How to unlock key systems, parcel lockers and locks

Abstract

To provide a lock system and a lock unlocking method for a storage means with a simple lock, which has a simple lock configuration and is easy to control locking and unlocking and to install, and which can minimize the work required for an administrator to unlock the lock in an emergency. [Solution] The lock system 1 comprises an electric lock 5 attached to the door 4 of the storage means 2, an administrator communication terminal 6 carried by the administrator of the electric lock 5, and a user communication terminal 7 carried by the user of the electric lock 5, and the control unit 55 of the electric lock 5 includes an emergency unlocking means 552 for unlocking a locking / unlocking mechanism 56 that is in a locked state in an emergency when the correct unlocking information is unknown. The electric lock 5 also includes an administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 held by the administrator of the electric lock 5, which has a plurality of combinations of first unlocking information for emergencies and second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information, and a lock emergency unlocking information table 556 that is identical to the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 and is stored in the memory unit 57 of the electric lock 5. The emergency unlocking means 552 refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 based on an emergency unlocking operation via the input unit 52, and displays the information on the display unit 552. The system further includes an inquiry information display means 553 for displaying one of the first unlocking information items as inquiry information on the input unit 53, an emergency unlocking information receiving means 554 for receiving information input via the input unit 52 as emergency unlocking information after displaying the inquiry information, and a lock verification / unlocking means 555 for referencing the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 when emergency unlocking information is received, and setting the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 to an unlocked state when the emergency unlocking information matches the second unlocking information linked to the inquiry information. The user communication terminal 7 can transmit the inquiry information to the manager communication terminal 6, and the manager communication terminal 6 can transmit the second unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information to the user communication terminal 7.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a key system, a delivery box, and a method for unlocking a lock. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, delivery boxes installed in apartment buildings include, for example, centrally controlled delivery boxes (see, for example, Patent Document 1) and stand-alone delivery boxes (see, for example, Patent Documents 2 and 3).

[0003] A centrally controlled delivery locker has multiple delivery lockers, each with its own lock attached to its door, but users (residents, delivery people, etc.) do not directly operate the locks themselves; instead, the locking and unlocking operations are centrally controlled by an input unit with an LCD display, for example, located in a central location. In this case, the input unit and each lock are connected by wired or wireless lines, and are generally powered by AC power, and are often installed (embedded) in a corner of a large apartment complex or other housing complex from the time of construction.

[0004] Standalone delivery lockers are similar to centrally controlled delivery lockers in that each lock is individually fitted with a lock, but each lock is, for example, a battery-operated lock or a mechanical lock with its own power source, and each lock is locked and unlocked directly using a key (physical key, dedicated card, PIN number, mobile terminal, etc.). Standalone delivery lockers have simpler control and configuration than centrally controlled delivery lockers, and are often inexpensive and easy to install. Furthermore, stand-alone delivery lockers can be retrofitted to already constructed properties, especially if they function independently (independently). Due to these features, stand-alone delivery lockers have seen increasing demand in recent years in small apartment complexes and other housing complexes.

[0005] There are various mechanisms for locking and unlocking stand-alone delivery boxes, such as those that lock and unlock based on signals (information) received from a mobile terminal, as in Patent Documents 2 and 3, but there are also mechanisms such as those described below that use direct operation of the lock (input section).

[0006] For example, when a delivery company delivers a package to a stand-alone delivery locker installed in an apartment building, the delivery company places the package in a locker that can accommodate the package, closes the door of the locker, and registers (inputs) a PIN number into the electronic lock. The electronic lock is configured, for example, to lock when the door is closed and the PIN number is registered. The delivery company writes the registered PIN number on a delivery slip (or a missed delivery notice; the same applies below) and places the delivery slip in the mailbox of the recipient's room. The recipient enters the PIN number written on the delivered delivery slip into the electronic lock to unlock it. This configuration makes it easier to control locking and unlocking without using a complex electronic lock, and allows for a simpler and more inexpensive stand-alone delivery locker to be realized. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-109352 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-153177 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-208587 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, freestanding delivery lockers, while easy to install and simple in structure and control, have the problem of requiring time and effort in emergencies. Specifically, as mentioned above, when a PIN code is written on the delivery slip, there have been many cases where users are unable to retrieve their packages due to forgetting or miswriting the PIN code. In such an emergency, the apartment complex manager (an employee of the rental management company) must travel to the location with an emergency unlocking key to unlock the delivery locker.

[0009] This problem is not limited to stand-alone delivery boxes, but also occurs in other storage devices such as lockers with locks.

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve these conventional problems, and aims to provide a lock system and a lock unlocking method for a locked storage means that has a simple lock configuration, makes locking / unlocking control and installation easy and convenient, and is capable of minimizing the effort required for the administrator to perform emergency unlocking. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The present invention is a lock system comprising an electric lock attached to a door of a storage means, an administrator communication terminal carried by an administrator of the electric lock, and a user communication terminal carried by a user of the electric lock, wherein the electric lock has a control unit, a display unit, an input unit, a memory unit, and a locking / unlocking mechanism, the control unit includes an emergency unlocking means for changing the locking / unlocking mechanism from a locked state to an unlocked state in an emergency when valid unlocking information is unknown, the control unit includes a plurality of combinations of first unlocking information for an emergency and second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information, an administrator emergency unlocking information table held by the administrator of the electric lock, and a lock emergency unlocking information table that is the same as the administrator emergency unlocking information table and is stored in the memory unit, and the emergency unlocking means is configured to unlock the electric lock in response to an emergency unlocking operation via the input unit. The lock system comprises an inquiry information display means for referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the lock and displaying one of the first unlocking information as inquiry information on the display unit, an emergency unlocking information receiving means for accepting information input via the input unit as emergency unlocking information after displaying the inquiry information, and a matching unlocking means for referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the lock when the emergency unlocking information is received and setting the locking / unlocking mechanism to an unlocked state if the emergency unlocking information matches the second unlocking information linked to the inquiry information, wherein the user communication terminal is capable of transmitting the inquiry information to the administrator communication terminal, and the administrator communication terminal is capable of transmitting the second unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information to the user communication terminal.

[0012] The present invention also relates to a delivery box having the above lock system.

[0013] The present invention also relates to a method for unlocking an electric lock attached to a door of a storage means, which has a control unit, a display unit, an input unit, a memory unit, and a locking / unlocking mechanism, and which changes the electric lock from a locked state to an unlocked state in an emergency when valid unlocking information is unknown, the method comprising the steps of: a step in which the control unit displays inquiry information on the display unit based on an emergency unlocking operation by a user via the input unit; a step in which the user transmits the inquiry information from a user communication terminal to an administrator communication terminal of an administrator of the electric lock; a step in which the administrator transmits emergency unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information from the administrator communication terminal to the user communication terminal; a step in which the user inputs the emergency unlocking information via the input unit; and a step in which the control unit sets the locking / unlocking mechanism to an unlocked state in accordance with the emergency unlocking information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a lock system and a lock unlocking method for a locked storage means that has a simple lock configuration, makes locking / unlocking control and installation easy and convenient, and minimizes the effort required for the administrator to perform emergency unlocking. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a lock system and a delivery box according to this embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] 1A, 1B, and 1C are diagrams showing the configuration of an electric lock according to this embodiment, in which (A) is a front view, (B) is a side view, and (C) is a rear view. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the configuration of the lock system according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a functional block diagram showing the main functions of the lock system of this embodiment. [Figure 5] A figure showing an example of an emergency unlocking information table of the lock system according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of the operation of the electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 13] A figure showing an example of an emergency unlocking information table of the lock system according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. [Figure 15] 1 is a diagram illustrating a locking / unlocking mechanism of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 16] 1 is a diagram illustrating a locking / unlocking mechanism of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 17] 1 is a diagram illustrating a locking / unlocking mechanism of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 18] 1 is a diagram illustrating a locking / unlocking mechanism of an electric lock according to the present embodiment. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The lock system 1, delivery box 10, and lock unlocking method according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0017] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a lock system 1 according to this embodiment and a delivery box 10 equipped with the same. Fig. 1(A) is a schematic diagram of the lock system 1 and the delivery box 10, Fig. 1(B) is a diagram showing the delivery box 10 in use, and Fig. 1(C) is a perspective view showing a portion of the delivery box 10.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1(A), the lock system 1 of this embodiment comprises an electric lock 5 attached to a door 4 of a storage means 2, an administrator communication terminal 6 carried by the administrator of the electric lock 5, and a user communication terminal 7 carried by the user of the electric lock 5. The storage means 2 is, for example, a storage box in which multiple storage sections 3 are integrated, and doors 4 are attached to each storage section 3 to enable individual storage.

[0019] The lock system 1 of this embodiment is employed, for example, in a delivery locker 10. That is, the delivery locker 10 of this embodiment is equipped with the lock system 1 and is capable of storing items (packages) to be delivered or collected in the storage box (storage means) 2. The delivery locker 10 is particularly a delivery locker for an apartment building, and the multiple storage units 3 receive packages to be delivered to or collected from residents of each apartment building. As an example, as will be described in detail later, the multiple storage units 3 are not fixedly assigned to apartment building room numbers, but rather users (delivery companies or apartment building residents) use unused (vacant) storage units 3 as appropriate. For example, when multiple packages are delivered to the same apartment number by different delivery companies at different times, multiple storage units 3 are used.

[0020] Delivery box 10 is a freestanding delivery box that can be used in, for example, small apartment complexes and other housing complexes. Delivery box 10 may be, for example, built-in and installed at the entrance of the apartment complex as shown in Fig. 1(B), or it may be configured such that storage box 2 shown in Fig. 1(A) is installed (mounted) separately from the apartment complex building near the entrance.

[0021] A delivery box (standalone delivery box) has an electric lock 5 attached to each door 4 of the storage section 3, and these are not centrally controlled, but rather each electric lock 5 is locked and unlocked directly and electrically (electronically) using, for example, a PIN number.

[0022] FIG. 1(C) is a perspective view showing, for example, one storage section 3 of the storage means 2 shown in FIG. 1(B). The storage section 3 is, for example, a so-called double-door box having two opposing openings 8A and 8B, which can be closed by doors 4A and 4B, respectively. Furthermore, electric locks 5A and 5B are attached to the doors 4A and 4B, respectively. In this case, the storage section 3 (storage means 2) is installed so that, for example, in FIG. 1(B), one opening 8A faces the interior of the room and the other opening 8B faces the exterior of the room. In the case of a standalone (fixed) storage means 2 separate from the building as shown in FIG. 1(A), the interior side is the side facing (close to) the apartment building (building), and the exterior side is the outdoor side away from the building. However, in the following explanation, these terms will simply be used to refer to the interior and exterior sides.

[0023] As will be described in detail later, in the delivery locker 10, the delivery person opens the exterior door 4B, places the package in the storage compartment 3 through the opening 8B, and then closes the door 4B, automatically locking the electric lock 5B. The apartment dweller (resident or occupant) who is the recipient of the package unlocks the interior electric lock 5A, opens the door 4A, removes the package from the storage compartment 3 through the opening 8A, and closes the door 4A. This allows the resident to receive the package without going outside (going around to the outside). The electric lock 5A installed on the interior door 4A and the electric lock 5B installed on the exterior door 4B have the same configuration, and they are connected by a transmission line 9, allowing them to share information (especially information related to the operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism) between them. As shown in FIG. 1(C), the transmission line 9 is, for example, a wire, but it may also be a wireless signal line.

[0024] Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the indoor and outdoor configurations, they will simply be described as opening 8, door 4, and electric lock 5. However, when distinguishing between the indoor and outdoor configurations, the letter "A" added to the end of each symbol will refer to the indoor configuration, and the letter "B" added to the end of each symbol will refer to the outdoor configuration.

[0025] <Electric lock> The electric lock 5 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is an external view including a partial perspective view showing an example of the electric lock 5, where Figure 2(A) is a front view, Figure 2(B) is a side view, and Figure 2(C) is a rear view. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the electric lock 5.

[0026] As shown in Fig. 2, the electric lock 5 has a box-shaped case 50 with an opening on the front, a plate-shaped decorative panel 51 attached to the front of the case 50 so as to cover the opening of the case 50, a display unit 53 arranged above the decorative panel 51, an input unit 52 arranged below the display unit 53, an operation unit 54 provided at the lower end of the decorative panel 51, a door sensor 59, a latch bolt 561 fitted into the case 50 and movable forward and backward relative to the case 50, etc. Also, as shown in Fig. 3, the electric lock 5 has the input unit 52, the display unit 53, the operation unit 54, a control unit 55 housed in the space formed by the case 50 and the decorative panel 51, a locking / unlocking mechanism 56, a memory unit 57, a power supply unit 58, the door sensor 59, etc.

[0027] 2, display unit 53 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device that is highly temperature-resistant and energy-saving, and is capable of displaying guidance for various operations and / or settings. As will be described in detail later, display unit 53 displays information indicating that an item is stored, for example, along with the room number of the destination of the item, while the item (baggage) is stored in storage unit 3. Note that display unit 53 is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an organic EL display device or a 7-segment display device.

[0028] The input unit 52 is, for example, a sheet switch that applies thin-film printing technology, and has a plurality of keys (numeric keypad) 520. In this example, the numeric keypad 520 includes a power (CLEAR) key 521 and an "E" key 522. The configuration of the input unit 52 is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a keypad in which the keys 520 are physical buttons, or a touch panel.

[0029] The operating unit 54 has a knob 541 fixed to the decorative panel 51, and a trigger 542 exposed from the lower end of the knob 541 and attached movably relative to the knob 541 so that a portion of the trigger 542 is housed in the internal space of the knob 541. The trigger 542 can be gripped together with the knob 541. The trigger 542 is linked to or not linked with a latch bolt 561 configured to be able to advance and retreat relative to the case 50.

[0030] Regardless of whether there is luggage in the storage section 3, when the door 4 is closed, the electric lock 5 always causes the latch bolt 561 to advance from the case 50 and engage in a strike (recess) (not shown) provided in the door 4, thereby locking the electric lock 5 (automatic locking). In the locked state, the trigger 542 and the latch bolt 561 are not linked, and the latch bolt 561 cannot be moved even if the trigger 542 is operated. To unlock the electric lock 5 (open the door 4), a predetermined operation (unlocking operation) is performed to link the trigger 542 and the latch bolt 561. When the trigger 542 is operated in this state (for example, the trigger 542 is gripped together with the knob 541 and placed inside the knob 541), the latch bolt 561 retracts from the strike into the case 50, allowing the door 4 to be opened.

[0031] Here, there are two types of unlocking operations: a normal unlocking operation and an emergency unlocking operation. In either case, the trigger 542 and the latch bolt 561 can be linked by performing a predetermined unlocking operation (a specified operation via the input unit 52).

[0032] The locking / unlocking mechanism 56 will be further described with reference to Figures 15 to 18. Figures 15 and 16 are diagrams showing the operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 when unlocking, and Figure 18 is a diagram showing the operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 when locking.

[0033] 15(A) and 15(B), the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 has a linking mechanism 600 and a linking mechanism drive motor 650. The linking mechanism 600 has a disk-shaped pinion 601 that rotates while connected to a rotation shaft 650C of the linking mechanism drive motor 650, a rack gear 602 that meshes with the pinion 601 and converts the rotational motion of the pinion 601 into linear motion, a substantially disk-shaped switching means 603 that meshes with the rack gear 602, a connection holder 620, a connection ring 621, a connection member 630 that can be partially inserted into and removed from the inside of the connection ring 621, and a latch bolt moving cam 660 that can be connected to the connection member 630.

[0034] The switching means 603 is, for example, a worm wheel. A gear 604 that meshes with the rack gear 602 is provided on approximately half of the circumferential edge of the worm wheel 603, and an engagement surface 605 that engages with a part of the connection holder 620 is provided on the other half of the circumferential edge. The engagement surface 605 is an arc-shaped inclined surface provided on the surface of the worm wheel 603. In this example, a part of the circumferential direction of the worm wheel 603 (approximately half the circumference) is cut in the thickness direction to form the arc-shaped inclined surface.

[0035] The connection holder 620 is a cylindrical member, and is provided with an engagement surface support portion 625 on a part of its outer circumferential surface, which supports the engagement surface 605 so as to sandwich it.

[0036] The engagement surface support portion 625 slides along the engagement surface 605 while sandwiching the engagement surface 605. The axial direction of the connection holder 620 and the extension direction of the rotation axis of the worm wheel 603 are arranged parallel to each other. The engagement surface 605 is an inclined surface whose height changes along the axial direction of the connection holder 620, and as the engagement surface support portion 625 slides along the engagement surface 605, the connection holder 620 moves relative to the worm wheel 603 in the axial direction.

[0037] 15(A) and 15(C), latch bolt moving cam 660 has a plate-shaped cam portion 661, a pin 663 that protrudes from one surface of cam portion 661 and is inserted into an elongated hole 561A provided in latch bolt 561, and a connecting shaft 662 that protrudes from the other surface of cam portion 661. The connecting shaft 662 and pin 663 are provided at positions where their respective axes are offset.

[0038] The elongated hole 561A of the latch bolt 561 is provided on the inside of the case 50 of the latch bolt 561 so that the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the latch bolt 561 advances and retreats relative to the case 50 is the longitudinal direction, for example.

[0039] 15(B) and 15(C), connecting ring 621 and a part of connecting shaft 662 are housed coaxially inside (inner peripheral side of) connection holder 620. Connecting shaft 662 is inserted from one axial end side of connection holder 620 (right side in FIG. 15(B)), and does not protrude from the other axial end side of connection holder 620 (left side in FIG. 15(B)).

[0040] The connecting ring 621 is housed in the inner circumference of the connection holder 620 with a portion of the connecting shaft 662 inserted into its inner circumference. In the axial direction of the connecting ring 621, the length of the connecting ring 621 is shorter than the length of the connection holder 620, and the connecting ring 621 does not protrude from the connection holder 620 in the axial direction. The connecting shaft 662 is movable relative to the connecting ring 621 in the axial direction, but is unable to rotate around the axis relative to the connecting ring 621. The connecting ring 621 is rotatable around the axis relative to the connection holder 620, but is unable to move in the axial direction.

[0041] The connecting member 630 is arranged on the other axial end side of the connecting holder 620 (left side in Figure 15 (B)), and has a connecting shaft portion 631 that is coaxial with the connecting shaft 662 and has one end side that can be inserted and removed into the connecting ring 621, and a connecting cam portion 632 provided on the other end side of the connecting shaft portion 631.

[0042] The connecting shaft portion 631 is movable in the axial direction relative to the connecting ring 621, but when inserted into the connecting ring 621, it is not able to rotate about the axis relative to the connecting ring 621. In other words, when the connecting shaft portion 631 is inserted into the connecting ring 621, the connecting shaft portion 631, the connecting shaft 662, and the connecting ring 621 can rotate about the axis integrally relative to the connection holder 620.

[0043] Trigger 542 is configured in a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, with one longitudinal end serving as cam operating portion 542A that abuts against and moves connecting cam portion 632, and the other longitudinal end serving as gripping portion 542B that is exposed to the outside of case 50 together with knob 541. Cam operating portion 542A and gripping portion 542B are swingable around swing shaft 542C.

[0044] <Unlocking operation / unlocked state> 15 and 16 are diagrams showing the unlocking operation and the unlocked state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 56. FIG.

[0045] When a predetermined unlocking operation (a predetermined operation via the input unit 52) ​​is performed, the control unit 55 drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650. The driving force of the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 is transmitted to the worm wheel 603 via the pinion 601 and the rack gear 602, and the worm wheel 603 rotates, for example, in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 15(A) (e.g., counterclockwise). Accordingly, the engagement surface support portion 625 of the connection holder 620 slides along the engagement surface 605, for example, climbing up the engagement surface 605 while holding the engagement surface 605. As a result, the connection holder 620 and the connecting ring 621 move from the position shown in FIG. 15(B) along the axial direction toward the trigger 542. The connecting shaft portion 631 of the connecting member 630 is inserted into the connecting ring 621, and the connecting shaft portion 631 and the connecting shaft 662 are connected by the connecting ring 621 (FIG. 15(C)).

[0046] In this state, when trigger 542 is gripped together with knob 541 as shown in FIG. 16(A), gripping portion 542B of trigger 542 moves in the direction of arrow C in FIG. 16(A), and cam operating portion 542A swings connecting cam portion 632 in the direction of arrow B.

[0047] As a result, the connection shaft 631 rotates together with the connecting shaft 662 and the connection ring 621 within the connection holder 620, the cam portion 661 of the latch bolt moving cam 660 swings, and the pin 663 pushes downward a part of the elongated hole 561A of the latch bolt 561 (for example, the lower end in FIG. 16(B)). As a result, the latch bolt 561 is pulled into the case 50 through a strike (recess) provided in the door 4, and the door is unlocked.

[0048] In this embodiment, only when a predetermined unlocking operation (a specified operation via the input unit 52) ​​is performed, the control unit 55 drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650, causing the linkage mechanism 600 to operate and enable unlocking.

[0049] <Locked state> When the door 4 is closed, the latch bolt 561 advances from the case 50 and fits into a strike (recess) provided in the door 4, thereby entering a locked state (auto-lock).

[0050] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the operation during auto-lock. When the door sensor 59 detects that the door 4 is closed, the control unit 55 drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650. The driving force of the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 is transmitted to the worm wheel 603 via the pinion 601 and the rack gear 602, causing the worm wheel 603 to rotate. For example, the control unit 55 rotates the worm wheel 603 in the direction opposite to that during unlocking, i.e., in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 17(A) (for example, clockwise). Accordingly, the engagement surface support portion 625 of the connection holder 620 slides along the engagement surface 605, for example, downward, while sandwiching the engagement surface 605. As a result, the connection holder 620 and the connection ring 621 move axially from the position shown in Figure 17(B) in a direction away from the trigger 542, the connection shaft portion 631 of the connection member 630 is pulled out from the connection ring 621, and the connection between the connection shaft portion 631 and the connecting shaft 662 is released (Figure 17(C)).

[0051] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 in a locked state. In the locked state, when the trigger 542 is operated in the direction of arrow A as shown in FIG. 18(A) (for example, the grip portion 542B of the trigger 542 is grasped together with the knob 541 and placed inside the knob 541), the trigger 542 swings about the swing shaft 542C, the cam operating portion 542A swings the connection cam portion 632 in the direction of arrow B, and the connection shaft portion 631 rotates. However, as shown in FIGS. 18(B) and 18(C), the connection shaft portion 631 is not inserted into the connection ring 621 and is not connected to the connecting shaft 662. In other words, the trigger 542 and the latch bolt 561 are not linked together, and even if the trigger 542 is operated, the force is not transmitted to the latch bolt 561, and the lock is not unlocked.

[0052] <Control unit> The control unit 55 is an electronic board on which, for example, a CPU (MPU), ROM, RAM, etc. are integrated, and performs authentication related to locking and unlocking operations, outputs various control commands, supplies power, etc. The control unit 55 performs locking and unlocking control. Locking control is a so-called auto-lock, which is automatically performed when the door 4 is closed. When the electric lock 5 is locked by locking control, the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 does not rotate, and the linkage mechanism 600 does not operate. As a result, even if the knob 541 or trigger 542 is operated, the latch bolt 561 cannot be retracted from the strike into the case 50, and the door 4 cannot be opened.

[0053] The unlocking control includes normal unlocking control and emergency unlocking control. Regardless of whether there is any luggage stored in the storage unit 3, when the door 4 is closed, the electric lock 5 is locked. In other words, the unlocking operation is required when, for example, a delivery person stores (deposits) a luggage, or when a resident retrieves a luggage.

[0054] Normal unlocking control is control that occurs when a normal unlocking operation is performed via input unit 52, which is preset to correspond to either the time when a package is stored (deposited) by a delivery company or the time when a package is removed (by a resident). In normal unlocking control, when a normal unlocking operation is performed, control unit 55 rotates linkage mechanism drive motor 650 to operate linkage mechanism 600 (to set the door in an unlockable state). In the unlockable state, trigger 542 links with latch bolt 561, and therefore, by operating trigger 542, latch bolt 561 can be retracted from strike into case 50, allowing door 4 to be opened.

[0055] As will be described in detail later, when storing (depositing) a package in an empty storage section 3 of the delivery locker 10 of this embodiment, a predetermined procedure is followed and authentication information (a PIN number in this case) is optionally registered. In other words, "operating according to the predetermined procedure" is the correct unlocking operation. When depositing a package, the delivery company arbitrarily determines a PIN number and registers it in the electric lock 5. The delivery company then writes down the PIN number on a delivery slip and, for example, places the delivery slip in a mailbox and hands it over to the resident. This allows the authentication information (PIN number) set by the delivery company to be shared with the resident.

[0056] To retrieve stored luggage, authentication using registered authentication information (PIN number) is required, and inputting this PIN number is required for normal unlocking operations. Under normal circumstances, residents perform the specified unlocking operations, including inputting the PIN number printed on the delivery slip, to unlock the electric lock 5 and retrieve their luggage.

[0057] The unlocking control when the PIN is unknown is the emergency unlocking control in this embodiment. In other words, an emergency occurs when a package is stored in the storage section 3 and unlocking information (PIN) registered at the time of storage (deposit) is available, but the unlocking information cannot be entered, and the control performed in this case is the emergency unlocking control. For example, an emergency occurs when a package is delivered to a resident but the PIN listed on the delivery slip cannot be read, when the PIN is not listed on the delivery slip, or when the delivery slip does not exist. In the emergency unlocking control, the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 is set to the unlocked state based on the inquiry information and the emergency unlocking information.

[0058] The power supply unit 58 has a power supply housing section partitioned within the case 50 and a cover that covers this, and a lithium battery is housed in the power supply housing section. The lithium battery used is one with a long life (10 years) and long-term reliability. This allows for stable use over the service life of the delivery locker 10 (for example, 10 years). Furthermore, regular battery replacement is not required for a long period of time, reducing the work of the administrator and running costs (costs of purchasing replacement batteries). Furthermore, power wiring work is not required when installing the delivery locker 10, making it easier to introduce and install the delivery locker 10.

[0059] 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions, particularly the locking / unlocking function, of the control unit 55. The control unit 55 has a normal unlocking means 551 that performs normal unlocking control, an emergency unlocking means 552 that performs emergency unlocking control, and an automatic locking means 558.

[0060] The normal unlocking means 551 unlocks the electric lock 5 so that the door 4 can be opened when storing (depositing) luggage in an empty storage section 3. When a predetermined unlocking start operation (normal unlocking operation, for example, a single press of the power key 521) is performed via the input unit 52 in a state where luggage can be deposited (for example, when there is no PIN stored in the memory unit 57 of the electric lock 5), the normal unlocking means 551 displays on the display unit 53 a message prompting the user to enter the room number of the delivery destination and an arbitrary unlocking number (PIN), and waits for these inputs. When the room number and PIN are entered, the normal unlocking means 551 then drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 to operate the linkage mechanism 600 (to enter an unlockable state).

[0061] The normal unlocking means 551 also unlocks the electric lock 5 so that the door 4 can be opened when luggage is stored (deposited) in the storage section 3. When a predetermined unlocking start operation (normal unlocking operation, for example, a single press of the power key 521) is performed via the input unit 52 in a deposited state (for example, when a PIN code is stored in the memory unit 57 of the electric lock 5), the normal unlocking means 551 displays a message on the display unit 53 prompting the user to enter a PIN code as unlocking information and waits for the input. When the unlocking information is entered and the entered unlocking information matches the PIN code stored in the memory unit 57, the normal unlocking means 551 drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 to operate the linkage mechanism 600 (to put the linkage mechanism into an unlockable state).

[0062] The emergency unlocking means 552 includes an inquiry information display means 553, an emergency unlocking information receiving means 554, a lock verification means 555, and a lock emergency unlocking information table 556.

[0063] 5(A) is an example of a lock emergency unlocking information table 556 stored in the memory unit 57 of a certain electric lock 5. The lock emergency unlocking information table 556 is stored in the memory unit 57 for each electric lock 5, and is a table having a plurality of combinations of first unlocking information for emergencies and second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information. In this example, the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 has a plurality of first unlocking numbers "8001", "0235", "1934", ... "9821", "3267" (for example, 2000 random four-digit numbers), and second unlocking numbers "1234", "8523", "9251", ... "2889", "5901" linked to each of the plurality of first unlocking numbers.

[0064] The emergency unlocking means 552 unlocks the electric lock 5 so that the door 4 can be opened in an emergency when luggage is stored (deposited) in the storage section 3. When a user (e.g., a resident) performs a predetermined emergency unlocking operation via the input section 52 (e.g., pressing the power key 521 once followed by pressing the "E" key 522 three times), the inquiry information displaying means 553 refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 (FIG. 5(A)) based on the operation, selects (stores in the memory section 57) any one of the first unlocking information items in the table as inquiry information (inquiry number), displays it on the display section 53, and guides the user to input emergency unlocking information. The emergency unlocking information receiving means 554 receives any information input via the input section 52 after displaying the inquiry information on the display section 53 as emergency unlocking information.

[0065] When the emergency unlocking information receiving means 554 receives emergency unlocking information, the lock matching / unlocking means 555 refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556, and when the received emergency unlocking information matches the second unlocking information linked to the inquiry information selected by the inquiry information display means 553, the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 is set to an unlockable state.

[0066] The resident obtains the emergency unlocking information to be entered into the electric lock 5 from the administrator of the electric lock 5 (delivery box 10). The administrator has an administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 that is identical to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 held by each electric lock 5. FIG. 5B shows an example of the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 that corresponds to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 of FIG. 5A. That is, the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 in this case also has multiple first unlocking numbers "8001," "0235," "1934," ... "9821," and "3267" (e.g., 2000 random four-digit numbers), and second unlocking numbers "1234," "8523," "9251," ... "2889," and "5901" linked to each of the multiple first unlocking numbers.

[0067] The resident sends the first unlocking information (inquiry information) displayed on the display unit 53 to an administrator communication terminal (e.g., a smartphone held by the administrator) using a user communication terminal (e.g., a smartphone held by the resident). The administrator sends second unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information to the user communication terminal using the administrator communication terminal. Specifically, for example, the resident calls the administrator using their smartphone (the phone number is, for example, written on the delivery box 10) and verbally conveys the first unlocking information (inquiry information). The administrator refers to the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 corresponding to the electric lock 5 and verbally conveys the second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information (inquiry information) to the resident as emergency unlocking information. The resident then inputs the emergency unlocking information obtained from the administrator via the input unit 52 of the electric lock 5.

[0068] As an example, when an emergency unlocking operation is performed (for example, pressing the power button once followed by pressing the "E" button three times), based on the operation, the inquiry information display means 553 refers to the emergency unlocking information table for lock 556 (Figure 5(A)) and displays, for example, the first unlocking information "1934" on the display unit 53 as inquiry information (inquiry number), and guides (displays) the user to input the corresponding emergency unlocking information.

[0069] The user calls the administrator and verbally tells the administrator the inquiry number "1934." The administrator then refers (visually) to the administrator's emergency unlocking information table 557 (FIG. 5(B)), which is composed of paper media, digital data, etc., and verbally tells the user the second unlocking number "9251" linked to the inquiry number (first unlocking number) "1934." The user then inputs "9251" via the input unit 52 of the electric lock 5 as the emergency unlocking information.

[0070] When the electric lock 5's verification / unlocking means 555 receives "9251" as emergency unlocking information, it refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556, compares it with the second unlocking number linked to the first unlocking number "1934" selected by the inquiry information display means 553, and if the two match, sets the locking / unlocking mechanism to the unlocked state.

[0071] As a result, even if a package has arrived for a resident but the PIN number written on the delivery slip is unknown (if the PIN number cannot be read, if the PIN number is not written, if the delivery slip does not exist, etc.), the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 can be unlocked and the door 4 can be opened using the inquiry information (first unlocking information) and emergency unlocking information (second unlocking information).

[0072] The first unlocking number is determined by the electric lock 5. When the inquiry information display means 553 of the electric lock 5 determines an arbitrary first unlocking number by referring to the emergency unlocking information table for lock 556, the corresponding second unlocking number is automatically identified. The administrator obtains information on the first unlocking number determined by the electric lock 5 from the user, and locally (visually) refers to the emergency unlocking information table for administrator 557 to obtain the second unlocking number linked to the first unlocking number and communicates it to the user.

[0073] When the door sensor 59 detects that the door 4 is closed, the automatic locking means 558 sets the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 to the locked state. That is, regardless of whether there is luggage in the storage section 3 or not, when the door 4 is closed, the electric lock 5 always causes the latch bolt 561 to advance from the case 50 and fit into a strike (recess) provided in the door 4, thereby locking the door.

[0074] The initial setting registration means 559 is a means for storing initial setting values ​​input in advance via the input unit 52 in the memory unit 57 of each electric lock 5. The initial setting values ​​include room numbers of multiple rooms. For example, the delivery locker 10 is configured such that storage units 3 are not fixedly assigned to room numbers, but rather, when a package is to be deposited, the package is deposited in an available storage unit 3 and the room number and PIN number are registered as initial setting values. In other words, the room numbers of all rooms in the apartment building are registered in the electric lock 5. The initial setting registration means 559 is a means for easily setting the room numbers of the dwelling units, and after accepting and storing a first room number in the memory unit 57, displays on the display unit a second room number that is the room number next to the first room number in descending or ascending order (details will be described later).

[0075] The delivery locker 10 has an electric lock 5 for each storage compartment 3. Furthermore, since the storage compartments 3 are not fixedly assigned to room numbers as described above, it is necessary to register the room numbers of all units, i.e., the same information, in all electric locks 5 of the delivery locker 10. The initial setting values ​​of the electric lock 5 of this embodiment can be stored in a general-purpose external storage means (e.g., USB memory, SD card, etc.), and are stored in the storage unit 57 in a format that can be copied from the external storage means to other electric locks 5. The electric lock 5 also has a connection unit 60 for the external storage means (e.g., USB connector, card reader, etc.) (see FIG. 2(C)).

[0076] After the administrator has performed the initial settings for one electric lock 5, the administrator can copy the initial settings to external storage means via the connection unit 60 and then copy them to other electric locks 5. This reduces the burden of the administrator's initial setting work and reduces the risk of operational errors.

[0077] Furthermore, for each storage unit 3, the same initial setting values ​​must be registered in both the indoor electric lock 5A and the outdoor electric lock 5B. However, because they are connected by a transmission path (e.g., wiring) 9, the initial setting values ​​can be shared. When depositing luggage in a storage unit 3, the electric lock 5B is operated from the outdoor side to deposit the luggage, and the electric lock 5A is operated from the indoor side to retrieve the luggage. The electric locks 5A and 5B of this storage unit 3 must share information regarding the operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism, specifically, the room number and PIN number at the time of deposit. In this embodiment, the electric locks 5A and 5B are connected by a transmission path (wiring) 9, allowing the information to be shared without the manager having to perform any special operations.

[0078] 6 to 13, an example of the operation of storing (depositing) and retrieving a package in the delivery box 10 of this embodiment, and an example of the operation (particularly the unlocking method) of the electric lock 5 will be specifically described. Here, an example will be described in which a delivery company deposits a package addressed to a resident of a certain room number, and the resident of that room number receives the package.

[0079] <Deposit process> Fig. 6 is a flow diagram showing an example of the operation of the electric lock 5 when a delivery company deposits a package in the delivery box 10. Figs. 7 and 8 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the display mode and operation of the display unit 53 of the electric lock 5 when the package is deposited (normally unlocked).

[0080] In step S01 of FIG. 6, the delivery box 10 is locked (ready for deposit). The delivery company performs a predetermined unlocking start operation. The unlocking start operation is, for example, pressing a predetermined button (for example, the power (CLEAR) key 521). In step S03, it is determined whether the unlocking start operation has been performed, and if the unlocking operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S05; if not, the process returns to step S03.

[0081] The electric lock 5 of the storage compartment 3 of the delivery locker 10 is locked when the door 4 is closed, regardless of whether there is any package inside. When a delivery person deposits a package, they unlock the electric lock 5 of an empty storage compartment 3. However, whether the compartment is empty (empty) or not is determined by the display 53. The electric lock 5 of an empty storage compartment 3 that does not contain any package displays nothing on the display 53, indicating that the compartment is available for deposit, as shown in FIG. 7(A), for example. In this case, the PIN code is not registered. On the other hand, the electric lock 5 of an empty storage compartment 3 that contains a package displays information indicating that a package is being stored (package deposit information) on the display 53, such as the room number "Room 201" and the words "Package Deposited," as shown in FIG. 7(B). The luggage deposit information remains displayed until the package is retrieved. This allows the resident to determine whether a package addressed to them has arrived and whether there is any package they have not yet retrieved. Furthermore, the delivery company can recognize the storage sections 3 that are available (for deposit).

[0082] In step S05 of FIG. 6, the electric lock 5 displays a message on the display unit 53 prompting the user to enter deposit information. Specifically, the deposit information is, for example, the room number of the deposit destination and a PIN number, and the electric lock 5 displays the room number of the deposit destination and prompts the user to enter these numbers on the display unit 53, for example, as shown in FIG. 8(A). The delivery company operates the keys 520 as shown in FIGS. 8(B) to 8(D) to enter the room number of the deposit destination and the PIN number in order. The PIN number is an arbitrary number set by the delivery company at the time of deposit, and is known only to the delivery company at this point. Once the deposit information has been entered, the electric lock 5 displays a message on the display unit 53 prompting the user to register the deposit information (FIG. 8(E)). The registration operation is performed by pressing a specified button (for example, the "E" key 522).

[0083] In step S07 of Figure 6, the electric lock 5 determines whether or not a registration operation for deposit information has been performed, and if a registration operation has been performed and the room number in the deposit information is a room number that has been set in advance in the electric lock 5 and a PIN number has been entered (registered), the process proceeds to step S09, otherwise the process returns to step S07. The room numbers are initially set, and all room numbers for the corresponding dwelling units (especially occupied dwelling units) are registered.

[0084] In step S09, the electric lock 5 (control unit 55) drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 to operate the linkage mechanism 600 (to put it into an unlockable state). This makes it possible to open the door 4 by operating the trigger 542. Thereafter, in step S11, the electric lock 5 displays a baggage deposit guide on the display unit 53. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 8(F), it displays a message such as "Baggage deposit: Open the door and place your baggage inside."

[0085] The delivery person operates trigger 542 (holds trigger 542 together with knob 541 and stores trigger 542 inside knob 541) to open door 4. When electric lock 5 detects that door 4 is open, it displays a message urging the user to close the door as a baggage deposit guide. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 8(G), it displays a message such as "Baggage deposit, close door (automatic lock)."

[0086] In step S13, the door sensor 59 determines whether the door 4 is closed or not, and if the door 4 is closed (after the baggage has been placed inside), the process proceeds to step S15, otherwise the process returns to step S11. In step S15, the automatic locking means 558 of the electric lock 5 advances the latch bolt 561 from the case 50 and engages it with a strike (recess) (not shown) provided in the door 4 to lock it. Thereafter, the electric lock displays a message indicating that the baggage has been deposited (for example, "Baggage Deposited, Baggage Deposit Completed") as shown in FIG. 8(H).

[0087] 6, the electric lock 5 displays information indicating that the baggage has been deposited (FIG. 7(B)) on the display unit 53. The information indicating that the baggage has been deposited continues to be displayed until the door 4 is opened again.

[0088] The delivery person writes the PIN number they set themselves on the delivery slip and places it in the resident's mailbox, etc. This shares the PIN number with the resident.

[0089] <Receipt process (normal unlocking)> Fig. 9 is a flow diagram showing an example of the operation of the electric lock 5 when, for example, a resident receives a package using the normal unlocking method. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display mode and operation on the display unit 53 of the electric lock 5 when receiving a package (normal unlocking).

[0090] In step S21 of FIG. 9, the delivery locker 10 is locked (deposited). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10(A), the display unit 53 displays information indicating that a package has been deposited. When the resident of the corresponding room number retrieves the package, they perform a normal unlocking operation (unlocking start operation). Here, the storage unit 3 of this embodiment has doors 4A, 4B on the exterior and interior sides of the room, each equipped with an electric lock 5A, 5B. The electric locks 5A, 5B are connected by a transmission line (wiring 9), and information regarding locking and unlocking (e.g., the room number and PIN number registered by the delivery company) is shared in real time. Therefore, the resident can operate the electric lock 5A on the interior side of the storage unit 3 to open the door 4A and retrieve the package.

[0091] The normal unlocking operation is the same as the unlocking start operation performed by a delivery company, which is, for example, a single press of a predetermined key 520 (for example, the power (CLEAR) key 521). In step S23, it is determined whether or not the unlocking start operation has been performed, and if the unlocking operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S25, and if not, the process returns to step S23.

[0092] In step S25 of Fig. 9, the electric lock 5 displays a message on the display unit 53 prompting the resident to enter a PIN number (for example, Fig. 10(B)). The resident operates the key 520 as shown in Fig. 10(C) to sequentially enter the PIN number (set by the delivery company) written on the delivery slip.

[0093] In step S27 of Figure 9, if the input PIN number matches the PIN number in the deposit information, the electric lock 5 proceeds to step S29, otherwise it returns to step S25. In step S29, the electric lock 5 drives the linkage mechanism drive motor 650 to operate the linkage mechanism 600 (to put it in an unlockable state). This makes it possible to open the door 4. Thereafter, in step S31, the electric lock 5 displays a message for claiming luggage on the display unit 53. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 10(D), it displays a message such as "Luggage collection. Open the door and collect your luggage."

[0094] The resident operates the trigger 542 (holds it together with the knob 541 and places the trigger 542 inside the knob 541) to open the door 4. When the electric lock 5 detects that the door 4 is open, it displays a message to receive luggage, such as a message urging the resident to close the door. Specifically, it displays a message such as "Package collection. Close the door (automatic lock)" as shown in FIG. 10(E).

[0095] In step S33, the door sensor 59 determines whether the door 4 is closed or not, and if the door 4 is closed (after the baggage has been removed), the process proceeds to step S35, otherwise the process returns to step S31. In step S35, the automatic locking means 558 of the electric lock 5 advances the latch bolt 561 from the case 50 and fits it into a strike (recess) provided in the door 4 to lock it. Thereafter, the electric lock displays a message indicating that the baggage has been deposited (for example, a message such as "BAGGAGE PICKUP, BAGGAGE PICKUP COMPLETE") as shown in FIG. 10(E).

[0096] Thereafter, in step S37, the electric lock 5 stops (does not display) the display on the display unit 53 as shown in FIG. 7(A) (enters a state in which deposit is possible).

[0097] <Receipt process (emergency unlocking)> FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing an example of the operation of the electric lock 5 when a resident receives a package using the emergency unlocking method. In FIG. 11, some steps performed by the user (resident) and manager are indicated by dashed lines. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display mode and operation on the display unit 53 of the electric lock 5 when receiving the package (emergency unlocking). In an emergency when the valid unlocking information is unknown, specifically when the PIN number on the delivery slip is unknown, the resident unlocks the electric lock 5 using the emergency unlocking method and receives the package.

[0098] In the emergency unlocking method, first, the control unit 55 displays inquiry information on the display unit 53 based on an emergency unlocking operation by a user (resident) via the input unit.

[0099] Specifically, in step S51 of FIG. 11, the delivery locker 10 is locked (deposited state). Also, as shown in FIG. 12(A), the display unit 53 displays the information indicating that a package has been deposited. When the resident of the corresponding room number needs to receive a package in an emergency, an emergency unlocking operation is performed. The emergency unlocking operation is performed by pressing a predetermined button different from the unlocking start operation, such as pressing the power button (CLEAR) key 521 and then pressing the "E" key 522 three times. The emergency unlocking operation may be notified to the resident (user) by the manager in advance, or may be notified to the resident by the manager each time an inquiry is made by phone or the like.

[0100] In step S53 of Figure 11, it is determined whether or not an emergency unlocking operation has been performed. If an emergency unlocking operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S55; if not, the process returns to step S53. In step S55, the electric lock 5 displays an inquiry number on the display unit 53. In detail, the inquiry information display means 553 of the electric lock 5 refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 (Figure 5(A)), selects and stores any one of the first unlocking information in the table, displays it on the display unit 53 as inquiry information (inquiry number), and guides the user to enter the emergency unlocking information. Figure 12(B) shows an example in which "A1234" is displayed as the inquiry number.

[0101] Next, in step S57 of Figure 11, the user (resident) sends inquiry information from the user communication terminal 7 to the manager's manager communication terminal 6. Specifically, the resident calls the manager's smartphone from, for example, their own smartphone and verbally states the inquiry number "A1234" displayed on the display unit 53 of the electric lock 5.

[0102] In step S59 of Figure 11, the manager transmits emergency unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information from the manager communication terminal 6 to the user communication terminal 7. Specifically, the manager refers to the manager's emergency unlocking information table 557 (Figure 5(B)) corresponding to the electric lock 5 owned by the manager (visually inspects the manager's emergency unlocking information table 557, which is composed of paper media, digital data, etc.), obtains the second unlocking information (e.g., "9876") linked to the first unlocking information (inquiry information) as emergency unlocking information, and verbally communicates this to the resident.

[0103] In step S61 of Fig. 11, the user inputs emergency unlocking information via the input unit 52. Specifically, the resident inputs "9876" acquired as the emergency unlocking information via the input unit 52, as shown in Fig. 12(C).

[0104] 11, when the electric lock 5's verification / unlocking means 555 receives emergency unlocking information, it refers to the lock emergency unlocking information table 556 and compares the second unlocking number linked to the first unlocking number "A1234" selected by the inquiry information display means 553 with the input emergency unlocking information. If the two match, the process proceeds to step S63; if not, the process returns to step S53.

[0105] In step S65 of FIG. 11, the electric lock 5 sets the locking / unlocking mechanism to an unlockable state. This makes it possible to open the door 4. The inquiry information display means 553 switches the inquiry number (first unlocking information) to be displayed next time when the door 4 is set to an unlockable state. In this embodiment, each display on the display unit 53 goes to a sleep (non-display) state after being displayed for, for example, 30 seconds, and the most recent display is re-displayed when a predetermined button (for example, the power key 521) is pressed. In the case of emergency unlocking, when the sleep state is canceled, the system is configured to return to step S53 (FIG. 12(B)). It would be inconvenient if the inquiry number (first unlocking information) were to be switched at that time. Therefore, the inquiry information display means 553 switches the inquiry number (first unlocking information) to be displayed next time when the door 4 is set to an unlockable state and opened.

[0106] Thereafter, the electric lock 5 displays a package collection guide on the display unit 53 in step S67 of Fig. 11. Specifically, for example, as shown in Fig. 12(D), it displays "Package collection, open the door and collect your package." After that, the process is the same as for normal unlocking.

[0107] The resident operates the trigger 542 (holds it together with the knob 541 and places the trigger 542 inside the knob 541) to open the door 4. When the electric lock 5 detects that the door 4 is open, it displays a message to receive luggage, such as a message urging the resident to close the door. Specifically, it displays a message such as "Receive luggage. Close the door (automatic lock)" as shown in FIG. 10(E).

[0108] In step S69, the door sensor 59 determines whether the door 4 is closed or not. If the door 4 is closed, the process proceeds to step S71. If not, the process returns to step S67. In step S71, the automatic locking means 558 of the electric lock 5 sets the locking state. Thereafter, the electric lock displays a message indicating that the baggage has been deposited (for example, a message such as "Pick up baggage, pick up baggage" as shown in FIG. 10(E)).

[0109] Thereafter, in step S73, the electric lock 5 stops (does not display) the display on the display unit 53 as shown in FIG. 7(A) (enters a state in which deposit is possible).

[0110] In the case of emergency unlocking, for example, the PIN number registered by the delivery company is initialized when the emergency unlocking operation is performed.

[0111] Also, for example, if an incorrect number is entered as emergency unlocking information a predetermined number of times (for example, four times), it is deemed an error, and operation acceptance is refused for a predetermined period of time (for example, one minute), after which the process returns to step S51 (FIG. 12(A)) in Fig. 11. If there are electric locks 5 on both the outside and inside of the room, operation acceptance is also refused for a predetermined period of time (for example, one minute) for the electric lock 5 on the side that has not been operated (for example, the outside of the room).

[0112] As a result, even if a package has arrived for a resident but the PIN number written on the delivery slip is unknown (if the PIN number cannot be read, if the PIN number is not written, if the delivery slip does not exist, etc.), the locking / unlocking mechanism 56 can be unlocked and the door 4 can be opened using the inquiry information (first unlocking information) and emergency unlocking information (second unlocking information).

[0113] <Measures to prevent leakage or loss of the administrator's emergency unlocking information table> Referring to FIG. 13, in this embodiment, a plurality of tables are provided as a measure against leakage or loss of the administrator's emergency unlocking information table.

[0114] That is, the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 includes at least a first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a and a second administrator emergency unlocking information table 557b. The second administrator emergency unlocking information table 557b has the same first unlocking information as the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a, but the second unlocking information linked to them is a different table from that of the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a.

[0115] The lock emergency unlocking information table 556 includes a first lock emergency unlocking information table 556a and a second lock emergency unlocking information table 556b which are identical to the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a and the second administrator emergency unlocking information table 557b, respectively.

[0116] Then, when the control unit 55 is referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the first lock 556a, if it determines that the second unlocking information included in the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 556b has been entered by the resident as emergency unlocking information, it switches to referencing the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock for verification.

[0117] The emergency unlocking information table for lock 556 includes a first lock emergency unlocking information table 556a (FIG. 13(A)) and a second lock emergency unlocking information table 556b (FIG. 13(B)). The first lock emergency unlocking information table 556a is a table in which a plurality of first unlocking information items and each of the plurality of first unlocking information items are linked to second unlocking information, and the second lock emergency unlocking information table 556b is a table in which a plurality of first unlocking information items and each of the plurality of first unlocking information items are linked to second unlocking information, but this second unlocking information is different from the second unlocking information in the first lock emergency unlocking information table.

[0118] The administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 also includes a first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a (FIG. 13(C)) and a second administrator emergency unlocking information table 557b (FIG. 13(D)). The first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a contains the same information as the first lock emergency unlocking information table 556a, and the second administrator emergency unlocking information table 557b contains the same information as the second lock emergency unlocking information table 556b.

[0119] In this way, in the emergency unlocking information tables 556 (556a, 556b) for multiple (here, two) locks, the first unlocking number has one (common) data group consisting of multiple (2,000 in FIG. 13) pieces of data, whereas the second unlocking number has two data groups (groups) consisting of multiple (2,000 in FIG. 13) pieces of data, as shown in second unlocking number (a) and second unlocking number (b). For example, the first unlocking number "0001" is linked to "1234" in the group for second unlocking number (a), and to "3999" in the group for second unlocking number (b). The same is true for the multiple (here, two) administrator emergency unlocking information tables 557 (557a, 557b).

[0120] The multiple groups of second unlocking numbers are prepared as a countermeasure in case, for example, the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 is lost or leaked. The lock emergency unlocking information table 556 is stored in the memory unit 57 and cannot be accessed in its entirety from outside. In contrast, the administrator emergency unlocking information table 557 is something that the administrator visually checks, and is therefore managed as, for example, printed matter or application data that can be handled on a PC, and the risk of loss or leakage cannot be completely eliminated.

[0121] Therefore, when the control unit 55 (inquiry information display means 553) is referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the first lock 556a, if it determines that the second unlocking information included in the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 556b has been input as emergency unlocking information, it switches to referencing the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 556b for verification.

[0122] The order in which the inquiry information display means 553 refers to groups of multiple sets of second unlocking numbers is fixed; for example, in the initial state, it refers to the second unlocking number (a), and continues to refer to the second unlocking number (a) until a reference destination change event occurs.

[0123] When a reference destination change event occurs, the inquiry information display means 553 changes the reference destination to the second unlock number (b) next to the second unlock number (a). After changing to the second unlock number (b), the second unlock number (a) is no longer referenced (deemed unused) and the second unlock number (b) continues to be referenced until another reference destination change event occurs.

[0124] Here, a "change of reference destination event" refers to the input of a second unlocking number in the group of second unlocking numbers (b) while waiting for the input of emergency unlocking information (step S61 shown in FIG. 11). To explain this with a specific example, the inquiry information display means 553 initially refers to the first lock emergency unlocking information table 556a (FIG. 13(A)). When an emergency unlocking operation is performed, the first unlocking information "1934", for example, is displayed on the display unit 53 as inquiry information (inquiry number), and the user (resident) is prompted to input the emergency unlocking information.

[0125] The user calls the administrator and verbally tells the administrator the inquiry number "1934." The administrator refers (visually) to the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a (FIG. 13(C)), which is initially composed of paper media, digital data, etc., and verbally tells the user the second unlocking number linked to the inquiry number (first unlocking number) "1934." However, suppose that the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a is lost, for example, and the correspondence between the first unlocking number and the second unlocking number is leaked. In this case, continued use of the first administrator emergency unlocking information table 557a should be avoided for security reasons. The administrator can identify problems such as the loss of the emergency unlocking information table 557a for the first administrator, and when communicating the second unlocking number to the user, they use (replace) the new emergency unlocking information table 557b for the second administrator shown in Figure 13(D) and communicate the second unlocking number "1002" for group b linked to the inquiry number (first unlocking number) "1934" to the user as the emergency unlocking information.

[0126] The user inputs "1002" as the emergency unlock information without being aware of the change in the reference destination in the administrator emergency unlock information table 557. The inquiry information display means 553 continues to refer to the second unlock number (a) in the first lock emergency unlock information table 557a, but the input emergency unlock information "1002" does not exist in group a. At this time, the inquiry information display means 553 determines that a reference destination change event has occurred, stops referring to the first lock emergency unlock information table 557a, and refers to the second lock emergency unlock information table 557b. In other words, the "reference destination change event" in this case refers to an event in which the input emergency unlock information does not exist in the group of the second unlock number that the inquiry information display means 553 is referring to.

[0127] The inquiry information display means 553 references the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 557b. If it determines that the input emergency unlocking information is the second unlocking number (b) "1002" of group b linked to the first unlocking number "1934" selected by the inquiry information display means 553, it sets the locking / unlocking mechanism to the unlocked state and thereafter references the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 557b. Although the reference destination is not shown in the figure, the system may have an emergency unlocking information table for the third lock that has the second unlocking number (c) of group c. In that case, the same applies when changing from the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock 557b to the emergency unlocking information table for the third lock. Thus, in this embodiment, the first unlocking number is determined by the inquiry information display means 553, and the group (reference destination) of the second unlocking number is changed by the administrator.

[0128] An example of the initial setting will be described with reference to Figure 14. In the above embodiment, when a delivery company leaves a package addressed to a resident of a certain room number, the recipient's room number and PIN number are entered as the deposit information (step S05 in Figure 6). When the electric lock 5 unlocks itself based on the deposit information, it also determines whether the room number entered as the deposit information is the same as the room number set in advance in the electric lock 5 (step S07 in Figure 6).

[0129] The room numbers of the apartment buildings are set in the initial setting. The electric lock 5 has an initial setting registration means 559 that easily sets the room numbers of the apartment buildings. The initial setting registration means 559 receives a first room number and stores it in the memory unit 57, and then displays a second room number that is the next room number in descending or ascending order to the first room number on the display unit 53.

[0130] Specifically, in the room number registration work, which is an initial setting work, the initial setting registration means 559 receives a first room number and stores it in the memory unit 57, and then displays a second room number that is the room number next to the first room number in descending or ascending order on the display unit 53. The initial setting registration means 559, for example, displays a room number registration screen on the display unit 53 and prompts the user to input a room number.

[0131] FIG. 14 shows an example of the display and operation of the electric lock 5 when registering a room number (for example, "101," "102," "103") as an initial setting operation.

[0132] FIG. 14(A) is an example of an initial screen for room number registration, and the electric lock 5 displays a prompt on the display unit 53 to input a room number. The administrator operates the input unit 52 to input, for example, the lowest number, "101," and presses the "E" button (FIG. 14(B)). This causes the initial setting registration means 559 to store the room number "101" in the memory unit 57, and then displays "102," the room number next to "101," on the display unit 53 (FIG. 14(C)). If the administrator wishes to register that room number, he presses the "E" button (FIG. 14(D)). This causes the initial setting registration means 559 to store the room number "102" in the memory unit 57, and then displays "103," the room number next to "102," on the display unit 53 (FIG. 14(E)).

[0133] In this way, after entering the lowest room number, the administrator can easily register room numbers by simply pressing the registration button (for example, the "E" button) without having to enter the room number (numbers).

[0134] It is advisable to register only rooms that are actually occupied by residents. In this embodiment, when depositing a package, the room number and PIN number that are registered in the initial setting are used. Therefore, for example, if there are vacant rooms in an apartment building, if the room number of the vacant room is also registered, it would be possible to deposit a package in the storage unit 3 using the room number of the vacant room in order to avoid redelivery (taking the package home). By registering room numbers only for rooms that are actually occupied by residents, it becomes possible to deposit a package and lock the electric lock 5 only using the room number, thereby preventing unauthorized use (shortage) of the storage unit 3.

[0135] In a configuration in which doors 4 and electric locks 5 are provided on both the inside and outside of the room, as in this embodiment, there is no distinction between the inside and outside electric locks 5, so locking and unlocking operations can be performed using either electric lock 5. For example, it is possible to unlock the outside electric lock 5B, open door 4B, and store luggage (locking is automatic), and then unlock the outside electric lock 5B, open door 4B, and remove luggage.

[0136] This embodiment eliminates the need for an administrator to travel to the site to perform emergency unlocking. In particular, since communication means (communication functions) for sending and receiving information between the electric lock 5 and the user terminal and between the electric lock 5 and the administrator terminal are not required, the administrator's travel time and effort are reduced, and the running costs required for communication are also reduced. Standalone delivery lockers 10, particularly those for small apartment complexes (with a relatively small number of storage compartments 3), are advantageous over centrally controlled delivery lockers in that they are easy to install, can be retrofitted, and have relatively low installation costs. This embodiment maintains these advantages while improving safety and reducing the administrator's workload.

[0137] Furthermore, in stand-alone delivery lockers, for example, if a PIN code is mechanically registered in the electric lock, operation is limited to the exterior (it is not expected that a delivery person will enter the interior to operate the electric lock). For this reason, it is common for a single storage unit to have a door and electric lock only on the exterior side. In this embodiment, the exterior and interior electric locks 5A, 5B are connected by wiring, allowing locking and unlocking information (such as the room number and PIN code set by the delivery person) to be shared. This allows for depositing items from the exterior side and retrieving items from the interior side, improving convenience. Even with such a configuration, if the electric locks 5A, 5B can be powered by, for example, a long-life lithium battery and the two are connected by wiring, increased costs can be avoided, maintaining the advantages over centrally controlled delivery lockers while ensuring convenience for users (delivery people and residents).

[0138] Furthermore, by connecting the electric locks 5 on the outside and inside of the room with wires, it becomes possible to share information, thereby enabling stable operation.

[0139] Also, guidance for various operations / settings can be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner on the display unit 53. By using a highly temperature-resistant, energy-saving liquid crystal display device as the display unit 53, it is ideal for locks that may be installed outdoors and can reduce power consumption. Furthermore, since the user can operate the lock by following the instructions on the display unit 53, inquiries to the administrator can be reduced, except in the case of emergency unlocking, and the administrator's work in responding to inquiries can be reduced.

[0140] This also simplifies the process of registering room numbers during initial setup. After completing the initial setup of one electric lock 5, the data (initial setup values) can be copied to an external storage device (such as a USB memory stick), and the external storage device can be used to copy the initial setup values ​​to other electric locks 5 that have not yet been initialized, reducing the initial setup work required of the administrator.

[0141] Furthermore, while the luggage is being deposited, the display unit 53 continues to display information indicating that the luggage is being deposited (FIG. 7B), which urges the resident of the depository to retrieve the luggage, thereby preventing the luggage from being used exclusively.

[0142] In addition, the batteries used are lithium batteries that have a long life (for example, 10 years) and are highly reliable over the long term (high capacity, highly temperature resistant, and extremely resistant to leakage), so battery replacement is not required for a long period of time, reducing the workload of administrators. Also, power wiring work is not required.

[0143] The present invention is not limited to the configuration of the present embodiment described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0144] For example, the delivery box 10 has been exemplified as having doors 4 (4A, 4B) on both the inside and outside of the room, but it may also be configured to have an opening 8, door 4, and electric lock 5 on only one side (the outside side). Except for eliminating the need for the electric lock 5 (5A) on the inside of the room that shares information and the wiring 9 connecting the two electric locks, this can be implemented in the same way as the above embodiment, and similar effects can be obtained.

[0145] In addition, although the above example illustrates the case where the room number and PIN number are registered when depositing, it is also possible to register only the PIN number when depositing. If the storage units 3 are assigned fixedly to each room number in advance, the deposit information that the delivery company inputs can be only the PIN number.

[0146] Furthermore, the transmission path 9 between the indoor electric lock 5A and the outdoor electric lock 5B is not limited to a wired (cable) path, but may be a wireless communication path (for example, a short-range wireless communication path).

[0147] Furthermore, the administrator's work in the above embodiment may be performed systematically. For example, an administrator operation means that performs the above-mentioned administrator's work (step S57 in FIG. 11) on behalf of the administrator is provided in an administrator terminal or server. The user installs an emergency unlocking application on a user terminal (e.g., PC) such as a smartphone, and in step S57 in FIG. 11, transmits an inquiry number to the administrator operation means via the application. When the administrator operation means receives the inquiry number, in step S59, it refers to the administrator's emergency unlocking information table and transmits a second unlocking number.

[0148] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which a delivery company deposits a package and a resident receives it, but the system can also be implemented in the same way, for example, as a collection service in which a resident deposits a package and a delivery company receives (collects) the package. In this case, the resident sets a PIN number and notifies the delivery company of this number by phone, email on a smartphone, or a dedicated application.

[0149] Furthermore, the storage unit 2 is not limited to the stand-alone delivery box 10, as long as the emergency unlocking method is the same as in the above embodiment, regardless of the normal locking / unlocking method. For example, it can be applied to lockers installed in train stations or public facilities that are locked and unlocked using a PIN code (with doors and electric locks on only one side). In this case, the user is often the one who deposits and receives the item. However, for example, if the user forgets their PIN code, they can inquire about the emergency unlocking operation by displaying an inquiry number and obtaining emergency unlocking information from the administrator. In this case, since user identity verification is required, it is recommended to use a pre-registered application rather than answering the phone, and then inquire about the administrator and obtain emergency unlocking information through that application.

[0150] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and technical concept of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1 tablet system 2. Storage box (storage means) 3. Storage section 8, 8A, 8B opening Doors 4, 4A, and 4B 5, 5A, 5B electric lock 6. Administrator communication terminal 7. User communication terminal 9 Transmission line (wiring) 10 Delivery Box 50 cases 50 control section 51 Decorative Panel 52 Input section 53 Display section 54 Control section 55 Control Unit 56 Locking / unlocking mechanism 57 Memory section 58 Power supply section 59 Door sensor 60 Connection 520 keys (numeric keypad) 542 Trigger 551 Normal unlocking means 552 Emergency unlocking means 553 Inquiry information display means 554 Emergency unlocking information reception means 555 Matching and unlocking means Emergency unlocking information table for 556 locks 557 Emergency unlocking table for administrator 558 Automatic locking means 559 Initial setting registration means 561 Latch Bolt 600 Collaboration Mechanism 603 Switching means (worm wheel) 605 Engagement surface 620 Connection Holder 621 Connection Ring 625 Engagement surface support part 630 Connecting members 631 Connecting shaft 632 Connecting cam part 650 Linkage mechanism drive motor 660 Latch bolt moving cam 661 Cam section 662 Connecting shaft 663 pins

Claims

1. A lock system comprising an electric lock attached to a door of a storage means, an administrator communication terminal carried by an administrator of the electric lock, and a user communication terminal carried by a user of the electric lock, The electric lock is The device has a control unit, a display unit, an input unit, a memory unit, and a locking / unlocking mechanism, The control unit emergency unlocking means for unlocking the locking / unlocking mechanism in a locked state in an emergency when valid unlocking information is unknown; an emergency unlocking information table for an administrator, which has a plurality of combinations of first unlocking information for emergencies and second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information, and is held by an administrator of the electric lock; a lock emergency unlocking information table that is the same as the administrator emergency unlocking information table and is stored in the storage unit, The emergency unlocking means is an inquiry information display means for referencing the lock emergency unlocking information table based on an emergency unlocking operation via the input unit and displaying one of the first unlocking information as inquiry information on the display unit; an emergency unlocking information receiving means for receiving information input via the input unit as emergency unlocking information after displaying the inquiry information; a verification / unlocking means for referencing the lock emergency unlocking information table when the emergency unlocking information is received, and for bringing the locking / unlocking mechanism into an unlocked state when the emergency unlocking information matches the second unlocking information linked to the inquiry information, the user communication terminal is capable of transmitting the inquiry information to the manager communication terminal; The manager communication terminal is capable of transmitting the second unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information to the user communication terminal. A locking system characterized by:

2. The manager's emergency unlocking information table includes a first manager's emergency unlocking information table and a second manager's emergency unlocking information table, The first administrator emergency unlocking information table is a table in which a plurality of the first unlocking information and the second unlocking information are linked to each of the plurality of first unlocking information, The second administrator emergency unlocking information table is a table in which the plurality of first unlocking information and the second unlocking information different from the first administrator emergency unlocking information table are linked to each of the plurality of first unlocking information, The lock emergency unlocking information table includes a first lock emergency unlocking information table and a second lock emergency unlocking information table which are identical to the first administrator emergency unlocking information table and the second administrator emergency unlocking information table, respectively; When the control unit determines that the second unlocking information included in the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock has been input as the emergency unlocking information while referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the first lock, the control unit switches to referencing the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock for collation.

2. The lock system of claim 1.

3. The doors include a first door and a second door, The electric locks include a first electric lock and a second electric lock attached to the first door and the second door, respectively; The first electric lock and the second electric lock are connected by a transmission line and can share information regarding the operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism.

2. The lock system of claim 1.

4. The power supply unit includes a long-life lithium battery.

2. The lock system of claim 1.

5. the display unit includes a liquid crystal display means that is highly temperature resistant and energy-saving, and is capable of displaying guidance for various operations and / or settings; 2. The lock system of claim 1.

6. the display unit displays information indicating that the item is stored in the storage means while the item is stored in the storage means.

2. The lock system of claim 1.

7. the storage means has a plurality of storage sections corresponding to a plurality of rooms in the apartment building, the control unit has an initial setting registration means for storing an initial setting value input via the input unit in the storage unit in advance, the initial setting value includes room numbers of the plurality of rooms; The initial setting registration means after receiving and storing a first room number in the storage means, displaying a second room number that is the room number next to the first room number in descending or ascending order on the display unit; 2. The lock system of claim 1.

8. The electric locks are attached to the respective storage units, The initial setting value is stored in the storage unit in a format that can be stored in an external storage means and can be copied from the external storage means to other electric locks.

8. The lock system of claim 7.

9. A delivery box having the locking system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A lock unlocking method for an emergency in which an electric lock attached to a door of a storage means has a control unit, a display unit, an input unit, a memory unit, and a locking / unlocking mechanism, and changes the state from a locked state to an unlocked state in an emergency in which valid unlocking information is unknown, a step of the control unit displaying inquiry information on the display unit based on an emergency unlocking operation by a user via the input unit; a step in which the user transmits the inquiry information from a user communication terminal to an administrator communication terminal of an administrator of the electric lock; a step of the manager transmitting emergency unlocking information corresponding to the inquiry information from the manager communication terminal to the user communication terminal; the user inputting the emergency unlocking information via the input unit; The control unit controls the locking / unlocking mechanism to be in an unlocked state in response to the emergency unlocking information. The unlocking method is characterized by the following.

11. a step of the control unit referring to a lock emergency unlocking information table stored in the storage unit, The lock emergency unlocking information table includes a plurality of combinations of first unlocking information and second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information, The control unit When the emergency unlocking operation is performed, one of the first unlocking information included in the lock emergency unlocking information table is displayed on the display unit as the inquiry information, When the input of the emergency unlocking information is accepted and the emergency unlocking information matches the second unlocking information linked to the inquiry information included in the lock emergency unlocking information table, the locking / unlocking mechanism is put into an unlocked state. The unlocking method according to claim 10.

12. a step of the administrator referring to an administrator emergency unlocking information table held by the administrator, The administrator emergency unlocking information table is the same table as the lock emergency unlocking information table, The administrator uses the inquiry information as the first unlocking information and acquires, from the administrator emergency unlocking information table, one of the second unlocking information linked to the first unlocking information as the emergency unlocking information. The unlocking method according to claim 11.

13. The manager's emergency unlocking information table includes a first manager's emergency unlocking information table and a second manager's emergency unlocking information table, The first administrator emergency unlocking information table is a table in which a plurality of the first unlocking information and the second unlocking information are linked to each of the plurality of first unlocking information, The second administrator emergency unlocking information table is a table in which the plurality of first unlocking information and the second unlocking information different from the first administrator emergency unlocking information table are linked to each of the plurality of first unlocking information, The lock emergency unlocking information table includes a first lock emergency unlocking information table and a second lock emergency unlocking information table which are identical to the first administrator emergency unlocking information table and the second administrator emergency unlocking information table, respectively; When the control unit determines that the second unlocking information included in the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock has been input as the emergency unlocking information while referring to the emergency unlocking information table for the first lock, the control unit switches to referencing the emergency unlocking information table for the second lock for collation. The unlocking method according to claim 12.

14. The storage means is a stand-alone delivery box. The unlocking method according to claim 10.

Images