Inventory management device, inventory management method and program

Abstract

To provide a technique suitable for management of an inventory situation of stored supplies for disaster.SOLUTION: According to the invention, there is provided an inventory management device 10 including: a calculation part 12 for calculating an inventory amount corresponding to each commodity classification code on the basis of information stored in storage means for storing the number of inventory and the commodity classification code of each commodity; and an output part 13 for outputting calculation result by the calculation part 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 20

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a product inventory management system that manages the inventory status (incoming number, etc.) and the shipping status (shipping number, etc.) for each product. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-127177 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There is a demand for technology to manage the inventory status of disaster stockpiles. By applying the technology described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to manage the number of each product stocked as disaster stockpiles. However, when managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiles, it is desirable to manage the inventory status of each specified product category, such as "drinking water" and "disposable diapers (size M)." The technology described in Patent Document 1 does not achieve this. An object of the present invention is to provide technology suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to the present invention, a storage means for storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the volume per unit of each product and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation means for calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes corresponding to each of the product category codes based on the product capacity information stored in the storage means, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product categories into the predetermined unit by using the usage amount per the predetermined unit; an output means for outputting a calculation result by the calculation means; An inventory control device is provided having:

[0006] Further, according to the present invention, The computer a storage step of storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the volume per unit of each product and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation step of calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes based on the product capacity information stored in the storage step, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes into the predetermined unit using the usage amount per predetermined unit; an output step of outputting a calculation result in the calculation step; An inventory control method is provided that performs the following:

[0007] Further, according to the present invention, Computer, a storage means for storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the volume per unit of each product and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation means for calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes corresponding to each of the product category codes based on the product capacity information stored in the storage means, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product categories into the predetermined unit by using the usage amount per the predetermined unit; an output means for outputting a calculation result by said calculation means; A program is provided to function as a Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, a technique suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster preparedness supplies is realized. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram conceptually illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an inventory management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of correspondence information according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of a receiving operation in this embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of a shipping operation in the present embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of information displayed on a terminal device operated by an operator. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of product volume information according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 is a conceptual diagram in which multiple product category codes corresponding to products of the same type but different volumes are associated with each other. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of usage information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is an example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of inventory information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is an example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] <<First embodiment>> First, an overview of the inventory management device of this embodiment will be described. The inventory management device stores the inventory quantity and product category code of each product. The inventory management device then calculates and outputs the inventory amount for each product category (product category code) based on this information. The inventory management device allows the user to grasp the inventory amount for each product category. The inventory management device of this embodiment is suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster preparedness supplies.

[0011] Next, the configuration of the inventory management device will be described in detail. First, an example of the hardware configuration of the inventory management device will be described. Each functional unit of the inventory management device of this embodiment is realized by any combination of hardware and software, centering on the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of any computer, memory, programs loaded into the memory, a storage unit such as a hard disk for storing the programs (programs stored in advance at the stage of shipping the device, as well as programs downloaded from storage media such as CDs (Compact Discs) or servers on the Internet, can be stored), and a network connection interface. Those skilled in the art will understand that there are various variations in the realization method and device.

[0012] Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of an inventory management device according to the present embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the inventory management device includes a processor 1A, a memory 2A, an input / output interface 3A, a peripheral circuit 4A, and a bus 5A. The peripheral circuit 4A includes various modules.

[0013] The bus 5A is a data transmission path for the processor 1A, memory 2A, peripheral circuit 4A, and input / output interface 3A to transmit and receive data to each other. The processor 1A is an arithmetic processing device such as a CPU or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The memory 2A is a memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a ROM (Read Only Memory). The input / output interface 3A includes interfaces for acquiring information from input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, microphone, physical key, touch panel display, code reader, etc.), external devices, external servers, external sensors, etc., and interfaces for outputting information to output devices (e.g., display, speaker, printer, mailer, etc.), external devices, external servers, etc. The processor 1A can issue commands to each module and perform calculations based on the results of those calculations.

[0014] Next, the functional configuration of the inventory management device will be described. An example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device 10 is shown in Fig. 2. As shown in the figure, the inventory management device 10 has a storage unit 11, a calculation unit 12, an output unit 13, an acquisition unit 14, an assignment unit 15, and an update unit 16.

[0015] It should be noted that the inventory management device 10 does not need to have the storage unit 11. In this case, an external device configured to be able to communicate with the inventory management device 10 includes the storage unit 11. The inventory management device 10 and the external device are configured to be able to communicate with each other. The inventory management device 10 then accesses the information stored in the storage unit 11 and executes a predetermined process. This premise is the same in all of the following embodiments.

[0016] The memory unit 11 stores the number of items in stock and the product category code of each item. The memory unit 11 can store the number of items in stock in each of a plurality of storage locations. There are no particular limitations on the form in which this information is stored. In this embodiment, the memory unit 11 stores inventory information in which the product code, the number of items in stock, and the product category code of each item are associated with each other.

[0017] 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of inventory information stored in the storage unit 11. The illustrated inventory information associates an arrival code, an arrival date, a product code, a product name, an arrival quantity, a product category code, an expiration date, a storage location, a shipping code, a shipping date, and a shipping quantity with each other. Note that the inventory information may further include other information, or may not include some of the information shown as an example.

[0018] The inventory information is updated according to the receipt process and the shipping process. The updating of the inventory information is realized by the acquisition unit 14, the assignment unit 15, and the update unit 16. Below, each functional unit will be explained separately for the receipt process and the shipping process.

[0019] <Receiving Processing> The acquiring unit 14 acquires arrival information including the code (item code) of the received item and the number of items received (number of items received). The arrival information may further include other information such as the product name, expiration date, storage location, arrival code, etc. of each received item.

[0020] For example, when goods arrive, the worker performs a receiving operation. During the receiving operation, the worker inputs receiving information into a terminal device equipped with a communication function, and transmits the information to the inventory management device 10.

[0021] The terminal device may have a function for reading codes such as bar codes, two-dimensional codes, etc. Then, input of arrival information to the terminal device may be realized by having the terminal device read a code (such as a bar code or a two-dimensional code) attached to each product, the packaging of each product, or a container containing multiple products.

[0022] In addition, the terminal device may include an input device such as a touch panel display, physical keys, etc. Input of arrival information to the terminal device may be realized by direct input via these input devices.

[0023] In addition, the worker may combine the above two input means to input multiple types of information to the terminal device. The terminal device may be a smartphone or a tablet, or may be a dedicated terminal device compatible with the inventory management device 10.

[0024] The assigning unit 15 assigns a product category code corresponding to the product code included in the arrival information to the arrival information. The assigning unit 15 identifies a product category code corresponding to the product code included in the arrival information based on correspondence information that associates the product code with the product category code. Then, the assigning unit 15 assigns the identified product category code to the arrival information.

[0025] Here, the correspondence information will be explained. The correspondence information is information that associates a product code with a product category code. In other words, it is information that associates each product with the product category to which each product belongs. An example of the correspondence information is shown in FIG. 4. The storage unit 11 can store the correspondence information.

[0026] How to define product categories is a design matter. Examples of product categories include "drinking water," "paper diapers (size S)," "paper diapers (size M)," "paper diapers (size L)," and "crackers." Products of the same type but with different volumes may be placed in different product categories. Examples of product categories in this case include "drinking water: 2 liters," "drinking water: 500 ml," "paper diapers (size S): pack of 50," and "paper diapers (size S): pack of 100."

[0027] The update unit 16 updates the inventory information based on the arrival information to which the product category code has been assigned. That is, the update unit 16 adds new arrival information to the inventory information as shown in Fig. 3. Note that when new arrival information is added, the shipping-related information (shipping code, shipping date, number of items shipped, etc. shown in the figure) may be left blank.

[0028] Here, an example of receiving work will be explained using the flow in Figure 5. As shown in (1), the supplier (vendor) replies with a response to the order received from the recipient (whether the order can be accepted, delivery date, etc.). Then, as shown in (2), the recipient checks the response from the supplier and registers it in its own system. This allows the ordering information and the response to be accumulated.

[0029] As shown in (3) and (4), when the goods arrive at the receiving destination, a worker at the receiving destination performs the receiving process. For example, the worker performing the receiving process operates a terminal device to display a login screen for the website of a specified service (stockpiled goods management service) (see Figure 6). The worker enters a user ID (identifier) ​​and password on the login screen and presses the "Login button." The entered user ID and password are then sent to the web server. The web server performs authentication processing based on the received information. If authentication is successful, the web server sends a menu screen such as that shown in Figure 7 to the terminal device.

[0030] The worker performing the receiving work presses the "received goods button" on the menu screen shown in Fig. 7. This is then transmitted from the terminal device to the web server. In response, the web server returns specified information to the terminal device. As a result, the information shown in Fig. 8 is displayed on the terminal device.

[0031] The information shown in Fig. 8 includes an "Arrival Location Selection" item and an "Arrival Schedule Confirmation" item. The arrival location selection item accepts the selection of the arrival location (the storage location of the product). In the figure, the selection of the arrival location is accepted using a drop-down list, but other GUI (graphical user interface) components may also be used.

[0032] When one receiving base is selected, the expected arrival information for that receiving base is displayed. In Figure 8, three pieces of expected arrival information are displayed in order of the expected arrival date closest to the current date. Each piece contains the "expected arrival date," "supplier," "receipt slip number (receipt code)," and "number of units." Multiple pieces of expected arrival information are divided by receipt slip number. This display can be realized based on accumulated information such as order information to suppliers and responses from suppliers to orders.

[0033] The worker performing the receiving operation selects the receiving base where the receiving operation will be performed on the screen shown in Fig. 8, and then selects the scheduled arrival information corresponding to the product for which the receiving operation will be performed in the "Confirm Scheduled Arrival" item. Then, as shown in Fig. 9, detailed information corresponding to the selected scheduled arrival information is displayed on the terminal device. After checking the detailed information, the worker presses the "Inspection button." Then, as shown in Fig. 10, a screen for inputting information (receiving information) related to the product that has actually been received is displayed on the terminal device.

[0034] The worker may directly input arrival information such as the product name, product code, and expiration date of the received product. Alternatively, the worker may input arrival information by reading a code (such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code) attached to the received product, the product's packaging, or a container that holds multiple products. In this case, the worker presses the "camera start button" on the screen shown in Fig. 10. This starts the camera function of the terminal device, and a screen such as that shown in Fig. 11 is displayed on the terminal device.

[0035] The screen shown in Fig. 11 includes a viewfinder. A frame W is displayed in the viewfinder. The worker adjusts the direction of the camera (terminal device) to display the inspection object in the viewfinder and to fit the code given to the inspection object within the frame W. Then, while maintaining this state, the worker presses the "shoot button."

[0036] The terminal device then analyzes the photographed code and extracts the required information. The screen displayed on the terminal device returns to Fig. 10. At this time, the arrival information extracted from the code (e.g. product name, product code, expiration date, etc.) is displayed in a specified input field (not shown).

[0037] After inputting the arrival information on the screen shown in Fig. 10, the worker presses the "Complete button." The terminal device then transmits the input arrival information to the inventory management device 10. The acquisition unit 14 of the inventory management device 10 acquires the arrival information transmitted from the terminal device in this manner.

[0038] In addition, if a code (such as a barcode or two-dimensional code) is affixed to a container that holds multiple products, it is preferable because the work of opening the container during receiving operations can be omitted. It is also preferable because the work of opening the container during shipping operations and inventory operations can be omitted. The code may be affixed to the container by the supplier as shown in FIG. 5 (6), or it may be affixed at the receiving end as shown in FIG. 5 (5). The code affixed to a container that holds multiple products indicates information indicating the products contained in the container, information indicating the number of products, etc. (hereinafter the same).

[0039] <Shipping process> The acquisition unit 14 acquires shipping information (the former) including the code of the product to be shipped (product code) and the number of items to be shipped (shipped number). The shipping information may further include other information such as the shipping code, the product name of each product to be shipped, the arrival code of each product to be shipped at the time of arrival, the expiration date, and the storage location.

[0040] For example, a worker performs a shipping operation in response to the shipment of a product. In the shipping operation, the worker inputs shipping information into a terminal device equipped with a communication function, and causes the terminal device to transmit the shipping information to the inventory management device 10.

[0041] The terminal device may have a function for reading codes such as bar codes, two-dimensional codes, etc. Then, input of shipping information to the terminal device may be realized by having the terminal device read a code (such as a bar code or a two-dimensional code) attached to each product, the packaging of each product, or a container containing multiple products.

[0042] Additionally, the terminal device may include an input device such as a touch panel display, physical keys, etc. The shipping information may be input to the terminal device by direct input via these input devices.

[0043] In addition, the worker may combine the above two input means to input multiple types of information to the terminal device. The terminal device may be a smartphone or a dedicated terminal device compatible with the inventory management device 10.

[0044] The update unit 16 updates the inventory information based on the shipping information. That is, the update unit 16 adds new shipping information to the inventory information as shown in FIG.

[0045] Here, an example of shipping work will be described using the flow in Figure 12. As shown in (1), the shipping base registers shipping schedule information in its own system. As shown in (2), workers who perform shipping work pick items based on the registered shipping schedule information.

[0046] Then, the worker performing the shipping operation registers the shipment as shown in (3). For example, the worker performing the shipping operation operates a terminal device to display a login screen for the website of a specified service (stockpiled goods management service) (see Figure 6). The worker enters a user ID and password on the login screen and presses the "Login button." The entered user ID and password are then sent to the web server. The web server performs authentication processing based on the received information. If authentication is successful, the web server sends a menu screen such as that shown in Figure 7 to the terminal device.

[0047] The worker performing the shipping operation presses the "Shipping button" on the menu screen shown in Fig. 7. This is then transmitted from the terminal device to the web server. In response, the web server returns specified information to the terminal device. As a result, the information shown in Fig. 13 is displayed on the terminal device.

[0048] The information shown in FIG. 13 includes a "Shipping base selection" item and a "Shipping schedule confirmation" item. The shipping base selection item accepts the selection of a shipping base. In the figure, the selection of the shipping base is accepted using a drop-down list, but other GUI components may be used. When one shipping base is selected, shipping schedule information for that base is displayed. In FIG. 13, three pieces of shipping schedule information are displayed in order of the scheduled shipping date closest to the present. Each piece includes "scheduled shipping date," "shipping destination," "shipping slip number (shipping code)," and "total number of items issued." The multiple pieces of shipping schedule information are divided by shipping slip number. These displays can be realized based on accumulated information such as order information from shipping destinations and replies to suppliers regarding orders.

[0049] The worker performing the shipping operation selects the shipping base where the shipping operation will be performed on the screen shown in FIG. 13, and then selects the shipping schedule information corresponding to the product to be shipped in the "Confirm Shipping Schedule" item. Then, as shown in FIG. 14, detailed information corresponding to the selected shipping schedule information is displayed on the terminal device. After checking the detailed information, the worker presses the "Inspection button." Then, as shown in FIG. 10, a screen for inputting information (shipping information) related to the product to be actually shipped (or the product that has actually been shipped) is displayed on the terminal device.

[0050] A worker performing shipping operations may manually input shipping information such as the product name, product code, and expiration date of the product to be shipped (or that has been shipped). Alternatively, a worker performing shipping operations may input shipping information by reading a code (such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code) attached to the product to be shipped, the product's packaging, or a container that holds multiple products. In this case, the worker presses the "camera start button" on the screen shown in FIG. 10. This starts the camera function of the terminal device, and a screen such as that shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the terminal device.

[0051] The screen shown in Fig. 11 includes a viewfinder. A frame W is displayed in the viewfinder. The worker adjusts the direction of the camera (terminal device) to display the inspection object in the viewfinder and to fit the code given to the inspection object within the frame W. Then, while maintaining this state, the worker presses the "shoot button."

[0052] The terminal device then analyzes the photographed code and extracts the specified information. The screen displayed on the terminal device returns to Fig. 10. At this time, the shipping information extracted from the code (e.g. product name, product code, expiration date, etc.) is displayed in a specified input field (not shown).

[0053] After inputting the shipping information on the screen shown in Fig. 10, the worker presses the "Complete button." The terminal device then transmits the input shipping information to the inventory management device 10. The acquisition unit 14 of the inventory management device 10 acquires the shipping information transmitted from the terminal device in this manner.

[0054] If there are no problems, the product is then shipped, as shown in (4) of Figure 12. In addition, the fact that it has been shipped and the product's tracking data are registered in the system as needed, and the recipient can check this information, as shown in (5) of Figure 12.

[0055] Next, according to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, an inventory inquiry can be performed based on the inventory information stored in the storage unit 11. According to the inventory management device 10, an inventory inquiry can be performed for each product category. The inventory inquiry is realized by the calculation unit 12 and the output unit 13.

[0056] The calculation unit 12 calculates the inventory amount corresponding to each product category code, i.e., the inventory amount for each product category, based on the information (e.g., inventory information) stored in the storage unit 11. The output unit 13 outputs the calculation results by the calculation unit 12. The output by the output unit 13 is realized via any output device such as a display, a mailer, a printer, or a projection device.

[0057] The calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount for each product category each time the inventory information is updated, and store the results in the memory unit 11. Then, the output unit 13 may output the calculation results stored in the memory unit 11. Alternatively, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount for each product category before outputting each time the output unit 13 outputs the information. Then, the output unit 13 may output the calculation result calculated immediately before by the calculation unit 12. The output unit 13 outputs the inventory amount for each product category in response to a request from a user, for example.

[0058] Here, an example of the information (inventory amount) calculated by the calculation unit 12 will be described.

[0059] <Calculation example 1> The calculation unit 12 may calculate the total inventory quantity for each product category by adding up the inventory quantities of multiple products that have the same product category code.

[0060] <Calculation example 2> The calculation unit 12 may calculate the total inventory volume for each category corresponding to each product category code, based on product volume information indicating the volume per unit of each product for each product code or for each product category code.

[0061] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a schematic example of product volume information. In the example shown, the volume per unit of each product is shown for each product category code. The volume is expressed in various units such as "l (liter)", "ml (milliliter)", "pieces", "pieces", etc. The calculation unit 12 can calculate the product of the total number of stock items for each product category and the volume per unit of the product corresponding to each product category as the total stock volume for each category. The storage unit 11 may store product volume information.

[0062] <Calculation example 3> There are products of the same type but different volumes. In this embodiment, products of the same type but different volumes are classified into different product categories and assigned different product category codes. Examples of product categories in this case include "drinking water: 2 liters" and "drinking water: 500 ml", and "paper diapers (size S): pack of 50" and "paper diapers (size S): pack of 100".

[0063] In consideration of such a situation, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the total inventory volume for each product type by adding up the total inventory volumes for each category for a plurality of product category codes of the same type but different volumes.

[0064] For example, if the total inventory volume by category for "drinking water: 2L" is "1000L" and the total inventory volume by category for "drinking water: 500ml" is "500L", the calculation unit 12 can add these together to calculate "1500L" as the total inventory volume by product type for the product type "drinking water".

[0065] In this case, the storage unit 11 may store a plurality of product category codes corresponding to products of the same type but different capacities in association with each other. The calculation unit 12 may then use this information to calculate the total inventory capacity for each product type. Fig. 16 shows a conceptual diagram in which a plurality of product category codes corresponding to products of the same type but different capacities are associated with each other. In the illustrated example, product category code 000001 and product category code 000002 are associated with each other as products of the same type but different capacities.

[0066] <Calculation example 4> The storage unit 11 may store usage information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit for each product category code or for each product of the same type. An example of the usage information is shown in FIG. 17. Examples of the usage amount per predetermined unit include, but are not limited to, "usage amount per meal," "usage amount per person," and "usage amount per day."

[0067] Then, the calculation unit 12 converts the total inventory volume for each category or the total inventory volume for each product type into the specified unit based on the usage information. That is, the calculation unit 12 divides the total inventory volume for each category or the total inventory volume for each product type by the usage per specified unit. As a result, the inventory volume is expressed in the specified unit, such as "xx servings," "xx servings," "xx days," etc.

[0068] <Calculation example 5> The calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount of products whose remaining days until the expiration date are below a reference value (design item) among the inventory amounts (total inventory quantity, total inventory capacity per category, total inventory capacity per product type, amount expressed in the above-mentioned predetermined unit) for each product category calculated in calculation examples 1 to 4. In other words, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount of products whose remaining days until the expiration date are below a reference value (design item) for each product category.

[0069] In addition, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount of products whose remaining number of days until the expiration date exceeds a reference value (design item) among the inventory amounts for each product category (total inventory quantity, total inventory capacity for each category, total inventory capacity for each product type, and amounts expressed in the above-mentioned predetermined units) calculated in calculation examples 1 to 4. In other words, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount of products whose remaining number of days until the expiration date exceeds a reference value (design item) for each product category.

[0070] <Calculation example 6> The calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount calculated in the calculation examples 1 to 5 for each storage location. Alternatively, the calculation unit 12 may calculate the inventory amount calculated in the calculation examples 1 to 5 for all storage locations collectively.

[0071] The output unit 13 outputs the calculation result calculated based on, for example, calculation examples 1 to 6. The output unit 13 may output the calculation result for one storage location specified by the user, or may collectively display the calculation results for multiple storage locations. The output unit 13 may display the calculation result by the calculation unit 12 in a table format, may map the calculation result on a map in association with the storage location of the inventory, or may display the calculation result in another format.

[0072] Next, the effects of the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment will be described.

[0073] According to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, the user can grasp the inventory amount for each product category. When managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiled supplies, it is desirable to manage the inventory status for each specified product category, such as "drinking water" and "disposable diapers (size M)." According to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, such a desired inventory status can be managed. In other words, the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment is a device suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiled supplies.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, the inventory amount of disaster stockpiled supplies can be managed in units suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiled supplies. For example, the inventory management device 10 can manage the total inventory capacity for each product category, the total inventory capacity for each product type, or a predetermined unit amount calculated by dividing these amounts by the usage amount per predetermined unit (e.g., "xx meals," "xx people," "xx days," etc.). Since the capacity may differ for each product, the amount that can actually be used in the event of a disaster cannot be accurately grasped by only managing the number of stock items. The inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, which can manage the inventory amount by the total capacity or the above-mentioned predetermined unit, is a device suitable for managing the inventory status of disaster stockpiled supplies.

[0075] In addition, the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment has a function of calculating a product category code from a predetermined product code (assignment unit 15). Therefore, an operator does not need to associate a product category code with an item in stock.

[0076] Furthermore, the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment can calculate and output, for each product category, the amount of inventory that is close to the expiration date and the amount of inventory that has a sufficient margin until the expiration date. With this information, the manager who manages the inventory can easily grasp, for each product category, the amount that should be used quickly to avoid disposal due to expiration, the amount that should be newly replenished due to disposal, the amount that can be secured without newly replenishment, etc.

[0077] Furthermore, the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment can grasp the inventory amount for each product category for each storage location. For example, the inventory management device 10 can map the inventory amount in association with the storage location of the inventory on a map and output the map. With such information, the manager who manages the inventory can easily grasp the imbalance of inventory for each area and can optimize the inventory.

[0078] <<Second embodiment>> An example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment is illustrated in Figure 18. As illustrated, the inventory management device 10 has a storage unit 11, a calculation unit 12, an output unit 13, an acquisition unit 14, and an update unit 16. The configurations of the storage unit 11, the calculation unit 12, and the output unit 13 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Also, an example of the hardware configuration of the inventory management device 10 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0079] The acquiring unit 14 acquires arrival information including a product code, a product category code, and the number of items received. The acquiring unit 14 differs from the first embodiment in that the acquiring unit 14 acquires the product category code as the arrival information. The other configurations of the acquiring unit 14 are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0080] For example, a field for inputting a product category code may be provided on the input screen of Fig. 10, which is transitioned to by pressing an "inspection button" on the screen shown in Fig. 9. The product category code may be input into the field by reading a code (such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code) given to each product, the packaging of each product, or a container that holds multiple products, or the like, or may be input directly by an operator.

[0081] The update unit 16 updates the inventory information based on the arrival information acquired by the acquisition unit 14. That is, the update unit 16 adds new arrival information to the inventory information as shown in Fig. 3. When new arrival information is added, the shipping-related information (shipping code, shipping date, number of items shipped, etc. shown in the figure) may be left blank. The other configurations of the update unit 16 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0082] According to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the first embodiment.

[0083] <<Third embodiment>> An example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment is illustrated in Figure 18. As illustrated, the inventory management device 10 has a memory unit 11, a calculation unit 12, an output unit 13, an acquisition unit 14, and an update unit 16. The configurations of the calculation unit 12 and the output unit 13 are the same as those in the first and second embodiments. Also, an example of the hardware configuration of the inventory management device 10 is the same as that in the first and second embodiments.

[0084] The storage unit 11 stores the number of items in stock and the product category code of each item. The storage unit 11 of this embodiment stores inventory information that associates the product code of each item with the number of items in stock, and correspondence information that associates the product code with the product category code. The other configurations of the storage unit 11 are the same as those of the first and second embodiments.

[0085] An example of inventory information of this embodiment is shown in schematic form in Fig. 19. The inventory information shown in Fig. 19 differs from the inventory information shown in Fig. 3 in that it does not include a product category code. An example of the correspondence information is shown in Fig. 4.

[0086] The acquiring unit 14 acquires arrival information including the code (item code) of the received item and the number of items received (number of items received). The arrival information may further include other information such as the product name, expiration date, storage location, arrival code, etc. The configuration of the acquiring unit 14 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0087] The update unit 16 updates the inventory information shown in Fig. 19 based on the arrival information acquired by the acquisition unit 14. That is, the update unit 16 adds new arrival information to the inventory information as shown in Fig. 19. Note that when new arrival information is added, the shipping-related information (shipping code, shipping date, number of items shipped, etc. shown in the figure) may be left blank.

[0088] According to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the first and second embodiments.

[0089] <<Fourth embodiment>> An example of a functional block diagram of the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment is illustrated in Fig. 20. As illustrated, the inventory management device 10 has a calculation unit 12 and an output unit 13. The configurations of the calculation unit 12 and the output unit 13 are the same as those of the first to third embodiments. Also, an example of the hardware configuration of the inventory management device 10 is the same as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0090] In this embodiment, an external device different from the inventory management device 10 has a memory unit 11, an acquisition unit 14, and an update unit 16. The external device may further have an assignment unit 15. The inventory management device 10 and the external device are configured to be able to communicate with each other. Then, the inventory management device 10 performs a predetermined calculation and outputs the calculation result based on the information stored in the memory unit 11 of the external device.

[0091] According to the inventory management device 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve the same effects as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0092] Below, examples of reference forms are given. 1. A calculation means for calculating an inventory quantity corresponding to each of the product category codes based on information stored in a storage means for storing the inventory quantity and product category codes of each product; an output means for outputting a calculation result by the calculation means; An inventory management device having the following: 2. In the inventory management device according to claim 1, The storage means is an inventory management device that stores inventory information in which the product code of each product, the inventory quantity, and the product category code are associated with each other. 3. In the inventory management device according to 2, An acquisition means for acquiring arrival information including the product code and the number of arrivals; an assigning means for assigning the product category code corresponding to the product code included in the arrival information to the arrival information; an updating means for updating the inventory information based on the arrival information to which the product category code is assigned; The inventory control device further comprises: 4. In the inventory management device according to claim 3, The assignment means is an inventory management device that identifies the product category code corresponding to the product code included in the arrival information based on correspondence information that associates the product code with the product category code, and assigns the identified product category code to the arrival information. 5. In the inventory management device according to 2, An acquisition means for acquiring arrival information including the product code, the product category code, and the number of arrivals; updating means for updating the inventory information based on the arrival information; The inventory control device further comprises: 6. In the inventory management device according to claim 1, The storage means is an inventory management device that stores inventory information that associates the product code of each product with the inventory quantity, and correspondence information that associates the product code with the product category code. 7. In the inventory management device according to 6, An acquisition means for acquiring arrival information including the product code and the number of arrivals; updating means for updating the inventory information based on the arrival information; The inventory control device further comprises: 8. In the inventory management device according to any one of 1 to 7, the storage means stores product volume information indicating a volume per unit of each product for each product code or each product category code; The calculation means is an inventory management device that calculates a total inventory capacity for each category corresponding to each of the product category codes based on the information stored in the storage means. 9. In the inventory management device according to claim 8, Products of the same type but different volumes are assigned different product category codes, the storage means stores a plurality of the product category codes corresponding to products of the same type but different capacities in association with each other; The calculation means is an inventory management device that calculates a total inventory capacity for each product type by adding up the total inventory capacities for each category corresponding to a plurality of product category codes of the same type but different capacities. 10. In the inventory management device according to claim 8 or 9, The storage means stores usage amount information indicating a usage amount per predetermined unit for each of the product category codes or for each of the same type of products, The calculation means is an inventory management device that converts the total inventory capacity for each category or the total inventory capacity for each product type into the predetermined unit. 11. The computer: a calculation step of calculating an inventory quantity corresponding to each of the product category codes based on information stored in a storage means for storing the inventory quantity and product category codes of each product; an output step of outputting a calculation result in the calculation step; An inventory management method to carry out. 12. Computer A calculation means for calculating an inventory quantity corresponding to each of the product category codes based on information stored in a storage means for storing the inventory quantity and product category codes of each product; an output means for outputting a calculation result by said calculation means; A program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1A Processor 2A Memory 3A input / output I / F 4A Peripheral circuit 5A Bus 10 Inventory management device 11 Storage section 12 Calculation section 13 Output section 14 Acquisition Department 15 Granting Department 16 Update section

Claims

1. a storage means for storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the number of products in stock, the volume per product, and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation means for calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes based on the inventory quantity and the product capacity information stored in the storage means, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes into the predetermined unit by using the usage amount per the predetermined unit; an output means for outputting a calculation result by the calculation means; An inventory management device having the following:

2. The storage means stores the expiration date of each product, The calculation means calculates the total inventory volume for each category of products whose remaining days until the expiration date are below a reference value, and converts the total inventory volume for each category into the predetermined unit. The inventory management device according to claim 1 .

3. The storage means stores the expiration date of each product, The calculation means calculates a total inventory volume for each category of products whose remaining days until the expiration date exceed a reference value, and converts the total inventory volume for each category into the predetermined unit. The inventory management device according to claim 1 .

4. The storage means stores the storage location of each product, The calculation means calculates a total inventory volume of the product stored in each storage location for each storage location, and converts the total inventory volume of the product stored in each storage location into the predetermined unit.

4. The inventory management device according to claim 1.

5. The amount used per predetermined unit includes at least one of an amount used per meal, an amount used per person, and an amount used per day.

5. The inventory management device according to claim 1.

6. The computer a storage step of storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the number of stocked products of each product, the volume per product of each product, and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation step of calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes based on the inventory quantity and the product capacity information stored in the storage step, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes into the predetermined unit using the usage amount per predetermined unit; an output step of outputting a calculation result in the calculation step; An inventory management method to carry out.

7. Computer, a storage means for storing, for each product category code, product volume information indicating the number of stocked products of each product, the volume per product of each product, and usage amount information indicating the usage amount per predetermined unit; a calculation means for calculating a total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes based on the inventory quantity and the product capacity information stored in the storage means, and converting the total inventory capacity for each of the product category codes into the predetermined unit by using the usage amount per the predetermined unit; an output means for outputting a calculation result by said calculation means; A program that functions as a

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