Hydrogen Delivery System

Abstract

To deliver a hydrogen cartridge at appropriate timing while suppressing delivery cost for the hydrogen cartridge.SOLUTION: A hydrogen delivery system 1 delivers fuel cell hydrogen to a building 2 in which a fuel cell device 3 is installed, and comprises: an individual management device 20 provided in the building 2 for acquiring residual amount data of a fuel cell hydrogen cartridge 4; a central management device 10 capable of communicating with the individual management device 20; and determination means 13, 24 for determining on the basis of the residual amount data acquired by the individual management device 20, whether the hydrogen cartridge 4 should be delivered to the building 2. The central management device 10 includes transmission means 15 for transmitting hydrogen cartridge request information requesting the hydrogen cartridge 4 for the building 2 to an information terminal 40 used in the existing home delivery service when the determination means 13, 24 determines the delivery to be made.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydrogen delivery system that delivers hydrogen for fuel cells to a building where a fuel cell device is installed. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a fuel cell device that includes a hydrogen cartridge for supplying hydrogen to a fuel cell main body, and the fuel cell main body with the hydrogen cartridge attached. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-129495 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Fuel cell device users need to obtain new hydrogen cartridges when replacing their old ones. The frequency of hydrogen cartridge replacement varies depending on the season, whether there is an event, the user's family composition, etc. Therefore, a system that allows users to obtain new hydrogen cartridges at the appropriate time is desired. There is also a need for a system that allows hydrogen cartridges to be obtained inexpensively.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to deliver hydrogen cartridges at an appropriate time while reducing the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The invention described in claim 1 is, for example, as shown in Figs. 1 to 6, a hydrogen delivery system 1 that delivers hydrogen for a fuel cell to a building 2 in which a fuel cell device 3 is installed, an individual management device 20 that is installed in the building 2 and acquires remaining amount data of hydrogen cartridges 4 for fuel cells; a central management device 10 capable of communicating with the individual management devices 20; Equipped with The central management device 10 receiving means for receiving delivery schedule information relating to the delivery of other items to the building; In response to the receiving means receiving the delivery schedule information, The individual management device 20 From the above Remaining data Get a determination means (13, 24) for determining whether or not delivery of the hydrogen cartridge (4) to the building (2) is necessary; before When the determination means 13, 24 determine that delivery is necessary, the central management device 10 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information for requesting the hydrogen cartridge 4 for the building 2 to an existing home delivery service. Regarding the delivery of the other items using Transmission means 15 for transmitting to the information terminal 40 and, The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0007] According to the invention of claim 1, the hydrogen cartridge 4 is delivered in accordance with the determination result based on the remaining amount data of the hydrogen cartridge 4, so that the hydrogen cartridge 4 can be delivered at an appropriate time. Furthermore, the hydrogen cartridge request information is sent to an information terminal 40 used by an existing delivery service. In other words, because the hydrogen cartridges 4 are delivered using an existing delivery service, the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be reduced compared to when a separate delivery service dedicated to delivering the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2 is established.

[0008] The invention described in claim 2 is, for example, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, in the hydrogen delivery system 1 described in claim 1, the other item is a delivery item to be delivered to the building, The information terminal 40 includes: Owned by the deliverer who delivers the said delivery A deliverer terminal 41 is included. When the determining means 13 determines that delivery is necessary, the sending means 15 To, To the delivery person terminal 41, The aforementioned Deliveries and bothThe hydrogen cartridge request information for requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 is transmitted.

[0009] According to the invention described in claim 2, the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be delivered at the same time as delivering the package using an existing delivery service, which reduces the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 compared to when a separate dedicated delivery service is established to deliver the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is, for example, as shown in Figs. 3 and 4, in the hydrogen delivery system 1 described in claim 1, the other items are goods delivered from a store to the building; The information terminal Owned by the store Including a store terminal 42, When the determining means 24 determines that delivery is necessary, the sending means 15 To, The store terminal 42 The aforementioned Products and both The hydrogen cartridge 4 Hand it over to the delivery company The hydrogen cartridge request information is transmitted to request the user to purchase the hydrogen cartridge.

[0011] According to the invention described in claim 3, the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be delivered at the same time as the products ordered by the user are delivered using an existing delivery service, which reduces the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 compared to when a separate dedicated delivery service is established to deliver the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2.

[0014] Claim 4 The invention described above is, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, in a hydrogen delivery system 1 described in claim 1, The transmitting means 15 is characterized in that it transmits the hydrogen cartridge request information when the determining means 13, 24 determines that delivery is necessary and when the user of the building 2 agrees to the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0015] Claim 4According to the invention described in the above, the hydrogen cartridge 4 can be delivered according to the user's convenience, so the hydrogen cartridge 4 can be delivered at an appropriate time.

[0016] Claim 5 The invention described in the above can be implemented as follows, for example, as shown in FIGS. 4 Hydrogen delivery as described in In System 1, The user can set in advance whether or not the consent is required as a condition for the transmission of the hydrogen cartridge request information by the transmission means 15.

[0017] Claim 5 According to the invention described in the above, by setting "no consent required (automatic mode)" in advance, the hydrogen cartridge 4 will be delivered at the appropriate time without any troublesome operation (operation to decide whether to consent or not), making it easy to use. Furthermore, by setting "consent required" in advance, the user can know that the hydrogen cartridge 4 will be delivered when deciding whether or not to consent, which is convenient. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, hydrogen cartridges can be delivered at an appropriate time, and the cost of delivering hydrogen cartridges can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a hydrogen delivery system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a hydrogen delivery system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] Second embodiment: A diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen delivery system. [Figure 4] 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a hydrogen delivery system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of a hydrogen delivery system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] Modification 1: A flowchart showing an example of the operation of a hydrogen delivery system. [Figure 8] Modification 2: A flowchart showing an example of the operation of a hydrogen delivery system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, although the embodiments described below are subject to various technically preferable limitations for carrying out the present invention, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0021] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen delivery system 1 according to the first embodiment. The hydrogen delivery system 1 is configured with a central management device 10, individual management devices 20 installed in a building 2 such as a house, a user terminal 30 owned by a user of the building 2 (e.g., a resident of the building 2), and an information terminal 40 used in existing home delivery services. The central management device 10, the individual management devices 20, the user terminals 30, and the information terminals 40 are connected to each other via a communication network N so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0022] The central management unit 10 includes a processing unit, a display unit, an input unit, etc. The functions of the central management unit 10 will be described in detail later.

[0023] The individual management device 20 is a small, board-type computer system called a Home Energy Management System (HEMS). The individual management device 20 is installed on an inner wall of the building 2, for example. The individual management device 20 has a processing unit, a display unit, an input unit, etc. The functions of the individual management device 20 will be described in detail later.

[0024] The user terminal 30 is a portable information terminal such as a smartphone. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the user terminal 30 is located inside the building 2, but of course, it may be located outside the building 2 and still be connectable to the communication network N. A fuel cell device 3 is installed in the building 2. A hydrogen cartridge 4 for the fuel cell is detachably mounted on the fuel cell device 3. In other words, the hydrogen cartridge 4 is replaceable.

[0025] The information terminal 40 of this embodiment includes at least a deliverer terminal 41 owned by a deliverer who delivers items in an existing home delivery service. That is, the information terminal 40 of this embodiment may also include a store terminal 42 (described later) or the like. Existing delivery services include food delivery services, courier services, and postal services. In the case of a food delivery service, for example, the deliverer terminal 41 is a terminal owned by a deliverer who carries the delivery items (food and drink) from a restaurant or the like to the delivery destination. In the case of a parcel delivery service or postal service, for example, a terminal installed at a delivery store (office, post office) located in each area, or a terminal owned by a deliverer who carries items (parcels, mail) from a delivery store (office, delivery office) to the destination, is the deliverer terminal 41. Note that when the deliverer terminal 41 is a terminal installed at a delivery store (office, post office) located in each area, the deliverer includes not only the delivery personnel who actually deliver the packages but also other employees of the delivery store.

[0026] <<Functions of Individual Management Devices>> The processing unit of the individual management device 20 stores a program. That is, the processing unit executes the program to realize the functions of the individual management device 20, specifically, the means 22 and 23 provided in the individual management device 20 shown in FIG. 1(b).

[0027] The individual management device 20 includes a storage means 21. The storage means 21 stores, for example, user information relating to the user of the fuel cell device 3 (i.e., the user of the individual management device 20). Specifically, the storage means 21 stores, for example, various identification information (user name, address of the building 2, identification number of the individual management device 20, identification number of the user terminal 30, etc.), whether or not the automatic mode is set, etc. The automatic mode is a mode in which delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 is requested without confirmation from the user. The user can select and change whether or not to set the automatic mode by operating the individual management device 20 or the user terminal 30.

[0028] The individual management device 20 also includes a remaining amount data acquisition means 22. The remaining amount data acquisition means 22 acquires remaining amount data relating to the remaining amount of hydrogen in the installed hydrogen cartridges 4 from the fuel cell device 3 or the like installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed. As shown in Figure 1(a), when multiple hydrogen cartridges 4 are installed, remaining amount data relating to the total remaining amount of hydrogen added together in each hydrogen cartridge 4 is acquired.

[0029] The individual management device 20 also includes a hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23. The hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device 20 or on the display unit of a user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device 20 to select whether or not the user desires delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4, and when "Delivery desired" is selected, the means 23 transmits delivery request information to the central management device 10 requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0030] <<Functions of the central control device>> The arithmetic processing unit of the central management unit 10 stores a program. That is, the arithmetic processing unit executes the program to realize the functions of the central management unit 10, specifically, the means 12, 13, 14, and 15 provided in the central management unit 10 shown in FIG. 1(c).

[0031] The central management device 10 includes a storage means 11. The storage means 11 stores, for example, user information relating to the user of the fuel cell device 3 for each user (each individual management device 20). Specifically, the storage means 11 stores, for example, various identification information (user name, address of the building 2, identification number of the individual management device 20, identification number of the user terminal 30, etc.), whether or not the automatic mode is set, etc. When the user information stored in the storage means 21 of the individual management device 20 is updated, the updated content is also reflected in the storage means 11 of the central management device 10.

[0032] The central management unit 10 also includes a remaining amount data request unit 12 . The central management device 10 is communicatively connected to a server (not shown) that manages an existing home delivery service via a communication network N. When the server that manages the existing home delivery service plans to deliver an item (food, drink, home delivery, mail, etc.) to a building 2, it transmits delivery schedule information to the central management device 10, notifying the address of the building 2 to be delivered, the user name, the identification information of the deliverer terminal 41 owned by the deliverer in charge of the delivery, the scheduled delivery date and time, etc. Then, when the remaining amount data request means 12 receives the delivery schedule information, it sends remaining amount data transmission request information to the individual management device 20 installed in the building 2 to which delivery is to be made, at a predetermined time before the scheduled delivery date and time, requesting that the individual management device 20 transmit remaining amount data regarding the amount of hydrogen remaining in the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0033] The central management device 10 also includes a determination means 13. Based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 of the individual management device 20, the determination means 13 determines whether or not delivery of the hydrogen cartridges 4 to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed (the building 2 that is the delivery target) is necessary. Specifically, based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 of the individual management device 20, the determination means 13 determines, for example, whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, and if it is equal to or less than the predetermined amount, determines that delivery is necessary. Furthermore, the determining means 13 determines, for example, how many hydrogen cartridges 4 need to be delivered based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquiring means 22 of the individual management device 20 .

[0034] The central management device 10 also includes hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal means 14. The hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal means 14 refers to the storage means 11 to determine whether the individual management device 20 that has transmitted the remaining amount data is an individual management device 20 in which automatic mode is set. If it is determined that the individual management device 20 is not in automatic mode, hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information is transmitted to that individual management device 20.

[0035] The central management unit 10 also includes a transmission means 15. When the determination means 13 of the central management unit 10 determines that delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 is necessary, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 to the information terminal 40. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the determination means 13 of the central management device 10 determines that delivery is necessary and a delivery item using an existing home delivery service is scheduled to be delivered to building 2, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information to the delivery person terminal 41 owned by the delivery person delivering the item, requesting that a hydrogen cartridge 4 be delivered along with the item.

[0036] <<Operation flow>> FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system 1 in the first embodiment. When the central management device 10 receives delivery schedule information from a server of an existing home delivery service (step S11), i.e., when a delivery item using an existing home delivery service is scheduled to be delivered to building 2, the central management device 10 uses the remaining amount data request means 12 to send remaining amount data transmission request information to an individual management device 20 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "target individual management device 20") installed in the building 2 that is the delivery target at a predetermined time before the scheduled delivery date and time, requesting that the individual management device 20 transmit remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S12).

[0037] When the individual management device 20 receives the remaining amount data transmission request information from the central management device 10, the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 acquires remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 installed in the fuel cell device 3, etc. installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed (step S13), and transmits the acquired remaining amount data to the central management device 10 (step S14).

[0038] When the central management device 10 receives the remaining amount data from the individual management device 20, the determination means 13 determines whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount based on the remaining amount data (step S15). Then, if the central management device 10 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is not less than a predetermined amount (step S15; No), that is, if it determines that there is no need to deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the building 2 in which the target individual management device 20 is installed, it terminates this flow.

[0039] On the other hand, if the central management device 10 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is less than a predetermined amount (step S15; Yes), that is, if it determines that a hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered to the building 2 in which the target individual management device 20 is installed, the hydrogen cartridge delivery suggestion means 14 refers to the memory means 11 to determine whether the target individual management device 20 is an individual management device 20 in which automatic mode is set (step S16). If the central management device 10 determines that the individual management device 20 is not set to automatic mode (step S16; No), it sends hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information to the individual management device 20 in question (step S17).

[0040] When the individual management device 20 receives hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information from the central management device 10, the hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device 20 and / or the display unit of the user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device 20 to select whether or not to receive delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4. Then, when a user or the like selects "I would like delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; Yes), the individual management device 20 sends delivery request information to the central management device 10 requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S19). On the other hand, if the user or the like selects "I do not want delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; No), the individual management device 20 sends delivery refusal information to the central management device 10 refusing delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4, and ends this flow.

[0041] When the central control unit 10 receives the delivery request information from the individual control unit 20, it performs the process of step S20. Furthermore, if the central management device 10 determines in step S16 that automatic mode is set (step S16; Yes), it performs the processing of step S20 without performing the processing of step S17, i.e., without being triggered by delivery request information from the individual management device 20 (without confirming with the user whether or not to request delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4).

[0042] In step S20, based on the delivery schedule information received in step S11, the transmitting means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information to the deliverer terminal 41 owned by the deliverer who will deliver the item to the building 2 where the target individual management device 20 is installed, requesting that the hydrogen cartridges 4 be delivered along with the item (step S20). The hydrogen cartridge request information includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc.

[0043] When the deliverer terminal 41 receives the hydrogen cartridge request information, the display unit of the deliverer terminal 41 displays an approval selection screen for selecting whether or not to approve the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4. Then, when the deliverer or the like selects "Agree" by operating the input unit, the deliverer terminal 41 transmits consent information to the central management device 10 indicating consent to the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S21). The delivery item and the hydrogen cartridge 4 are then delivered to the building 2 (the building 2 in which the target individual management device 20 is installed and which requires the hydrogen cartridge 4).

[0044] In addition, if the delivery person or the like selects "Do not accept" by operating the input unit, the delivery person terminal 41 sends refusal information to the central management device 10 indicating that the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 is being refused. If the delivery person terminal 41 is a terminal owned by a delivery person who transports the delivery item (food or drink) from a restaurant or other establishment to the destination, for example, if there is no place where hydrogen cartridges 4 can be obtained, such as a hydrogen station, on the route from the current location to the restaurant or from the restaurant or other establishment to the destination, or if the restaurant does not have any hydrogen cartridges 4 in stock, then "Do not accept" will be selected. Furthermore, if the deliverer terminal 41 is a terminal installed at a delivery store (office, post office) located in each area, or a terminal owned by a deliverer who transports items (home deliveries, mail) from the delivery store (office, delivery office) to the destination, then "Do not accept" will be selected if, for example, there is no place within the delivery area where hydrogen cartridges 4 can be obtained, such as a hydrogen station, or if the delivery store (office, post office) does not have hydrogen cartridges 4 in stock.

[0045] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. For the sake of convenience, elements common to the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted or simplified. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen delivery system 1 in the second embodiment. The information terminal 40 of this embodiment includes at least a store terminal 42 owned by a provider (store) that provides delivery items in an existing home delivery service. That is, the information terminal 40 of this embodiment may also include a deliverer terminal 41, etc.

[0046] Here, the hydrogen delivery system 1 of the first embodiment is a system that delivers hydrogen cartridges 4 based on delivery schedule information provided by an existing delivery service. Therefore, the existing delivery service in the first embodiment can be any service that provides delivery schedule information, such as a food delivery service, a courier service, or a postal service. On the other hand, the hydrogen delivery system 1 of the second embodiment is a system that delivers hydrogen cartridges 4 based on a product order made by a user using an existing delivery service. In the second embodiment, a food delivery service is assumed as the existing delivery service, but if the product ordered by the user is delivered to a building 2 (such as the user's home) using a delivery service or postal service, the delivery service or postal service could also be considered an existing delivery service in the second embodiment.

[0047] <<Functions of Individual Management Devices>> As shown in FIG. 3(b), the individual management device 20 of this embodiment includes a storage means 21, a remaining amount data acquisition means 22, a hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23, and a determination means 24. The determination means 24 of the second embodiment is equivalent to the determination means 13 of the first embodiment. That is, the determination means 24 determines whether delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 is necessary based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquisition means 22. Specifically, based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquisition means 22, it determines, for example, whether the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, and if it is equal to or less than the predetermined amount, it determines that delivery is necessary. Furthermore, the determining means 24 determines, for example, how many hydrogen cartridges 4 need to be delivered based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquiring means 22.

[0048] <<Functions of the central control device>> The central management unit 10 of this embodiment includes a storage unit 11 and a transmission unit 15, as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information requesting delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the information terminal 40 when the determination means 24 of the individual management device 20 determines that delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 is necessary. Specifically, in this embodiment, when the determination means 24 of the individual management device 20 determines that delivery is necessary and a user in building 2 orders a product using an existing home delivery service, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information to the store terminal 42 owned by the store to which the order is placed, requesting that a hydrogen cartridge 4 be provided along with the product.

[0049] <<Operation flow>> FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system 1 in the second embodiment. When a user operates the input unit of the individual management device 20 or the input unit of the user terminal 30 to order a product from an existing home delivery service (step S31), the individual management device 20 uses the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 to acquire remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 installed from a fuel cell device 3 or the like installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed (step S13).

[0050] Next, the individual management device 20 determines, by the determining means 24, based on the remaining amount data acquired in step S13, whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount (step S32). If the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is not less than a predetermined amount (step S32; No), that is, if it determines that there is no need to deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it terminates this flow.

[0051] On the other hand, if the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is less than a predetermined amount (step S32; Yes), that is, if it determines that a hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it refers to the memory means 21 to determine whether automatic mode is set (step S33). If the individual management device 20 determines that automatic mode is not set (step S33; No), the hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device 20 and / or the display unit of the user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device 20 to select whether or not to receive delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0052] When the user or the like selects "Delivery desired" by operating the input unit or the like (Step S18; Yes), the individual management device 20 transmits delivery request information requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridges 4 to the central management device 10 (Step S19). The delivery request information in this embodiment includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, identification information of the store terminal 42 owned by the store where the order was placed, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc. On the other hand, if the user or the like selects "I do not want delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; No), the individual management device 20 ends this flow.

[0053] Furthermore, if the individual management device 20 determines in step S33 that the automatic mode is set (step S33; Yes), it performs the processing of step S19 without performing the processing of step S18, i.e., without confirming with the user whether or not to request delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0054] When the central management device 10 receives the delivery request information from the individual management device 20, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information to the store terminal 42 of the store where the order was placed, requesting that the store prepare hydrogen cartridges 4 along with the product ordered by the user, based on the delivery request information (step S20). The hydrogen cartridge request information includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc.

[0055] When the store terminal 42 receives the hydrogen cartridge request information, the display unit of the store terminal 42 displays an approval selection screen for selecting whether or not to approve the provision of the hydrogen cartridge 4. If the store clerk or other person selects "Accept" by operating the input unit, the store terminal 42 transmits consent information to the central management device 10 indicating consent to the provision of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S34). The product and hydrogen cartridge 4 are then prepared, and the product and hydrogen cartridge 4 are handed over to the delivery person who comes to pick up the product. As a result, the hydrogen cartridge 4 is delivered to the building 2 (such as the home of the user who ordered the product, and is in need of the hydrogen cartridge 4) along with the product ordered by the user.

[0056] Furthermore, if a store clerk or the like selects "Do not accept" by operating the input unit, the store terminal 42 transmits refusal information to the central management device 10 to the effect that the provision of the hydrogen cartridge 4 is being refused. For example, if the store does not have any hydrogen cartridges 4 in stock, "Do not accept" is selected.

[0057] Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. For ease of explanation, elements common to the above embodiments (first embodiment and second embodiment) will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and explanations thereof will be omitted or simplified. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a hydrogen delivery system 1 according to the third embodiment. The information terminal 40 of this embodiment includes at least a deliverer terminal 41 owned by a deliverer who delivers items in an existing home delivery service. That is, the information terminal 40 of this embodiment may also include a store terminal 42, etc.

[0058] The hydrogen delivery system 1 of the third embodiment is a system that delivers hydrogen cartridges 4 during the free time of the delivery person. Therefore, in the third embodiment, a food delivery service is assumed as an existing delivery service, but of course, a courier service or a postal service can also be an existing delivery service in the third embodiment.

[0059] <<Functions of Individual Management Devices>> As shown in FIG. 4(b), the individual management device 20 of this embodiment includes a storage means 21, a remaining amount data acquisition means 22, a hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23, and a determination means 24.

[0060] <<Functions of the central control device>> The central management unit 10 of this embodiment includes a storage unit 11 and a transmission unit 15, as shown in FIG. In this embodiment, when the determination means 24 of the individual management device 20 determines that delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 is necessary, the transmission means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 to a specific deliverer terminal 41 among the multiple information terminals 40. The specific deliverer terminal 41 is, for example, one or more deliverer terminals 41 located in the vicinity (for example, within a 3 km radius) of the building 2 to which delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 is required.

[0061] <<Operation flow>> FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system 1 in the third embodiment. When the predetermined timing for checking the remaining amount arrives (step S41), the individual management device 20 uses the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 to acquire remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 installed from the fuel cell device 3, etc. installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed (step S13). The timing for checking the remaining amount may be once a day, multiple times a day, or once every multiple days. The user can select or change the timing for checking the remaining amount by operating the input unit of the individual management device 20 or the input unit of the user terminal 30.

[0062] Next, the individual management device 20 determines, by the determining means 24, based on the remaining amount data acquired in step S13, whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount (step S32). If the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is not less than a predetermined amount (step S32; No), that is, if it determines that there is no need to deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it terminates this flow.

[0063] On the other hand, if the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is less than a predetermined amount (step S32; Yes), that is, if it determines that a hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it refers to the memory means 21 to determine whether automatic mode is set (step S33). If the individual management device 20 determines that automatic mode is not set (step S33; No), the hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device 20 and / or the display unit of the user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device 20 to select whether or not to receive delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0064] When the user or the like selects "Delivery desired" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; Yes), the individual management device 20 transmits delivery request information requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridges 4 to the central management device 10 (step S19). The delivery request information in this embodiment includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc. On the other hand, if the user or the like selects "I do not want delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; No), the individual management device 20 ends this flow.

[0065] Furthermore, if the individual management device 20 determines in step S33 that the automatic mode is set (step S33; Yes), it performs the processing of step S19 without performing the processing of step S18, i.e., without confirming with the user whether or not to request delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0066] When the central management device 10 receives delivery request information from the individual management device 20, it uses the transmission means 15 to transmit hydrogen cartridge request information to a specific delivery person terminal 41 based on the delivery request information, requesting that the hydrogen cartridges 4 be delivered (step S20). In this embodiment, the hydrogen cartridge request information includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc.

[0067] When the deliverer terminal 41 receives the hydrogen cartridge request information, the display unit of the deliverer terminal 41 displays an approval selection screen for selecting whether or not to approve the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4. Then, when the delivery person or the like selects "Agree" by operating the input unit, the delivery person terminal 41 transmits consent information to the central management device 10 indicating consent to the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S21). The hydrogen cartridge 4 is then delivered to the building 2 (the building 2 that needs the hydrogen cartridge 4).

[0068] In this embodiment, the hydrogen cartridge request information sent in step S20 may include information such as the area (rough location information) of the delivery destination (building 2) and the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered. In this case, when the central management device 10 receives the consent information sent in step S21, it sends information including the address (detailed location information) of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc. to the delivery person terminal 41 that sent the consent information. Furthermore, if there are multiple specific deliverer terminals 41, i.e., if hydrogen cartridge request information is sent to multiple deliverer terminals 41 in step S20, for example, the deliverer who owns the deliverer terminal 41 that first sent acceptance information will deliver the hydrogen cartridge 4. In other words, once one of the specific deliverer terminals 41 sends acceptance information in response to the hydrogen cartridge request information, the system is configured so that none of the deliverer terminals 41 can display the acceptance selection screen based on that hydrogen cartridge request information thereafter.

[0069] <Effects> According to the first to third embodiments, the following excellent effects are achieved. The hydrogen delivery system 1 of the first to third embodiments is a hydrogen delivery system that delivers hydrogen for fuel cells to a building 2 in which a fuel cell device 3 is installed, and is equipped with an individual management device 20 that is installed in the building 2 and acquires remaining amount data of hydrogen cartridges 4 for the fuel cells, a central management device 10 that is capable of communicating with the individual management device 20, and determination means 13, 24 that determines whether delivery of hydrogen cartridges 4 to the building 2 is necessary based on the remaining amount data acquired by the individual management device 20. The central management device 10 is further equipped with transmission means 15 that, when it is determined by the determination means 13, 24 that delivery is necessary, transmits hydrogen cartridge request information (step S20) requesting hydrogen cartridges 4 for the building 2 to an information terminal 40 used in existing home delivery services.

[0070] Therefore, the hydrogen cartridge 4 is delivered in accordance with the determination result based on the remaining amount data of the hydrogen cartridge 4, so that the hydrogen cartridge 4 (full hydrogen cartridge 4) can be delivered at an appropriate time. Furthermore, the hydrogen cartridge request information is sent to an information terminal 40 used by an existing delivery service. In other words, because the hydrogen cartridges 4 are delivered using an existing delivery service, the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 (full hydrogen cartridges 4) can be reduced compared to when a separate delivery service dedicated to delivering the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2 is established.

[0071] In the first to third embodiments, the determination means 13, 24 determines that delivery is necessary when the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, but this is not limited to this. For example, the determination means 13, 24 may determine whether the number of full hydrogen cartridges 4 is equal to or less than a predetermined number based on the remaining amount data acquired by the remaining amount data acquisition means 22, and determine that delivery is necessary if the number is equal to or less than the predetermined number.

[0072] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the determination means 13 is provided in the central management device 10, but this is not limiting, and the determination means 24 may be provided in the individual management device 20. In this case, for example, when the central management device 10 receives delivery schedule information (step S11), it may transmit hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information to the target individual management device 20, and when the individual management device 20 receives the hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information, it may perform the processes of steps S13, S32, S33, S18, and S19.

[0073] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the determination means 24 is provided in the individual management device 20, but this is not limiting, and the determination means 13 may be provided in the central management device 10. In that case, for example, when a user orders a product from an existing home delivery service (step S31) and acquires remaining amount data (step S13), the individual management device 20 may transmit the remaining amount data to the central management device 10, and upon receiving the remaining amount data, the central management device 10 may perform the processes of steps S15, S16, and S17.

[0074] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the determination means 24 is provided in the individual management device 20, but this is not limiting, and the determination means 13 may be provided in the central management device 10. In that case, for example, when the timing for checking the remaining amount arrives (step S41) and the individual management device 20 acquires the remaining amount data (step S13), the individual management device 20 may transmit the remaining amount data to the central management device 10, and when the central management device 10 receives the remaining amount data, the central management device 10 may perform the processes of steps S15, S16, and S17.

[0075] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, the transmitting means 15 is provided in the central management device 10, but this is not limiting, and the transmitting means may be provided in the individual management device 20. In this case, the transmitting means (the transmitting means of the individual management device 20) transmits, for example, delivery request information (step S19) as hydrogen cartridge request information. In other words, the delivery request information may be transmitted to an information terminal 40 (deliverer terminal 41 or store terminal 42) rather than to the central management device 10.

[0076] In addition, in the hydrogen delivery system of the first embodiment, the information terminal 40 includes a deliverer terminal 41, and when the determination means 13 determines that delivery is necessary and a delivery item using an existing home delivery service is scheduled to be delivered to the building 2 (step S11), the transmission means 15 is capable of transmitting hydrogen cartridge request information to the delivery person terminal 41 owned by the delivery person delivering the item, requesting that a hydrogen cartridge 4 be delivered along with the delivery item.

[0077] By configuring it in this way, the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be delivered at the same time as delivering the package using an existing delivery service, which reduces the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 compared to when a separate delivery service dedicated to delivering the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2 is established.

[0078] In addition, in the hydrogen delivery system of the second embodiment, the information terminal 40 includes a store terminal 42, and when the determination means 24 determines that delivery is necessary and a user of building 2 orders a product using an existing home delivery service (step S31), the transmission means 15 is capable of transmitting hydrogen cartridge request information to the store terminal 42 owned by the store to which the order is placed, requesting that a hydrogen cartridge 4 be provided along with the product.

[0079] By configuring it in this way, the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be delivered at the same time as the products ordered by the user are delivered using an existing delivery service, which reduces the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 compared to when a separate delivery service dedicated to delivering the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2 is established.

[0080] In addition, in the hydrogen delivery system of the third embodiment, the information terminal 40 includes a delivery person terminal 41 owned by a delivery person who delivers items using an existing home delivery service, and when the determination means 24 determines that delivery is necessary at a predetermined remaining amount confirmation timing (step S41), the transmission means 15 is capable of transmitting hydrogen cartridge request information requesting the delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 to a specific delivery person terminal 41 among the multiple delivery person terminals 41 (for example, a delivery person terminal 41 located near a building 2 to which delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4 is required).

[0081] By configuring it in this way, the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be delivered using the free time of delivery people who are affiliated (registered) with existing delivery services, so the delivery costs of the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be reduced compared to when a separate dedicated delivery service is set up to deliver the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2.

[0082] In addition, in the hydrogen delivery systems of the first to third embodiments, the transmitting means 15 is capable of transmitting hydrogen cartridge request information when the determining means 13, 24 determines that delivery is necessary and the user of the building 2 agrees to the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge (step S18; Yes). By configuring in this way, the hydrogen cartridge 4 can be delivered according to the user's convenience, so the hydrogen cartridge 4 can be delivered at an appropriate time.

[0083] Furthermore, in the hydrogen delivery systems of the first to third embodiments, the user can set in advance, as a condition for transmission of hydrogen cartridge request information by transmission means 15, whether or not the consent (processing of step S18) is required. By configuring it in this way, it is easy to use because by setting "no consent required (automatic mode)" in advance, the hydrogen cartridge 4 will be delivered at the appropriate time without any troublesome operations (operations to decide whether to consent or not). Furthermore, by setting "consent required" in advance, the user can know that the hydrogen cartridge 4 will be delivered when deciding whether or not to consent, which is convenient.

[0084] In recent years, there has also been a call to achieve the goals of the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), and various initiatives are being undertaken in the construction industry. In this embodiment, the hydrogen cartridges 4 are delivered using existing delivery services, which contributes to reducing the carbon dioxide emitted from vehicles when delivering the hydrogen cartridges 4 compared to when a separate dedicated delivery service is established to deliver the hydrogen cartridges 4 to each building 2 (Goal 13).

[0085] Here, the transportation means for transporting the hydrogen cartridges 4 to the building 2 that needs the hydrogen cartridges 4 can be the same as the transportation means used for existing home delivery services. Specifically, the means of transportation may be a vehicle (for example, a vehicle under the Road Traffic Act), a hand-pushed cart, or an unmanned aerial vehicle such as a drone. The transportation means may be one that does not require driving or operation by a delivery person, such as an automatic traveling robot. The automatic traveling robot may also travel in a dedicated lane.

[0086] Furthermore, vending machines that allow rental of hydrogen cartridges 4 may be installed in key locations such as residential areas, convenience stores, supermarkets, train stations, and gas stations. In this case, delivery persons or the like can obtain a hydrogen cartridge 4 from the vending machine and deliver it to a building 2 that needs a hydrogen cartridge 4. Furthermore, when delivery persons or the like deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 (a full hydrogen cartridge 4), they can also collect the empty hydrogen cartridge 4 and return it to the vending machine. The first, second, and third embodiments can be combined as appropriate.

[0087] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system 1 when the first embodiment and the third embodiment are combined. A series of processes shown in FIG. 7 is performed, for example, at a predetermined time interval. 7, an example of operation targeting the individual management device A will be described below, where the individual management device A is one of the multiple individual management devices 20. Of course, the series of processes shown in FIG. 7 is not only performed targeting the individual management device A, but also targeting each of the multiple individual management devices 20.

[0088] The central management device 10 determines whether or not it has received delivery schedule information from a server of an existing delivery service indicating that delivery items (food and drink, parcels, mail, etc.) using the existing delivery service are scheduled to be delivered to the building 2 where the individual management device A is installed (step S11a), and if it determines that it has been received (step S11a; Yes), it proceeds to processing of step S12. On the other hand, if the central management device 10 determines that the message has not been received (step S11a; No), it determines whether or not it is time to check the remaining amount of the individual management device A (step S42). The remaining amount check timing of each individual management device 20 is stored in advance in the storage means 11, for example.

[0089] If the central management unit 10 determines that it is not time to check the remaining amount (step S42; No), it ends this flow. On the other hand, if the central management unit 10 determines that it is time to check the remaining amount (step S42; Yes), the central management unit 10 proceeds to the process of step S12. In step S12, the remaining amount data request means 12 transmits remaining amount data transmission request information to the individual management device A, requesting the individual management device A to transmit remaining amount data relating to the amount of hydrogen remaining in the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S12).

[0090] When the individual management device A receives the remaining amount data transmission request information from the central management device 10, the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 acquires remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 installed in the fuel cell device 3, etc. installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device A is installed (step S13), and transmits the acquired remaining amount data to the central management device 10 (step S14).

[0091] When the central management device 10 receives the remaining amount data from the individual management device A, the determination means 13 determines whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount based on the remaining amount data (step S15). Then, if the central management device 10 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is not less than a predetermined amount (step S15; No), that is, if it determines that there is no need to deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the building 2 in which the individual management device A is installed, it terminates this flow.

[0092] On the other hand, if the central management device 10 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is less than a predetermined amount (step S15; Yes), that is, if it determines that a hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered to the building 2 in which the individual management device A is installed, the hydrogen cartridge delivery suggestion means 14 refers to the memory means 11 to determine whether the individual management device A is an individual management device 20 in which automatic mode is set (step S16). If the central management device 10 determines that the individual management device 20 is not set to automatic mode (step S16; No), it sends hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information to the individual management device A (step S17).

[0093] When the individual management device A receives hydrogen cartridge delivery proposal information from the central management device 10, the hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device A and / or the display unit of the user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device A to select whether or not to receive delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4. Then, when a user or the like selects "I would like delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; Yes), the individual management device A sends delivery request information to the central management device 10 requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S19). On the other hand, if the user or the like selects "I do not want delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (Step S18; No), the individual management device A sends delivery refusal information to the central management device 10 refusing delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4, and ends this flow.

[0094] When the central control unit 10 receives the delivery request information from the individual control unit A, it performs the process of step S20. Furthermore, if the central management device 10 determines in step S16 that automatic mode is set (step S16; Yes), it performs the processing of step S20 without performing the processing of step S17, i.e., without being triggered by delivery request information from the individual management device A (without confirming with the user whether or not to request delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4).

[0095] In step S20, the transmitting means 15 transmits hydrogen cartridge request information requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 to a predetermined deliverer terminal 41 (step S20). Here, if it is determined in step S11a that delivery schedule information has been received (step S11a; Yes), the specified deliverer terminal 41 is the deliverer terminal 41 owned by the deliverer who delivers the delivery item to the building 2 in which the individual management device A is installed. Also, if it is determined in step S42 that it is time to check the remaining amount (step S42; Yes), the specified delivery person terminal 41 is, for example, one or more delivery person terminals 41 located in the vicinity (for example, within a radius of 3 km) of the building 2 in which the individual management device A is installed.

[0096] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the hydrogen delivery system 1 when the second embodiment and the third embodiment are combined. The series of processes shown in Fig. 8 is performed, for example, at a predetermined time interval.

[0097] The individual management device 20 determines whether the user has ordered a product from an existing home delivery service by operating the input section of the individual management device 20 or the input section of the user terminal 30 (step S31a), and if it determines that an order has been placed (step S31a; Yes), it proceeds to processing in step S13. On the other hand, when it is determined that no order has been placed (step S31a; No), the individual management device 20 determines whether or not a predetermined timing for checking the remaining amount has arrived (step S41a).

[0098] If the individual management device 20 determines that it is not time to check the remaining amount (step S41a; No), it ends this flow. On the other hand, if the individual management device 20 determines that it is time to check the remaining amount (step S41a; Yes), the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, the remaining amount data acquisition means 22 acquires remaining amount data regarding the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridge 4 installed from the fuel cell device 3, etc. installed in the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed (step S13).

[0099] Next, the individual management device 20 determines, by the determining means 24, based on the remaining amount data acquired in step S13, whether or not the remaining amount of hydrogen is equal to or less than a predetermined amount (step S32). If the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is not less than a predetermined amount (step S32; No), that is, if it determines that there is no need to deliver a hydrogen cartridge 4 to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it terminates this flow.

[0100] On the other hand, if the individual management device 20 determines that the remaining amount of hydrogen is less than a predetermined amount (step S32; Yes), that is, if it determines that a hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered to the building 2 in which the individual management device 20 is installed, it refers to the memory means 21 to determine whether automatic mode is set (step S33). If the individual management device 20 determines that automatic mode is not set (step S33; No), the hydrogen cartridge delivery request means 23 displays a screen on the display unit of the individual management device 20 and / or the display unit of the user terminal 30 owned by the user of the individual management device 20 to select whether or not to receive delivery of a hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0101] Then, when a user or the like selects "I would like delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; Yes), the individual management device 20 sends delivery request information to the central management device 10 requesting delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 (step S19). Here, if it is determined in step S31a that a product has been ordered from an existing home delivery service (step S31a; Yes), the delivery request information sent in step S19 includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, identification information of the store terminal 42 owned by the store where the order was placed, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc. Also, if it is determined in step S41a that it is time to check the remaining amount (step S41a; Yes), the delivery request information sent in step S19 includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination (building 2), the user name, the number of hydrogen cartridges 4 to be delivered, etc.

[0102] On the other hand, if the user or the like selects "I do not want delivery" by operating the input unit or the like (step S18; No), the individual management device 20 ends this flow. Furthermore, if the individual management device 20 determines in step S33 that the automatic mode is set (step S33; Yes), it performs the processing of step S19 without performing the processing of step S18, i.e., without confirming with the user whether or not to request delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4.

[0103] When the central management device 10 receives delivery request information from an individual management device 20, it determines whether or not the user of the individual management device 20 has ordered a product from an existing home delivery service (step S20a). Specifically, for example, it determines whether or not the received delivery request information includes identification information of the store terminal 42 owned by the store that received the order. If the central management device 10 determines that the user of the individual management device 20 has ordered a product from an existing home delivery service (step S20a; Yes), that is, if the delivery request information from the individual management device 20 includes identification information of the store terminal 42 owned by the store to which the order is placed, the central management device 10 uses the transmission means 15 to send hydrogen cartridge request information to the store terminal 42 owned by the store to which the order is placed, based on the delivery request information, requesting that a hydrogen cartridge 4 be prepared along with the product ordered by the user (step S20b).

[0104] On the other hand, if the central management device 10 determines that the user of the individual management device 20 has not ordered the product from an existing home delivery service (step S20a; No), that is, if the delivery request information from the individual management device 20 does not include identification information of the store terminal 42 owned by the store to which the order was placed, it sends hydrogen cartridge request information requesting the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge 4 to a specific delivery person terminal 41 (for example, one or more delivery person terminals 41 located in the vicinity (for example, within a radius of 3 km) of the building 2 to which the hydrogen cartridge 4 needs to be delivered) based on the delivery request information (step S20c). [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 2. Building 3 Fuel cell device 4 Hydrogen cartridges 10 Central management device 13 Judgment means 15 Transmission Method 20 Individual management device 24 Judgment means 40 Information terminal 41 Delivery person terminal 42 Store terminals

Claims

1. A hydrogen delivery system that delivers hydrogen for a fuel cell to a building in which a fuel cell device is installed, comprising: an individual management device that is installed in the building and acquires data on the remaining amount of hydrogen in the hydrogen cartridges for the fuel cell; a central management device capable of communicating with the individual management devices; The central management device receiving means for receiving delivery schedule information relating to the delivery of other items to the building; a determining means, in response to the receiving means receiving the delivery schedule information, for acquiring the remaining amount data from the individual management device and determining whether or not delivery of the hydrogen cartridge to the building is necessary; A hydrogen delivery system characterized in that the central management device is equipped with a transmission means that, when the determination means determines that delivery is necessary, transmits hydrogen cartridge request information requesting the hydrogen cartridge for the building to an information terminal related to the delivery of other items using an existing home delivery service.

2. 10. The hydrogen delivery system of claim 1, the other item is a delivery item to be delivered to the building, The information terminal includes a deliverer terminal owned by a deliverer who delivers the delivery item, A hydrogen delivery system characterized in that, when the determination means determines that delivery is necessary, the sending means sends the hydrogen cartridge request information to the delivery person terminal, requesting that the hydrogen cartridge be delivered along with the delivery item.

3. 10. The hydrogen delivery system of claim 1, the other items are goods delivered from a store to the building; the information terminal includes a store terminal owned by the store, A hydrogen delivery system characterized in that, when the determination means determines that delivery is necessary, the transmission means transmits to the store terminal the hydrogen cartridge request information requesting that the delivery person hand over the hydrogen cartridge along with the product.

4. 10. The hydrogen delivery system of claim 1, A hydrogen delivery system characterized in that the sending means sends the hydrogen cartridge request information when the determination means determines that delivery is necessary and when the user of the building agrees to the delivery of the hydrogen cartridge.

5. 5. The hydrogen delivery system of claim 4, A hydrogen delivery system characterized in that the user can set in advance whether or not the consent is required as a condition for the transmission of the hydrogen cartridge request information by the transmission means.

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