Delivery management device, delivery management system, delivery management method and program

Abstract

To provide a delivery management device, a delivery management system, a delivery management method and a program which can more appropriately set delivery time of baggage.SOLUTION: A delivery management device comprises: a route search unit which acquires a search result related to a mobile route of a luggage receiver to a specified delivery location of baggage; a delivery time setting unit which sets delivery time of the baggage to the specified delivery location, on the basis of arrival scheduled time to the specified delivery location of the luggage receiver in the search result; and a notification unit which notifies the luggage receiver of a delivery schedule including the delivery time.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a delivery management device, a delivery management system, a delivery management method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in the business of delivering parcels to a designated delivery location, various technologies are known for delivering parcels at an appropriate delivery time when the recipient can receive them. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that calculates the expected time of the recipient's return home and the expected time of delivery of the parcel based on the location information of the terminal device carried by the recipient and the location information of the parcel delivery vehicle, and changes the delivery order if the expected time of return home is later. Patent Document 1 predicts the movement route of the consignee mainly based on the past movement history of the consignee. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2013-133210 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the movement route of the consignee is often different from the past movement history, and the consignee may return home from a location that has no movement history. In such cases, the prediction of the movement route of the consignee becomes inappropriate, and the accuracy of the estimated time of the consignee's return home becomes low, which causes a problem that it is not possible to set an appropriate delivery time for the package.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a delivery management device, a delivery management system, a delivery management method, and a program that are capable of more appropriately setting a delivery time for a package. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the invention of the delivery management device described in claim 1 comprises: A delivery management device including a computer, The computer includes: As a result of route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package, Luggage The above The recipient's route to the designated delivery location and information on the expected time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location. , The above Estimated time of arrival Information Based on the above, the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location is determined. Decided , determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data indicating the usage status and reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, Based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of alternative delivery location candidates, determine one alternative delivery location that can accept the package instead of the designated delivery location, obtain third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, and determine an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location; It is characterized by the following. In order to achieve the above object, the invention of the delivery management device described in claim 2 is: A delivery management device including a computer, The computer includes: As a result of the route search based on the information of the designated delivery location of the package, first data is obtained, the first data including information of the moving route of the consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information of the estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; When the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a vehicle that is the closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility is identified among a plurality of vehicles of the train; The identified vehicle is notified to the consignee.

[0007] Claim 3 The invention described in claim 2 In the delivery management device described in The computer includes: Based on second data representing the usage status and reservation status of the designated delivery location, Determine whether the specified delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time. death , before If it is determined that the package cannot be accepted, Based on the second data, In lieu of the above designated delivery location , capable of accepting said luggage Alternate delivery location decision death, As a result of the route search based on the information of the alternative delivery location, third data including information on an alternative moving route of the consignee to the alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location is obtained, and based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time, An alternative delivery time for the package to the alternative delivery location. Decided , The delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location is sent to the consignee. In contrast It is characterized by notifying

[0009] The invention described in claim 4 is 1 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, The above computer When the designated delivery location is a first storage facility provided at a first station, a second storage facility provided at a second station different from the first station among stations included in the travel route is set as the alternative delivery location. decision It is characterized by:

[0010] The invention described in claim 5 is 1 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, The above computer When the designated delivery location is a first storage facility provided at a first station and the travel route includes a third station where a transfer is performed, a third storage facility provided at the third station is set as the alternative delivery location. decision It is characterized by:

[0011] The invention described in claim 6 is 1 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, The above computer In the case where the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a predetermined baggage deposit facility outside the station is used as the alternative delivery location. decision It is characterized by:

[0012] The invention described in claim 7 is 1 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, The above computer In the case where the designated delivery location is a designated storage facility provided at the recipient's home, a designated baggage deposit facility is used as the alternative delivery location. decision It is characterized by:

[0013] The invention described in claim 8 is 2 In the delivery management device described in The computer includes: Based on second data representing the usage status and reservation status of the designated delivery location, Determine whether the specified delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time. death , before If it is determined that the package cannot be accepted, Based on the second data , and an alternative delivery time when the package can be accepted. Decided , before The delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time for the delivery time is sent to the consignee. In contrast It is characterized by notifying

[0014] The invention described in claim 9 is a delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The computer to the delivery company that delivers the package. In contrast The delivery schedule is notified.

[0016] Claim 10 The invention described in claim to 9 In the delivery management device described, The computer includes: determining whether the parcel has been collected from the designated delivery location after delivery based on second data indicating the usage status and reservation status of the designated delivery location; The parcel was not collected by the specified time after delivery It was determined that In this case, a notice that the package has not been collected is sent to at least one of the consignee and the delivery company.

[0019] Claim 11 The invention described in claim 1 to 10 In the delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The computer includes: receiving an instruction to change the delivery time from the consignee; Ruko It is characterized by the following:

[0020] Claim 12 The invention described in claim 1、3 In the delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The computer includes: receiving an instruction to change the alternative delivery time from the consignee; Ruko It is characterized by the following:

[0021] Claim 13 The invention described in claim 1 to 12 In the delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The computer includes: A specific movement route from a specific movement starting point to the specific designated delivery location or a specific designated delivery location is preset in association with the consignee. death , before In the case where the specific movement route is set, the specific movement route that is set The first data includes information on Get In the case where the specific designated delivery location is set, the specific designated delivery location that is set the first data including information on the consignee's travel route to the specific designated delivery location and information on the consignee's estimated arrival time at the specific designated delivery location; The present invention is characterized by obtaining the following:

[0022] Claim 14 The invention described in claim 1 to 13 In the delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The above computer The said consignee Includes information about the schedule for the day and the time period for that schedule Schedule Information Based on , the movement start time on the movement route , so as to be later than the time when the last of the plans included in the schedule information ends. It is characterized by:

[0027] In order to achieve the above object, the following claims are provided: 15 The invention of the delivery management system described in A terminal device used by the consignee; Claim 1~ 14 A delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Equipped with The above computer The method is characterized in that the delivery schedule is notified to the consignee in a manner that enables the consignee to confirm the delivery schedule on the terminal device.

[0028] Claim 16 The invention described in claim 15In the delivery management system described in The terminal device A position detection unit that detects the position of the terminal device; a terminal notification unit that notifies the consignee that the package has been delivered to the storage facility when the location detected by the location detection unit is within the station premises in the case where the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided in a station; The present invention is characterized by the following.

[0029] In order to achieve the above object, the following claims are provided: 17 The invention of the delivery management method described in 1. A computer implemented method for managing deliveries, comprising: As a result of route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package, Luggage The above The recipient's route to the designated delivery location and information on the expected time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location. Steps and The above Estimated time of arrival Information Based on the above, the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location is determined. decision vinegar Rus Tep and determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data representing a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, determining an alternative delivery location that can accept the package instead of the designated delivery location based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of candidates for the alternative delivery location, acquiring third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, and determining an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location; The present invention is characterized in that it includes: In order to achieve the above object, the invention of the delivery management method described in claim 18 comprises: 1. A computer implemented method for managing deliveries, comprising: acquiring first data including information on a route of a consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; When the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a step of identifying, among a plurality of cars of the train, a car that is the closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility; notifying the consignee of the identified vehicle; The present invention is characterized in that it includes:

[0030] In order to achieve the above object, the following claims are provided: 19 The invention of the program described in A computer provided in the delivery management device, As a result of route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package, Luggage The above The recipient's route to the designated delivery location and information on the expected time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location. means, The above Estimated time of arrival Information Based on the above, the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location is determined. decision vinegar Hand Step, means for determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data representing a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, a means for determining, based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of candidates for alternative delivery locations, one of the alternative delivery locations capable of accepting the package, instead of the designated delivery location, and acquiring, as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location, and determining an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; means for notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location; It is characterized by functioning as a In order to achieve the above object, the invention of the program described in claim 20 comprises: A computer provided in the delivery management device, A means for acquiring first data including information on a route of a consignee to a designated delivery location of the package as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location; means for determining a delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the information of the estimated arrival time; means for notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; a means for identifying, when the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a vehicle among a plurality of vehicles of the train that is closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility; means for notifying the consignee of the identified vehicle; It is characterized by functioning as a Effect of the Invention

[0031] According to the present invention, a more appropriate delivery time for a package can be set. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a delivery management system. [Diagram 2] A block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the delivery management server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main functional configuration of the terminal device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of a delivery company server. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a path of a consignee's travel until receiving a package. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a search result for a travel route. [Figure 8] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an example of a search result for a travel route and a setting of a delivery time when the designated delivery location is a home. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an alternative delivery location, an alternative search result, and an alternative delivery time. [Figure 11] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating other examples of alternative delivery locations, alternative search results, and alternative delivery times. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process in the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing examples of alternative search results and alternative delivery times. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the first modification. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the second modification. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the third modification. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the fourth modification. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the fifth modification. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the sixth modification. [Figure 20] 20 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of a delivery management process according to the seventh modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a delivery management device, a delivery management system, a delivery management method, and a program according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0034] (First embodiment) <Delivery management system configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a delivery management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The delivery management system 1 includes a delivery management server 10 (delivery management device), a terminal device 20, and a delivery company server 30. The delivery management server 10, the terminal device 20, and the delivery company server 30 are communicatively connected via a communication network N. The communication network N is, for example, the Internet, but is not limited to this. In addition, part of the mutual communication paths between the delivery management server 10, the terminal device 20, and the delivery company server 30 may be realized by wireless communication. FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration in which the terminal device 20 is communicatively connected to the communication network N via wireless communication.

[0035] The delivery management server 10 is an information processing device that transmits and receives various data related to package delivery between the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30, and performs necessary data processing to manage package delivery.

[0036] The terminal device 20 is a terminal used by the consignee of the parcel. The terminal device 20 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC carried by the consignee. However, the terminal device 20 is not limited to these, and may be, for example, a stationary PC or a shared terminal provided at a station. The delivery management system 1 may include multiple terminal devices 20 used by multiple consignees.

[0037] The delivery company server 30 is an information processing device managed by a delivery company that delivers packages. The delivery company server 30 may be further connected for communication with a terminal device (not shown) carried by a delivery person.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the delivery management server 10. The delivery management server 10 comprises a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, a display unit 13, a memory unit 14, a communication unit 15, etc., and each of these units is connected by a bus 16.

[0039] The control unit 11 is a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and controls the operation of each part of the delivery management server 10. Among them, the CPU reads out the program 14a stored in the storage unit 14, expands it in the RAM, and executes the program 14a to perform various processes. By the CPU executing the program 14a, the control unit 11 functions as a route search unit 11a (route search means), a delivery time setting unit 11b (delivery time setting means), a notification unit 11c (notification means), a discrimination unit 11d (discrimination means), a delivery adjustment unit 11e (delivery adjustment means), a delivery readjustment unit 11f (delivery readjustment means), a reception unit 11g (first reception unit, second reception unit, first reception means, second reception means), a movement route setting unit 11h (movement route setting means), a vehicle identification unit 11i (vehicle identification means), a locker identification unit 11j (locker identification means), etc. The specific operation of each of these units will be described later.

[0040] The operation unit 12 receives operation input from an operator and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 11. For example, the operation unit 12 includes a keyboard having cursor keys, character input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the contents of key operations on the keyboard or mouse operations to the control unit 11.

[0041] The display unit 13 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information screens and the like under the control of the control unit 11.

[0042] The storage unit 14 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and a non-volatile semiconductor memory, and stores the program 14a, as well as parameters and data referenced during execution of the program 14a. In this embodiment, the storage unit 14 stores locker management data 14b. The locker management data 14b is data representing the usage and reservation status of lockers (storage facilities) installed at stations within the jurisdiction of delivery management. The locker management data 14b may also include data representing the usage and reservation status of luggage storage facilities other than lockers installed at stations (e.g., luggage lockers, stores, etc.) and predetermined luggage deposit facilities outside stations (e.g., stores such as convenience stores that provide luggage deposit services). The control unit 11 sequentially acquires the usage and reservation status of the storage facilities and the above-mentioned luggage deposit facilities at each station, and sequentially updates the contents of the locker management data 14b when a change in the situation occurs.

[0043] The communication unit 15 is configured with a communication interface and the like, and transmits and receives data to and from external devices via the communication network N using a predetermined communication protocol.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the terminal device 20. As shown in FIG. The terminal device 20 includes a control unit 21, an operation unit 22, a display unit 23, a storage unit 24, a communication unit 25, a position detection unit 26, and the like, and these units are connected to each other via a bus 27.

[0045] The control unit 21 is a computer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the operation of each part of the terminal device 20. Among them, the CPU reads out a program stored in the storage unit 24, expands it in the RAM, and executes the program to perform various processes.

[0046] The operation unit 22 receives an operation input from a user (consignee) and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 21. For example, the operation unit 22 includes a touch panel and operation buttons superimposed on the display screen of the display unit 23, and outputs to the control unit 21 an operation signal related to the contact position of a predetermined operation means (such as a finger or a stylus) on the touch panel and an operation signal corresponding to pressing of the operation button.

[0047] The display unit 23 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays various information screens, operation screens, and the like under the control of the control unit 21.

[0048] The storage unit 24 includes a non-volatile semiconductor memory and stores various programs, as well as parameters and data referenced when the programs are executed. The programs stored in the storage unit 24 include, for example, an application program for delivery management (hereinafter, referred to as a delivery management application).

[0049] The communication unit 25 is configured with a communication interface and the like, and transmits and receives data to and from external devices via the communication network N using a predetermined communication protocol.

[0050] The position detection unit 26 detects the position of the terminal device 20 and generates position information representing the position. The position detection unit 26 is, for example, a GPS module that receives radio waves transmitted from a positioning satellite of a GPS (Global Positioning System) to acquire GPS data and calculates the current position of the terminal device 20. The position detection unit 26 calculates the current position based on an instruction from the control unit 21 and outputs the generated position information to the control unit 21. Note that the method of detecting the current position by the position detection unit 26 is not limited to using GPS data. For example, the position detection unit 26 may detect the position based on a beacon signal received from a transmitter (such as a wireless LAN access point) installed at a predetermined position within a station.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the delivery company server 30. The delivery company server 30 includes a control unit 31, an operation unit 32, a display unit 33, a memory unit 34, a communication unit 35, etc., and these units are connected to each other via a bus 36.

[0052] The control unit 31 is a computer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and controls the operation of each part of the delivery company server 30. Among these, the CPU reads out a program stored in the storage unit 34, expands it in the RAM, and executes the program to perform various processes.

[0053] The hardware configurations of the operation unit 32, display unit 33, memory unit 34 and communication unit 35 may be similar to those of the operation unit 12, display unit 13, memory unit 14 and communication unit 15 of the delivery management server 10.

[0054] <Delivery management system operation> Next, the operation of the delivery management system 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process executed in the delivery management system 1 when delivering a package. Fig. 5 shows processes executed by each of the delivery management server 10, the terminal device 20, and the delivery company server 30. The execution subjects of each process in Fig. 5 are the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10, the control unit 21 of the terminal device 20, and the control unit 31 of the delivery company server 30, but for simplicity, the delivery management server 10, the terminal device 20, and the delivery company server 30 may be described below as the operating subjects. In addition, in FIG. 5, the flow of information (data) transmitted and received between the delivery management server 10, the terminal device 20, and the delivery company server 30 is indicated by dashed lines. In the terminal device 20, for example, each process of the delivery management process is performed on a delivery management app. However, this is not limited to this, and for example, the process may be performed on a browser while accessing a delivery management site through the browser.

[0055] In this embodiment, the consignee has previously completed the purchase procedure for the product on an e-commerce site or the like using the terminal device 20, and the delivery company that manages the delivery company server 30 has been entrusted by the operator of the e-commerce site with delivering a package containing the product to the consignee. In such a situation, the delivery management process is executed for the purpose of adjusting the delivery time and / or delivery location of the package and notifying the recipient and the delivery company of the adjustment result. The delivery time and / or delivery location is determined based on the travel route from the recipient's current location to the delivery location of the package.

[0056] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a path of travel of a consignee until receiving a package. 6 shows train lines R1 and R2, stations Sa to Sc on line R1, and stations Sc to Sf on line R2. Of these, station Sc is a transfer station between lines R1 and R2. In this embodiment, the case where the consignee's workplace is near station Sa, the consignee at the workplace picks up the package at a locker at station Sf, and returns home to his / her house near station Sf will be described as an example. The consignee's travel route r includes the section of line R1 from station Sa to station Sc and the section of line R2 from station Sc to station Sf. Delivery to a designated delivery location that is a paid storage facility such as a locker may be subject to a fee depending on the usage fee of the storage facility, etc. In this case, the delivery fee may be paid in a lump sum when making a purchase on the electronic commerce site, or may be paid at a different time, for example, using a transportation IC card. In addition, in this embodiment, a locker is used as an example of a storage facility for luggage that is a designated delivery location, but this is not limited to this, and other storage facilities provided at stations, such as baggage lockers, stores, etc., may also be designated delivery locations.

[0057] 5 is started, and when the delivery preparation of the package by the delivery company is completed, the delivery company server 30 notifies the terminal device 20 of the completion of the delivery preparation (step S101). When the delivery preparation completion notification is given, a push notification indicating that the notification has been received is displayed on the terminal device 20, and the contents of the notification can be confirmed on the delivery management app.

[0058] The consignee who has received the delivery preparation completion notification inputs (specifies) the delivery location on the delivery management app to give a delivery instruction. In this case, it is assumed that a locker at station Sf is specified as the delivery location. The specification may be a specific one of a plurality of lockers provided within station Sf, or the consignee may specify only station Sf, and the delivery management server 10 may specify the specific locker to which the package is to be delivered. In response to the instruction, the terminal device 20 transmits to the delivery management server 10 the input specified delivery location, a search instruction for a moving route to the consignee's specified delivery location, and an instruction to deliver the package (step S102). The search instruction for the moving route includes information for identifying the starting point of the moving route, for example, the location information of the terminal device 20. Alternatively, instead of the location information, information on the starting point of the moving route specified by the consignee on the delivery management app may be included. In addition, if the recipient has designated a delivery location in advance, such as during the product purchase procedure, the designated delivery location may be notified as is in step S102.

[0059] The control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) of the delivery management server 10 searches for the consignee's route to the designated delivery location in response to a search instruction for the route to the designated delivery location, and obtains the search result (step S103: route search step). Searching for the route means identifying the optimal route under given conditions when moving from the start point (start point of the movement) of the movement route to the end point (destination). Here, the given conditions are, for example, a condition that the movement time is the shortest, a condition that the cost required for the movement is the lowest, or a condition that the number of transfers during the movement is the lowest, and are set in advance by the designation of the consignee or by the administrator of the delivery management server 10. In addition, the given conditions include the time (start time of the movement, scheduled departure time) at which the consignee is scheduled to depart from the start point of the movement. The start time of the movement may be set based on the time of receiving the search instruction, or the expected time at which the consignee leaves the nearest station Sa after finishing work at the workplace may be used. In addition, specifying the travel route means, for example, specifying the means of transportation (for example, public transportation such as a train) to be used during the travel, and the start and end times of travel for each means of transportation. The start point of the travel route is set based on the location information of the terminal device 20 included in the search instruction, or the start point of travel specified by the consignee is used (here, station Sa). The end point of the travel route is set based on the specified delivery location notified by the terminal device 20 (here, station Sf).

[0060] The search for a travel route may be performed by a search server provided outside the delivery management server 10. That is, the delivery management server 10 may instruct the search server to execute a route search and obtain the search results from the search server. In addition, when searching for a route from a set starting point of a journey (Station Sa, the nearest station to the recipient's workplace) to a destination (Station Sf, the nearest station to the recipient's home), routes that are frequently searched may be preferentially extracted. In addition, a specific route (a route from a specific starting point of travel to a specific designated delivery location) frequently used by the consignee may be set in advance and registered in the storage unit 14, and the route search may obtain search results for the specific route that has been set. In this case, the route may be fixed to the specific route, and the travel time to each point on the route may be calculated. Also, instead of a specific travel route, a specific designated delivery location may be set in advance and registered in the storage unit 14, and a travel route with this specific designated delivery location as a destination may be searched for. The specific designated delivery location may be a frequently used location, such as a home or the nearest station. In this case, the starting point of the travel route may be set based on the position information of the terminal device 20 at that time. In addition, if the vehicle departs at a fixed scheduled departure time each time, the scheduled departure time may be set in advance and the travel route may be searched for using this scheduled departure time. Such setting and registration of a specific travel route or a specific designated delivery place is executed by the travel route setting unit 11h of the control unit 11.

[0061] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a search result for a travel route. In FIG. 7, a search result is obtained in which a package departs from station Sa at 17:00, passes through station Sc, and arrives at station Sf at 18:00. If the designated delivery location is a locker at a station, the estimated time of arrival at the station corresponds to the "estimated time of arrival at the recipient's designated delivery location." In the example of FIG. 7, the estimated time of arrival is 18:00. In this way, the search result includes the estimated time of arrival at the recipient's designated delivery location.

[0062] The control unit 11 (delivery time setting unit 11b) of the delivery management server 10 sets the delivery time of the parcel to the designated delivery place based on the scheduled arrival time at the designated delivery place of the consignee in the search result acquired in step S103 (step S104: delivery time setting step). Here, as shown in FIG. 7, the delivery time is set to 17:50 with a margin of 10 minutes from the scheduled arrival time. The margin is, for example, determined in advance between the delivery company and / or the consignee. Alternatively, the margin may be automatically set based on a predetermined parameter. The above parameter may be, for example, the size of the station (more specifically, the distance from the drop-off position to the locker). In addition, the control unit 11 may learn a more appropriate margin based on the relationship between the set margin and the difference between the scheduled arrival time and the pick-up time at the time of actually picking up the parcel.

[0063] The control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) of the delivery management server 10 notifies the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 of predetermined items among the route search result, the designated delivery place, and the delivery time (step S105: notification step). In detail, the control unit 11 notifies the terminal device 20 of the route search result (including the scheduled arrival time at the recipient's designated delivery place), the designated delivery place, and the delivery time, and notifies the delivery company server 30 of the designated delivery place and the delivery time. The contents of the notifications to the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 each correspond to a "delivery schedule." Furthermore, the notification to the terminal device 20 is one form of notification to the recipient, and the notification to the delivery company server 30 is one form of notification to the delivery company.

[0064] When the delivery company server 30 receives the notification of the designated delivery location and delivery time, it starts a delivery process to deliver the package to the designated delivery location by the delivery time (step S106). For example, the delivery company server 30 transmits a delivery instruction to a terminal device carried by a delivery person. When the process of step S106 ends, the delivery management process ends.

[0065] Incidentally, in the above example, the designated delivery location is a locker at station Sf, but the designated delivery location is not limited to this and may be, for example, the recipient's home. FIG. 8 shows an example of the search results of the travel route and the setting of the delivery time when the home is set as the specified delivery place. In this case, in step S103 of route search, the home is set as the end point of the travel route instead of the station Sf. Accordingly, in the example of Fig. 8, the route from the station Sf to the home is searched. The route and the required time from the station Sf to the home may be registered in advance by the consignee.

[0066] When the package is handed over directly to the recipient by the delivery company at the recipient's home, the control unit 11 (delivery time setting unit 11b) sets the delivery time to be later than the scheduled arrival time at the recipient's home. For example, if the consignee specifies a margin in advance, the control unit 11 (delivery time setting unit 11b) sets the delivery time to a time obtained by adding at least this margin to the expected arrival time of the consignee. In the example of Fig. 8, the delivery time is set to 18:20 or later by adding the specified margin of 10 minutes to the expected arrival time of 18:10.

[0067] There is also a demand to receive a package within a specified receiving time after arriving at home. This is because the package can be received after returning home before removing makeup or changing clothes, or before going out again after returning home. For this reason, when the receiving time is specified by the consignee, the control unit 11 (delivery time setting unit 11b) sets the period from the expected arrival time of the consignee to the receiving time as the delivery time. In the example of FIG. 8, the delivery time is set from 18:10, which is the expected arrival time, to 15 minutes, which is specified as the receiving time, that is, to 18:25. In this way, the delivery time is not limited to a certain point in time, but may be set as a time period having a specified width.

[0068] In addition, if the designated delivery location is a parcel storage facility at home (such as a delivery box), the delivery time is set to 18:00, with a 10-minute margin from the estimated arrival time, just like when delivering to a locker at a station. In addition, if the designated delivery location is a home, delivery fees (at least the fees for using the storage facilities) will be free of charge.

[0069] As described above, the delivery management server 10 as a delivery management device in the first embodiment is equipped with a control unit 11, which obtains search results relating to the consignee's travel route to the designated delivery location of the package (route search unit 11a), sets the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location in the search results (delivery time setting unit 11b), and notifies the consignee of the delivery schedule including the delivery time (notification unit 11c). This allows the delivery time to be set in accordance with the travel route and travel time of the consignee to the designated delivery location, making it possible to set the delivery time of the package more appropriately, i.e., with higher accuracy. Therefore, for example, when delivering luggage to a locker at a station, the time the locker is occupied can be kept to a minimum, thereby improving the turnover rate of the lockers. In addition, when delivering packages to a recipient's home, the package can be delivered more reliably during the time when the recipient is at home, thereby reducing the frequency of package redelivery.

[0070] Furthermore, the control unit 11 notifies the delivery company that delivers the package of the delivery schedule (notification unit 11c). This allows the delivery company to be notified of the appropriate delivery time and delivery location when the administrator of the delivery management server 10 and the delivery company are different persons.

[0071] In addition, when a package is handed over directly to a consignee by a delivery company that delivers the package at a designated delivery location, the control unit 11 sets the delivery time to the estimated arrival time plus at least a margin time previously specified by the consignee (delivery time setting unit 11b). This allows the recipient to receive the package with a desired margin of time after arriving at the designated delivery location. Also, since the delivery time can be set to a time that is convenient for the recipient, delivery of the package can be completed more reliably, and the frequency of redelivery can be reduced.

[0072] In addition, when a package is handed over directly to a recipient by a delivery company that delivers the package at a designated delivery location, the control unit 11 sets the delivery time as the period from the scheduled arrival time to the receipt time previously designated by the recipient (delivery time setting unit 11b). This allows the recipient to receive the package within the desired receiving time after arriving at the designated delivery location. Also, since the delivery time can be set to a time that is convenient for the recipient, delivery of the package can be completed more reliably, and the frequency of redelivery can be reduced.

[0073] Furthermore, the control unit 11 pre-sets a specific movement route from a specific movement starting point to a specific designated delivery location, or a specific designated delivery location, in association with the consignee (movement route setting unit 11h), and when a specific movement route is set, obtains search results for the set specific movement route, and when a specific designated delivery location is set, obtains search results having the set specific designated delivery location as the destination (route search unit 11a). This simplifies the process of route search and improves the accuracy of the estimated time of arrival and delivery to the consignee.

[0074] In addition, the delivery management system 1 of the first embodiment includes a terminal device 20 used by the consignee and the above-mentioned delivery management server 10 as a delivery management device, and the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 notifies the consignee of the delivery schedule in a manner that allows the consignee to check the delivery schedule on the terminal device 20 (notification unit 11c). This allows the delivery time of the package to be set more appropriately, i.e., with higher accuracy.

[0075] In addition, the delivery management method of the first embodiment includes a route search step of obtaining search results related to the consignee's travel route to the designated delivery location of the package, a delivery time setting step of setting the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location in the search results, and a notification step of notifying the consignee of the delivery schedule including the delivery time. According to this method, the delivery time of the package can be set more appropriately, i.e., with higher accuracy.

[0076] In addition, the program 14a according to the first embodiment causes the control unit 11, which is a computer provided in the delivery management server 10, to function as a route search means for obtaining search results relating to the consignee's travel route to the designated delivery location of the package, a delivery time setting means for setting the delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location in the search results, and a notification means for notifying the consignee of the delivery schedule including the delivery time. By operating the delivery management server 10 with such a program 14a, the delivery time of the package can be set more appropriately, that is, with higher accuracy.

[0077] Second embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that if the specified delivery location is unable to accept the package at the delivery time, the delivery location and / or the delivery time is automatically adjusted. Below, the differences from the first embodiment will be described, and the points in common with the first embodiment will not be described.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process in the second embodiment. The process contents of steps S201 to S204 in FIG. 9 are the same as the process contents of steps S101 to S104 in FIG. 5, respectively, and therefore will not be described.

[0079] When the delivery time is set in step S204, the control unit 11 (discrimination unit 11d) of the delivery management server 10 determines whether the designated delivery location can accept the package at the delivery time (step S205). For example, the control unit 11 (discrimination unit 11d) refers to the locker management data 14b and determines that the package cannot be accepted if all the lockers at the station Sf, which is the designated delivery location, are reserved and cannot be used at the delivery time. Also, if the package cannot be accepted at the lockers at the station Sf due to its size, the control unit 11 (discrimination unit 11d) determines that the package cannot be accepted.

[0080] Furthermore, even if the designated delivery location is a storage facility at home and the usage status of the storage facility can be obtained (for example, if a sensor is provided to detect packages in the storage facility and the control unit 11 can obtain the detection results from the sensor), it is also possible to determine whether or not the package can be accepted based on the usage status. Since it is not normally assumed that the availability of a storage facility at home will be managed by reservation, if a package is detected in the storage facility at the time step S205 is executed, it may be determined that the package cannot be accepted at any time thereafter.

[0081] If it is determined that the package can be accepted at the delivery time ("YES" in step S205), the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) of the delivery management server 10 notifies the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 of specified items among the route search results, the designated delivery location, and the delivery time, similar to step S105 in the first embodiment (step S206).

[0082] If it is determined that the parcel cannot be accepted at the delivery time ("NO" in step S205), the control unit 11 (delivery coordination unit 11e) of the delivery management server 10 sets an alternative delivery location to replace the designated delivery location (step S207). Here, by referring to the locker management data 14b, if there is a locker that can accept the parcel at another station, the locker at that station is set as the alternative delivery location. Also, in step S205, if it is determined that the parcel cannot be accepted due to its size, and a locker or baggage locker at another station can accept a parcel of that size, the locker or baggage locker at that station is specified as the alternative delivery location. Also, the control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) acquires the alternative search result related to the movement route of the consignee that passes through the alternative delivery location (step S207). Also, the control unit 11 (delivery coordination unit 11e) sets an alternative delivery time for the parcel to the alternative delivery location based on the expected arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location in the alternative search result (step S208).

[0083] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an alternative delivery location, an alternative search result, and an alternative delivery time. In Figure 10, when the designated delivery location is a first locker (first storage facility) located at station Sf (first station), a second locker (second storage facility) located at station Se (second station) different from station Sf among the stations included in the travel route r is set as the alternative delivery location. In addition, a route is searched again with the condition that the user gets off at station Se to pick up the baggage, and the search result is obtained as an alternative search result. Specifically, the alternative search result is obtained in which the user arrives at station Se at 17:45, leaves station Se at 17:55 with a 10-minute baggage pick-up time, and arrives at station Sf at 18:10. In this case, the expected arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location, station Se, is 17:45. Therefore, a 10-minute margin is taken from this expected arrival time, and the delivery time is set to 17:35.

[0084] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing other examples of alternative delivery locations, alternative search results, and alternative delivery times. In FIG. 11, when the designated delivery location is a first locker located at station Sf (first station) and travel route r includes a transfer station Sc (third station), a third locker (third storage facility) located at station Sc is set as the alternative delivery location. In addition, a route is searched again under the condition of extending the stay at station Sc to pick up the luggage, and the route is acquired as an alternative search result. Specifically, an alternative search result is acquired in which the user arrives at station Sc at 17:20, leaves station Sc at 17:40 with 20 minutes for luggage pick-up and transfer, and arrives at station Sf at 18:10. In this case, the expected arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location, station Sc, is 17:20. Therefore, a 10-minute margin is taken from this expected arrival time, and the delivery time is set to 17:10.

[0085] When setting an alternative delivery location in this embodiment, the priority of candidates for the alternative delivery location is set in advance. For example, the first candidate is set to Station Sa, the second candidate to Station Se, the third candidate to Station Sc, etc. The priority may be specified by the consignee or may be set by the control unit 11 based on a predetermined parameter.

[0086] Returning to Fig. 9, when the alternative delivery time is set in step S208, the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 of predetermined items among the alternative search results for the travel route, the alternative delivery location, and the alternative delivery time (step S209). In detail, the terminal device 20 is notified of the alternative search results (including the consignee's scheduled arrival time at the alternative delivery location), the alternative delivery location, and the alternative delivery time, and the delivery company server 30 is notified of the alternative delivery location and the alternative delivery time. The contents of the notifications to the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 respectively correspond to the "delivery schedule." In step S209, when the consignee (terminal device 20) is notified, approval of the notified alternative delivery place and alternative delivery time is received from the consignee. If the consignee denies approval, the next candidate alternative delivery place and alternative delivery time may be re-notified based on the above-mentioned priority order. Also, multiple candidates of alternative delivery places may be presented so that the consignee can select a desired alternative delivery place.

[0087] When the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the delivery company server 30 of the designated delivery location and delivery time in step S206, the delivery company server 30 starts delivery processing to deliver the package to the designated delivery location by the delivery time (step S210). In addition, when the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the delivery company server 30 of an alternative delivery location and an alternative delivery time in step S209, the delivery company server 30 starts delivery processing to deliver the package to the alternative delivery location by the alternative delivery time (step S210). When the process of step S210 ends, the delivery management process ends.

[0088] The above describes an example of a case where a locker is reserved and unavailable at the delivery time, but this is not limited to this, and the present embodiment may also be applied, for example, to a case where a locker is not provided at the recipient's arrival station. In the above, the designated delivery location and the alternative delivery location are storage facilities (lockers) at a station, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the designated delivery location is a predetermined storage facility at the recipient's home and it is determined that the storage facility cannot accept the package, a predetermined baggage deposit facility (for example, a store located near or in the vicinity of the home that provides a baggage deposit service) may be set as the alternative delivery location. In this case, candidates for baggage deposit facilities that can be used as the alternative delivery location and their priorities are set in advance. For example, the first candidate is the home, the second candidate is store A, the third candidate is store B, and so on. The priorities may be specified by the recipient, or may be set by the control unit 11 based on a predetermined parameter (for example, the distance from the station). In addition, when the designated delivery location is a storage facility (e.g., a locker) at a station, an example of an alternative delivery location is a storage facility (e.g., a locker) at another station, but this is not limited to this, and a specified baggage deposit facility outside the station may also be set as the alternative delivery location.

[0089] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in the second embodiment determines whether the designated delivery location is able to accept the package at the delivery time (determination unit 11d), and if it is determined that the package cannot be accepted, sets an alternative delivery location to replace the designated delivery location and sets an alternative delivery time for the package to the alternative delivery location (delivery adjustment unit 11e), and if it is determined that the package cannot be accepted, notifies the consignee of the delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time to replace the delivery time and the alternative delivery location (notification unit 11c). This allows for flexible delivery of parcels even when the parcel cannot be delivered to the designated delivery location, improving the efficiency of parcel delivery. In addition, the delivery management server 10 automatically performs complex processes such as adjusting the delivery location and delivery time, reducing the burden on the consignee and the delivery company.

[0090] In addition, when the control unit 11 determines that it is impossible to accept the package, it obtains an alternative search result relating to the consignee's travel route that passes through an alternative delivery location (route search unit 11a), and sets an alternative delivery time based on the estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location in the alternative search result (delivery coordination unit 11e). This allows the alternative delivery time to be set in accordance with the travel route and travel time of the consignee to the alternative delivery location, making it possible to set the delivery time of the package more appropriately, i.e., with higher accuracy.

[0091] In addition, when the designated delivery location is a first locker serving as a first storage facility provided at a first station, the control unit 11 sets a second locker serving as a second storage facility provided at a second station different from the first station among the stations included in the travel route as an alternative delivery location (delivery coordination unit 11e). This allows the recipient to pick up the package along the route.

[0092] In addition, when the designated delivery location is a first locker serving as a first storage facility provided at a first station and the route includes a third station where a transfer is required, the control unit 11 sets a third locker serving as a third storage facility provided at the third station as an alternative delivery location (delivery coordination unit 11e). This allows the recipient to pick up the package along the route they are traveling. In particular, by delivering the package to a locker at a transfer station where the recipient will necessarily get off the train, the recipient can pick up the package efficiently.

[0093] Furthermore, when the designated delivery location is a locker serving as storage equipment provided at a station, the control unit 11 sets a predetermined baggage deposit facility outside the station as an alternative delivery location (delivery coordination unit 11e). This allows for a wider range of alternative delivery locations to be selected, making it possible to more reliably deliver and receive packages.

[0094] Furthermore, when the designated delivery location is a predetermined storage facility provided at the recipient's home, the control unit 11 sets a predetermined baggage deposit facility as the alternative delivery location (delivery coordination unit 11e). This allows deliveries to be completed even when home storage facilities are unavailable, reducing the frequency of parcel redelivery.

[0095] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that, when the designated delivery location is unable to accept the package at the delivery time, the delivery location is not changed (i.e., an alternative delivery location is not set) and only the delivery time is adjusted. Below, the differences from the second embodiment will be described, and the points in common with the second embodiment will not be described.

[0096] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process in the third embodiment. The flowchart in Fig. 12 corresponds to the flowchart in Fig. 9 in which steps S207 and S209 are replaced by steps S207a and S209a, respectively, and step S208 is deleted. The differences from the flowchart in Fig. 9 will be described below.

[0097] In the delivery management process of Fig. 12, if it is determined that the parcel cannot be accepted at the delivery time set in step S204 ("NO" in step S205), the control unit 11 (delivery adjustment unit 11e) of the delivery management server 10 sets an alternative delivery time at which the parcel can be accepted instead of the delivery time (step S207a). In addition, the control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) searches for a travel route by which the consignee will arrive at the designated delivery place at a time corresponding to the alternative delivery time, and obtains the search result (alternative search result) (step S207a).

[0098] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of alternative search results and alternative delivery times. Fig. 13 shows an example in which the package cannot be received at the locker at station Sf at 17:50 (see Fig. 7), which is the delivery time set in step S204 based on the initial route search result, but can be received one hour later at 18:50. In this example, the alternative delivery time is set to 18:50. In addition, a travel route is searched again under the condition that the consignee arrives at station Sf, the designated delivery location, at 19:00, which ensures a 10-minute margin for this alternative delivery time, and the search result is obtained as the alternative search result.

[0099] Returning to Fig. 12, when the processing of step S207a is completed, the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 of predetermined items among the alternative search results for the travel route, the designated delivery place, and the alternative delivery time (step S209a). In detail, the terminal device 20 is notified of the alternative search results (including the consignee's scheduled arrival time at the alternative delivery place), the designated delivery place, and the alternative delivery time, and the delivery company server 30 is notified of the designated delivery place and the alternative delivery time. The contents of the notifications to the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 respectively correspond to the "delivery schedule." In step S209a, when the consignee (terminal device 20) is notified, approval of the notified alternative delivery time is received from the consignee. If the consignee rejects the request, a range of possible alternative delivery times may be presented, and the consignee may specify an alternative delivery time.

[0100] When the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the delivery company server 30 of the designated delivery location and delivery time in step S206, the delivery company server 30 starts delivery processing to deliver the package to the designated delivery location by the delivery time (step S210). In addition, when the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the delivery company server 30 of the designated delivery location and alternative delivery time in step S209a, the delivery company server 30 starts delivery processing to deliver the package to the designated delivery location by the alternative delivery time (step S210). When the process of step S210 ends, the delivery management process ends.

[0101] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in the third embodiment determines whether the designated delivery location is able to accept the package at the delivery time (determination unit 11d), and if the determination unit 11d determines that the package cannot be accepted, sets an alternative delivery time at which the package can be accepted instead of the delivery time (delivery adjustment unit 11e), and if it determines that the package cannot be accepted, notifies the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time in place of the delivery time (notification unit 11c). This allows for flexible delivery of parcels even when the parcel cannot be delivered to the designated delivery location, improving the efficiency of parcel delivery. In addition, the delivery management server 10 automatically performs complex processes such as adjusting the delivery time, reducing the burden on the consignee and the delivery company.

[0102] Next, modifications of the above first to third embodiments will be described.

[0103] (Variation 1) Modification 1 differs from each of the above embodiments in that the delivery management server 10 acquires the schedule of the consignee from the terminal device 20 and performs route search and delivery time setting based on the schedule. The following describes the differences from each of the above embodiments.

[0104] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the first modification. The flowchart in FIG. 14 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment in which steps S102 and S103 are changed to steps S102a and S103a, respectively, and step S107 is added.

[0105] In the delivery management process of the first modification, when a delivery preparation completion notification is sent from the delivery company server 30 to the terminal device 20 in step S101, the terminal device 20 transmits schedule information related to the consignee's schedule at that time and the location information of the terminal device 20 generated by the location detection unit 26 to the delivery management server 10 (step S102a). The schedule information includes, for example, information on plans with a set time period, such as meetings or events scheduled for a time period on or after that day. When transmitting the schedule information, a step of inquiring of the consignee as to whether or not to transmit the schedule information may be provided, or the schedule information may be automatically transmitted in the background in response to receiving the delivery preparation completion notification. In addition, in FIG. 14, an example is described in which the designated delivery location is set in advance, and no instruction on the designated delivery location is sent again in step S102a, but this is not limited thereto, and an instruction on the designated delivery location may also be sent in step S102a.

[0106] When the control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) of the delivery management server 10 receives the schedule information and the location information, it executes a route search based on this information (step S103a). For example, it sets the movement start time to be later than the time when the last plan included in the schedule information ends, sets the movement start position based on the location information, and executes a route search to the specified delivery location. When the route search result is obtained, the delivery time is set (step S104) as in the first embodiment, and the delivery plan including the delivery time is notified to the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 (step S105).

[0107] When step S105 is completed, the control unit 11 (reception unit 11g) of the delivery management server 10 receives an instruction to change the delivery time of the notified scheduled delivery. That is, the control unit 11 (reception unit 11g) determines whether or not an instruction to change the delivery time has been received from the terminal device 20 (consignee) (step S107). In this modified example, since the delivery time is automatically set based on the schedule information, there is a good chance that the delivery time will need to be changed if the contents of the schedule information are incorrect, and so on. Therefore, it is desirable to receive an instruction to change the delivery time in step S107. In the delivery management processes (FIGS. 5, 9, and 12) of the first to third embodiments, an instruction to change the delivery time may be accepted, as in step S107. In the delivery management processes of the second and third embodiments, an instruction to change the alternative delivery time may be accepted in addition to the delivery time.

[0108] If it is determined that an instruction to change the delivery time has been received ("YES" in step S107), the processing returns to step S104, and the control unit 11 (delivery time setting unit 11b) corrects the delivery time to the time instructed in step S107. If an instruction to change the delivery time is not received by the specified deadline ("NO" in step S107), the control unit 11 ends the delivery management process.

[0109] Although the above description is given using an example in which the first embodiment is modified, this modified example 1 may be combined with the second or third embodiment. That is, in the delivery management process (FIGS. 9 and 12) of the second and third embodiments, route search and delivery time setting may be performed based on schedule information received from the terminal device 20.

[0110] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in variant example 1 acquires schedule information relating to the recipient's schedule in a predetermined manner, and sets the start time of travel along the travel route based on the acquired schedule information (route search unit 11a). This allows delivery companies to obtain an appropriate delivery time based on the recipient's schedule before the recipient begins their journey, allowing them to plan deliveries with more time to spare.

[0111] Furthermore, the control unit 11 receives an instruction to change the scheduled delivery time from the consignee (reception unit 11g as a second reception unit). This allows the delivery time to be set at a time convenient for the recipient, so that delivery of the package can be completed more reliably and the frequency of redelivery can be reduced.

[0112] Furthermore, the control unit 11 receives an instruction to change the alternative delivery time of the scheduled delivery from the consignee (reception unit 11g as a second reception unit). This allows the alternative delivery time to be set to a time that is convenient for the recipient, so that delivery of the package can be completed more reliably and the frequency of redelivery can be reduced.

[0113] (Variation 2) The second modification example differs from the above-described embodiments in that a process for the case where a train (public transportation) is delayed is added. The differences from the above-described embodiments are described below. Note that the second modification example may be combined with the first modification example.

[0114] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the second modification. The flowchart in FIG. 15 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment in which steps S108 and S109 are added and step S105 is changed to step S105a.

[0115] The control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) of the delivery management server 10, which has received a route search instruction from the terminal device 20, determines whether or not there is a train delay on the routes R1 and R2 along which the consignee will travel (step S108). If it is determined that there is a delay ("YES" in step S108), it adjusts the search conditions based on the delay situation (step S109). For example, it adjusts the search conditions so that the delay time is added to the required time, or adjusts the search so that a route that bypasses the delayed route is searched. When the process of step S109 is completed, or when it is determined that there is no delay in step S108 ("NO" in step S108), the control unit 11 (route search unit 11a) executes a route search using the search conditions given at that time (step S103). If the search conditions are adjusted in step S109, a search result that reflects the train delay is obtained.

[0116] When the delivery time is set in step S104, the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) of the delivery management server 10 notifies the terminal device 20 of the route search result, the specified delivery location, the delivery time, and also of the fact that a train delay has occurred (train delay information) (step S105a).

[0117] In the above, an example of the first embodiment has been described, but the second embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment or the third embodiment. In addition, when the means of transportation on the consignee's travel route includes public transportation other than trains, the same processing as above may be performed for delays in the public transportation.

[0118] As described above, when the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train as a public transportation means and the train is delayed, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in variant example 2 obtains search results that reflect the delay (route search unit 11a). This allows an appropriate delivery time to be set according to train delays. This can reduce the occurrence of locker usage delays caused by train delays, for example. In addition, when a package is directly handed over from a delivery company to a recipient at a designated delivery location, it can prevent problems such as the recipient being absent due to a train delay and delivery being unable to be completed.

[0119] In addition, when the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train as a public transportation means and the train is delayed, the control unit 11 notifies the consignee of the occurrence of the delay (notification unit 11c). This allows the recipient to be informed of any changes to delivery time and / or delivery location due to train delays.

[0120] (Variation 3) The third modification differs from the above-mentioned embodiments in that the consignee is notified of a recommended vehicle that is easy to travel from the drop-off location to the locker, which is the delivery location of the luggage. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments are described below. Note that the third modification may be combined with the first modification and / or the second modification.

[0121] FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the third modification. The flowchart in FIG. 16 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment in which step S110 is added and step S105 is changed to step S105b.

[0122] When the delivery time is set in step S104, the control unit 11 (vehicle identification unit 11i) of the delivery management server 10 identifies, among the multiple vehicles of the train the consignee is riding on, a vehicle whose walking route to the locker when the consignee disembarks at the receiving station satisfies a predetermined easy-to-move condition as a recommended vehicle (step S110). Here, the vehicle that satisfies the easy-to-move condition can be, for example, the vehicle with the shortest walking distance from the disembarking point to the locker. Alternatively, vehicles in the vicinity of the vehicle may also be included in the recommended vehicles.

[0123] When a recommended vehicle is identified, the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) of the delivery management server 10 notifies the terminal device 20 of the route search result, the specified delivery place, and the delivery time, as well as information on the recommended vehicle (step S105b).

[0124] In addition to the notification of the recommended car, guidance regarding the route to the locker after getting off the train may be further notified. For example, the stairs to use after getting off the train or a landmark such as a sign indicating the ticket gate to go to may be presented. Although the above description has been given using an example in which the first embodiment has been modified, the third modification may be combined with the second embodiment or the third embodiment.

[0125] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 relating to variant example 3 identifies a vehicle among the multiple vehicles of a train whose walking route to the locker serving as storage facility upon disembarking at a station satisfies predetermined conditions for ease of movement (vehicle identification unit 11i), and notifies the consignee of the vehicle (notification unit 11c). This makes it easier to move from the drop-off point to the locker where the delivery is to be made. For example, even if the recipient is at a station that he or she is not familiar with, it makes it easier for the recipient to identify the locker where the delivery is to be made.

[0126] (Variation 4) The fourth modification differs from the above-mentioned embodiments in that the exit used by the consignee at the receiving station is specified, and a locker located within a vicinity of the exit is set as the designated delivery location. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments are explained below. Note that the fourth modification may be combined with any part or all of the first to third modifications.

[0127] FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the fourth modification. The flowchart in FIG. 17 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment in which step S102 is changed to step S102b and step S111 is added.

[0128] The terminal device 20 that has received the delivery preparation completion notification notifies the delivery management server 10 of the final destination of the consignee together with a route search instruction, etc. (step S102b). Here, the final destination is specified by the consignee on the delivery management app, for example, and can be any point outside the station where the package is to be received.

[0129] When the delivery time is set in step S104, the control unit 11 (locker identification unit 11j) of the delivery management server 10 identifies the exit that the consignee will use from among multiple exits provided at the station where the package will be received, based on the final destination, identifies a locker within a predetermined vicinity of the identified exit, and sets it as the designated delivery location (step S111). Here, the exit that the consignee will use can be the exit that is closest to the final destination from among the multiple exits.

[0130] When the locker of the designated delivery location is identified, the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) of the delivery management server 10 notifies the terminal device 20 that the locker is the designated delivery location (step S105).

[0131] Although the above description has been given using an example in which the first embodiment has been modified, the fourth modification may be combined with the second or third embodiment.

[0132] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in variant example 4 identifies, in a predetermined manner, the exit to be used by the consignee from among the multiple exits provided at the station, identifies a locker as a storage facility within a predetermined vicinity range of the identified exit (locker identification unit 11j), and notifies the consignee of the identified locker as the designated delivery location (notification unit 11c). This shortens the path that the consignee takes after disembarking from the vehicle, passing through the locker where they can pick up their luggage, and then on to their final destination, thereby improving convenience for the consignee.

[0133] (Variation 5) The fifth modification is different from the above-mentioned embodiments in that when the consignee arrives at the station where he / she will receive the package, that is, when it is determined that the terminal device 20 is within the station, the terminal device 20 notifies the consignee of the reminder. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be described below. Note that the fifth modification may be combined with any part or all of the first to fourth modifications.

[0134] FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the fifth modification. The flowchart in FIG. 18 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment with steps S112 and S113 added.

[0135] When the control unit 21 of the terminal device 20 receives a delivery schedule notification from the delivery management server 10 in step S105, the control unit 21 determines whether or not the terminal device 20 is located within the station where the package is to be received, based on the position of the terminal device 20 detected by the position detection unit 26 (step S112). If it is determined that the terminal device 20 is not located within the station where the package is to be received ("NO" in step S112), the process of step S112 is executed again.

[0136] If it is determined that the terminal device 20 is located within the station where the package is to be received ("YES" in step S112), the control unit 21 (terminal notification unit 21a) of the terminal device 20 executes a reminder (notifies the consignee of the reminder) (step S113). The reminder notifies the consignee that the package has been delivered to a locker, which is the delivery location of the package. For example, the consignee is notified that the package has been delivered to the locker by a push notification on the delivery management app.

[0137] Although the above description has been given using an example in which the first embodiment has been modified, the fifth modification may be combined with the second or third embodiment.

[0138] As described above, the terminal device 20 according to variant example 5 includes a position detection unit 26 that detects the position of the terminal device 20, and a control unit 21. When the designated delivery location is a locker located in a station, and the position detected by the position detection unit 26 is within the station premises, the control unit 21 notifies the consignee that the package has been delivered to the locker (terminal notification unit 21a). This prevents the recipient from accidentally going outside the ticket gates if the delivery location is a locker inside the station (inside the ticket gates) because they are not aware that they are inside the ticket gates or because they forget to collect the parcel.

[0139] (Variation 6) Modification 6 differs from each of the above embodiments in that, when a time when the delivery company cannot make delivery is set as the delivery time (or an alternative delivery time), the delivery time (or an alternative delivery time) is adjusted in response to a request from the delivery company. The differences from each of the above embodiments are described below. Note that Modification 6 may be combined with any part or all of Modifications 1 to 5.

[0140] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the sixth modification. The flowchart in FIG. 19 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment with steps S114 and S115 added. The delivery time in the delivery management process is set based on the search results of the consignee's travel route. For this reason, the delivery time may be set to a time when the delivery company cannot make the delivery (for example, when the required delivery time cannot be secured). Therefore, in this case, in the sixth variation, a request to change the delivery time is accepted from the delivery company and the delivery time is reset.

[0141] Specifically, in the delivery management process of the sixth modified example, when step S105 is completed, the control unit 11 (reception unit 11g) of the delivery management server 10 receives a request to change the delivery time of the notified scheduled delivery from the delivery company server 30. That is, the control unit 11 (reception unit 11g) determines whether or not a request to change the delivery time has been received from the delivery company server 30 (delivery company) (step S114). The request to change the delivery time is accompanied by a specification of the new delivery time desired by the delivery company (for example, a time period during which delivery is possible). The change request is one aspect of a "response to the effect that delivery according to the delivery schedule is impossible."

[0142] If it is determined that a request to change the delivery time has been received ("YES" in step S114), the control unit 11 (delivery readjustment unit 11f) adjusts the delivery time based on the contents specified in step S114 and the search results obtained in step S103 so that the delivery time is a time when the consignee can receive the package and the delivery company can make the delivery (step S115). This adjusted delivery time corresponds to the "adjusted delivery time." When step S115 is completed, the process returns to step S105, and the adjusted delivery time etc. are notified to the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30. If a request to change the delivery time has not been received by the specified deadline ("NO" in step S114), the control unit 11 ends the delivery management process.

[0143] When notifying the recipient of a delivery schedule including an adjusted delivery time, a route search may be performed again to match the arrival time at the destination to the adjusted delivery time, and the search results may be notified together. In addition, although the above description is given using an example in which the first embodiment is modified, the sixth modification may be combined with the second or third embodiment. When combined with the second or third embodiment, the alternative delivery time may be reset in response to a change request from the delivery company.

[0144] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in variant example 6 receives a response from the delivery company indicating that delivery according to the delivery schedule is impossible (reception unit 11g as the first reception unit), and upon receiving the response, sets an adjusted delivery time at which the consignee can receive the package and at which the delivery company can deliver the package (delivery readjustment unit 11f), and notifies the consignee and the delivery company again of the delivery schedule including the adjusted delivery time in place of the delivery time or the alternative delivery time (notification unit 11c). This will help prevent problems such as the delivery company not completing delivery of the package by the specified delivery time.

[0145] (Variation 7) Modification 7 differs from each of the above-mentioned embodiments in that if the package is not received (collected) by the recipient by a specified time after it is delivered to the designated delivery location, a notification is sent to the recipient and the delivery company. The differences from each of the above-mentioned embodiments are described below. Note that Modification 7 may be combined with any part or all of Modifications 1 to 6.

[0146] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a control procedure of the delivery management process according to the seventh modification. The flowchart in FIG. 20 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment with steps S116 and S117 added. In the delivery of parcels, for some reason, such as the recipient forgetting to receive the parcel, the recipient may not be able to move according to the route search results and may not be able to receive the parcel as planned. In such a case, if the parcel is left stored at the designated delivery location, the locker will be occupied for a long period of time, and the parcel cannot be redelivered in an appropriate manner. Therefore, in the seventh modification, in such a case, a notice that the parcel has not been collected is sent to the recipient and the delivery company.

[0147] Specifically, in the delivery management process of the seventh modification, when step S105 is completed, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 determines whether the parcel is still uncollected at a predetermined time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the delivery time (step S116). For example, the control unit 11 monitors the update status of the locker management data 14b, and makes the above determination based on whether the locker at the designated receiving location is still in use.

[0148] If it is determined that the package has not been collected ("YES" in step S116), the control unit 11 (notification unit 11c) notifies the terminal device 20 and the delivery company server 30 that the package has not been collected (non-collection notification) (step S117). If step S117 is completed, or if it is determined in step S116 that the package has been collected ("NO" in step S116), the control unit 11 ends the delivery management process.

[0149] In the above, the non-collection notice is sent to both the consignee and the delivery company, but the notice may be sent to a predetermined one of the consignee and the delivery company. In addition, although the above description has been given using an example in which the first embodiment has been modified, the seventh modification may be combined with the second or third embodiment. When combined with the second or third embodiment, if an alternative delivery time is set, in step S116, it is sufficient to determine whether the parcel remains uncollected after a predetermined time has elapsed since the alternative delivery time.

[0150] As described above, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 in variant example 7 notifies at least one of the consignee and the delivery company that the package has not been collected after delivery if the package has not been collected by a specified time (notification unit 11c). This allows the consignee and / or delivery company who receives the notification to take any necessary measures regarding the package, such as the delivery company retrieving the package and arranging for redelivery.

[0151] (others) The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and modifications, and various changes are possible. For example, in the above embodiment, the consignee has completed the product purchase procedure in advance on an e-commerce site or the like, and the terminal device 20 notifies the delivery management server 10 of route search instructions, etc., triggered by a notification from the delivery company server 30 that delivery preparation is complete, but this is not intended to be limited to this. As an example, in a service in which a product is ordered and an instruction to deliver the product to a designated delivery location is given at the same time, the present invention may be applied to the delivery of the product to the delivery location. In this case, the product purchase procedure may be performed at the same time in step S102 of FIG. 5. Also, the processing of step S101 is not performed. Examples of such services include an online food delivery service that delivers menus from affiliated restaurants to a designated delivery location, and a service that allows a customer to remotely order products sold in a train station and receive them at a locker at the designated station. Furthermore, the present invention does not necessarily have to involve the purchase of a product. For example, the present invention may be applied to a service that delivers luggage so that a traveler who is the recipient can receive the luggage at his or her destination (for example, a hotel).

[0152] Although a train is exemplified as a means of transportation in the consignee's travel route, the means of transportation may be other public transportation such as an airplane, a bus, or a ship. The means of transportation may also include a private car, a bicycle, or walking.

[0153] Furthermore, the means by which the delivery company delivers the parcel is not particularly limited, and may be a vehicle such as a truck, or a train such as a freight train or a bullet train.

[0154] In addition, the recipient's home has been exemplified as the delivery location when the delivery company directly delivers the package to the recipient, but this is not limited to this and any location, such as the workplace, can be the designated delivery location.

[0155] In addition, the consignee may be notified of the delivery schedule by sending an email to the consignee's email address instead of a direct notification to the terminal device 20, such as a push notification.

[0156] In addition, an example has been described in which the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 functions as a route search unit 11a, a delivery time setting unit 11b, a notification unit 11c, a discrimination unit 11d, a delivery adjustment unit 11e, a delivery readjustment unit 11f, a reception unit 11g, a travel route setting unit 11h, a vehicle identification unit 11i, and a locker identification unit 11j, but this is not limited to the above, and some of these functions may be realized by the control unit of a separate information processing device.

[0157] In addition, although an example has been described in which the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 updates and manages the locker management data 14b, this is not limited to this, and for example, the control unit 11 of the delivery management server 10 may obtain and refer to the contents of the locker management data 14b managed by an external server.

[0158] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1. Delivery management system 10 Delivery management server (delivery management device) 11 Control section 11a Route search section 11b Delivery time setting section 11c Notification Department 11d Discrimination part 11e Delivery Coordination Department 11f Delivery Re-Adjustment Department 11g Reception unit (first reception unit, second reception unit) 11h Movement route setting section 11i Vehicle Identification Department 11j Locker specific section 12 Control section 13 Display section 14 Storage section 14a Program 14b Locker management data 15 Communications Department 20 Terminal Equipment 21 Control section 21a Terminal notification section 30 Delivery company server 31 Control Unit R1, R2 route Sa~Sf Station r Travel route

Claims

1. A delivery management device having a computer, The computer includes: As a result of the route search based on the information of the designated delivery location of the package, first data is obtained, the first data including information of a moving route of the consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information of an estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data indicating a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, Based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of candidates for alternative delivery locations, determine one alternative delivery location that can accept the package instead of the designated delivery location, obtain third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, and determine an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; A delivery management device which notifies the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time in place of the delivery time and the alternative delivery place.

2. A delivery management device having a computer, The computer includes: As a result of the route search based on the information of the designated delivery location of the package, first data is obtained, the first data including information of a moving route of the consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information of an estimated arrival time of the consignee at the designated delivery location; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; When the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a vehicle that is the closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility is identified among a plurality of vehicles of the train; A delivery management device that notifies the recipient of the identified vehicle.

3. The computer, determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data indicating a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, Based on the second data, determine an alternative delivery location that can accept the package instead of the designated delivery location, obtain third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, and determine an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, further comprising: notifying the consignee of the delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time in place of the delivery time and the alternative delivery place.

4. The delivery management device described in claim 1 or 3, characterized in that when the designated delivery location is a first storage facility located at a first station, the computer determines, as the alternative delivery location, a second storage facility located at a second station other than the first station among the stations included in the travel route.

5. The delivery management device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that when the designated delivery location is a first storage facility located at a first station and the travel route includes a third station where a transfer is performed, the computer determines a third storage facility located at the third station as the alternative delivery location.

6. The delivery management device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that when the designated delivery location is a storage facility located at a station, the computer determines a designated baggage check-in facility outside the station as the alternative delivery location.

7. The delivery management device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that when the designated delivery location is a designated storage facility located at the recipient's home, the computer determines a designated luggage deposit facility as the alternative delivery location.

8. The computer, determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data indicating a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, determining an alternative delivery time at which the package can be received based on the second data; 3. The delivery management device according to claim 2, further comprising: notifying the consignee of the delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time in place of the delivery time.

9. A delivery management device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the computer notifies the delivery company that delivers the package of the delivery schedule.

10. The computer determining whether the parcel has been collected from the designated delivery location after delivery based on second data indicating the usage status and reservation status of the designated delivery location; The delivery management device according to claim 9, characterized in that if it is determined that the delivered package has not been collected by a specified time, a notification that the package has not been collected is sent to at least one of the consignee and the delivery company.

11. A delivery management device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the computer accepts an instruction to change the delivery time from the consignee.

12. A delivery management device as described in any one of claims 1, 3 to 8, characterized in that the computer accepts an instruction from the consignee to change the alternative delivery time.

13. The computer A specific movement route from a specific movement starting point to the specific designated delivery location or a specific designated delivery location is preset in association with the consignee; When the specific travel route is set, the first data including information on the set specific travel route is acquired; A delivery management device as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that when the specific designated delivery location is set, the first data is acquired including information on the recipient's travel route to the specific designated delivery location that has been set, and information on the recipient's scheduled arrival time at the specific designated delivery location.

14. The delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the computer determines the start time of movement along the movement route based on schedule information including the recipient's plans for the day and information about the time period of those plans so that the start time is later than the end time of the last of the plans included in the schedule information.

15. A terminal device used by the consignee; A delivery management device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; Equipped with A delivery management system characterized in that the computer notifies the consignee of the delivery schedule in a manner that enables the consignee to check the delivery schedule on the terminal device.

16. The terminal device A position detection unit that detects the position of the terminal device; a terminal notification unit that notifies the consignee that the package has been delivered to the storage facility when the location detected by the location detection unit is within the station premises in the case where the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided in a station; The delivery management system according to claim 15, further comprising:

17. A computer implemented method for managing deliveries, comprising: acquiring first data including information on a moving route of a consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data representing a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, determining an alternative delivery location that can accept the package instead of the designated delivery location based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of candidates for the alternative delivery location, acquiring third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location as a result of a route search based on the information on the alternative delivery location, and determining an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location; A delivery management method comprising:

18. A computer-implemented method for managing deliveries, comprising the steps of: acquiring first data including information on a moving route of a consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package; determining a delivery time for the package to the designated delivery location based on the estimated arrival time information; notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; When the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a step of identifying, among a plurality of cars of the train, a car that is the closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility; notifying the consignee of the identified vehicle; A delivery management method comprising:

19. A computer provided in the delivery management device, a means for acquiring first data including information on a moving route of a consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package; means for determining a delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the information of the estimated arrival time; a means for determining whether the designated delivery location is available to receive the package at the delivery time based on second data representing a usage status and a reservation status of the designated delivery location; If it is determined that the luggage cannot be accepted, a means for determining, based on the second data and in accordance with a preset priority order of candidates for alternative delivery locations, one of the alternative delivery locations capable of accepting the package, instead of the designated delivery location, and for acquiring, as a result of a route search based on information on the alternative delivery location, third data including information on an alternative travel route of the consignee to the determined alternative delivery location and information on an alternative estimated arrival time of the consignee at the alternative delivery location, and for determining an alternative delivery time of the package to the alternative delivery location based on the information on the alternative estimated arrival time; means for notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the alternative delivery time and the alternative delivery location; A program characterized by causing the program to function as a

20. A computer provided in a delivery management device, a means for acquiring first data including information on a moving route of a consignee to the designated delivery location of the package and information on an estimated time of arrival of the consignee at the designated delivery location as a result of a route search based on information on the designated delivery location of the package; means for determining a delivery time of the package to the designated delivery location based on the information of the estimated arrival time; means for notifying the consignee of a delivery schedule including the delivery time; a means for identifying, when the means of transportation on the travel route includes a train and the designated delivery location is a storage facility provided at a station, a vehicle among a plurality of vehicles of the train that is closest in walking distance from the disembarking point of the consignee at the station to the storage facility; means for notifying the consignee of the identified vehicle; A program characterized by causing the program to function as a

Images