Tile carpet subscription system, program, tile carpet set, and subscription tile carpet matching method

Abstract

To enable a user to easily specify tile carpets that the user wishes to receive on a subscription basis and also provide proper tile carpets that match the user's expectations at a proper timing.SOLUTION: A tile carpet subscription system 10 includes: a reception unit 11 which receives, from a user, inputs of desired-characteristic data, desired-quantity data, and desired-quality data regarding tile carpets that the user wishes to receive on a subscription basis; a matching unit 12 which determines a tile carpet set which is associated with characteristics, quantity, and quality which meet conditions indicated by the desired-characteristic data, the desired-quantity data, and the desired-quality data which have been received by the reception unit, through accessing a database 20 of tile carpets which can be provided on a subscription basis; and an output unit 13 which outputs information on the tile carpet set which has been determined.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a computer system, a program, and tile carpet technology that enable the provision of tile carpets on a subscription basis. [Background technology]

[0002] Tile carpets are laid on floors of various facilities, such as offices, stores, workshops, and public facilities. Conventionally, tile carpets laid in one facility may be collected, washed, and then reused in other facilities. For example, JP 2019-133338 A discloses a tile carpet reuse system. This system accepts input of information about re-delivered tile carpets that have been laid and removed, and records the product number, lot information, and information indicating the storage time in association with the information. Furthermore, this system accepts input of the product number of the tile carpet to be newly laid and the quantity for each laying area, and extracts and outputs re-delivered tile carpets whose lot information and storage time satisfy predetermined conditions.

[0003] In recent years, the provision of products on a subscription basis has become widespread. Various systems for providing products on a subscription basis have been proposed. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-67777 discloses a subscription product sales system that can sell multiple types of subscription products by associating different contract information with each product when selling them.

[0004] Additionally, JP 2018-049651 A discloses a system in which customers of a web-based electronic commerce (e-commerce) company's website pay a fee and are provided with free shipping and / or discounted shipping for at least some items ordered via the e-commerce company's website during a period covered by the subscription. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-133338 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2020-67777 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2018-049651 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The inventors came up with the idea of ​​combining the reuse of carpet tiles with the provision of carpet tiles by a subscription system. In the subscription system, a fee is paid as a right to use the carpet tiles for a certain period of time. During the certain period, the user may continue to use the same carpet tiles or may replace them a predetermined number of times. The fee may be paid periodically or in a lump sum. The number of replacements and the payment method for the fee can be set arbitrarily. The user can frequently replace and use the carpet tiles at a lower cost than purchasing them. The provider can provide carpet tiles at a low cost by reusing one carpet tile and providing it to multiple users in turn. Furthermore, efficient reuse of carpet tiles, which were previously disposable, can contribute to reducing the environmental impact.

[0007] When providing recycled carpet tiles on a subscription basis, problems specific to carpet tiles arise. It is preferable that multiple carpet tiles laid in one location are of uniform quality. However, the aesthetic and physical properties of carpet tiles change subtly depending on the environment in which they are used. Recycled carpet tiles are available in a variety of conditions. On the other hand, it is difficult for users to accurately grasp the aesthetic or physical properties of carpet tiles that may be provided on a subscription basis. These circumstances make it difficult for users to accurately specify the carpet tiles they desire, and for providers to provide carpet tiles that meet the user's desires at the appropriate time.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention provides a tile carpet subscription system, program, and tile carpet that enable a user to easily specify the tile carpet that he or she wishes to receive on a subscription basis, and that enables an appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's wishes to be provided at an appropriate time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A tile carpet subscription system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a reception unit that receives from a user input of desired feature data indicating the features of the tile carpet desired to be provided on a subscription basis, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a matching unit that accesses a database of tile carpets that can be provided on a subscription basis, in which multiple available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a group of tile carpet sets and data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the features of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpet for each of the multiple tile carpet sets is recorded in correspondence with the conditions indicated by the desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received by the reception unit, thereby determining a tile carpet set that meets the conditions; and an output unit that outputs information of the tile carpet set determined by the matching unit to the user. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, a user can easily specify the tile carpet that he or she wishes to receive on a subscription basis, and an appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's wishes can be provided at the appropriate time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] A functional block diagram showing an example of a system configuration according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 2] A flowchart showing an example of the operation of the system shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen provided by the reception unit in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of data recorded in a database. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of data recorded in a database. [Figure 6]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed by an output unit. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of schedule data in a database [Figure 8] A diagram showing an example of a screen for accepting input of desired labeling data [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a state in which a different application division from that shown in FIG. 8 is specified. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of the front and back of a carpet tile [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of RFID-equipped tile carpets [Figure 12] FIG. 1 shows an example of a tile carpet placed in a storage area. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system further including a registration unit. [Figure 14] Flow diagram showing an example of a carpet tile subscription delivery method DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The inventors have studied a system for providing recycled carpet tiles on a subscription basis. In the course of their study, they have come to recognize the following problems specific to carpet tiles.

[0013] Users desire to have tile carpets provided through a subscription system that are adaptable to the environment, such as the size and shape of the area where they are to be laid, and that have the design they desire. The requirements that users have for subscription tile carpets are wide-ranging and complex. Furthermore, the subscription system is premised on the fact that the tile carpets will be reused and reused by multiple users. The aesthetics and physical properties of tile carpets change subtly depending on the environment in which they are used. Reused tile carpets include those in a variety of conditions.

[0014] It is difficult for users to grasp the state of aesthetics or physical properties of tile carpet provided by a subscription system. Therefore, when a user wishes to receive tile carpet through a subscription system, it is difficult for the user to organize what requirements should be specified to the provider. On the other hand, when a provider wishes to provide tile carpet through a subscription system, it is difficult for the provider to accurately grasp the user's requirements. In addition, since it is assumed that the tile carpet will be reused and provided to multiple users, the state of aesthetics or physical properties of the tile carpet that can be provided and the amount of tile carpet that can be provided change depending on the situation. Therefore, it is difficult to provide the appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's wishes at the appropriate time through a subscription system.

[0015] The inventors have studied a system for providing recycled carpets that meet the needs of users on a subscription basis. The inventors have conducted detailed studies on an interface for accepting requests from users, a database configuration for managing recycled tile carpets in various states, and a mechanism for matching accepted user requests with recycled tile carpets. As a result of their studies, they have come up with the following embodiment.

[0016] The tile carpet subscription system in an embodiment of the present invention comprises a reception unit that receives from a user input of desired feature data indicating the features of the tile carpet desired to be provided through the subscription system, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a database of tile carpets that can be provided through the subscription system, in which a group of available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a tile carpet set, and data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the features of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpet is recorded in correspondence with each of the multiple tile carpet sets, and a matching unit that determines a tile carpet set that meets the conditions indicated by the desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received by the reception unit by comparing the characteristics, number, and quality of the multiple tile carpet sets; and an output unit that outputs information of the tile carpet set determined by the matching unit to the user.

[0017] In the above configuration, the reception unit receives input of desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data, so that the user can organize and specify various requirements for tile carpets concisely. The database records data for a group of tile carpet sets, each of which is made up of multiple tile carpets with the same product number, in association with the product number, number of pieces, characteristics, and quality. This allows data for a group of tile carpets that can be provided by the subscription system to be managed as one set. Therefore, information on available tile carpets that changes depending on the situation can be efficiently managed. In addition, since the tile carpet set is recorded in association with the product number, characteristics, number of pieces, and quality, matching with the desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received by the reception unit can be efficiently performed. In other words, information on an appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's needs can be quickly output. As a result, the user can easily specify the tile carpet that he or she wants to receive by the subscription system, and it becomes possible to provide an appropriate tile carpet that meets the user's needs at an appropriate time.

[0018] The receiving unit may receive, as the desired characteristic data, data including a desired product rank indicating the product grade of the desired tile carpet, and may receive, as the desired quality data, data including a desired quality rank of the desired aesthetic or physical quality. In the database, data including a product rank as a feature of the tile carpet and data including a quality rank as the quality of the tile carpet may be recorded in association with each of the multiple tile carpet sets. The matching unit determines a tile carpet set associated with a product rank and a quality rank that satisfy the conditions of the desired product rank and desired quality rank received by the receiving unit.

[0019] The receiving unit receives data including the desired product rank and desired quality rank, making it easy for the user to specify the desired cost and quality conditions. Since both the product rank and quality rank are recorded in the database in association with the tile carpet set, the matching unit can efficiently determine a tile carpet set that meets the user's desired product rank and quality rank conditions. In other words, it becomes easier to bring out the user's desired features, and information on tile carpet sets that meet the needs can be provided.

[0020] The quality rank is information obtained by evaluating and ranking the quality of carpet tiles. For example, the quality of carpet tiles is evaluated in the process of preparing carpet tiles sets to be provided on a subscription basis. For example, the quality is evaluated based on the degree of deterioration of the carpet tiles, and changes depending on the degree of deterioration due to use. On the other hand, the product rank is information that ranks the grade of carpet tiles as a product. For example, the product rank is determined by the product type and model number, and is determined according to the price. The product rank is an inherent characteristic of carpet tiles, and does not change depending on the usage conditions.

[0021] The receiving unit may receive data indicating the size of the area in which the tile carpet is to be laid or data indicating the quantity of the tile carpet as the desired amount data indicating the amount of the tile carpet. The data indicating the size of the area in which the tile carpet is to be laid may be, for example, the area of ​​the area in which the tile carpet is to be laid or drawing data including the area in which the tile carpet is to be laid.

[0022] When the receiving unit receives data indicating the size of the installation area, the matching unit calculates the number (quantity) of tile carpets to be laid based on the data indicating the size of the installation area, and can determine a tile carpet set associated with the calculated number of pieces that satisfies the conditions.

[0023] The receiving unit may receive at least one of the product number, color, pattern, use, application method, shape, and dimensions of the desired tile carpet as the desired characteristic data. In this case, in the database, data including at least one of color, pattern, use, application method, shape, and dimensions as the characteristics of the tile carpet may be recorded in association with each of a plurality of tile carpet sets. The matching unit can determine a tile carpet set associated with data that meets at least one of the conditions of color, pattern, use, application method, shape, and dimensions received by the receiving unit.

[0024] This allows the user to easily specify the desired characteristics of the tile carpet, and the matching unit can efficiently determine a tile carpet set that has the characteristics desired by the user. In other words, it becomes easier to bring out the characteristics desired by the user, and it is possible to meet the needs of the user.

[0025] The purpose of the tile carpet may be information about the place where it is laid, such as for a store, for home, etc. The way in which the tile carpet is laid may be information about the way in which the tile carpet is laid, such as flush laying, checkered laying, brick laying, random laying, herringbone laying, etc.

[0026] The receiving unit may receive keywords as the desired characteristic data. In this case, the database may record, as characteristics of the tile carpet, words related to the image, atmosphere, or usage situation attributable to the tile carpet in association with each of the multiple tile carpet sets. The matching unit may determine a tile carpet that meets the conditions by comparing the keywords included in the desired characteristic data with the words associated with each of the multiple tile carpet sets recorded in the database.

[0027] This allows users to receive a presentation of a tile carpet set that meets their needs by inputting keywords that indicate the image, atmosphere, or usage of the desired tile carpet. Keywords are not particularly limited, but examples include "garden office," "living office," "biophilic," "new normal," "sustainable," "shared office," "coworking," and "workation."

[0028] The receiving unit may receive the aesthetics and physical properties of the desired tile carpet as the desired quality data. In this case, in the database, data including the aesthetics and physical properties may be recorded as the quality of the tile carpet in association with each of the multiple tile carpet sets. The matching unit can determine a tile carpet set associated with aesthetics and physical properties that satisfy the aesthetic and physical property conditions received by the receiving unit.

[0029] This allows the user to easily specify the desired quality of tile carpet, and the matching unit can efficiently determine a tile carpet set that meets the user's desired quality.

[0030] The aesthetics of a carpet tile is the degree of deterioration in appearance, such as the degree of dirt. For example, the degree of deterioration in the appearance of the carpet tile is evaluated in four stages, such as "new," "A," "B," and "C." The number of stages in this evaluation is not limited to four, and may be five or more stages, or may be three or two stages. The evaluation of aesthetics may be performed by an evaluator in charge of selection, or may be mechanical, such as by an evaluation system based on an image. The results of the aesthetic evaluation may be tagged (associated) with the carpet tile set and stored in a database.

[0031] The physical properties of a carpet tile are the degree of deterioration of the physical properties, such as the degree of sagging of the carpet pile. For example, the physical properties of a carpet tile can be evaluated on a scale of three or more levels. The evaluation results of the physical properties can be tagged (associated) with the carpet tile set and stored in a database.

[0032] In the database, usage history data including at least one of the number of times or period of use of the tile carpet may be recorded in association with each of the multiple tile carpet sets as the quality of the tile carpet. The matching unit can determine a tile carpet set associated with usage history data including at least one of the number of times or period of use that satisfies the conditions indicated by the desired quality data accepted by the accepting unit.

[0033] By recording the number of uses or the period of use in association with each of a plurality of tile carpet sets, a group of tile carpets that are affected by similar use can be managed as one set. The matching unit can efficiently determine a tile carpet set of the quality desired by the user by comparing the number of uses or the period of use with the desired quality data received from the user.

[0034] The receiving unit may further receive desired installation data including a request for laying multiple types of tile carpets in one area and information regarding the installation of the multiple types of tile carpets in the one area. In this case, the matching unit can determine a tile carpet set that meets the conditions of the multiple types of tile carpets determined by the desired installation data.

[0035] This makes it possible to meet the needs of users who wish to lay multiple tile carpets in one area (e.g., one room). For example, if a user wishes to lay different types of tile carpets in the same room, the reception unit receives input of information regarding the laying from the user. The matching unit can further determine a tile carpet set by taking into account the information regarding the laying. For example, the reception unit may receive data indicating the characteristics and number of each of the multiple types of tile carpets that the user wishes to lay in the room as information regarding the laying. The matching unit can determine a tile carpet set that meets the characteristics and number of pieces for each of the multiple types of tile carpets that the user wishes to lay.

[0036] The database may further record schedule data indicating the time when the tile carpet installer is available for installation. In this case, the reception unit may receive desired installation time data regarding the desired time when the tile carpet is to be installed from the user. The matching unit may determine an installer who can install the tile carpet at the desired installation time based on the desired installation time indicated by the desired installation time data and the time when the tile carpet installer is available for installation indicated by the schedule data. The output unit outputs an installer who can install the tile carpet set at the desired installation time in addition to information on the tile carpet set determined by the matching unit. This allows the user to know the installer who can install the tile carpet set at the desired installation time.

[0037] The database may further record schedule data indicating when a tile carpet installer can install the tile carpet. In this case, the matching unit may determine, based on the schedule data, when a tile carpet set that satisfies the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, the desired quantity data, and the desired quality data received by the receiving unit can be installed. The output unit may output the time when the tile carpet set can be installed, in addition to the information on the tile carpet set determined by the matching unit. This allows the user to know when the desired tile carpet can be installed.

[0038] In the database, a plurality of available tile carpets with the same product number and lot number may be regarded as a group of tile carpet sets, and data of the plurality of tile carpet sets may be recorded. This prevents unevenness in appearance due to differences in lots within a single set of tile carpets.

[0039] The program in the embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to execute a reception process for receiving from a user input of desired characteristic data indicating the characteristics of a tile carpet desired to be provided by the subscription system, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet, a matching process for accessing a database of tile carpets that can be provided by the subscription system, in which a group of available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a group of tile carpet sets, and data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the characteristics of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpets are recorded in association with each other for each of the multiple tile carpet sets, and comparing the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, the desired quantity data, and the desired quality data received in the reception process with the characteristics, the number, and the quality of the multiple tile carpet sets to determine a tile carpet set that meets the conditions, and an output process for outputting information on the tile carpet set determined in the matching process to the user. Note that a method in which a computer executes the above processes is also included in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] The subscription tile carpet matching method in an embodiment of the present invention includes a reception process in which a computer receives from a user input of desired feature data indicating the features of the tile carpet desired to be provided on a subscription basis, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a matching process in which the computer accesses a database of tile carpets that can be provided on a subscription basis, in which multiple available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a group of tile carpet sets, and data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the features of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpet is recorded in correspondence with each of the multiple tile carpet sets, and a matching process in which the computer determines a tile carpet set that meets the conditions indicated by the desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received in the reception process with the features, number, and quality of the multiple tile carpet sets; and an output process in which the computer outputs information of the tile carpet set determined in the matching process to the user.

[0041] The tile carpet set in an embodiment of the present invention is a tile carpet set that can be provided on a subscription basis in the above-mentioned tile carpet subscription system. Data indicating the product number, characteristics, number, and quality of the tile carpets included in the tile carpet set is recorded in the database. The tile carpet set includes at least one tile carpet equipped with an information identification means. The information identification means is attached to the tile carpet and provides quality information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet, or information for accessing the quality information.

[0042] The tile carpets included in the tile carpet set are provided with an information identification means that provides quality information. This makes it easy, for example, to manage a collection of tile carpets of similar quality as a tile carpet set. Furthermore, based on the quality information from the information identification means, quality data on the tile carpet set can be recorded in a database. This makes it easy to manage tile carpets for reuse, for example, when providing tile carpets on a subscription basis.

[0043] The information identification means may be an electronic tag. Data indicating quality information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet, or information for accessing the quality information, may be recorded in the electronic tag. Information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet can be obtained by reading the quality data of the tile carpet or data for accessing the quality data from the electronic tag of the tile carpet. The information identification means may further provide a product number or other information for identifying the tile carpet.

[0044] (System Configuration) 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a tile carpet subscription system (hereinafter referred to as the "TCP subscription system") in this embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the TCP subscription system 10 includes a reception unit 11, a matching unit 12, and an output unit 13. The TCP subscription system 10 is capable of accessing a database 20. In addition, the TCP subscription system 10 is capable of communicating with a user terminal 30.

[0045] The reception unit 11 receives input of desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data from a user. The desired characteristic data is data indicating the product characteristics of the tile carpet that the user desires to be provided in a subscription manner. The desired characteristic data includes, for example, at least one of the product number, color, pattern, use, application method, shape, and dimensions of the tile carpet desired by the user. The desired quantity data is data indicating the amount of tile carpet desired by the user. The desired quality data is data indicating the quality of the tile carpet as a reused product desired by the user. The desired quality data may be, for example, data indicating the degree of deterioration of the aesthetics or physical properties of the tile carpet due to reuse. The reception unit 11 may receive input of data from the user via the user terminal 30, or may acquire data recorded at a location specified by the user.

[0046] The database 20 records data on tile carpets that can be provided on a subscription basis. In the database 20, data indicating the product number, features, number of pieces, and quality of the tile carpets are recorded in association with each of a plurality of tile carpet sets (hereinafter referred to as TCP sets). One TCP set is made up of a group of multiple tile carpets with the same product number. Note that there may be multiple TCP sets with the same product number.

[0047] The data on the characteristics of carpet tiles recorded in database 20 is data that indicates the characteristics of carpet tiles as a product. The product characteristics of carpet tiles are the same for new and reused products. Tile carpets with the same product number have the same characteristics. In contrast, data on the quality of carpet tiles is data that indicates the quality of carpet tiles as a reused product. Quality reflects the degree of deterioration due to use. Even carpet tiles with the same product number will have different quality if the usage environment is different. In database 20, multiple carpet tiles included in one TCP set are all managed as having the same characteristics and quality.

[0048] The matching unit 12 accesses the database 20 and extracts a TCP set that meets the conditions based on the data received by the receiving unit 11. Specifically, the matching unit 12 compares the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received by the receiving unit 11 with the characteristics, number of pieces, and quality associated with a plurality of tile carpet sets. The matching unit 12 compares the characteristics indicated by the desired characteristic data with the characteristic data of each TCP set in the database 20. The matching unit 12 also compares the quantity indicated by the desired quantity data with the number of pieces of each TCP set in the database 20, and compares the quality indicated by the desired quality with the quality of each TCP set in the database 20. In this way, a TCP set that has characteristics that meet the conditions of the desired characteristic data, has a number of pieces that meet the conditions of the desired quantity data, and has quality that meets the conditions of the desired quality data is determined (extracted).

[0049] Furthermore, the matching unit 12 may extract a TCP set that satisfies two or one of the conditions when there is no TCP set that satisfies all three conditions indicated by the desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data accepted by the accepting unit 11. In this case, information indicating the unsatisfied condition may be output together with the extracted TCP set.

[0050] In addition, when comparing the desired characteristic data with the characteristics of the tile carpet recorded in the database, the matching unit 12 may compare the input desired characteristic data itself with the recorded characteristics, or may compare the conditions obtained by converting the input desired characteristic data with the recorded characteristics. This is also true for comparing the desired quantity data with the recorded number of pieces, and comparing the desired quality data with the recorded quality data. The comparison process may be, for example, a process of calculating a distance indicating the degree of similarity between the compared objects, in addition to judging whether the compared objects are the same or not. Based on the comparison result, the matching unit 12 can judge whether each of the multiple tile carpet sets meets the conditions indicated by the input data.

[0051] In the matching process, the matching unit 12 may use a trained model obtained by machine learning (learning of artificial intelligence (AI)). The trained model can be generated by, for example, deep learning using a multi-layered neural network.

[0052] For example, a trained model may be used to extract a TCP set having characteristics that match desired characteristic data. As an example, when the purpose of the tile carpet (e.g., residential, office, educational facility) is input as the desired characteristic data, a trained model can be used to extract a tile carpet having characteristics such as color and pattern that match this purpose. In this case, a trained model can be generated by machine learning the characteristics of a tile carpet that is preferable for the input purpose.

[0053] As another example, the degree of conformance (distance) between at least one of the desired feature data, the desired quantity data, and the desired quality data and at least one of the features, the number, and the quality of each TCP set recorded in the database can be determined using a trained model. For example, the distance between the desired feature data and the features of each TCP set recorded in the database can be determined using a trained model. This allows, for example, multiple TCP sets extracted according to the desired feature data to be displayed in order of conformance, for example, in order of recommendation to the user.

[0054] A trained model may also be used to convert at least one of the input desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data into data that indicates conditions comparable to the data in the database, thereby allowing the user greater freedom in inputting information.

[0055] The output unit 13 outputs the information of the TCP set determined by the matching unit 12 to the user. The information of the TCP set to be output may include, for example, the characteristics, quantity, and quality of the tile carpet recorded in the database 20. The form of output is not particularly limited. The output unit 13 may transmit the information of the TCP set to the user terminal 30, or may record it in a predetermined recording unit. For example, the output unit 13 may cause the user terminal 30 to display the information of the TCP set.

[0056] The TCP subsystem 10 is composed of a computer equipped with a processor and a memory. The functions of the reception unit 11, the matching unit 12, and the output unit 13 can be realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory. A program for causing the processor to execute the processes for realizing the reception unit 11, the matching unit 12, and the output unit 13 and a non-transitory recording medium for recording the program are also included in the embodiments of the present invention. Further, the TCP subsystem 10 may be composed of a plurality of computers. The data in the database 20 is recorded in one or a plurality of recording devices accessible from the computers constituting the TCP subsystem 10.

[0057] (Operation example) <S1~S3: User input reception process> FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the TCP subsystem 10. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the reception unit 11 receives the input of desired feature data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data from the user (S1~S3). The reception unit 11 causes the user terminal 30 to display an input screen for the user to input these data. Note that in FIG. 2, S1, S2, and S3 are shown in this order, but the order of the processes is not limited to this, and the processes may be performed in any order or simultaneously. Further, at least one of the processes S1~S3 may be executed after S4. In this case, S4 is further executed.

[0058] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen provided by the reception unit 11. The input screen in Fig. 3 includes an area K1 for inputting the characteristics of the tile carpet that the user wishes to receive via the subscription system, an area K2 for inputting the desired amount of tile carpet, and an area K3 for inputting the desired quality of the tile carpet. The characteristics input area K1 is configured to enable input of keywords T0, product rank T1, pattern T2, color T3, use T4, application method T5, and shape and dimensions T6. Each of these will be described in detail below.

[0059] In the keyword T0, input of a free keyword is accepted. For example, a guide to input a keyword indicating the image, atmosphere, or situation of the place where the tile carpet is to be laid may be displayed. In addition, it may be possible to select whether to input the characteristics of the tile carpet by keyword or by other detailed items (T1 to T6).

[0060] The product rank indicates the product grade of the carpet tile. The product rank may be determined, for example, by the price of the carpet tile when it is new. In the product rank T1 on the screen of FIG. 3, the price range when new is displayed for each selectable product rank. Note that the input form of the desired product rank is not limited to rank selection. For example, the input of the price or price range of the desired product when new may be accepted as product rank input.

[0061] The pattern can also be called a design. In the pattern T2 on the screen of FIG. 3, the size of the pattern (the size of the repeating pattern of the pattern, for example, whether it is close to a solid color or close to a large pattern) can be selected from a plurality of levels. In addition to or instead of the selection of the size of the pattern, the selection or input of the type of pattern may be accepted. The types of patterns are not limited to these, but may include, for example, a striped pattern, a sand pattern, a marble pattern, a rock pattern, a geometric pattern, and the like.

[0062] The color is the base color of the tile carpet. In the color T3 on the screen of FIG. 3, the color family can be selected. In addition to or instead of the selection of the color family, the selection or input of the color name may be accepted. In addition to the color, it may be possible to select whether or not the pile yarn has a glossy finish.

[0063] The purpose is information about the facility or location where the tile carpet is to be laid. In purpose T4 on the screen in Fig. 3, the type of facility can be selected. In addition, the purpose may be the selection or input of parts of the facility, such as a hallway, stairs, toilet, conference room, reception room, changing room, dining room, library, etc.

[0064] The application method is information indicating how to arrange the carpet tiles. In the screen of FIG. 3, application method T5 can be selected. The reception unit 11 may present selectable application methods to the user and accept the selection of the application method. For example, the reception unit 11 may determine selectable application methods for at least one of the color, pattern, or shape specified by the user and present them to the user. Depending on the dyeing method or pattern, there may be restrictions on application methods for carpet tiles, such as not allowing flush application but allowing checkered application. The reception unit 11 presents application methods according to the user's input, so that the user can select an appropriate application method according to the application method restrictions.

[0065] The shape and dimensions of carpet tiles are often predetermined. On the screen of FIG. 3, the shape and dimensions can be selected from a number of predetermined patterns. The receiving unit 11 may receive input of only the shape or only the dimensions. The shape of the carpet tiles may be, for example, a square or a rectangle. Examples of the dimensions of carpet tiles include 50 cm x 50 cm, 40 cm x 40 cm, 25 cm x 100 cm, and 100 cm x 100 cm.

[0066] The input reception of the desired tile carpet characteristics is not limited to the above example. For example, input of characteristics other than the characteristic items shown in Fig. 3 may be received, or any of the characteristic items shown in Fig. 3 may be omitted. For example, the reception unit 11 may display a catalog of tile carpets, and allow the user to select the desired tile carpet characteristics by selecting the content displayed in the catalog.

[0067] Next, an example of input reception of the desired amount of tile carpet will be described. In the amount input area K2 of the screen in FIG. 3, input of the desired number of pieces or the installation area is accepted. In addition, by clicking the drawing data button, it is possible to input drawing data including the shape of the floor at the installation location. The input of drawing data may be, for example, a process of transmitting a drawing data file, or may include a process of inputting the shape and dimensions of the installation location on the drawing creation screen to generate drawing data.

[0068] It is also possible to accept input of any one of the number of sheets, the installation area, or the drawing data, and omit accepting other inputs. Also, instead of the installation area, for example, input of the length and width of the installation location may be accepted. The accepting unit 11 can accept at least one of the inputs of the desired number of sheets, data indicating the size of the installation area, and drawing data of the area to be installed, as the desired amount data.

[0069] Next, an example of accepting input of the quality of the desired tile carpet will be described. On the screen of FIG. 3, the quality rank can be selected from multiple levels. The quality rank indicates the degree of quality regarding the aesthetics or physical properties of the tile carpet. Aesthetics is affected, for example, by color fading, unevenness, dirt, etc. that occur during use. Physical properties are affected, for example, by sagging or changes in the hardness of the fabric that occur during use. Therefore, the quality rank can be said to be an example of information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet during use. In the example shown in FIG. 3, "new" means a new tile carpet, and rank A, rank B, and rank C mean recycled tile carpets. Recycled tile carpets are displayed in the order of better quality as rank A, rank B, and rank C. The reception unit 11 may accept, as the quality rank, in addition to the example of FIG. 3, for example, at least one input of the degree of deterioration of aesthetics such as color fading, unevenness, dirt, etc., and the degree of deterioration of physical properties such as sagging. Alternatively, the reception unit 11 may accept at least one input of the usage period and the number of uses as desired quality data.

[0070] <S4: TCP Set Determination Process> Referring again to FIG. 2, in S4, the matching unit 12 searches the database 20 based on the conditions based on the data input in S1 to S3 and determines a TCP set that satisfies the conditions. That is, the matching unit 12 determines and extracts a TCP set that matches the conditions indicated by the data input in S1 to S3 from the TCP sets recorded in the database 20. As shown in FIG. 1, in the database 20, data indicating the part number, features, number of sheets, and quality, etc. are recorded in association with each TCP set. The matching unit 12 extracts from the database 20 a TCP set that has features satisfying the conditions indicated by the desired feature data, has the number of sheets satisfying the conditions indicated by the desired quantity data, and has a quality satisfying the conditions indicated by the desired quality data. The conditions used for the search of the database 20 in S4 may be the data input by the user in S1 to S3 as they are, or may be conditions obtained by processing the input data for search.

[0071] 4 and 5 are diagrams showing an example of data recorded in the database 20. In the example of FIG. 4, data on the number of pieces, characteristics, and quality are associated with a set ID, which is an identifier of a TCP set. The characteristic data includes the product number of the tile carpet. The quality data includes a quality rank, a number of times used, and a period of use. The quality rank may be a value determined based on at least one of the number of times used and the period of use, for example. In the example of FIG. 5, characteristic data indicating the characteristics of the tile carpet is recorded in association with the product number. The characteristic data in FIG. 5 includes product rank, new price, color, pattern, shape and dimensions, use, and application method. In addition, words are recorded in association with the product number. The words are words related to the tile carpet of that product number. For example, a plurality of words related to the image, atmosphere, or usage situation attributable to the tile carpet of that product number are recorded.

[0072] An example of processing in S4 for the data shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 will be described. First, the matching unit 12 accesses the data shown in Fig. 5 and extracts the product number of a tile carpet including the same characteristic data as the product rank, color, pattern, shape and dimensions, use, and application method indicated by the desired characteristic data input in S1. Alternatively, the product number of a tile carpet including a word similar to the keyword input as the desired characteristic data in S1 may be extracted. Next, the matching unit 12 accesses the data in Fig. 4 and extracts the set ID of a TCP set having a quantity equal to or greater than the quantity indicated by the desired quantity input in S2 and having a quality rank matching the quality rank indicated by the desired quality data input in S3 from among the TCP sets having the same product number as the product number extracted from Fig. 5 in the characteristic data. In this way, a TCP set that satisfies the conditions indicated by the data input in S1 to S3 is determined.

[0073] For example, a user may input to the reception unit 11 the desired color of a tile carpet as "blue," the pattern as "striped," the shape as "rectangle," and the area of ​​the area to be laid as "100 m2." 2 When the user inputs "C" and "D", the matching unit 12 can determine an appropriate TCP set that matches these characteristics, number and quality.

[0074] Note that the data configuration of the database 20 is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. For example, in FIG. 4, the quality data may omit one or two of the quality rank, the number of uses, and the usage period. Further, the quality data may include information indicating at least one of aesthetics and physical properties. For example, in FIG. 5, the product rank may be the price of a new product instead of ranks such as high grade and middle grade.

[0075] <S5: Output Process> Referring again to FIG. 2, in S5, the output unit 13 outputs the information of the TCP set determined in S4 to the user. The output unit 13 acquires, for example, the features, the number of sheets, and the quality data of the TCP associated with the set ID determined in S4 from the database 20, and causes the user terminal 30 to display the information indicated by the acquired data.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the user terminal 30 by the output unit 13. In the example of FIG. 6, the TCP sets determined in S4 are listed. For each TCP set, the product number, the external view of the tile carpet surface, the price of a new product, the subscription fee, the size, the number of sheets, and information indicating the quality of the carpet, that is, "quality information" are displayed. The quality information includes, in addition to the quality rank which is information obtained by evaluating and ranking the quality, the number of past use years, the degree of color fading (aesthetic information), and the degree of sagging (physical property information).

[0077] The subscription fee is a fee that occurs when receiving the provision of the TCP set in the subscription method. For example, the subscription fee may be calculated based on the quality data of the target TCP set. In this case, the subscription fee may be calculated so as to be lower as the degree of deterioration due to the use of the TCP set is greater. Further, the calculated subscription fee may be a fee including the cost of the construction work for laying the TCP set.

[0078] An "Order" button is displayed for each TCP set on the screen in Fig. 6. When the user presses the "Order" button, a screen (not shown) for inputting information for ordering the corresponding TCP set is displayed.

[0079] <Example when desired construction date data is entered> In the input area K4 of the screen shown in FIG. 3, it is possible to input the desired time for installation of the tile carpet provided by the subscription system. In this way, the reception unit 11 can receive input of desired installation time data indicating the desired time for installation of the tile carpet from the user. For example, input of the desired start date and the desired start and end date of installation is received. In this case, the database 20 further records schedule data indicating the time when the tile carpet installer is available for installation. In addition, it is also possible to allow the user to input not only a first choice but also a second choice for the desired time for installation.

[0080] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of schedule data in the database 20. In the example of Fig. 7, possible construction dates are recorded in association with contractor IDs for individually identifying each contractor. Note that contractors are not limited to natural persons, and may be corporations.

[0081] The matching unit 12 can determine an installer who can perform the work at the desired work time based on the desired work time indicated by the desired work time data and the available work time of the installer indicated by the schedule data in the database 20. The output unit 13 outputs information on the TCP set determined by the matching unit 12, as well as information on the installer who can perform the TCP set at the desired work time.

[0082] The TCP subscription system 10 may include an interface (available construction time receiving unit) for receiving input of the possible construction time from the builder. The possible construction time input in the possible construction time receiving unit is recorded in the database 20 in association with the builder ID of the builder who inputted it. This information on the possible construction time may be updated as appropriate. The possible construction time may be updated at any time, for example, when the schedule of each builder changes, or may be updated periodically, such as every day or every few hours.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 7, the database 20 may store information on ranking the construction technique of each contractor. The ranking may be set by an administrator of the system, or may reflect user evaluation. This allows an appropriate contractor to be selected even for a room with a complex shape or construction requiring complex pasting. In this case, the reception unit 11 may receive input of desired contractor level data indicating the required level of the contractor, such as the technical level of the contractor or the difficulty level of the construction. The matching unit 12 extracts contractors from the database whose rank matches the level indicated by the desired contractor level data.

[0084] Furthermore, without being limited to the example shown in FIG. 7, information on the user's desired construction time may be sent to each contractor, and a contractor may be selected from those who have applied. This has the advantage that a contractor can be selected without the trouble of updating schedule data. In this case, the matching unit 12 presents the desired construction time indicating the desired construction instruction data, and can accept application input from the contractor. The output unit 13 outputs information on the contractors who have applied to the user.

[0085] The matching unit 12 may use a system that matches the construction time desired by the user with the construction available date of each contractor. By using AI in this matching process, it is possible to perform matching with higher accuracy.

[0086] <Example when desired labeling data is entered> The screen shown in FIG. 3 displays a "separate application" button. When the "separate application" button is pressed, a screen is displayed that accepts input of desired separation data. Separation refers to laying multiple types of tile carpet in one installation area. The desired separation data includes, for example, data indicating a desire for separation and the method of separation. The method of separation refers to the arrangement of multiple types of tile carpet in the installation area.

[0087] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen that accepts input of desired separation data. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the shape of the laying area (for example, the room where the carpet is laid) is shown by a solid line A2, and the carpet tiles to be laid at the laying area are shown by a dashed line B2. This shows the carpet tiles in a manner that allows the position of each carpet tile to be identified. The carpet tiles are also displayed in a state in which the user can specify the separation of each carpet tile. The carpet tiles displayed by the dashed line B2 can be determined based on the shape and dimensions of the carpet tiles indicated by the desired characteristic data input by the user, and the number of carpet tiles indicated by the desired quantity data, or the size of the laying area. The shape of the laying area indicated by the solid line A2 is determined based on input from the user. For example, the solid line A2 may be set based on the TCP amount input in the input area K2 of the screen in FIG. 3. Alternatively, the solid line A2 may be set based on data indicating the floor shape of the room that is directly input or uploaded by the user.

[0088] For example, the user can select a tile carpet at a position where a different type of tile carpet is to be applied, and specify the type of tile carpet to be applied at that position. That is, the reception unit 11 can receive the specification of the type of tile carpet and the position to apply it. This allows the input of data indicating how to apply the tile carpet from the user to be received.

[0089] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a different application type from that shown in FIG. 8 has been specified by the user. In the examples shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the user selects a tile carpet with cursor C1 and specifies the type of the tile carpet. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the tile carpet with a dot pattern is a different type from the tile carpet without a dot pattern. Although FIGS. 8 and 9 show an example in which two types of application types are specified, the receiving unit 11 may receive a specification of three or more types of application types.

[0090] When different carpet tiles are to be laid separately, the required number of each carpet tile or the area to be laid may be output and presented to the user. For example, the reception unit 11 may calculate the amount of each of the different carpet tiles to be laid separately based on the desired amount data and data indicating the method of laying input by the user, and present the amount to the user. The amount of carpet tiles is expressed, for example, by the number of pieces or the area to be laid.

[0091] <Carpet tiles> FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the front and back surfaces of a tile carpet 1. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the product number L1, the lot identification code L2, and the quality information L3 are engraved on the back surface of the tile carpet 1. In FIG. 10, "product number 1" is engraved as the product number L1, and "lot number 342" is engraved as the lot identification code L2. The period of use and the quality rank after each period of use are engraved as the quality information L3. The period of use is the period during which the tile carpet is provided to the user by subscription and is laid and used at the user's installation location. The quality rank indicates the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet evaluated from the end of the period of use to the next period of use. These marks are made, for example, by laser printing. In this way, by engraving the product number and the lot identification code on the back surface of the tile carpet, the worker can know the product number, lot, and quality of the removed tile carpet even if he does not have information on the tile carpet. Also, as shown in FIG. 10, by writing the product number, lot, and quality information in characters, the worker can see and understand the information even if he does not have a reader.

[0092] The quality information attached to the carpet tile is not limited to the example of FIG. 10. For example, either the period of use or the quality rank may be omitted. Also, information indicating the number of times of use or other degrees of deterioration may be attached to the carpet tile. The quality information may be added each time a subscription is used. In this way, information indicating the usage history is attached to the carpet tile as quality information. Also, information for accessing the quality information may be attached to the carpet tile instead of the quality information. The information for accessing the quality information may be, for example, information indicating the storage location of the data, such as a URL, as well as information identifying the quality information or other information that specifies the quality information. For example, information indicating the product number and lot, or information indicating the manufacturing plant and manufacturing date may also be information for accessing the quality information.

[0093] The marking of the product number, lot, and quality information on the carpet tile is one example of information identification means. Information identification means is not limited to marking. For example, the product number, lot, and quality information may be printed on the back of the carpet tile. For example, this information may be expressed as characters, barcodes, or two-dimensional codes (e.g., QR Code (registered trademark)). By printing (or marking) information in a machine-readable pattern such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, the amount of information per unit area can be increased compared to characters. In addition, since it is machine-readable, it is easy to digitize it. In addition, a data-readable recording medium such as an electronic tag may be embedded in the carpet tile, and the product number, lot, and quality information may be recorded on the recording medium. A large amount of information can be recorded by the electronic tag, and even if the carpet tile is dirty, it can be read. In addition, data can be easily written to the electronic tag.

[0094] FIG. 11 shows an RFID-equipped flooring material 1 (RFID-equipped tile carpet) in which an RFID 3 (an example of an electronic tag) is provided on a tile carpet having a preferred layer structure. 11, RFID-equipped flooring material 1 (RFID-equipped tile carpet) comprises a tile carpet 2B (flooring material 2), a recessed portion 5 opened on the back surface of the tile carpet 2B, and an RFID 3 housed in the recessed portion 5. The tile carpet 2B comprises, in order from the back surface side to the front surface side, a lower resin layer 21, a reinforcing layer 22, a surface layer 24 which is an upper resin layer, and a pile layer 26 in which pile yarns 262 are planted in a base fabric 261.

[0095] 11, recess 5 is formed in lower resin layer 21. Therefore, recess 5 is formed on the back surface side of reinforcing layer 22. Between the bottom surface of recess 5 and reinforcing layer 22, a layer of remaining lower resin layer 21 (resin layer 219 that is a part of lower resin layer 21) is interposed. The RFID 3 is attached to the bottom surface of the recessed portion 5 . The thickness of the resin layer 219 is, for example, 0.3 mm or more, preferably 0.6 mm or more, and more preferably 1.0 mm or more. If the thickness of the resin layer 219 is equal to or more than the lower limit, the strength of the recessed portion 5 can be maintained and the RFID 3 can be appropriately protected. The upper limit of the thickness of the resin layer 219 can be appropriately set within a range smaller than the thickness of the lower resin layer 21.

[0096] The recessed portion 5 as described above can be formed by, for example, a processing method such as scraping off a part of the lower resin layer 21 from the back surface 2a of the flooring material 2 (scraping off includes scraping off) or recessing a part of the lower resin layer 21 by pressing a hard convex jig against the back surface 2a of the flooring material 2. It is preferable to form the recessed portion 5 by scraping off a part of the lower resin layer 21, because the recessed portion does not return to its original shape and recessed portion 5 of the desired size can be easily formed at the desired position. A specific example of the processing method is cutting by milling, and examples of the device for performing the milling include a milling cutter, an end mill, and a side cutter.

[0097] In this way, the RFID-equipped flooring material includes a flooring material having an upper resin layer and a lower resin layer arranged on the back side of the upper resin layer, and an RFID attached to the flooring material. An open recess is formed on the back side of the flooring material, and the RFID is contained and held in the recess so that it does not protrude from the back side of the flooring material.

[0098] As described above, by attaching an information identification means to the tile carpet, it becomes easy to manage and store multiple TCP sets that can be provided by the subscription method so that each TCP set can be identified. Note that the information provided by the information identification means is not limited to the above example.

[0099] For example, information indicating the manufacturing factory and the date of manufacture may be provided by the information identification means. As an example, a symbol indicating the manufacturing factory and the date of manufacture may be printed on the back of the tile carpet. A group of tile carpets with the same manufacturing factory and date of manufacture, and the same product number and lot, are provided together on a subscription basis. The product number, lot, number of pieces and other information of the group of tile carpets being provided are recorded in a database. In this way, information about a group of tile carpets being provided on a subscription basis is managed in the database.

[0100] When the subscription-based provision period ends, the carpet tiles are collected. The collected carpet tiles are washed as necessary and then evaluated for quality. Carpet tiles having the same quality are extracted and are assigned a new identifier and managed as one TCP set. The database records the TCP set identifier (e.g., the set ID in FIG. 4), the product number, the number of pieces, and quality information in association with each other. At the storage location of the TCP set, for example, information indicating an identifier may be assigned to items stored in association with the TCP set (e.g., a pallet or shelf on which the TCP set is placed).

[0101] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a shelf in a storage location (stockyard) and tile carpets placed on the shelf. The tile carpets are removed from the installation location, washed as necessary, and then stored in the storage location to be provided by subscription. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the shelf 4 has an area to which the product number of the tile carpet is assigned. For example, the product number 1 is assigned to the area of ​​"E01" in the vertical row of the shelf. In the area of ​​each product number on the shelf 4, multiple tile carpets of the same lot and the same quality with the corresponding product number are loaded on the same pallet 33. That is, multiple tile carpets are grouped by lot and quality and loaded on each pallet 33. In this way, the tile carpets of the corresponding product number, the same lot, and the same quality are arranged in the area assigned to each product number so that they are loaded on the same pallet. This makes it possible to manage the tile carpets based on the product number and lot. For example, the work efficiency is improved when carrying out a tile carpet of a specific product number and lot. The shelf 4 may be movable.

[0102] In the above example, a group of tile carpets having the same lot, product number, and quality can be loaded and managed on the same pallet 33. Not limited to this, for example, a group of tile carpets having at least the same lot and quality can be loaded and managed on the same pallet 33. This makes it easy to manage a group of tile carpets having the same product number and quality as one TCP set. For example, a group of tile carpets having the same product number and quality can be managed as a TCP set in the above TCP subscription system 10. In this case, a group of tile carpets having at least the same product number and quality can be stored as a TCP set, and the product number, characteristics, number, and quality of each TCP set can be recorded in the database 20. Note that the aspect in which the quality of tile carpets is the same is not limited to the case where the degree of deterioration of aesthetics or physical properties is strictly the same, but also includes the case where the degree of deterioration is close enough to be considered equivalent as a subscription service product.

[0103] Information about the tile carpets stored in the storage location is registered in a database 20. The TCP subscription system manages data so that stored tile carpets with similar product numbers and quality can be recognized as TCP sets, accepts requests for tile carpets from users through a subscription system, and extracts and outputs information about TCP sets that match the requests. The TCP set desired by the user is shipped from the storage location at the time of installation. At this time, the desired TCP set may be transported by a person, or the TCP set may be transported automatically by a machine.

[0104] <Example of a TCP subscription system with a registration unit> FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a TCP subscription system 10 further including a registration unit 14 that registers information about stored tile carpets in a database 20. In the example shown in FIG. 13, the registration unit 14 accepts input of registration data for a TCP set from an administrator via an administrator terminal 40. The registration data includes information about a TCP set that is stored in a state that can be provided using a subscription method. The registration data includes, for example, product number, number of pieces, and quality data. The registration unit 14 accepts information about a group of tile carpets with the same product number and the same lot and that have the same quality as registration data for one TCP set.

[0105] The registration unit 14 records the data of the TCP set indicated by the input registration data in the database 20. The registration unit 14 assigns a new set ID, and records the product number, number of pieces, and quality data included in the registration data in association with the set ID in the database 20. As a result, for example, data of the TCP set as shown in FIG. 4 is registered in the database 20.

[0106] The registration data that the registration unit 14 accepts as input may include quality data read from the electronic tag of the tile carpet 1. In this case, the quality data or data for accessing the quality data (hereinafter simply referred to as quality data) is recorded in the electronic tag of the tile carpet 1. The quality data of the electronic tag of the tile carpet 1 is read by the reader 50 and transmitted to the registration unit 14 via the administrator terminal 40. At that time, the product number is also read from the electronic tag along with the quality data, and the product number is associated with the quality data and input to the registration unit 14 as registration data.

[0107] Instead of an electronic tag, a pattern such as characters, a barcode, or a two-dimensional code may be attached to the tile carpet 1 as information identification means. In this case, the reader 50 may be, for example, a camera or a barcode reader. The information identification means is attached to the tile carpet and holds and provides information about the tile carpet.

[0108] <Example of how carpet tiles are provided through a subscription system> FIG. 14 is a flow diagram showing an example of a method for providing tile carpets by a subscription system. The method shown in FIG. 14 includes a step (S11) of removing tile carpets laid in a facility. The laid tile carpets may be those provided and used by a subscription system, or those provided by other systems. Usually, a group of tile carpets of the same product number and the same lot are laid in the same laying location (room, floor, etc.). The tile carpets are affixed with information identification means such as the above-mentioned electronic tag or characters or patterns. The information identification means may provide information on the product number and lot. When removing a group of tile carpets, it is preferable to transport and store tile carpets of the same product number and lot together using information from the information identification means.

[0109] The removed tile carpet is washed as necessary (S12). The tile carpet is placed on a washing line and washed. The washing line may include a tile carpet transport device, a washing device, and an evaluation device. The washing line may determine the degree of contamination of the tile carpet before washing, and select those to be washed and those not to be washed based on the result of the determination. Depending on the condition of the tile carpet, the washing process (S12) itself may be omitted.

[0110] The method shown in FIG. 14 includes a step of evaluating the quality of the removed tile carpet (S13). The evaluation may be performed by a person or a machine. For example, the evaluation is performed by a computer judging the degree of deterioration based on images obtained by photographing the tile carpet with a camera while it is being transported on a cleaning line or the like, and / or the results of detection of the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet by a sensor. Also, instead of determining the degree of deterioration, the quality may be evaluated by obtaining the usage history (period of use or number of uses) of the tile carpet. In this case, the usage history becomes information representing the quality.

[0111] The quality information of the tile carpet evaluated in S13 may be added to the information identification means attached to the tile carpet. For example, the quality information may be added to the information identification means by printing on the back of the tile carpet or writing on an electronic tag. For example, the information identification means may be the quality information engraved or printed on the back of the tile carpet. Alternatively, the quality information data may be written to an electronic tag provided as information identification means inside the tile carpet.

[0112] Also, instead of having the quality information stored in the tile carpet information identification means, information for accessing the quality information may be stored in the tile carpet information identification means. In this case, for example, the quality information is recorded in a computer system, and information for accessing the computer system is added to the tile carpet information identification means. Note that writing the quality information to the tile carpet information identification means may be omitted.

[0113] A group of tile carpets having at least the same product number and quality is stored in a state where it can be managed as one TCP set (S14). For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a group of tile carpets having the same product number, lot, and quality are placed on the same pallet 33.

[0114] A group of tile carpets having at least the same product number and quality is treated as one TCP set, and data indicating the product number, characteristics, number of pieces, and quality of the TCP set is registered in the database 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a set ID for identifying the TCP set is assigned to each TCP set. The data indicating the product number, characteristics, number of pieces, and quality is recorded in the database 20 in association with the set ID. This recording process may include human input, or may be performed automatically based on information read by the reader 50 from the information identification means of the tile carpets.

[0115] By repeating the processes of S11 to S15, a plurality of TCP sets are stored, and information on the plurality of TCP sets is recorded in the database 20. From the plurality of TCP sets recorded in the database 20, a TCP set to be provided by the subscription system in response to a request from a user is determined (S16). For example, the above-mentioned TCP subscription system 10 is used for the determination in S16. For example, in the process of S16, the computer can accept an input of conditions of the characteristics, quantity, and quality of the tile carpet desired to be provided by the subscription system from the user, extract a TCP set having the characteristics, quantity, and quality that meet the conditions from the database, and present it to the user. By accepting a designation of a TCP set from the user in response to this presentation, the computer can determine the TCP set to be provided by the subscription system. The TCP set determined in S16 is shipped from the storage location and laid at the laying location of the recipient (S17).

[0116] In this way, according to the method shown in FIG. 14, the quality of tile carpets that have been laid and then removed is evaluated, and a group of tile carpets with the same product number and quality is treated as one TCP set, and is recorded in the database 20 in association with the product number, number of pieces, and quality information. This allows management as a TCP set that can be provided by the subscription system. This makes it possible, for example, to provide a matching service using the above-mentioned TCP subscription system 10. In this way, the method for providing tile carpets by the subscription system includes a step of evaluating the quality of the removed tile carpets, a step of storing a group of tile carpets with the same product number and quality as one TCP set, a step of recording the product number, number of pieces, and quality of the TCP set in association with the TCP set in the database, and a step of determining a TCP set to be provided by the subscription system in response to a user's specification in response to a presentation of information on the TCP set recorded in the database. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 1. Carpet tiles 10. Carpet tile subscription system 11 Reception 12 Matching section 13 Output section 20 Database

Claims

1. A reception unit that receives from a user input of desired characteristic data indicating the characteristics of the tile carpet that the user wishes to receive on a subscription basis, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a matching unit which accesses a database of tile carpets that can be provided using the subscription system, in which a group of available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a tile carpet set, and which records, for each of the multiple tile carpet sets, data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the characteristics of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpet set as a reused product, and determines a tile carpet set that meets the conditions by comparing the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received by the receiving unit with the characteristics, number, and quality of the multiple tile carpet sets; A tile carpet subscription system comprising: an output unit that outputs information about the tile carpet set determined by the matching unit to the user.

2. The receiving unit receives, as the desired characteristic data, data including a desired product rank indicating a desired product grade of the tile carpet, and receives, as the desired quality data, data including a desired quality rank of a desired quality related to aesthetics or physical properties, In the database, data including a product rank as a feature of the tile carpet and data including a quality rank as the quality of the tile carpet are recorded in correspondence with each of the plurality of tile carpet sets, The tile carpet subscription system according to claim 1 , wherein the matching unit determines a tile carpet set associated with a product rank and a quality rank that satisfy the conditions of the desired product rank and desired quality rank accepted by the accepting unit.

3. In the database, usage history data including at least one of the number of times the tile carpet has been used or the period of use as the quality of the tile carpet is recorded in association with each of the plurality of tile carpet sets, The tile carpet subscription system described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the matching unit determines a tile carpet set associated with usage history data including at least one of the number of uses or the period of use that satisfies the conditions indicated by the desired quality data accepted by the accepting unit.

4. The tile carpet subscription system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the database records data on a plurality of available tile carpet sets, each set consisting of a plurality of tile carpets having the same product number and lot.

5. A reception process for receiving from a user input of desired characteristic data indicating the characteristics of the tile carpet that the user wishes to receive on a subscription basis, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a matching process which accesses a database of tile carpets that can be provided on a subscription basis, in which a group of available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a tile carpet set, and in which each of the multiple tile carpet sets is recorded in correspondence with data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the characteristics of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpet pieces, and the quality of the tile carpet set as a reused product, and determines a tile carpet set that meets the conditions by comparing the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received in the reception process with the characteristics, number, and quality of the multiple tile carpet sets; and an output process of outputting information on the tile carpet set determined in the matching process to the user.

6. A receiving process in which the computer receives from a user input of desired characteristic data indicating the characteristics of the tile carpet that the user wishes to receive on a subscription basis, desired quantity data indicating the desired quantity of the tile carpet, and desired quality data indicating the desired quality of the tile carpet; a matching process in which the computer accesses a database of tile carpets that can be provided on a subscription basis, in which a group of available tile carpets with the same product number are treated as a tile carpet set, and in which each of the multiple tile carpet sets is recorded in correspondence with data indicating the product number of the tile carpet, the characteristics of the tile carpet, the number of tile carpets, and the quality of the tile carpet set as a reused product, and determines a tile carpet set that meets the conditions by comparing the conditions indicated by the desired characteristic data, desired quantity data, and desired quality data received in the receiving process with the characteristics, number, and quality of the multiple tile carpet sets; A subscription tile carpet matching method comprising an output step in which the computer outputs information about the tile carpet set determined in the matching step to the user.

7. In the tile carpet subscription system according to claims 1 to 4, a tile carpet set that can be provided by subscription is provided, The database records data indicating the product numbers, characteristics, and number of tile carpets included in the tile carpet set, and the quality of the tile carpet set as a reused product, At least one tile carpet having an information identification means; The information identification means is attached to the tile carpet and provides quality information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet, which serves as the basis for data in the database indicating the quality of the tile carpet set as a reused product, or information for accessing the quality information.

8. The tile carpet set according to claim 7, the information identification means is an electronic tag, A tile carpet set in which quality information indicating the degree of deterioration of the tile carpet, or data indicating information for accessing the quality information, is recorded in the electronic tag.

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