elevator hall on the 1st floor to the elevator hall on the 5th floor. Next, the logistics company operates the movement restriction device 10c installed in the elevator hall on the 5th floor to perform authentication, releases the movement restriction imposed by the movement restriction device 10c, and moves from the elevator hall on the 5th floor to the corridor on the 5th floor. The logistics company then completes the delivery by visiting the user's residence and handing the goods to the user in person, leaving them in front of the user's door, or leaving them inside the gas meter box.

[0171] In the embodiment described above, the information input / output device 20 displayed delivery method information when the authentication of the logistics company was successful. However, the delivery method information may also be displayed by performing a predetermined operation that does not require authentication, such as pressing a predetermined key on the operation unit 25. In this case, if the delivery method specified by the user is "deposit into storage device 60 installed in the entrance on the first floor," then, in the example shown in Figures 10 and 11, the logistics company will confirm the delivery method information displayed on the information input / output device 20a and then deposit the delivered items into storage device 60 without passing through the movement restriction device 10a.

[0172] As described above, according to this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 displays the delivery method specified in advance by the user, and the logistics company delivers according to that delivery method, so that the user can receive the delivery addressed to them according to the delivery method of their choice.

[0173] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 and the authentication registration server 30 store the authentication history in the authentication history DBs 223 and 323. Therefore, the administrator of the delivery support system can use a terminal to check the information in the authentication history DBs 223 and 323, and if an unauthorized authentication is suspected, they can check the details of that authentication and take appropriate action against the unauthorized authentication.

[0174] (Summary of the first embodiment) As described above, in the delivery support system of this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 displays the delivery method specified in advance by the user, and the logistics company delivers according to that delivery method, so that the user can receive their delivery according to the delivery method of their choice. For example, by specifying a delivery method where packages are left at a location close to their private property (such as their apartment), users can reduce the hassle of carrying packages to their private property. Furthermore, since logistics companies can confirm delivery methods without contacting users, they can eliminate the need to use intercoms or other means to confirm whether users are home or the delivery method, enabling smoother delivery operations when logistics companies deliver goods.

[0175] Furthermore, in the delivery support system of this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 registers the authentication information of the logistics company. When the logistics company inputs the authentication information to the information input / output device 20 after registration, the information input / output device 20 compares the input authentication information with the registered authentication information to perform authentication. If authentication is successful, it releases the movement restriction imposed by the corresponding movement restriction device 10. This makes it possible for logistics companies to easily release movement restrictions along the route to the delivery destination when delivering goods, thereby enabling smooth delivery operations.

[0176] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when a logistics company operates the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 sends a request for registration of the logistics company's authentication information to the authentication registration server 30. The authentication registration server 30, in response to the request for registration of the authentication information, sends the registered authentication information to the logistics company terminal 40. The logistics company terminal 40 outputs the registered authentication information externally (display or audio output, etc.). When the logistics company inputs the externally outputted registered authentication information into the information input / output device 20, the information input / output device 20 registers the authentication information. Therefore, since malicious third parties do not possess the logistics operator terminal 40, it is difficult for them to register authentication information during the registration process. Furthermore, even if they do register, the contact information of the third party entered at that time is stored as history in the authentication registration server 30, making it easy to prevent fraudulent registration of authentication information.

[0177] In the example described above, the information input / output device 20a, which registers the authentication information of logistics companies and displays delivery method information, was installed in an entrance area near the facility entrance where authentication was not required for entry. In this way, by enabling logistics companies to register authentication information and verify delivery method information in easily accessible locations during delivery operations, it becomes possible to achieve even smoother delivery operations.

[0178] The above-mentioned movement restriction device 10, information input / output device 20, authentication registration server 30, logistics company terminal 40, and user terminal 50 are mainly implemented by a CPU and a program loaded into memory. However, it is also possible to configure this device or server with any other combination of hardware and software, and the high degree of design flexibility will be easily understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, when the above-mentioned movement restriction device 10, information input / output device 20, authentication registration server 30, logistics company terminal 40, or user terminal 50 are configured as a group of software modules, this program may be recorded on a recording medium such as an optical recording medium, magnetic recording medium, magneto-optical recording medium, or semiconductor, and loaded from the above-mentioned recording medium, or it may be loaded from an external device connected via a predetermined network.

[0179] The above embodiments are merely examples of preferred implementations of the present invention, and the embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. Various modifications can be made to implement the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0180] Furthermore, in the delivery support system of this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 that receives facial image data (raw data for authentication information) generates authentication information based on the facial image data. However, the system may be configured so that the authentication registration server 30 or other information input / output devices 20 other than the said information input / output device 20 extracts feature points and feature quantities based on facial image data (raw data for authentication information) and generates authentication information.

[0181] Furthermore, in the delivery support system of this embodiment, the information input / output device 20 performed authentication processing based on facial image data (original data for authentication information) input to its own device. However, the system may be configured so that the authentication registration server 30 or other information input / output devices 20 other than the said information input / output device 20 performs authentication processing. In this case, the information input / output device 20 that receives the facial image data (original data for authentication information) transmits the input facial image data (original data for authentication information) or authentication information to the authentication registration server 30 or to other information input / output devices 20 via the authentication registration server 30.

[0182] Furthermore, although the delivery support system in this embodiment was configured to share authentication information and the like among all information input / output devices 20, it may also be configured to share the information only among the information input / output devices 20 that submit registration requests to the authentication registration server 30, or among some of the information input / output devices 20, including the said information input / output device 20.

[0183] Furthermore, as described above, the movement restriction device 10 and the information input / output device 20 in the delivery support system may be installed not only in apartment buildings but also in offices, commercial facilities, or public facilities / institutions, etc. In this case, the users are not limited to residents of apartment buildings but may also be users of these facilities. In addition to the residential units exemplified in the above embodiment, other types of private areas that can be applied include, for example, office spaces, tenant spaces, classrooms, etc. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0184] 10, 10a, 10b, 10c Movement restriction device 11,21,31,41,51 Control Unit 12 Movement restriction section 13,23,33,43,53 Communications Department 20,20a,20b,20c Information input / output device 22,32,42,52 Information storage unit 24,44,54 Display section 25,45,55 Operation section 26 Authentication Information Input Section 30 Authentication Registration Server 40 Logistics company terminals 50 User Terminals 100 Networks 251 Start Authentication button 241,242 display screen 252 Start Registration Button 253 Various Keys 321 Authentication DB 322 User DB 323 Authentication History DB 1001 Start Registration Button 1002 Face image display screen 2421 Name input field 2422 Affiliation input field 2423 Contact Information Input Field 2424 Delivery address input field 2425 Display area for shipping method information

Claims

1. An information input / output device installed within the area including the delivery destination for goods delivered by a logistics company, An information input / output device characterized by outputting delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the person at the delivery address when information about the delivery address of the aforementioned delivery item is input.

2. The information input / output device according to claim 1, characterized in that authentication information is input by the logistics company, and when authentication using the input authentication information is successful, the device outputs the delivery method information.

3. A delivery support system that assists logistics companies in the delivery of goods, An information input / output device installed within the area including the delivery destination of the aforementioned delivery operation, It has a movement restriction device that restricts the entry of the logistics company into the area including the delivery destination, When the information input / output device receives information about the delivery destination of the delivered item, it outputs delivery method information indicating the delivery method preferred by the person at the delivery destination. A delivery support system characterized by registering authentication information, including biometric information of the logistics company, to its own device for the purpose of lifting the restrictions imposed by the aforementioned movement restriction device, and after the registration of the authentication information, when the authentication information is input, the system compares the input authentication information with the registered authentication information to perform authentication, and if the authentication is successful, it lifts the movement restrictions imposed by the aforementioned movement restriction device.

4. The delivery support system according to claim 3, characterized in that the information input / output device receives authentication information through operation by the logistics company, and outputs the delivery method information when authentication using the input authentication information is successful.

5. An authentication registration server that sends registration authentication information used to register the authentication information to the aforementioned information input / output device, The system further includes a logistics operator terminal operated by the aforementioned logistics operator, The authentication registration server transmits the registration authentication information to the logistics company terminal. The logistics company terminal outputs the registration authentication information received from the registration authentication server to the outside. The delivery support system according to claim 3, characterized in that when the information input / output device receives the authentication information and the registered authentication information, it permits the registration of the inputted authentication information to the device itself.

6. The information input / output device sends the registration request for the authentication information to the authentication registration server. The delivery support system according to claim 5, characterized in that when the authentication registration server receives a registration request for authentication information from the information input / output device, it generates the registered authentication information and transmits it to the logistics company terminal.

7. The information input / output device sends a registration request for the authentication information, which includes contact information indicating the contact information of the logistics company terminal, to the authentication registration server. The delivery support system according to claim 6, characterized in that the authentication registration server transmits the registration authentication information to the logistics company terminal indicated by the contact information.

8. The information input / output device sends a registration request for the authentication information, which includes the telephone number of the logistics company terminal as contact information, to the authentication registration server. The delivery support system according to claim 7, characterized in that the authentication registration server transmits the registration authentication information to the logistics company terminal based on the telephone number of the logistics company terminal using SMS.

9. When the information input / output device receives the registered authentication information, it transmits the entered registered authentication information to the authentication registration server. When it receives registration permission information from the authentication registration server to permit the registration of the authentication information, it registers the authentication information in its own device. The delivery support system according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that when the authentication registration server receives the registration authentication information from the information input / output device, it performs authentication based on the received registration authentication information, and if the authentication is successful, it transmits the registration permission information to the information input / output device.

10. When the information input / output device registers the authentication information in itself, it transmits the registered authentication information to the authentication registration server. When the authentication registration server receives the authentication information from the information input / output device, it transmits the received authentication information to other information input / output devices other than the said information input / output device. The delivery support system according to claim 9, characterized in that the other information input / output device registers authentication information in itself when it receives authentication information from the authentication registration server.

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