Delivery information management method, information processing device, and computer program

Abstract

To provide a delivery information management method or the like configured to efficiently manage information on delivery.SOLUTION: A delivery information management method causes a computer to execute processing of: acquiring order information for specifying a delivery order issued from a user to a seller to which a heat-retention / cool-retention container having a lock mechanism and a temperature sensor for detecting internal temperature is distributed in advance, and from the seller, heat-retention / cool-retention container information for specifying a heat-retention / cool-retention container to be used for the delivery related to the order information, in association with each other; acquiring key information for unlocking the lock mechanism of the heat-retention / cool-retention container corresponding to the acquired order information and the heat-retention / cool retention container information; transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user; and acquiring unlocking information of the lock mechanism and temperature information detected by the temperature sensor via the user terminal device of the user after the heat-retention / cool-retention container locked by the lock mechanism is delivered to the user and the lock mechanism is released with the key information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present technology relates to a delivery information management method, an information processing device, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] With the spread of the Internet, online shopping, in which orders for various products such as food, daily necessities, and clothing are accepted online and delivered to the user's home, is becoming more and more popular. In addition, delivery systems have been proposed for delivering products purchased through online shopping to users.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses a delivery system (distribution system) in which even if the owner and user of a delivery box are separate entities, the delivery box sends a registration request to enable the user to use the delivery box, allowing the user to easily use the delivery box without the user having to negotiate directly with the owner or the owner's agent. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6647691 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the home delivery system described in Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration efficient management of information related to delivery.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a delivery information management method and the like that can efficiently manage information related to delivery. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A delivery information management method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes distributing an insulated / cold-insulated container having a locking mechanism and a temperature sensor that detects the internal temperature to a retailer in advance, obtaining from the retailer order information that identifies a delivery order from a user to the retailer and insulated / cold-insulated container information that identifies the insulated / cold-insulated container to be used for the delivery related to the order information in association with each other, obtaining key information for unlocking the locking mechanism of the insulated / cold-insulated container that corresponds to the obtained order information and insulated / cold-insulated container information, transmitting the obtained key information to a user terminal device of the user, and having a computer execute a process to obtain information on the release of the locking mechanism and temperature information detected by the temperature sensor via the user terminal device of the user after the insulated / cold-insulated container with the locking mechanism locked is delivered from the retailer to the user and the locking mechanism is unlocked using the key information.

[0008] A delivery information management method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes distributing an insulated / cold-insulated container having a locking mechanism and a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature to a user in advance, acquiring user information identifying the user in association with insulated / cold-insulated container information identifying the insulated / cold-insulated container distributed to the user, acquiring key information for unlocking the locking mechanism of the insulated / cold-insulated container corresponding to the acquired user information and insulated / cold-insulated container information, transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user identified by the user information, and having a computer execute a process to acquire information on the release of the locking mechanism and temperature information detected by the temperature sensor via the user terminal device of the user after the locking mechanism of the insulated / cold-insulated container, which contains an item ordered by the user to a retailer and has been locked by a delivery company, is unlocked using the key information.

[0009] A computer program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a process of acquiring key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of a thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism and a temperature sensor for detecting an internal temperature, outputting an unlocking command for the locking mechanism using the acquired key information, acquiring unlocking information for the locking mechanism and temperature information detected by the temperature sensor after the locking mechanism is unlocked in accordance with the output unlocking command, displaying screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information and temperature information on a display unit, and transmitting the acquired unlocking information and temperature information to a server computer.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, information regarding delivery can be efficiently managed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a delivery information management system in a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of each device included in the delivery information management system. [Diagram 3] 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a record layout of a container information DB. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a record layout of a key information DB. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a record layout of a history information DB. [Figure 6] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for generating a merchant key. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a user key generation process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for starting acquisition of temperature data. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for an unlocking operation process using a user key. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen for receiving a request for a user key. [Figure 11]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an unlocking screen for receiving an unlocking operation. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure after unlocking. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a delivery information management system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a delivery company terminal device. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a user key generation process in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a process of generating a delivery company key. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for an unlocking operation process using a delivery company key. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings showing embodiments thereof.

[0013] (First embodiment) 1 is a schematic diagram of a delivery information management system 100 in the first embodiment. The delivery information management system 100 includes an information processing device 1, a plurality of user terminal devices 2, a plurality of vendor devices 3, and a plurality of heat and cold storage containers 4. The information processing device 1, the user terminal device 2, and the vendor device 3 are each capable of transmitting and receiving information via a network N. The network N includes a public communication network, which is the so-called Internet, a carrier network provided by a carrier vendor, a wireless communication network, and the like.

[0014] The information processing device 1 is, for example, a server computer, and is capable of various information processing and information transmission and reception. The information processing device 1 is managed by a provider of a delivery information management service that manages delivery information related to the delivery of products in an online supermarket provided by a retailer. The information processing device 1 transmits and receives data to and from each of a user terminal device 2 and a retailer device 3, and executes processing related to the delivery information management service.

[0015] The user terminal device 2 is an information processing terminal having a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, etc. Each user of the online supermarket uses the user terminal device 2 to place an order for product delivery to the seller device 3. The user terminal device 2 receives various types of delivery information from the information processing device 1, including a user key for unlocking the thermal insulation container 4 used for product delivery.

[0016] Each of the seller devices 3 includes a seller terminal 300 and an EC server 301 connected to the seller terminal 300 by wire or wirelessly. The EC server 301 is a web server that provides an EC site for the seller. The EC server 301 provides an online supermarket where products including foods that require temperature control, such as vegetables, meat, and fish, can be purchased and delivered. The seller terminal 300 is an information processing terminal with a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a dedicated terminal. The seller uses the seller terminal 300 to confirm orders from users accepted via the EC server 301, unlock the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, and so on.

[0017] The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 is a storage container used when a product is delivered from a retailer to a user's home. The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 has a thermal insulation / cold storage function, and can maintain the internal temperature within a predetermined range from when the product is placed inside until it is taken out. By using the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4, the quality of the product can be maintained and it can be delivered to the user safely and securely, even for products that require proper temperature control, such as fresh foods.

[0018] The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 is composed of a box body 411 with a partly opening, and a lid body 412 for opening and closing the opening. The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 is configured to be freely foldable, and is stored in a folded state when not in use or when collected. The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 includes a control device 400, a locking mechanism 401, a temperature sensor 402, and a power supply unit 403. The locking mechanism 401 includes, for example, an electronic padlock, and locks and holds the opening of the box body 411 in a closed state. The locking mechanism 401 is unlocked by valid key information (digital key). By unlocking the locking mechanism 401 and opening the lid body 412, it is possible to put in and take out products through the opening of the box body 411. The configuration of the locking mechanism 401 is not limited, and it may be configured to have a locking function for the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 and to be able to release the locking function by key information. The locking mechanism 401 may be embedded in the box body 411, for example.

[0019] The temperature sensor 402 is provided, for example, on the inner wall of the box body 411, and detects the temperature inside the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 at a predetermined interval. The power supply unit 403 includes a power supply, such as a primary battery or a secondary battery, and a detection circuit for detecting the remaining power supply. The power supply unit 403 supplies power to each mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The control device 400 is connected to the locking mechanism 401, the temperature sensor 402, and the power supply unit 403. The control device 400 controls the locking / unlocking of the locking mechanism 401, acquires temperature data from the temperature sensor 402, and acquires the remaining battery power from the power supply unit 403. The control device 400 also has a communication function, and can transmit and receive information to and from the user terminal device 2 and the seller device 3. The thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 may further include a humidity sensor for detecting the humidity inside the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, an acceleration sensor for detecting the state of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, and the like.

[0020] The information processing device 1 manages key information for unlocking the locking mechanism 401 for all the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4. To use the delivery information management service, a plurality of thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 are distributed in advance to the online supermarket retailer. The user accesses the EC server 301 using the user terminal device 2, selects a desired product, and places an order for delivery of the product by specifying a desired delivery date and time. The retailer stores the product according to the order in the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 and locks the locking mechanism 401. The thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 is handed over to the delivery company and delivered to the user's home with the specified temperature maintained. When the user receives the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, the user unlocks the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 using the user key obtained from the information processing device 1 and takes out the product.

[0021] The information processing device 1 collects and manages delivery information related to delivery, including the locking / unlocking history of the locking mechanism 401 at the time of delivery, historical information such as temperature data inside the thermal / cold insulation container 4 and the remaining battery level of the thermal / cold insulation container 4, and key information. The information processing device 1 transmits the delivery information to the user terminal device 2 and the seller device 3. The user and the seller can use the user terminal device 2 and the seller device 3 to understand the status of the product at the time of delivery.

[0022] The configuration and detailed processing of such a delivery information management system 100 will be described below.

[0023] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of each device included in the delivery information management system 100. The information processing device 1 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 11, and a communication unit 12. The information processing device 1 may be a multi-computer consisting of multiple computers, or may be a virtual machine virtually constructed by software.

[0024] The control unit 10 is a processor using one or more CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), etc., and uses built-in memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory) to control each component and execute processing.

[0025] The storage unit 11 includes a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 11 stores programs and data referenced by the control unit 10, including the program 1P. The control unit 10 reads and executes the program 1P to cause a general-purpose server computer to function as an information processing device specific to the present disclosure. The storage unit 11 further stores a container information DB (Data Base) 111, a key information DB 112, and a history information DB 113.

[0026] The program 1P stored in the storage unit 11 may be recorded in a computer-readable manner on a recording medium. The storage unit 11 stores the program 1P read from the recording medium 1A by a reading device (not shown). The program 1P may also be downloaded from an external computer (not shown) connected to a communication network (not shown) and stored in the storage unit 11. The storage unit 11 may be composed of multiple storage devices, or may be an external storage device connected to the information processing device 1.

[0027] The communication unit 12 is a communication device for realizing communication via the network N. The control unit 10 can transmit and receive information between the user terminal device 2 and the seller device 3 via the network N by using the communication unit 12.

[0028] In this embodiment, the information processing device 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and may include, for example, a display unit that displays images, an operation unit that accepts operation input, and the like.

[0029] The user terminal device 2 includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, a first communication unit 22, a second communication unit 23, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, and a reading unit 26. The control unit 20 is a processor using one or more CPUs, GPUs, etc., and uses built-in memories such as ROM or RAM to control each component unit and execute processing.

[0030] The storage unit 21 includes a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The storage unit 21 stores programs and data referenced by the control unit 20, including the program 2P. For example, the program 2P is an application program for placing an order for delivery on an EC site. The program 2P includes a module for executing processes related to acquisition of key information and various information related to delivery. The module stores a host name for identifying the information processing device 1 and an application ID for identifying the application program (the program 2P) and ensuring the validity of the application program. The control unit 20 can execute a process for accessing the information processing device 1 by the function of the module. The program 2P stored in the storage unit 21 may be recorded in a computer-readable manner on a recording medium. The storage unit 21 stores the program 2P read from the recording medium 2A by a reading device not shown. The program 2P may also be downloaded from an external computer not shown connected to a communication network not shown and stored in the storage unit 21.

[0031] The first communication unit 22 is a communication device for realizing communication via the network N. The control unit 20 can transmit and receive information to and from the information processing device 1 via the network N by using the first communication unit 22. The second communication unit 23 is a communication device for realizing short-range wireless communication by a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Low Energy, or NFC (Near Field Communication). The control unit 20 can transmit and receive information to and from the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 by using the second communication unit 23. The control unit 20 may communicate with the control device 400 according to a communication standard such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0032] The display unit 24 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL display, etc. The operation unit 25 is an interface that accepts user operations, and includes, for example, physical buttons, a touch panel device with a built-in display, a speaker, a microphone, etc.

[0033] The reading unit 26 is a reading device that reads identification information (container ID) of an identification tag described later. The reading unit 26 is, for example, a wireless tag reader, a camera, a barcode reader, etc. The reading unit 26 notifies the control unit 20 of the read identification information.

[0034] The seller device 3 includes the seller terminal 300 and the EC server 301 as described above. The seller terminal 300 includes a control unit 30, a memory unit 31, a first communication unit 32, a second communication unit 33, a display unit 34, an operation unit 35, and a reading unit 36. The control unit 30 is a processor using one or more CPUs, GPUs, etc., and controls each component unit and executes processing using built-in memories such as ROM or RAM. The memory unit 31 includes a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The memory unit 31 stores programs and data referenced by the control unit 30. The hardware configuration of the seller terminal 300 is similar to that of the user terminal device 2, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0035] The control device 400 of the heat / cold insulation container 4 includes a control unit 40, a storage unit 41, a communication unit 42, and an input / output unit 43. The control unit 40 is a processor using one or more CPUs, GPUs, etc., and uses built-in memories such as ROM or RAM to control each component and execute processing.

[0036] The storage unit 41 includes a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The storage unit 41 stores programs and data referenced by the control unit 40. The programs stored in the storage unit 41 include a program for unlocking the locking mechanism 401.

[0037] The communication unit 42 is a communication device for realizing short-range wireless communication according to a communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Low Energy, NFC (Near Field Communication), etc. The control unit 40 can transmit and receive information between the user terminal device 2 and the seller terminal 300 via the communication unit 42.

[0038] The input / output unit 43 is an input / output interface that connects the locking mechanism 401, the temperature sensor 402, and the power supply unit 403. When the control unit 40 receives a command to unlock the locking mechanism 401 from an external device, the control unit 40 sends a control signal for unlocking the locking mechanism 401 to the locking mechanism 401 via the input / output unit 43. The control unit 40 acquires temperature data detected by the temperature sensor 402 via the input / output unit 43. The control unit 40 acquires the remaining battery level detected by the power supply unit 403 via the input / output unit 43.

[0039] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a record layout of the container information DB111. The container information DB111 is a database that stores information related to the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The container information DB111 stores thermal insulation / cold insulation container information and vendor information in association with each other. The thermal insulation / cold insulation container information is unique data issued for each thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, and is information for identifying (specifying) the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. In the example of FIG. 3, a container ID is stored in the thermal insulation / cold insulation container information string. The container ID may be associated with each thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 by, for example, attaching an identification tag including the container ID to the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The identification tag is, for example, an information tag such as an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, a QR code (registered trademark), or a barcode.

[0040] The seller information is information for identifying (specifying) a seller. In the example of FIG. 3, a seller ID is stored in the seller information column. When the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 is distributed to a seller, seller information related to the distributor to which the container is distributed is stored. The seller information is issued, for example, by a seller performing user registration when the seller uses the delivery information management service for the first time. The seller information may include a seller terminal ID for identifying the seller terminal 300, such as a device ID or a SIM number. The information processing device 1 acquires a container ID assigned to each thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 when providing the service, and stores the container ID in the container information DB 111. The information processing device 1 stores the seller information in the container information DB 111 every time the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 is distributed to a seller. The stored contents of the container information DB 111 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 3.

[0041] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a record layout of the key information DB 112. The key information DB 112 is a database that stores information about a key for unlocking the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The key information DB 112 stores information such as order information, thermal insulation / cold insulation container information, vendor key information, and user key information in association with each other. The order information is unique data issued for each delivery order from a user, and is information that identifies (specifies) the order. In the example of FIG. 4, an order ID is stored in the order information column. The thermal insulation / cold insulation container information is information that identifies the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, and includes, for example, a container ID.

[0042] The vendor key information and the user key information are information related to a key for unlocking the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The vendor key information and the user key information may each include a key value and an expiration date (validity number). The vendor key is a key (master key) provided to the vendor. In the example of FIG. 4, an expiration date is not set for the vendor key information. That is, the vendor key information is key information that is valid for the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 of the associated container ID without any restrictions on the expiration date and the number of times. The vendor key information may be a single key value that is valid for all the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 distributed to the same vendor. It goes without saying that an expiration date may be set for the vendor key information. The user key is a key provided to the user. In the example of FIG. 4, an expiration date is set for the user key information. That is, the user key information is key information that can be used only within the expiration date for the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 of the associated container ID. By setting an expiration date for the user key information, security is improved in the use of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 shared among multiple users. It is preferable that the user key information has a different key value for each order ID.

[0043] Every time the information processing device 1 generates distributor key information or user key information in response to a request for key information, it stores the distributor key information or user key information in the key information DB 112. The contents stored in the key information DB 112 are not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[0044] 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a record layout of the history information DB 113. The history information DB 113 is a database that stores information related to the history of deliveries using the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The history information DB 113 stores information such as order information, thermal insulation / cold insulation container information, retailer information, user information, delivery company information, lock / unlock information, temperature information, and remaining battery level in association with each other.

[0045] The order information includes, for example, an order ID and is information for identifying an order. The thermal insulation / cold storage container information includes, for example, a container ID and is information for identifying the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4. The vendor information includes, for example, a vendor ID and is information for identifying a vendor. The user information includes, for example, a user ID and is information for identifying (specifying) a user who has ordered delivery. It is preferable that the user information includes only information that does not specify personal information of the user. The user ID may be account information issued to a user from the EC server 301 by, for example, registering user information in the EC server 301 when the user uses the online supermarket of the delivery information management service for the first time. The delivery company information includes, for example, a delivery company ID and is information for identifying (specifying) a delivery company. The information processing device 1 receives the order ID and the like transmitted from the vendor device 3 each time a delivery order is placed, and stores them in the history information DB 113.

[0046] The locking / unlocking information includes information on the history of the locking or unlocking operation of the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The locking / unlocking information string stores, for example, the locking / unlocking date and time, the type of locking or unlocking, and information indicating the locker (for example, a distributor ID, a user ID, etc.). The temperature information includes temperature data detected by the temperature sensor 402 from when the locking mechanism 401 is locked to when it is unlocked. The temperature information string stores the detection date and time and the temperature data in association with each other. The battery remaining amount includes information on the remaining amount of the battery of the power supply unit 403. The remaining amount of the battery is indicated, for example, by a numerical value expressing the remaining amount of the battery as a percentage. The stored contents of the history information DB113 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the information stored in association with the history information DB113 may not include user information and delivery company information.

[0047] 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for generating a merchant key. In the following flowcharts, the processing of the information processing device 1 is realized by the control unit 10 executing a program 1P stored in the storage unit 11. The processing of the user terminal device 2 is realized by the control unit 20 executing a program 2P stored in the storage unit 11. The processing of the merchant device 3 is executed by the control unit 30 of the merchant terminal 300 in cooperation with the EC server 301. The processing of the heat / cold insulation container 4 is realized by the control unit 40 of the control device 400 executing a program stored in the storage unit 41.

[0048] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 acquires the seller ID issued by the information processing device 1 in response to registration for use of the service, and stores the ID in the storage unit 31 (step S101).

[0049] When a user uses the online supermarket of a retailer, the user starts the program 2P using the user terminal device 2, communicates with the EC server 301, and performs user registration. The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 acquires a user ID issued in response to the registration, and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S102).

[0050] The provider of the delivery information management service distributes to the seller the number of thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 desired by the seller from among all the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 managed by the provider. A program for executing control of locking / unlocking of the locking mechanism 401 and the like is stored in the memory unit 41 of the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 acquires container IDs for all the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 to be distributed in association with the seller IDs of the sellers to which the containers are to be distributed, for example by accepting input via an operation unit (not shown), and stores the acquired IDs in the container DB 111 (step S103).

[0051] When the desired number of thermal / cold insulation containers 4 are distributed to the distributor, the control unit 30 of the distributor terminal 300 transmits a request for a distributor key for each thermal / cold insulation container 4 to the information processing device 1 (step S104). The control unit 30 transmits the request for the distributor key by associating the container ID and distributor ID of the thermal / cold insulation container 4 for which the distributor key is to be used (step S105). In this case, the control unit 30 may obtain the container ID by, for example, reading the identification tag of the thermal / cold insulation container 4 via the reading unit 36. The control unit 30 may obtain the container ID by receiving data from the information processing device 1 when distributing the thermal / cold insulation containers 4.

[0052] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the request for the seller key (step S106). The control unit 10 generates seller key information for each thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 based on the received request (step S107). In detail, the control unit 10 refers to the container information DB 111 to identify each container ID associated with the seller ID, and generates seller key information for the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 associated with each identified container ID. The control unit 10 associates the generated seller key information with the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 and stores it in the key information DB 112 (step S108). The control unit 10 transmits the generated seller key information to the seller terminal 300 of the seller identified by the seller ID associated with the request for the seller key (step S109).

[0053] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 receives the seller key information and stores it in the storage unit 31 (step S110). In this manner, a series of pre-processing steps including the generation of the seller key is performed.

[0054] In the above process, there is no limitation on the method of acquiring the container ID and the distributor ID in the information processing device 1. For example, after the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 is distributed, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may acquire the container ID and the distributor ID in association with each other by receiving the container ID and the distributor ID transmitted from the distributor device 3.

[0055] In the above process, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may perform an authentication process for the request for distributor key information. For example, the control unit 10 determines whether the request for distributor key information is valid by comparing the container ID and distributor ID in the container DB 111 with the received container ID and distributor ID.

[0056] After the above-mentioned pre-processing, a delivery order is placed by the user and a user key is generated. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for a user key generation process.

[0057] The user selects the program 2P using the user terminal device 2, logs in using account information, and registers a delivery order by selecting the product and date / time of delivery, etc. The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 transmits the user ID and the order details to the EC server 301 (step S121).

[0058] The EC server 301 receives the user ID and the order details (step S122). The EC server 301 issues an order ID in association with the order details, and transmits the issued order ID to the user terminal device 2 (step S123). The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the order ID, and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S124).

[0059] The EC server 301 transmits the order ID and the order details to the seller terminal 300 in association with each other. The seller uses the seller terminal 300 to prepare for delivery. The seller selects the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 to be used according to the order details. The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 obtains the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 by reading the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 via the reading unit 36 ​​(step S125). The control unit 30 may obtain the container ID by accepting an input operation from the seller via the operation unit 35. The control unit 30 transmits the container ID, order ID, and seller ID in association with each other to the information processing device 1 (step S126).

[0060] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the container ID, the order ID, and the distributor ID (step S127). The control unit 10 stores the received information such as the container ID in the history information DB 113 (step S128).

[0061] The control unit 10 generates user key information corresponding to the order ID (step S129). In particular, the control unit 10 generates user key information for the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal / cold insulation container 4 related to the container ID associated with the order ID. The control unit 10 associates the container ID, the order ID, and the generated user key information and stores them in the key information DB 112 (step S130), and ends the series of processes.

[0062] In the above-mentioned processes in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the merchant key information and the user key information are not limited to those generated by the information processing device 1. The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may acquire the merchant key information and the user key information by communicating with an external key distribution device (not shown) and receiving key information generated and distributed by the key distribution device. In addition, it is preferable that the merchant key information and the user key information are generated using a predetermined encryption algorithm. For example, the merchant key information and the user key information may be information encrypted with the public key of a specific merchant or user, respectively, and unspecified merchants or users may not be able to decrypt the information.

[0063] When the seller places the product in the heat / cold insulation container 4, the acquisition of temperature data is started. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for starting the acquisition of temperature data.

[0064] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 receives an unlocking operation of the locking mechanism 401 by operating the operation unit 35 of the seller, and transmits the seller key information to the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 (step S141). Specifically, the control unit 30 receives the unlocking operation and reads out the seller key information stored in the memory unit 31. The control unit 30 associates the read out seller key information with a seller ID and transmits it via the second communication unit 33.

[0065] The control unit 40 of the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 receives the vendor key information (step S142). The control unit 40 executes authentication processing of the vendor key information and determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 (step S143). Specifically, the control unit 40 determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 by determining whether or not the key value and expiration date of the received vendor key information are appropriate.

[0066] When it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should not be unlocked because the seller key information is not proper (S143: NO), the control unit 40 ends the process. When it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should be unlocked because the seller key information is proper (S143: YES), the control unit 40 sends an unlock command to the locking mechanism 401 to unlock the locking mechanism 401 (step S144). The control unit 40 acquires unlocking information including the seller ID and the unlocking date and time, and stores it in the storage unit 41 (step S145). Note that when the locking mechanism 401 has been unlocked beforehand, the processes from step S141 to step S145 may be omitted.

[0067] The seller places the product according to the order in the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 and locks the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4. The thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 contains a thermal insulation agent or a cold storage agent together with the product, so that the temperature suitable for the product is maintained. The locking mechanism 401 may be locked manually, or may be locked automatically by transmitting a locking command to the control unit 40 via the seller terminal 300. The control unit 40 detects information indicating that the locking mechanism 401 is locked, thereby acquiring locking information including the locking date and time, and stores the information in the storage unit 41 (step S146). In addition, when the locking mechanism 401 is manually locked, a locker may be registered in the seller terminal 300 by operating the operation unit 35 of the seller, and the registered locker may be transmitted from the seller terminal 300 to the control device 400. In response to acquiring the locking information, the control unit 40 starts acquiring temperature data from the temperature sensor 402 (step S147). The control unit 40 sequentially acquires the temperature data detected at a predetermined interval, and stores the data in the storage unit 41 (step S148).

[0068] After the products are stored, the heat and cold insulation container 4 is delivered to the user's home by a delivery company, and the locking mechanism 401 is unlocked. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of an unlocking operation process using a user key.

[0069] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 accepts a request for a user key made by the user operating the operation unit 25 (step S150). Specifically, the control unit 20 displays a reception screen 241 for accepting the request for the user key on the display unit 24, and uses the reception screen 241 to accept the request from the user.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen 241 for receiving a request for a user key. The reception screen 241 includes an input box 241a for receiving an input of an order ID, and a receive button 241b for requesting receipt of a user key for the input order ID. For example, when a user selects a program 2P using the user terminal device 2, logs in using account information, and selects key reception from the menu button, the reception screen 241 is displayed on the display unit 24 as shown in FIG. 10. The control unit 20 may access the information processing device 1 based on the host name of the information processing device 1 stored in the module by the function of the module corresponding to the key reception button. When the order ID of the order for which the user key is requested to be received is input in the input box 241a on the reception screen 241 and the receive button 241b is tapped, a request for a user key including the order ID is input to the operation unit 25. The control unit 20 receives a request for a user key including the order ID.

[0071] 9, the description will be continued. The control unit 20 transmits a request for a user key including the accepted order ID and identification information (e.g., a device ID, an IP address, etc.) for identifying the user terminal device 2 to the information processing device 1 via the first communication unit 22 (step S151). The request for the user key may include an application ID.

[0072] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the request for the user key (step S152). The control unit 10 refers to the key information DB 112 to identify the user key information corresponding to the order ID included in the received request for the user key (step S153). The control unit 10 transmits the identified user key information to the user terminal device 2 identified by the identification information (step S154).

[0073] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the user key information and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S155). If the user key information is encrypted data, the control unit 20 may decrypt the received user key information using an encryption key.

[0074] Next, the control unit 20 receives an unlocking operation of the locking mechanism 401, and transmits the user key information to the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 (step S156). Specifically, the control unit 20 displays an unlocking screen 242 for receiving an unlocking operation on the display unit 24, and receives an unlocking operation by the user operating the operation unit 25. The transmission of the user key information in step S156 corresponds to the transmission of an unlocking command to the locking mechanism 401.

[0075] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an unlocking screen 242 for accepting an unlocking operation. FIG. 11 shows an example of an unlocking screen 242 displayed on the display unit 24 based on image information generated and transmitted by the information processing device 1 in response to the transmission of the user key information in step S154 by tapping the receive button 241b on the reception screen 241 in FIG. 10. The unlocking screen 242 includes an unlocking button 242a to which a request for an unlocking operation by a user is input by a method such as tapping. When the user taps the unlocking button 242a, a request for an unlocking operation is input to the operation unit 25. The control unit 20 accepts the request for the unlocking operation. The control unit 20 reads out the stored user key information in response to the request for the unlocking operation. The control unit 20 transmits the user key information to the control device 400 via the second communication unit 23. A user ID may be associated with the user key information.

[0076] Returning to Fig. 9, the description will be continued. The control unit 40 of the control device 400 receives the user key information (step S157). The control unit 40 executes an authentication process for the user key information and determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 (step S158). Specifically, the control unit 40 determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 by determining whether or not the key value and expiration date of the received user key information are appropriate.

[0077] When it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should not be unlocked because the user key information is not appropriate (S158: NO), the control unit 40 ends the process. When it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should be unlocked because the user key information is appropriate (S158: YES), the control unit 40 sends an unlock command to the locking mechanism 401, and unlocks the locking mechanism 401 (step S159). The control unit 40 acquires unlocking information including the unlocking date and time, and stores it in the memory unit 41 (step S160). The unlocking information may include a user ID. The user opens the lid 412 and takes out the product from the opening of the box body 411.

[0078] In response to the transmission of the unlock command, the control unit 40 ends the acquisition of temperature data from the temperature sensor 402 (step S161). The control unit 40 also acquires the remaining battery power from the power supply unit 403 and stores it in the storage unit 41 (step S162).

[0079] After the locking mechanism 401 is unlocked, the control unit 40 reads out history information including a series of locking / unlocking information, temperature data, remaining battery charge, container ID, etc. from the storage unit 41, and transmits the read history information to the user terminal device 2 (step S163). The locking / unlocking information and the temperature data each include multiple pieces of data stored from when the locking mechanism 401 is locked by the dealer until when the locking mechanism 401 is unlocked by the user.

[0080] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the history information (step S164). After receiving the history information, the control unit 20 may terminate communication using a predetermined communication standard via the second communication unit 23. The control unit 20 associates the received history information with the order ID, identification information of the user terminal device 2, and the like, and transmits the associated information to the information processing device 1 (step S165).

[0081] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the history information and stores it in the history information DB 113 (step S166). The history information DB 113 stores lock / unlock information, temperature data, remaining battery power, etc. in association with the order ID. The control unit 10 transmits the history information to the seller terminal 300 (step S167). In this case, the control unit 10 may determine whether the remaining battery power is equal to or greater than the threshold without storing the remaining battery power in the history information DB 113. If the remaining battery power is less than the threshold, the control unit 10 transmits the determination result to the seller terminal 300.

[0082] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 receives the history information (step S168). The control unit 30 displays the received history information on the display unit 34 (step S169), and ends the process.

[0083] In the above process, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may perform authentication processing for the request for user key information. For example, when requesting user key information, the control unit 10 authenticates the acquired order ID and container ID by acquiring the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 together with the order ID. For example, when accepting the request for the user key in step S150, the control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 causes the display unit 24 to output screen information or the like that prompts the user to read the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The control unit 20 acquires the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 delivered to the user's home by reading the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 via the reading unit 26. The control unit 20 transmits a request for the user key, including the container ID, the order ID, identification information for identifying the user terminal device 2, and the like, to the information processing device 1. The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 refers to the history information DB 113, and compares the order ID and container ID stored in the history information DB 113 with the received order ID and container ID to determine whether the request for the user key information is appropriate. In addition, the control unit 10 may acquire a request for a user key including an application ID, and determine whether or not the request is made by a valid application program by comparing the acquired application ID with an application ID stored in advance.

[0084] According to the above-described process, the information processing device 1 acquires history information from the control device 400 via the user terminal device 2. The control device 400 efficiently transmits the history information to and from the user terminal device 2 using a communication connection related to transmission and reception of key information. Therefore, the configuration of the heat / cold insulation container 4 can be simplified.

[0085] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process procedure after unlocking. The process in FIG. 12 is executed after the process in step S169 in FIG.

[0086] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 generates display screen information for displaying lock / unlock information, temperature data, remaining battery power, etc. (step S171). The control unit 10 transmits the generated display screen information to the user terminal device 2 (step S172). Note that the control unit 10 is not limited to a unit that executes the process of step S171 immediately after the process of step S169. The control unit 10 may generate and transmit the display screen information in response to a screen request transmitted from the user terminal device 2 at any timing, for example.

[0087] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the display screen information (step S173). The control unit 20 displays the display screen 243 based on the received display screen information on the display unit 24 (step S174). Note that the process of generating the display screen information is not limited to being executed by the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1, and may be executed by the control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2.

[0088] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen 243. The display screen 243 displays the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 used for delivery, the order ID, locking / unlocking history, temperature history, remaining battery level, etc. The display screen 243 also includes a registration button 243a for registering receipt of the product, and a collection button 243b for receiving a collection command for the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4. In the example of Fig. 13, the locking / unlocking history is displayed in a history list that displays locking information and unlocking information in a list. The temperature history is displayed in a graph showing time series changes with temperature data on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis.

[0089] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 refers to the history information DB 113 to acquire the container ID, locking / unlocking information, temperature data, and remaining battery level related to the order ID for which display screen information is to be generated. The control unit 10 generates a history list that displays the locking information and unlocking information related to the order ID in chronological order. The history list includes, for example, the operation date and time of the locking / unlocking operation, the operation content, and the operator. The control unit 10 displays the date and time acquired as the locking / unlocking information, the type of locking or unlocking, the seller ID, and the like in a list. In the example of FIG. 13, the name of the seller corresponding to the seller ID is displayed as the operator. In addition, if the locking / unlocking information includes a user ID, the acquired user ID may be displayed in the operator column, or information such as "user" may simply be displayed. Furthermore, the control unit 10 determines whether or not there is an abnormality related to the locking / unlocking information by determining, for example, whether or not there is a determination of non-authentication for the locking / unlocking request, whether or not the total number of locking / unlocking operations is within a predetermined range, and the like. The control unit 10 generates text information indicating the determination result, such as "safe" or "unauthorized operation occurred."

[0090] The control unit 10 also generates a graph that associates the temperature data with date and time information. The control unit 10 further determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the temperature data by determining whether or not the temperature data history is within a predetermined range. The control unit 10 generates text information indicating the determination result, such as "abnormal" or "good". The control unit 10 determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the remaining battery charge by determining whether or not the remaining battery charge is equal to or greater than a threshold. The control unit 10 generates text information indicating the determination result, such as "no problem" or "low". The remaining battery charge may be displayed only when the remaining battery charge is less than the threshold.

[0091] Returning to FIG. 12, the explanation will be continued. The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 accepts a product reception registration by accepting an operation by the user via the operation unit 25 (step S175). For example, after receiving a delivered product, when the user taps the registration button 243a for inputting a product reception registration on the display screen 243 displayed on the display unit 24, the reception registration is input to the operation unit 25. The control unit 20 transmits a reception notification to the information processing device 1 in response to the accepted reception registration (step S176). The reception notification may be associated with an order ID.

[0092] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the receipt notification (step S177). The control unit 10 revokes the user key information (step S178). The user key information to be revoked is the user key information corresponding to the order ID associated with the receipt notification. The method for revoking the user key information is not limited, but for example, the control unit 10 may perform a revocation process in which the user key information to be revoked is re-encrypted so that it cannot be read by the user's composite key.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives an instruction to collect the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 by receiving an operation from the user via the operation unit 25 (step S179). After receiving the delivered product, when the user taps the collection button 243b for inputting an instruction to collect the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 on the display screen 243 displayed on the display unit 24, the collection instruction is input to the operation unit 25. In response to the received collection instruction, the control unit 20 transmits a collection command to the information processing device 1 (step S180). The collection command may be associated with an order ID.

[0094] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the collection command (step S181). The control unit 10 transmits the received collection command to the seller terminal 300 (step S182).

[0095] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 receives the collection command (step S183). The control unit 30 displays the received collection command on the display unit 34 (step S184), and ends the series of processes. The seller can use the seller terminal 300 to reliably recognize the collection command and make arrangements for collection.

[0096] In the above process, the product receipt notification is not limited to being sent by accepting a product receipt registration from the user. For example, the control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 may automatically send a product receipt notification to the information processing device 1 in response to receiving history information from the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4.

[0097] In the above-mentioned process, the collection instruction and the collection command are not limited to being accepted and transmitted by the user terminal device 2, but may be accepted or transmitted by the information processing device 1 or the seller device 3. The collection command may be one in which the collection instruction is automatically output at a predetermined reserved timing.

[0098] According to this embodiment, by using the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 for product delivery, the product can be delivered safely because the product is kept at a suitable temperature. Also, the thermal insulation / cold storage container 4 can be unlocked only by a seller or user who has the appropriate key information, preventing unauthorized unlocking and improving security during delivery.

[0099] Locking / unlocking information, temperature data, key information, etc., during delivery are managed centrally by the information processing device 1, so information related to delivery can be managed efficiently. The user can recognize information related to the delivery of the product using the user terminal device 2, so the user's sense of security regarding delivery can be increased. If the thermal insulation / cooling container 4 is illegally locked / unlocked or the internal temperature is abnormal, a comment suggesting the abnormality can be displayed on the display screen to prompt the user to check. This information is also provided to the retailer. The retailer can easily obtain evidence related to delivery without having to hold a large amount of data on their own server. This can therefore improve the utilization of delivery information.

[0100] In this embodiment, an example of food delivery to a user via an online supermarket provided by a retailer has been described, but the delivery information management system 100 is not limited to online supermarkets and can be applied to the delivery of products that require temperature control. For example, the delivery information management system 100 can be applied to the delivery of food and drink from restaurants, the delivery of medicines to medical facilities, etc.

[0101] Second embodiment The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the heat and cold storage container 4 is delivered to the user's home in advance, so the following mainly describes the above difference. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used for the common configurations and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0102] 14 is a schematic diagram of a delivery information management system 200 in the second embodiment. The delivery information management system 200 further includes a delivery company terminal device 5 of a delivery company. The delivery company terminal device 5 is an information processing terminal having a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a dedicated terminal.

[0103] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the delivery company terminal device 5. The delivery company terminal device 5 includes a control unit 50, a storage unit 51, a first communication unit 52, a second communication unit 53, a display unit 54, an operation unit 55, and a reading unit 56. The control unit 50 is a processor using one or more CPUs, GPUs, etc., and controls each component unit using built-in memories such as ROM or RAM to execute processing. The storage unit 51 includes a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The storage unit 51 stores programs and data referenced by the control unit 50, including the program 5P. The hardware configuration of the delivery company terminal device 5 is similar to that of the user terminal device 2, so detailed description will be omitted.

[0104] In the delivery information management system 200, a thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 is distributed to each user in advance by a provider of a delivery information management service. Products ordered by a user are stored in small bags or the like by a retailer and delivered to the user's home by a delivery company vehicle or the like equipped with a temperature control function. After delivery, the products are placed in the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 installed at the user's home by the delivery company. Using the delivery company terminal device 5, the delivery company receives a delivery company key for unlocking the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 from the information processing device 1 and unlocks the locking mechanism 401.

[0105] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a user key generation process according to the second embodiment.

[0106] When a user uses a seller's online supermarket, the user communicates with the EC server 301 using the user terminal device 2 and performs user registration. The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 acquires a user ID issued in response to the registration and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S201). The user ID may be the same as the user ID used on the EC site, or may be a new user ID generated in association with the user ID used on the EC site.

[0107] The control unit 20 acquires the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 and stores it in the memory unit 21 (step S202). In step S202, for example, after distributing the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, the control unit 20 accepts login to the program 2P and outputs screen information prompting reading of the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 to the display unit 24. The control unit 20 acquires the container ID by reading the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 via the reading unit 26. The control unit 20 transmits the user ID and the container ID to the information processing device 1 (step S203).

[0108] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the user ID and the container ID (step S204). The control unit 10 stores the received user ID and container ID in the container DB 111 (step S205).

[0109] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 accepts a request for a user key, for example, by a user operating the operation unit 25 (step S206). The control unit 20 transmits the accepted request for the user key to the information processing device 1 (step S207). In this case, the control unit 20 transmits the request for the user key in association with the user ID, the application ID, identification information of the user terminal device 2, and the like.

[0110] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives a request for a user key (step S208). The control unit 10 generates user key information for the user ID based on the received request (step S209). In detail, the control unit 10 refers to the container information DB 111 to identify a container ID associated with the user ID, and generates user key information for the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 related to the identified container ID. The generated user key information may not have an expiration date, a valid number of times, etc., set. In other words, the user key information may be always valid when the same user uses the same thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, and the user may be able to freely open and close the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4.

[0111] The control unit 10 associates the generated user key information with the container ID of the thermal / cold insulation container 4 and the user ID, and stores the associated information in the key information DB 112 (step S210). The control unit 10 transmits the generated user key information to the user terminal device 2 identified by the identification information associated with the request for the user key including the user ID (step S211).

[0112] The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the user key information and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S212). Through the above-mentioned preliminary processing, a user key is generated for the heat / cold insulation container 4 to be distributed to each user.

[0113] In the above-mentioned process, the user key information may be set with an expiration date, a number of valid times, etc. For example, every time a user places a delivery order, the processes from step S206 to step S212 may be executed, and valid user key information may be generated and transmitted for each order. In this case, in step S206, input of an order ID is accepted along with a request for a user key. Based on the request for a user key, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 generates user key information corresponding to the user ID, container ID, and order ID.

[0114] After the above-mentioned preliminary processing, the ordered product is prepared by the seller in response to the user's order and stored in a small bag or the like. After that, a delivery company is requested to deliver the product, and a delivery company key is generated. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the delivery company key generation processing.

[0115] The user selects the program 2P using the user terminal device 2, logs in using account information, selects the product and date / time of delivery, etc., and registers a delivery order. The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 transmits the user ID and the order details to the EC server 301 (step S221).

[0116] The EC server 301 receives the user ID and the order details (step S222). The EC server 301 issues an order ID in association with the order details, and transmits the issued order ID to the user terminal device 2 (step S223). The control unit 20 of the user terminal device 2 receives the order ID, and stores it in the storage unit 21 (step S224).

[0117] The control unit 30 of the seller terminal 300 acquires a delivery request to the delivery company by accepting an input operation from the seller via the operation unit 35, and transmits the acquired delivery request to the delivery company terminal device 5 (step S225). In this case, the control unit 30 transmits the user ID, the order ID, etc., in association with the request to the delivery company terminal device 5.

[0118] The control unit 50 of the delivery company terminal device 5 receives the delivery request (step S226) and stores it in the storage unit 41. The control unit 50 associates the user ID related to the received delivery request with the delivery company ID stored in advance, and transmits them to the information processing device 1 (step S227). The control unit 50 may further transmit an order ID.

[0119] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the user ID and the delivery company ID (step S228). The control unit 10 generates delivery company key information corresponding to the user ID (step S229). In detail, the control unit 10 refers to the container information DB 111 to identify the container ID associated with the user ID, and generates delivery company key information for the locking mechanism 401 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 related to the identified container ID. The control unit 10 associates the generated delivery company key information with the user ID and stores them in the key information DB 112 (step S230). The control unit 10 also associates the user ID with the delivery company ID and stores them in the history information DB 113, and ends the series of processes.

[0120] The product is delivered, and the delivery company places the product in the heat / cold insulation container 4. Fig. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the unlocking operation process using the delivery company key.

[0121] The control unit 50 of the delivery company terminal device 5 acquires the container ID of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 (step S241). In step S241, for example, the control unit 50 accepts login of the program 5P using the delivery company ID, and outputs screen information to the display unit 54 to prompt reading of the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4. The control unit 50 acquires the container ID by reading the identification tag of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 via the reading unit 56.

[0122] The control unit 50 transmits a request for the delivery company key to the information processing device 1 (step S242). In this case, the control unit 50 transmits the acquired container ID, delivery company ID, and identification information of the delivery company terminal device 5 in association with the request for the delivery company key.

[0123] The control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 receives the request for the delivery company key (step S243). The control unit 10 refers to the key information DB 112 and identifies the delivery company key corresponding to the container ID included in the received request for the delivery company key (step S244). The control unit 10 transmits the identified delivery company key information to the delivery company terminal device 5 identified by the identification information (step S245).

[0124] The control unit 50 of the delivery company terminal device 5 receives the delivery company key information (step S246). If the delivery company key information is encrypted data, the control unit 50 may decrypt the received delivery company key information using an encryption key. The control unit 50 transmits the delivery company key information to the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 via the second communication unit 53 by accepting an unlocking operation of the locking mechanism 401 of the delivery company via the operation unit 55, for example (step S247).

[0125] The control unit 40 of the control device 400 of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4 receives the delivery company key information (step S248). The control unit 40 executes authentication processing of the delivery company key information and determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 (step S249). Specifically, the control unit 40 determines whether or not to unlock the locking mechanism 401 by determining whether or not the key value and expiration date of the received delivery company key information are appropriate.

[0126] If it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should not be unlocked because the vendor key information is incorrect (S249: NO), the control unit 40 ends the process. If it is determined that the locking mechanism 401 should be unlocked because the vendor key information is correct (S249: YES), the control unit 40 sends an unlock command to the locking mechanism 401 to release the lock of the locking mechanism 401 (step S250). Thereafter, the control device 400 executes the processes of S145 to S148 shown in Fig. 8, and acquires temperature data, etc.

[0127] In the above process, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may perform authentication processing for the request for delivery company key information. For example, the control unit 10 refers to the key information DB 112 and the history information DB 113, and compares the delivery company ID and the container ID of the user ID corresponding to the delivery company ID stored in advance with the delivery company ID and the container ID acquired at the time of the request for delivery company key information, thereby determining whether the request for delivery company key information is valid.

[0128] In the above process, after generating the delivery company key information, the control unit 10 of the information processing device 1 may execute an invalidation process for the delivery company key information. For example, the invalidation process for the delivery company key information is executed when a delivery completion notification is received from the delivery company terminal device 5, or when a predetermined period of time has elapsed after generating the delivery company key information. This makes it possible to prevent unauthorized unlocking of the locking mechanism 401 after the product is stored.

[0129] After the product has been placed in the thermal insulation / cold insulation container 4, the user unlocks the locking mechanism 401 using the user terminal device 2. The delivery information management system 100 executes the processes from S156 onwards shown in Fig. 9, and performs the process of unlocking the locking mechanism 401 using the user key information acquired in advance.

[0130] According to this embodiment, by distributing the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 to each user in advance, it is not necessary to collect the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4 for each delivery, and it is possible to reduce damage or loss of the thermal insulation / cold insulation containers 4. This simplifies the processing in the delivery information management system 100, and allows for more efficient management of delivery information.

[0131] The examples shown in each of the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined in whole or in part to realize other embodiments. The processing steps in the flowcharts shown in each embodiment are not limited, and the order may be changed and multiple processes may be executed in parallel. The subject of each processing step in the flowcharts shown in each embodiment is not limited, and for example, part of the processing executed by the information processing device 1 may be executed by the user terminal device 2 or the seller device 3, etc.

[0132] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1. Information processing device 10 Control section 11 Storage section 111 Container Information DB 112 Key information DB 113 History Information DB 1P Program 1A Recording medium 2 User terminal equipment 20 Control section 21 Memory section 22 First Communications Department 23 2nd Communications Department 24 Display 25 Control section 26 Reading unit 2P Program 2A Recording Media 3. Vendor Equipment 300 Merchant Terminals 301 EC Server 4. Thermal insulation container 400 Control device 401 Locking mechanism 402 Temperature Sensor 403 Power supply section 5. Delivery company terminal device

Claims

1. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for releasing the locking mechanism is distributed to a distributor in advance, obtain, from the seller, order information identifying a delivery order from a user to the seller and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information identifying a thermal insulation / cold insulation container to be used for the delivery related to the order information, in association with each other; Acquire key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the acquired order information and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information; Transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user; When the thermal insulation / cold insulation container with the locking mechanism locked is delivered from the vendor to the user and the locking mechanism is unlocked using the key information, unlocking information or locking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the vendor, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level of the power source are obtained via a user terminal device of the user; generating screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the dealer, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; The generated screen information is displayed on the user terminal device of the user. A delivery information management method for causing a computer to execute processing.

2. The release information and the temperature information are transmitted to a distributor terminal of the distributor. The delivery information management method according to claim 1.

3. obtaining second key information for unlocking the locking mechanism; The acquired second key information is transmitted to a distributor terminal of the distributor.

3. The delivery information management method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Obtaining a collection instruction for the thermal insulation / cooling container; Outputting a collection command for the heat / cold storage container in response to the acquired collection instruction. The delivery information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The key information has a validity period during which the locking mechanism can be released. The delivery information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for unlocking the locking mechanism is distributed to a user in advance, Acquire user information identifying the user and information on the thermal insulation / cold insulation container identifying the thermal insulation / cold insulation container distributed to the user in association with each other; acquiring key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the acquired user information and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information; Transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user identified by the user information; when the locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container in which an ordered product from the user to a retailer is contained and the locking mechanism has been locked by a delivery company is unlocked using the key information, acquire, via a user terminal device of the user, unlocking information or locking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the retailer, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level of the power source; generating screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the dealer, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; The generated screen information is displayed on the user terminal device of the user. A delivery information management method for causing a computer to execute processing.

7. The release information and the temperature information are transmitted to a distributor terminal of the distributor. The delivery information management method according to claim 6.

8. obtaining second key information for unlocking the locking mechanism; The acquired second key information is transmitted to a delivery company terminal of the delivery company. The delivery information management method according to claim 6 or 7.

9. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for releasing the locking mechanism is distributed to a distributor in advance, a first acquisition unit that acquires, from the seller, order information that identifies a delivery order from a user to the seller and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information that identifies a thermal insulation / cold insulation container to be used for the delivery related to the order information; a second acquisition unit that acquires key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the order information and the thermal insulation / cold insulation container information acquired by the first acquisition unit; a transmission unit that transmits the key information acquired by the second acquisition unit to a user terminal device of the user; a third acquisition unit that, when the thermal insulation / cold insulation container with the locking mechanism locked is delivered from the vendor to the user and the locking mechanism is unlocked using the key information, acquires, via a user terminal device of the user, locking information or unlocking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the vendor, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level of the power source; a generation unit that generates screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the distributor, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; a display unit that displays the generated screen information on a user terminal device of the user. Information processing device.

10. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for releasing the locking mechanism is distributed to a distributor in advance, On the computer, Obtaining from the seller order information that identifies a delivery order from a user to the seller and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information that identifies a thermal insulation / cold insulation container to be used for the delivery related to the order information; Acquire key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the acquired order information and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information; Transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user; When the thermal insulation / cold insulation container with the locking mechanism locked is delivered from the vendor to the user and the locking mechanism is unlocked using the key information, unlocking information or locking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the vendor, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level of the power source are obtained via a user terminal device of the user; generating screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the dealer, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; The generated screen information is displayed on the user terminal device of the user. A computer program for executing a process.

11. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for unlocking the locking mechanism is distributed to a user in advance, a first acquisition unit that acquires user information identifying the user and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information identifying the thermal insulation / cold insulation container distributed to the user in association with each other; a second acquisition unit that acquires key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the user information and the thermal insulation / cold insulation container information acquired by the first acquisition unit; a transmission unit that transmits the key information acquired by the second acquisition unit to a user terminal device of the user identified by the user information; a third acquisition unit that acquires, when the locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container that contains an ordered product from the user to a retailer and has been locked by a delivery company is unlocked using the key information, unlocking information or locking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the retailer, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level via the user terminal device of the user; a generation unit that generates screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the distributor, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; a display unit that displays the generated screen information on a user terminal device of the user. Information processing device.

12. A thermal insulation / cold insulation container having a locking mechanism, a temperature sensor for detecting the internal temperature, and a power source for unlocking the locking mechanism is distributed to a user in advance, On the computer, Acquire user information identifying the user and information on the thermal insulation / cold insulation container identifying the thermal insulation / cold insulation container distributed to the user in association with each other; acquiring key information for unlocking a locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container corresponding to the acquired user information and thermal insulation / cold insulation container information; Transmitting the acquired key information to a user terminal device of the user identified by the user information; when the locking mechanism of the thermal insulation / cold insulation container in which an ordered product from the user to a retailer is contained and the locking mechanism has been locked by a delivery company is unlocked using the key information, acquire, via a user terminal device of the user, unlocking information or locking information regarding the unlocking of the locking mechanism by the retailer, unlocking information regarding the unlocking by the user, temperature information detected by the temperature sensor, and the remaining power level of the power source; generating screen information for displaying the acquired unlocking information or locking information regarding unlocking by the dealer, the acquired unlocking information regarding unlocking by the user, the temperature information, and the remaining power level; The generated screen information is displayed on the user terminal device of the user. A computer program for executing a process.

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