Temperature management system

Abstract

To provide a temperature management system and a temperature management device capable of consistently and precisely managing a state of an article through a process from delivery to utilization or return white reducing a burden pertaining to management.SOLUTION: A temperature management system includes: a first storage box for storing an article; a second storage box for storing the first storage box; and a temperature management part installed on the network. The first storage box includes: an opening confirmation mechanism for showing whether an article is opened after it is stored; and a first measuring instrument for measuring temperature within the first storage box. The second storage box includes: a temperature adjustment mechanism for adjusting temperature within the second storage box; and a second measuring instrument for measuring temperature within the second storage box. The first measuring instrument and the second measuring instrument accumulate temperature data measured at a predetermined time interval and transmit the accumulated data to the temperature management part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a temperature management system for temperature management of pharmaceuticals and the like. In the appendix

Background Art

[0002] Regarding pharmaceuticals and the like that require strict temperature management, temperature measurement is performed using a temperature logger or the like, and the measured data is stored in an external device via wireless communication using an RF (Radio Frequency) tag, thereby monitoring the storage state. A technique is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] According to the prior art, since it is possible to ensure that pharmaceuticals are stored with appropriate temperature management, it is possible to return pharmaceuticals for rare diseases and the like, and their use can be promoted.

[0005] However, individually attaching an RF tag or the like to a pharmaceutical is complicated and imposes a heavy burden on the administrator. In addition, pharmaceuticals need to be appropriately temperature-controlled not only during storage but also during transportation. For temperature maintenance, they may be stored in a storage box made of a material that blocks internal communication during transportation. In this case, communication means such as an RF tag does not function, and it may be difficult to track whether appropriate management has been performed throughout the entire process from when the pharmaceutical is shipped from the manufacturer or wholesaler until it is returned.

[0006] ​Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a temperature management system and a temperature management device that can consistently and highly accurately manage the state of an article from the time of shipment to the process of use or return while reducing the burden associated with management.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, a temperature management system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first storage box for storing an article, a second storage box for storing the first storage box, and a temperature management unit installed on a network. The first storage box has an opening confirmation mechanism for indicating whether the article has been opened after being stored therein, and a first measuring device for measuring the temperature inside the first storage box. The second storage box has a temperature adjustment mechanism for adjusting the temperature inside the second storage box, and a second measuring device for measuring the temperature inside the second storage box. The first measuring device and the second measuring device accumulate temperature data measured at predetermined time intervals and transmit the accumulated data to the temperature management unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions are omitted.

[0010] (1. Embodiment) [1-1. An Example of Temperature Management Processing According to the Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing the flow of the temperature management process according to the embodiment. The pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 shown in FIG. 1 uses the temperature management process according to the embodiment in order to deliver the manufactured pharmaceuticals 12 to the wholesaler 16 and the hospital 18.

[0011] Pharmaceuticals need to be strictly temperature-controlled, and it is desirable to enable a return process for unused pharmaceuticals without being discarded. In order to perform the return process of pharmaceuticals, it must be proven that the appropriate storage state has been maintained consistently from manufacturing to transportation, storage to return. Also, it is desirable that the work does not become overly burdensome for those involved in the storage. As will be described below, the temperature management process according to the embodiment can manage the state of articles with high accuracy consistently from the time of shipment to the process of use or return while reducing the burden related to management.

[0012] Prior to the description of FIG. 1, the configuration of the temperature management system 1 that executes the temperature management process according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the temperature management system 1.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the temperature management system 1 includes an inner box 20, an outer box 40, a storage device 60, a management device 100, a mobile terminal 50, and a gateway device 70.

[0014] The inner box 20 is a first storage box for storing pharmaceuticals. The inner box 20 has a first temperature logger 22 and a locking mechanism 30. The first temperature logger 22 is a device that measures the temperature inside the inner box 20 and accumulates the measured temperature data. Further, the first temperature logger is provided with a wireless communication function such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). For example, the first temperature logger 22 communicates with the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70 and transmits the accumulated temperature data to the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70. Note that the first temperature logger may measure various data such as not only the temperature but also the humidity, illuminance, vibration, and air pressure inside the inner box 20. The locking mechanism 30 is, for example, a physical lock, an electronic lock, or an irreversible fastener (such as a binding band), and is a mechanism that leaves a trace when the locking mechanism 30 is opened after pharmaceuticals are stored. For example, a person who accepts the return of pharmaceuticals may accept the return only when it is confirmed that the locking mechanism 30 of the returned inner box 20 has not been opened, that is, when there is no trace of opening. When the locking mechanism 30 is an electronic lock, a person who accepts the return of pharmaceuticals may refer to the opening log data of the locking mechanism 30 to determine whether the locking mechanism 30 has been opened.

[0015] The outer box 40 is a second storage box that houses the inner box 20. The outer box 40 has a second temperature logger 42 and a temperature adjustment mechanism 48. The second temperature logger 42 has the same function as the first temperature logger 22. The temperature adjustment mechanism 48 is a mechanism for controlling the temperature inside the outer box 40. That is, the outer box 40 is a movable warm-cool refrigerator for transporting while keeping the temperature in the storage constant after housing the inner box 20. Note that the temperature adjustment mechanism 48 may be realized by any mechanism, for example, a compression type equipped with a compressor, an absorption type using a refrigerant, a cooling method using a Peltier element, a heating appliance such as a heater, or a mechanism using a cooling substance such as dry ice. An example of the outer box 40 is an in-vehicle refrigerator that houses the inner box 20 inside and delivers pharmaceuticals to the wholesaler 16 or the hospital 18 integrally.

[0016] The storage device 60 is a third storage box capable of housing the inner box 20 or the outer box 40. The storage device 60 has a third temperature logger 62 and a temperature adjustment mechanism 68. The third temperature logger 62 has the same function as the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42. The temperature adjustment mechanism 68 is a mechanism for controlling the temperature inside the storage device 60 and has the same function as the temperature adjustment mechanism 48. An example of the storage device 60 is a stationary refrigerator for storing the inner box 20 (pharmaceuticals 12) transported to the wholesaler 16 or the hospital 18 using the outer box 40. That is, the wholesaler 16 or the hospital 18 may take out the inner box 20 from the outer box 40 and store only the inner box 20 in the storage device 60. Thereby, after the wholesaler 16 delivers the inner box 20 to the hospital 18, the outer box 40 can be reused for transportation purposes.

[0017] In the temperature management system 1, the management device 100 is an information processing device that serves as a temperature management unit for managing the storage state of pharmaceuticals. An example of the management device 100 is a server device that can be connected to a network such as the Internet. The management device 100 stores management conditions such as the upper and lower limits and the fluctuation range of the temperature when pharmaceuticals are stored. Further, the management device 100 acquires temperature data transmitted from the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 via the mobile terminal 50 and the gateway device 70. For example, the management device 100 requests temperature data from the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, or the third temperature logger 62, and acquires temperature data from the first temperature logger 22 or the like in response to the request. Alternatively, the management device 100 acquires temperature data that is spontaneously transmitted by the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, the third temperature logger 62, or the like according to a predetermined condition (for example, at predetermined time intervals). Then, the management device 100 determines whether or not the acquired temperature data conforms to the management conditions of the pharmaceuticals. If the acquired temperature data does not conform to the management conditions of the pharmaceuticals, the management device 100 may execute processes such as transmitting a warning to the mobile terminal 50 or determining that a return is not allowed when the pharmaceutical is returned. Note that the management device 100 may be composed of a plurality of server devices such as an information processing server that executes information processing and a cloud data server that accumulates temperature data acquired via a network.

[0018] The mobile terminal 50 is an information device that can utilize networks such as the Internet and wireless communications such as NFC and Bluetooth. An example of the mobile terminal 50 is a smartphone or a tablet terminal. For example, the mobile terminal 50 is carried by a person who transports pharmaceuticals. The mobile terminal 50 acquires, for example, temperature data transmitted from the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 at regular time intervals, and stores it in the storage unit of its own device. Also, the mobile terminal 50 transmits the temperature data acquired from the first temperature logger 22 etc. to the management device 100 in accordance with a request from the management device 100 or spontaneously. Further, when the mobile terminal 50 receives a warning from the management device 100, it may display a warning indicating that the pharmaceuticals may deviate from an appropriate storage state etc. on the screen to alert the person transporting the pharmaceuticals.

[0019] The gateway device 70 is an information device that can utilize networks such as the Internet and wireless communications such as NFC and Bluetooth. The gateway device 70 acquires temperature data transmitted from the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 via wireless communication. Also, the gateway device 70 transmits the acquired temperature data to the management device 100 via the network. The gateway device 70 is installed, for example, at the wholesaler 16 or the hospital 18 on a permanent basis.

[0020] Subsequently, the temperature management process executed by the temperature management system 1 will be described step by step with reference to FIG. 1.

[0021] The pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 stores the manufactured pharmaceuticals 12 in the inner box 20 (step S10). The inner box 20 is provided with a first temperature logger 22 for measuring the temperature inside the warehouse. The first temperature logger 22 displays the measured temperature data on a display unit such as a display.

[0022] In addition, the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 locks the inner box 20 by using the locking mechanism 30 of the inner box 20 (step S12). The locking mechanism 30 is a structure that indicates whether the inner box 20 has been opened after the pharmaceutical product 12 has been stored, and leaves a trace if the inner box 20 is opened in a subsequent process. Thereby, when accepting the return of the pharmaceutical product 12, the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 can confirm whether the inner box 20 has been opened.

[0023] Thereafter, the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 stores the inner box 20 in the outer box 40 (step S14). The outer box 40 is provided with a second temperature logger 42. The second temperature logger 42 displays temperature data measured of the temperature inside the warehouse on a display unit such as a display. In addition, the outer box 40 is provided with a temperature adjustment mechanism 48. Thereby, the outer box 40 can control the temperature inside the outer box 40 and the temperature of the stored inner box 20.

[0024] Note that the management conditions of the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42 are set in advance by the management device 100 and they behave according to the conditions. For example, the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42 communicate with the mobile terminal 50 at predetermined time intervals and transmit the measured temperature data to the mobile terminal 50 (step S16). Such processing may be controlled by, for example, an application installed on the mobile terminal 50. The mobile terminal 50 is carried by, for example, a driver who rides in a vehicle 14 that transports the pharmaceutical product 12. Also, the management conditions may be set to issue a warning according to the management status of the pharmaceutical product 12. In this case, when a situation where the management state does not conform to the conditions is observed, such as the measured temperature data deviating from a preset upper limit or lower limit, the management device 100 transmits a warning to the mobile terminal 50.

[0025] Thereafter, the inner box 20 and the outer box 40 containing the pharmaceutical product 12 are transported by the vehicle 14 to the wholesaler 16 (step S18). Also, the inner box 20 and the outer box 40 containing the pharmaceutical product 12 are transported by the vehicle 14 from the wholesaler 16 to the hospital 18 (step S19).

[0026] The hospital 18 can select whether to take out the inner box 20 from the outer box 40 transported from the vehicle 14 and store the inner box 20 in the storage device 60, which is a refrigerator installed in the hospital 18, or to store the outer box 40 as it is.

[0027] For example, after the driver of the vehicle 14 arrives at the hospital 18, the driver delivers the outer box 40 to the hospital 18 (step S20). The person in charge at the hospital 18 takes out the inner box 20 from the outer box 40 (step S22). Then, the person in charge at the hospital 18 stores the inner box 20 in the storage device 60 (step S24). The storage device 60 includes a third temperature logger 62. The third temperature logger 62 displays the temperature data measured inside the warehouse on a display unit such as a display. Also, the first temperature logger 22 and the third temperature logger 62 communicate with the gateway device 70 installed in the hospital 18 at predetermined time intervals and transmit the measured temperature data to the gateway device 70 (step S26).

[0028] Note that as described above, the person in charge at the hospital 18 may manage the pharmaceutical product 12 while keeping the received outer box 40 (step S30). In this case, the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42 communicate with the gateway device 70 at predetermined time intervals and transmit the measured temperature data to the gateway device 70 (step S32). Also, regardless of whether the storage device 60 includes the third temperature logger 62, the first temperature logger of the inner box 20 communicates with the gateway terminal 70 installed in the hospital 18 and transmits the measured temperature data to the gateway device 70.

[0029] Then, the gateway device 70 transmits the acquired temperature data to the management device 100 (step S34). The management device 100 accumulates the temperature data acquired from the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70.

[0030] In addition, when the management device 100 cannot obtain temperature data from the first temperature logger 22 in steps S16, S26, and S34, and obtains data corresponding to the same time from the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62, the management state of the pharmaceutical product 12 may be determined using the data obtained from the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62. For example, depending on its communication environment, the first temperature logger 22 may encounter communication problems and be unable to transmit temperature data inside the outer box 40 made of materials such as metal that are prone to interfering with communication, or in special environments (such as ultra-low temperatures) where the pharmaceutical product 12 is stored. In such cases, the management device 100 cannot obtain the temperature data corresponding to the time when the first temperature logger 22 should transmit. However, if the management device 100 has obtained the temperature data corresponding to that time from the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62, the management device 100 may substitute this data for the temperature data of the first temperature logger 22. As a result, the management device 100 can continue to obtain the temperature data of the pharmaceutical product 12 without interruption, enabling consistent temperature management.

[0031] Thereafter, when it is observed that the pharmaceutical product 12 has been used at the hospital 18, the temperature management process by the temperature management system 1 ends (step S40). On the other hand, when the pharmaceutical product 12 is not used at the hospital 18 and the person in charge at the hospital 18 wishes to return it, the pharmaceutical product 12 is returned to the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 (step S42).

[0032] In this case, the management device 100 determines whether to accept the return of the pharmaceutical product 12 based on the temperature data stored in the management device 100. Specifically, the management device 100 refers to the management conditions specified for the pharmaceutical product 12 and determines whether the pharmaceutical product 12 has been managed under the temperature conditions in accordance with the conditions from the time of shipment to the time of return. Further, the management device 100 may determine whether to accept the return of the pharmaceutical product 12 based on whether the locking mechanism 30 of the inner box 20 has been opened. The opening confirmation of the locking mechanism 30 may be manually confirmed by the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10, or when the opening of the locking mechanism 30 can be electronically confirmed, the opening may be confirmed using electronic means.

[0033] As described above, the temperature management system 1 includes an inner box 20 for storing the pharmaceutical product 12, an outer box 40 for storing the inner box 20, and a management device 100 installed on a network. The inner box 20 has a locking mechanism 30 indicating whether it has been opened after the pharmaceutical product 12 is stored therein, and a first temperature logger 22 for measuring the temperature inside the inner box 20. The outer box 40 has a temperature adjustment mechanism 48 for adjusting the temperature inside the outer box 40 and a second temperature logger 42 for measuring the temperature inside the outer box 40. Then, the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42 accumulate the temperature data measured at predetermined time intervals and transmit the accumulated data to the management device 100 via a mobile terminal 50 or the like.

[0034] That is, the temperature management system 1 manages the temperature of the pharmaceutical product 12 using two storage boxes, namely the inner box 20 and the outer box 40. According to the temperature management system 1, even during the transportation of the inner box 20, the management state of the pharmaceutical product 12 can be grasped by referring to the second temperature logger 42 provided in the outer box 40. Further, according to the temperature management system 1, since temperature loggers are provided not only in the outer box 40 but also in the inner box 20, flexible transportation such as storing and transporting a plurality of inner boxes 20 in the outer box 40 becomes possible. Also, since the temperature management system 1 can be provided with the first temperature logger 22 in each of the inner boxes 20, the state of the pharmaceutical product 12 can be managed individually even during transportation and during the management period at the hospital 18. Furthermore, even after the inner box 20 is taken out from the outer box 40, the temperature management system 1 can surely continue to manage the temperature of the pharmaceutical product 12 by measuring the temperature data of the third temperature logger 62 provided in the storage device 60 and the first temperature logger 22.

[0035] In addition, the temperature management system 1 manages the pharmaceutical product 12 by storing it in the inner box 20 without requiring complicated processes such as attaching an RF tag to each pharmaceutical product 12. Thereby, the temperature management system 1 reduces the labor involved in the management of the pharmaceutical product 12. That is, the temperature management system 1 can consistently manage the state of the article with high accuracy from the time of shipment to the process of use or return while reducing the burden related to management.

[0036] [1-2. Configuration of the portable terminal and the management device according to the embodiment] Next, the configurations of the first temperature logger 22, the portable terminal 50, and the management device 100 that execute the temperature management process according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first temperature logger 22, the portable terminal 50, and the management device 100 according to the embodiment. Although only the first temperature logger 22 is shown in FIG. 3, the configuration and functions of the first temperature logger 22 are common to the second temperature logger 42 and the third temperature logger 62.

[0037] First, the mobile terminal 50 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile terminal 50 includes a communication unit 51, a measurement information storage unit 52, and a control unit 53. Note that the mobile terminal 50 may also include an input unit (e.g., a touch panel, etc.) for receiving various operations from a user or the like, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0038] The communication unit 51 is realized, for example, by a Network Interface Controller or the like. The communication unit 51 is connected to the network N (e.g., the Internet) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the first temperature logger 22, the management device 100, etc. via the network N. For example, the communication unit 51 transmits and receives information using communication standards or communication technologies such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), SIM (Subscriber Identity Module), LPWA (Low Power Wide Area). Note that the communication unit 51 and the communication unit 23 described later do not necessarily need to communicate using the same communication standard, and may communicate with each other by combining various communication standards such as Wi-Fi.

[0039] The measurement information storage unit 52 is realized, for example, by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk.

[0040] FIG. 4 shows an example of the information stored in the measurement information storage unit 52. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the measurement information storage unit 52 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the measurement information storage unit 52 has items such as "log data number", "measurement date and time", "location information", and "measurement data". Further, "measurement data" has items such as "temperature", "humidity", "illuminance", "vibration", and "atmospheric pressure".

[0041] In the examples shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the information stored in the measurement information storage unit 52 and the storage unit 120 described later may be conceptually shown as "A001". However, actually, each piece of information described later is stored in the measurement information storage unit 52 and the storage unit 120.

[0042] The "log data number" indicates a number for identifying the log data measured by the first temperature logger 22 or the like. Note that the log data number may include information for identifying which temperature logger among the temperature loggers (the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 in the embodiment) that are in cooperation with the management device 100 and the mobile terminal 50 has acquired the data. The "measurement date and time" indicates the date and time when the first temperature logger 22 or the like has measured the temperature or the like. The "position information" indicates the position information when the first temperature logger 22 or the like has measured the temperature or the like. The position information is acquired using functions of a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor or the like provided in the mobile terminal 50 or the first temperature logger 22. The "measurement data" indicates various data measured by the first temperature logger 22 or the like.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 3 and continuing the description. The control unit 53 is realized, for example, when a program stored inside the mobile terminal 50 is executed using a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a work area by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or the like. Also, the control unit 53 is a controller and is realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 53 includes an acquisition unit 54 and a transmission unit 55.

[0044] The acquisition unit 54 acquires various data measured by the first temperature logger 22 and the like. For example, the acquisition unit 54 acquires the temperature data measured by the first temperature logger 22. Further, the acquisition unit 54 may acquire data of at least any one of humidity, illuminance, vibration, and atmospheric pressure measured by the first temperature logger 22. Further, the acquisition unit 54 may acquire the position information at the time of acquiring the log data by using a GPS sensor or the like. The acquisition unit 54 stores the acquired various data in the measurement information storage unit 52.

[0045] Further, when the management device 100 issues a warning, the acquisition unit 54 may acquire the data of the warning. When the acquisition unit 54 acquires the warning data, it displays the warning on the display unit. Note that the warning may be by screen display or by voice.

[0046] The transmission unit 55 transmits the data acquired by the acquisition unit 54 to the management device 100. The transmission unit 55 may transmit the data to the management device 100 when receiving a request from the management device 100, or may transmit the data to the management device 100 at predetermined time intervals according to predetermined conditions.

[0047] Subsequently, the first temperature logger 22 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the first temperature logger 22 includes a communication unit 23, a measurement information storage unit 24, and a control unit 25. Note that the mobile terminal 50 may include an input unit (for example, an input button or a touch panel) that receives various operations from a user or the like, and a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display) for displaying various information.

[0048] The display unit of the first temperature logger 22 is installed so that the temperature measured by the first temperature logger 22 can be visually recognized from outside the inner box 20. Similarly, the display unit of the second temperature logger 42 is installed so that the temperature measured by the second temperature logger 42 can be visually recognized from outside the outer box 40. Similarly, the display unit of the third temperature logger 62 is installed so that the temperature measured by the third temperature logger 62 can be visually recognized from outside the storage device 60. Thereby, the administrator or the carrier can visually confirm whether the temperature is appropriately managed without opening the pharmaceutical product 12 or taking out the inner box 20 from the outer box 40 or the storage device 60.

[0049] The communication unit 23 is realized by, for example, a network interface controller or the like. The communication unit 23 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the mobile terminal 50, the management device 100, etc. via the network N. For example, the communication unit 23 transmits and receives information using any one of communication standards or communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, SIM, LPWA, or a combination thereof.

[0050] The measurement information storage unit 24 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The information stored in the measurement information storage unit 24 is common to the information stored in the measurement information storage unit 52 shown in FIG. 4.

[0051] The control unit 25 is realized by, for example, a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, etc., when a program stored inside the first temperature logger 22 is executed using a RAM or the like as a work area. Further, the control unit 25 is a controller and is realized by, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA. The control unit 25 includes a measurement unit 26 and a transmission unit 27.

[0052] The measurement unit 26 measures various data inside the inner box 20 using various sensors. For example, the measurement unit 26 measures various data inside the inner box 20 using various sensors such as a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor at predetermined time intervals, and stores the measurement information in the measurement information storage unit 24.

[0053] The transmitting unit 27 transmits the data measured by the measuring unit 26 to the mobile terminal 50 using NFC, Bluetooth, or the like. The transmitting unit 27 may transmit the data to the mobile terminal 50 when a request is received from the mobile terminal 50 or the management device 100, or may transmit the data to the mobile terminal 50 at predetermined time intervals according to predetermined conditions. Note that when wireless communication is impossible due to factors such as the surrounding environment during the transportation of the pharmaceutical product 12, the transmitting unit 27 may transmit the data accumulated in the measurement information storage unit 24 all at once when communication becomes possible. Further, the transmitting unit 27 may transmit the accumulated data directly to the management device 100 without going through the mobile terminal 50 or the like.

[0054] In addition, the transmitting unit 27 may transmit information related to various situations detected by the first temperature logger 22. For example, when the lock mechanism 30 provided in the first temperature logger 22 is an electronic lock and its opening can be electronically detected, the transmitting unit 27 transmits a message indicating that the lock has been released to the mobile terminal 50 or the management device 100.

[0055] Next, the management device 100 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the management device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. Note that the management device 100 may include an input unit (for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) for receiving various operations from an administrator or the like who manages the management device 100, and a display unit (for example, a liquid crystal display, etc.) for displaying various information.

[0056] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card), a network interface controller, or the like. The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the mobile terminal 50, the first temperature logger 22, and the like via the network N. For example, the communication unit 110 transmits and receives information using any one of communication standards or communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, SIM, LPWA, or a combination thereof.

[0057] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The storage unit 120 includes a management condition storage unit 121 and a data storage unit 122. Hereinafter, each storage unit will be described in order.

[0058] FIG. 5 shows an example of the information stored in the management condition storage unit 121. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the management condition storage unit 121 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the management condition storage unit 121 has items such as "management ID", "pharmaceutical product", "shipping destination", "associated terminal information", and "condition details".

[0059] The "management ID" indicates identification information for identifying the conditions for managing the pharmaceutical product 12 and regulations for terminals and the like. The "pharmaceutical product" indicates the pharmaceutical product 12 associated with the management ID. One pharmaceutical product may be associated with one management ID, or a plurality of pharmaceutical products may be associated with one management ID. The "shipping destination" indicates the wholesaler 16 or the hospital 18 to which the pharmaceutical product is shipped. The "associated terminal information" indicates information on a plurality of temperature loggers, mobile terminals 50, gateway devices 70, etc. used for managing the pharmaceutical product 12. The "condition details" indicate the conditions for determining whether the management state of the pharmaceutical product 12 is appropriate. Specifically, the "condition details" are the allowable conditions in various data such as the upper and lower limits of the temperature of the managed pharmaceutical product, temperature changes, humidity, and vibration. The "condition details" are arbitrarily defined, for example, by the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 or a carrier specializing in the supply of pharmaceutical products. The "condition details" may be conditions using position information such as whether there is no movement exceeding a predetermined range from the hospital 18 of the shipping destination or whether the movement distance is within a predetermined range.

[0060] Subsequently, FIG. 6 shows an example of the information stored in the data storage unit 122. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data storage unit 122 according to the embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the data storage unit 122 has items such as "management ID", "measurement data", "warning sending destination", and "returnable determination". Further, the "measurement data" has sub-items such as "temperature logger ID" and "measurement data".

[0061] The "Management ID" corresponds to the same items shown in FIG. 5. The "Measurement Data" indicates the data measured by each temperature logger and transmitted to the management device 100. The "Temperature Logger ID" indicates information for identifying the temperature logger that measured the data. For example, in FIG. 6, the temperature logger indicated by "ID1" is the "First Temperature Logger 22", the temperature logger indicated by "ID2" is the "Second Temperature Logger 42", and the temperature logger indicated by "ID3" is the "Third Temperature Logger 62". The "Measurement Data" is the data measured by each temperature logger. For example, the "Measurement Data" corresponds to the data stored in the measurement information storage unit 52 or the measurement information storage unit 24 shown in FIG. 4. The "Warning Transmission Destination" indicates the destination to which a warning is transmitted when the management device 100 determines that management that does not conform to the management conditions has been performed. The "Returnable Determination" indicates whether or not the pharmaceutical product 12 associated with the management ID is in a returnable state in the current management state.

[0062] Returning to FIG. 3 and continuing the explanation. The control unit 130 is realized, for example, by a program stored inside the management device 100 being executed using a RAM or the like as a work area by a CPU, MPU, GPU, or the like. Further, the control unit 130 is a controller and may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, a determination unit 132, and a transmission unit 133, and realizes or executes the functions and operations of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 3, and any other configuration may be used as long as it can perform the information processing described later.

[0064] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. For example, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the management conditions of the pharmaceutical product 12 defined by the administrator of the management device 100. The acquisition unit 131 stores the acquired management conditions in the management condition storage unit 121.

[0065] In addition, the acquisition unit 131 acquires data measured by the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 via the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70. The acquisition unit 131 stores the acquired data in the data storage unit 122.

[0066] Note that the acquisition unit 131 may acquire the data measured by each temperature logger in any manner. For example, each temperature logger linked to the mobile terminal 50 transmits the measured and stored data to the mobile terminal 50 at predetermined time intervals according to the instructions of an application operating on the mobile terminal 50. Then, the mobile terminal 50 transmits the data to the management device 100 at predetermined time intervals. Thereby, the acquisition unit 131 can acquire the transmitted data. Note that the time interval may be set in advance in the management conditions or may be arbitrarily set by the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 or the wholesaler 16. Alternatively, when the acquisition unit 131 can communicate with each temperature logger, the acquisition unit 131 may transmit a data transmission request to each temperature logger and acquire data from each responding temperature logger. Further, the acquisition unit 131 may transmit a data transmission request to the mobile terminal 50 and acquire data from the responding mobile terminal 50. Alternatively, even when the mobile terminal 50 or each temperature logger does not receive a request, the accumulated data may be spontaneously transmitted to the management device 100 at the timing when it is determined that communication with the management device 100 is possible.

[0067] The determination unit 132 performs various determination processes based on the data acquired by the acquisition unit 131.

[0068] For example, the determination unit 132 determines whether the data acquired from the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, or the third temperature logger 62 deviates from a preset condition. Then, when it is determined that the condition is deviated, the determination unit 132 transmits a warning to a preset destination. In principle, the determination unit 132 determines whether the acquired data deviates from a preset condition using the data measured by the first temperature logger 22 that measures the temperature of the pharmaceutical product 12.

[0069] In addition, when the determination unit 132 does not acquire data from the first temperature logger 22 and acquires corresponding data at the same time from the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62, the determination unit 132 may determine whether the data acquired from the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62 deviates from a preset condition. That is, when, due to some situation such as a communication failure, the data measured by the first temperature logger 22 that measures the temperature of the pharmaceutical product 12 cannot be acquired, the determination unit 132 may perform determination processing using the data measured by the second temperature logger 42 or the third temperature logger 62 instead of the data measured by the first temperature logger 22 that should have been acquired at the same time. Then, when the determination unit 132 determines that the condition has been deviated from, it transmits a warning to a preset destination. Thereby, even when the first temperature logger 22 cannot measure data, the determination unit 132 can manage whether the pharmaceutical product 12 is properly stored, so that consistent management can be continued.

[0070] Also, when the data acquired from the first temperature logger 22 does not deviate from a preset condition over a predetermined period, the determination unit 132 may determine that the article is a returnable article. The predetermined period in this case is the period described in the management conditions. For example, it is the period from when the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 ships the pharmaceutical product 12 until the pharmaceutical product 12 is returned to the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10.

[0071] The transmission unit 133 transmits various information. For example, the transmission unit 133 transmits a request to the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70 to request that the measurement data measured by each temperature logger be transmitted to the management device 100. Also, when the determination unit 132 determines to transmit a warning, the transmission unit 133 transmits a warning to a predetermined destination.

[0072] Next, with reference to FIG. 7, a configuration example will be described in which the gateway device 70 transmits measurement data instead of the mobile terminal 50. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the third temperature logger 62, the gateway device 70, and the management device 100 according to the embodiment. Note that in FIG. 3, only the third temperature logger 62 is shown, but the configuration and functions of the third temperature logger 62 are common to those of the first temperature logger 22 and the second temperature logger 42. Also, descriptions of configurations similar to those shown in FIG. 3 will be omitted.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 7, the gateway device 70 includes a communication unit 71 and a control unit 73. The communication unit 71 is realized by, for example, a NIC or the like. The communication unit 71 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the first temperature logger 22, the third temperature logger 62, the management device 100, etc. via the network N.

[0074] The control unit 73 is realized, for example, by a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., when a program stored inside the gateway device 70 is executed using the RAM or the like as a work area. Also, the control unit 73 is a controller and is realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or an FPGA, for example. The control unit 73 includes an acquisition unit 74 and a transmission unit 75. The function of the acquisition unit 74 is common to that of the acquisition unit 54 shown in FIG. 3. Also, the function of the transmission unit 75 is common to that of the transmission unit 55 shown in FIG. 3. Note that in the configuration example shown in FIG. 7, the gateway device 70 does not have a storage unit, but the gateway device 70 may be provided with a storage unit (such as a memory element) for storing measurement data acquired from the third temperature logger 62 or the like.

[0075] [1-3. Procedure of Temperature Management Process According to the Embodiment] Next, with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10, the procedure of the temperature management process according to the embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 8, the overall flow of the temperature management process according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart (1) showing the procedure of the temperature management process according to the embodiment.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8, the management device 100 acquires measurement data from a plurality of temperature loggers via the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70 (step S101). The management device 100 stores the acquired measurement data (step S102). Until the return of the pharmaceutical product 12 is performed or the pharmaceutical product 12 is used, the management device 100 executes a management determination process (step S103). Thereafter, the management device 100 determines whether a return determination is requested (step S104).

[0077] When a return determination is not requested (step S104; No), that is, when the storage of the pharmaceutical product 12 is maintained, the management device 100 continues the process of acquiring measurement data from the temperature logger (step S101). On the other hand, when a return determination is requested (step S104; Yes), for example, when the pharmaceutical product 12 is returned to the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10, the management device 100 executes a process of determining whether to accept the return of the pharmaceutical product 12 (step S105).

[0078] Subsequently, with reference to FIG. 9, the details of the management determination process in step S103 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart (2) showing the procedure of the temperature management process according to the embodiment.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 9, the management device 100 determines whether the measurement data conforms to the conditions (step S201). For example, the management device 100 determines whether the situation is such that the pharmaceutical product 12 is not properly managed, such as when the acquired temperature data exceeds or is likely to exceed the upper limit, or when temperature data cannot be acquired from the first temperature logger 22 due to a communication failure.

[0080] When it is determined that the measurement data does not conform to the conditions (step S201; No), the management device 100 identifies the terminal associated with the conditions (step S202). For example, when "mobile terminal 50" is associated with the management conditions of the pharmaceutical product 12, the management device 100 identifies the mobile terminal 50 as the warning transmission destination.

[0081] Then, the management device 100 issues a warning to the identified terminal (step S203). After that, the management device 100 determines whether the returnable state of the pharmaceutical product 12 is maintained based on the measurement data (step S204).

[0082] For example, if the returnable state is not maintained when the temperature data obtained after issuing the warning does not conform to the conditions and continues (step S204; No), the management device 100 determines that the pharmaceutical product 12 is non-returnable (step S205). In this case, the management device 100 stores in the data storage unit 122 or the like that the pharmaceutical product 12 is non-returnable.

[0083] On the other hand, if the temperature data returns to an appropriate situation after the management device 100 issues a warning in a situation where the obtained temperature data is likely to exceed a predefined upper limit, that is, if it conforms to the return conditions (step S204; Yes), the management device 100 determines that the returnable state is maintained and that management in accordance with the conditions is maintained (step S206). Note that the management device 100 also determines that management in accordance with the conditions is maintained when it determines in step S201 that the measurement data conforms to the conditions (step S201; Yes) (step S206).

[0084] Subsequently, with reference to FIG. 10, the details of the return determination process in step S105 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart (3) showing the procedure of the temperature management process according to the embodiment.

[0085] When the pharmaceutical product 12 is returned, the management device 100 refers to the data storage unit 122 and determines whether a non-returnable determination has already been made (step S301).

[0086] If a non-returnable determination has not been made (step S301; No), the management device 100 refers to the first measurement data from shipment to return, that is, the measurement data measured by the first temperature logger 22, and determines whether the measurement data conforms to the conditions (step S302).

[0087] When the first measurement data does not meet the conditions (step S302; No), for example, if there is a period during which measurement data cannot be obtained from the first temperature logger 22 due to some factor, the management device 100 determines whether it is possible to determine the conditions using other measurement data (step S303). Specifically, the management device 100 determines whether there is measurement data obtained from the second temperature logger 42 during the period when measurement data cannot be obtained from the first temperature logger 22, etc.

[0088] When it is possible to determine the conditions using other measurement data (step S303; Yes), the management device 100 determines whether the other measurement data meets the conditions (step S304).

[0089] If the first measurement data meets the conditions in step S302 (step S302; Yes), or if the other measurement data meets the conditions in step S304 (step S304; Yes), the management device 100 determines whether the lock mechanism 30 of the inner box 20 is maintained (step S305). Note that when the lock mechanism 30 is a physical lock, an irreversible fastener, etc., the process of step S305 may be manually confirmed by the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10.

[0090] If the lock mechanism 30 of the inner box 20 is maintained (step S305; Yes), the management device 100 determines that the pharmaceutical product 12 can be returned (step S306). On the other hand, if the lock mechanism 30 of the inner box 20 is not maintained (step S305; No), the management device 100 determines that the pharmaceutical product 12 cannot be returned (step S307). Note that if a determination that the product cannot be returned has already been made at the stage when the pharmaceutical product 12 is returned (step S301; Yes), or if it is not possible to determine the conditions using other measurement data (step S303; No), the management device 100 also determines that the pharmaceutical product 12 cannot be returned.

[0091] (2. Modification of the Embodiment) [2-1. Configuration of the Device] In the above-described embodiment, the mobile terminal 50 according to the present disclosure is a terminal carried by a carrier of the pharmaceutical product 12 or the like, and an example of a smartphone or a tablet terminal was shown. However, the configuration of the mobile terminal 50 is not limited to this example as long as it can execute the processes shown in the embodiment.

[0092] For example, the mobile terminal 50 may be composed of a plurality of smartphones or tablet terminals. Specifically, the mobile terminal 50 may be composed of a plurality of terminals including a terminal carried by the pharmaceutical manufacturer 10 and a terminal carried by a carrier or the like. Further, in the embodiment, an example in which the temperature management unit (a device that accumulates data measured by each temperature logger in the temperature management system 1) is the management device 100 was shown, but the temperature management unit may be the mobile terminal 50. In this case, the mobile terminal 50 has a storage unit corresponding to the management condition storage unit 121 and the data storage unit 122 shown in FIG. 3, and a control unit corresponding to the determination unit 132 and the like.

[0093] Further, the storage device 60 does not necessarily have to include the third temperature logger 62. In this case, the first temperature logger 22 of the inner box 20 stored in the storage device 60 transmits the measured temperature data to the mobile terminal 50 or the gateway device 70.

[0094] Further, the gateway device 70 may be carried by a person who transports the pharmaceutical product 12. In this case, the gateway device 70 may receive a warning regarding temperature management or transmit the received warning information from the gateway device 70 to the first temperature logger 22 or the like in real time. When the gateway device 70 does not have a display unit (screen) like the mobile terminal 50, the gateway device 70 does not have a screen lock function provided in a smartphone or the like, so that the transfer of warning information in real time can be performed without being hindered by the screen lock function from starting the application. When a smartphone or a tablet terminal is used as the mobile terminal 50, the mobile terminal 50 can easily receive warning information from the management device 100 in real time by setting the applications installed therein to start constantly or by disabling functions such as the call function other than the applications.

[0095] Also, it is preferable that the carrier of the pharmaceutical 12, the administrator who manages the management device 100, etc. set in advance so that warning information can be received in real time at the destination when a warning is transmitted to the specified destination. For example, the carrier or the administrator can quickly detect the warning situation by keeping the app launched on the mobile terminal 50 always launched. At that time, it is even better if the app sends notifications by voice or light. Also, the mobile terminal 50 and the management device 100 may issue a warning even when they cannot communicate with the first temperature logger 22 or the like that was originally scheduled to communicate. When a warning is notified, the carrier or the administrator may set to perform determination processing with a temperature logger other than the first temperature logger 22 after checking the communication state. Thereby, the carrier or the administrator can improve the communication state in the temperature management system 1.

[0096] Also, when the first temperature logger 22, the second temperature logger 42, and the third temperature logger 62 can transmit temperature data to the management device 100 via the mobile terminal 50, they do not have to go through the gateway device 70. That is, the temperature management system 1 does not necessarily have to be configured to include the gateway device 70.

[0097] [2-2. Articles] In the above embodiment, an example in which the article stored in the inner box 20 is the pharmaceutical 12 was shown. However, the article is not limited to pharmaceuticals, and may be any article that requires environmental management (such as food and drink).

[0098] (3. Other Embodiments) The processing according to the above-described embodiment may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment.

[0099] For example, among the various processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can also be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being manually performed can be automatically performed by a known method. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the illustrated information.

[0100] In addition, each component of each device shown in the drawings is conceptually functional and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown in the drawings. That is, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0101] In addition, the above-described embodiments and modified examples can be appropriately combined as long as the processing contents do not conflict.

[0102] Also, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and there may be other effects.

[0103] (4. Effects of the temperature management system according to the present disclosure) As described above, the temperature management system according to the present disclosure (the temperature management system 1 in the embodiment) includes a first storage box (the inner box 20 in the embodiment) for storing an article (the pharmaceutical product 12 in the embodiment), a second storage box (the outer box 40 in the embodiment) for storing the first storage box, and a temperature management unit (the management device 100 in the embodiment) installed on a network. The first storage box has an opening confirmation mechanism (the lock mechanism 30 in the embodiment) for indicating whether the article has been opened after being stored, and a first measuring device (the first temperature logger 22 in the embodiment) for measuring the temperature inside the first storage box. The second storage box has a temperature adjustment mechanism (the temperature adjustment mechanism 48 in the embodiment) for adjusting the temperature inside the second storage box, and a second measuring device (the first temperature logger 22 in the embodiment) for measuring the temperature inside the second storage box. The first measuring device and the second measuring device accumulate temperature data measured at predetermined time intervals and transmit the accumulated data to the temperature management unit.

[0104] In this way, the temperature management system according to the present disclosure manages an article by using two storage boxes, namely, a first storage box having an opening confirmation mechanism and a second storage box having a temperature adjustment mechanism, so that the article can be stored or transported in an appropriate management state without being taken out. Further, according to the temperature management system, since the temperature can be measured and managed only by storing the article in the first storage box, the state of the article can be consistently and highly accurately managed from the time of shipment to the process of use or return without requiring complicated processing.

[0105] In addition, a warning is issued when the data obtained from the first measuring device or the second measuring device deviates from a preset condition.

[0106] In this way, the temperature management system ensures reliable management of the article from the time of shipment to return by constantly monitoring the measured data.

[0107] In addition, when the temperature management unit does not obtain data from the first measuring device but obtains data corresponding to the same time from the second measuring device, a warning is issued when the data obtained from the second measuring device deviates from a preset condition.

[0108] In this way, even in a situation where data cannot be obtained from the first measuring instrument, the temperature management system can monitor the storage state of the article by referring to the data of the second measuring instrument.

[0109] In addition, when the data acquired from the first measuring instrument over a predetermined period does not deviate from the preset conditions, the temperature management unit determines that the article is a returnable article.

[0110] In this way, the temperature management system can surely perform the operation of accepting returns only for articles that have been properly managed by referring to the data history and making a return determination for the articles.

[0111] The temperature management system further includes a third storage box (storage device 60 in the embodiment) that stores the first storage box taken out from the second storage box. The third storage box has a temperature adjustment mechanism (temperature adjustment mechanism 68 in the embodiment) that adjusts the temperature inside the third storage box and a third measuring instrument (third temperature logger 62 in the embodiment) that measures the temperature inside the third storage box. For example, the third measuring instrument accumulates temperature data measured at predetermined time intervals and transmits the accumulated data to the temperature management unit when it is determined that communication with the temperature management unit is possible. When the temperature management unit does not acquire data from the first measuring instrument but acquires data corresponding to the same time from the third measuring instrument, it issues a warning when the data acquired from the third measuring instrument deviates from the preset conditions.

[0112] In this way, the temperature management system can also store articles using the third storage box. As a result, the temperature management system can realize flexible operations such as having the second storage box reused by a carrier, while continuously and surely acquiring measurement data.

[0113] Also, the opening confirmation mechanism is a physical lock, an electronic lock, or an irreversible fastener. In this way, the temperature management system can surely determine whether an article has been opened once by using a mechanism that leaves a trace of opening, and can determine the safety of the returned article.

[0114] Also, the second measuring device is installed so that the temperature measured by the second measuring device can be visually recognized from outside the second storage box. In this way, the temperature management system can be configured to confirm the temperature of the article even from the outer box used for transportation, realizing easy management without taking the trouble of opening the second storage box to confirm the temperature of the article.

[0115] Also, the first measuring device measures at least one of the humidity, illuminance, vibration, and air pressure inside the first storage box. In this way, the temperature management system according to the present disclosure can appropriately determine a state such as whether the article is in a stable state by measuring various data related to the article.

[0116] (5. Hardware Configuration) Information devices such as the mobile terminal 50 and the management device 100 according to the above-described embodiments are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in FIG. 11, for example. Hereinafter, the management device 100 according to the embodiment will be described as an example. FIG. 11 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer 1000 that realizes the functions of the management device 100. The computer 1000 includes a CPU 1100, a RAM 1200, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1300, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 1400, a communication interface 1500, and an input / output interface 1600. Each part of the computer 1000 is connected by a bus 1050.

[0117] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400 and controls each part. For example, the CPU 1100 expands a program stored in the ROM 1300 or the HDD 1400 into the RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to various programs.

[0118] The ROM 1300 stores a boot program such as a BIOS (Basic Input Output System) executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started up, and programs dependent on the hardware of the computer 1000.

[0119] The HDD 1400 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records programs executed by the CPU 1100 and data used by such programs. Specifically, the HDD 1400 is a recording medium that records a program for executing the temperature management process according to the present disclosure, which is an example of the program data 1450.

[0120] The communication interface 1500 is an interface for the computer 1000 to connect to an external network 1550 (for example, the Internet). For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from other devices or transmits data generated by the CPU 1100 to other devices via the communication interface 1500.

[0121] The input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting the input / output device 1650 and the computer 1000. For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse via the input / output interface 1600. Also, the CPU 1100 transmits data to output devices such as a display, a speaker, and a printer via the input / output interface 1600. Further, the input / output interface 1600 may function as a media interface for reading a program or the like recorded on a predetermined recording medium (media). The media is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase change rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory or the like.

[0122] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the management device 100 according to the embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 realizes functions such as the control unit 130 by executing the temperature management processing program loaded on the RAM 1200. Also, the HDD 1400 stores a program for executing the temperature management processing according to the present disclosure and data in the storage unit 120. Note that the CPU 1100 reads and executes the program data 1450 from the HDD 1400, but as another example, these programs may be acquired from other devices via the external network 1550.

[0123] As described above, the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but these are examples, and the present invention can be implemented in other forms in which various modifications and improvements are made based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, including the aspects described in the column of the disclosure of the invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0124] 1 Temperature management system 20 Inner box 22 First temperature logger 30 Lock mechanism 40 Outer box 42 Second temperature logger 48 Temperature adjustment mechanism 50 Mobile terminal 60 Storage device 62 Third temperature logger 68 Temperature adjustment mechanism 70 Gateway device 100 Management device

Claims

1. A temperature management system comprising a first storage box for storing an article, a second storage box for storing the first storage box, and a temperature management unit installed on a network, wherein the first storage box has an opening confirmation mechanism for indicating whether the article has been opened after being stored, and a first measuring device for measuring the temperature inside the first storage box, the second storage box has a temperature adjustment mechanism for adjusting the temperature inside the second storage box, and a second measuring device for measuring the temperature inside the second storage box, the first measuring device and the second measuring device accumulate temperature data measured at predetermined time intervals and transmit the accumulated data to the temperature management unit, the temperature management unit, when the data obtained from the first measuring device over a predetermined period does not deviate from a preset condition, determines that the article is a returnable article, characterized in that it is a temperature management system.

2. The temperature management unit, when the data obtained from the first measuring device or the second measuring device deviates from a preset condition, issues a warning, characterized in that it is the temperature management system according to Claim 1.

3. The opening confirmation mechanism, is a physical lock, an electronic lock, or an irreversible fastener, characterized in that it is the temperature management system according to Claim 1 or 2.

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