Lost property management device, lost property management method, and lost property management system

Abstract

A lost article management device (3) is configured to comprise: an identification code generation unit (11) that generates an identification code including information related to a lost article deposited in a lost article deposit machine (1); and a search unit (13) that, when a search condition of a lost article is given from a lost article owner terminal (2) that is a terminal used by a lost article owner searching for a lost article, searches for a lost article that matches the search condition from among one or more lost articles deposited in the lost article deposit machine (1), said search being made by collating the search condition and the information included in the identification code generated by the identification code generation unit (11). Further, the lost article management device (3) comprises: an identification code transmission unit (14) that transmits, from among the identification codes generated by the identification code generation unit (11), an identification code corresponding to the lost article found by the search unit (13), the code being transmitted to the lost article owner terminal (2); and a return instruction unit (15) that instructs the lost article deposit machine (1) to return the lost article when the identification code corresponding to the lost article found by the search unit (13) has been presented from the lost article owner terminal (2).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lost property management device, a lost property management method, and a lost property management system. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a lost property management system that manages lost items. As an example of such a lost property management system, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that includes a terminal used by the finder of the lost property (hereinafter referred to as the "find terminal"), a terminal used by the owner of the lost property (hereinafter referred to as the "owner terminal"), and a management server. The finder's terminal sends information about the lost item to the management server. Information about the lost item includes, for example, information indicating the location where the item was found or information indicating the date and time the item was found. The management server stores the information about the lost item sent from the finder's terminal in a database. The owner's terminal sends search conditions for the lost item to the management server. The management server searches for the owner's lost item by comparing the information about the lost item stored in the database with the search conditions sent from the owner's terminal. If the owner's lost item is found, the owner who searched for the lost item can check the lost item information provided by the management server and go and retrieve the lost item kept by the finder or by another person. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-204733 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When using the system disclosed in Patent Document 1 to return lost items to their owners, there is a problem in that it is difficult to smoothly return lost items because the system does not take into consideration tasks such as confirming whether the person who actually comes to collect the lost item is the owner who searched for the lost item, or confirming which lost item in storage the person comes to collect.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a lost property management device that allows for smooth return of lost property. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The lost property management device according to the present disclosure includes an identification code generation unit that generates an identification code including information about the lost property, and a search unit that searches for lost property that matches the search conditions set by the owner's terminal with the information included in the identification code. The lost property management device also includes an identification code transmission unit that transmits to the owner's terminal an identification code corresponding to the lost property searched for by the search unit and that is presented by the owner's terminal when the lost property is returned. a return instruction unit that instructs the lost-item deposit machine where the lost item has been deposited to return the lost item when the identification code is presented; It is equipped with: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, lost items can be returned smoothly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of a lost-item management device 3 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a hardware configuration diagram of a computer when the lost property management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like. [Figure 4]10 is a flowchart showing a lost-item management method, which is a processing procedure of the lost-item management device 3. [Figure 5] 10 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to a second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of a lost-item management device 3 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to a third embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of a lost-item management device 3 according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of a lost-item management device 3 according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a lost-item management method, which is a processing procedure of the lost-item management device 3. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In order to explain the present disclosure in more detail, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] Embodiment 1 FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to the first embodiment. The lost-item management system shown in FIG. 1 includes a lost-item deposit machine 1, a lost-item owner terminal 2, and a lost-item management device 3. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of the lost-item management device 3 according to the first embodiment.

[0011] The lost property deposit machine 1 accepts the deposit of lost property and stores the lost property. The owner terminal 2 is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet. The owner terminal 2 is a terminal used by the owner of the lost item. The owner of the lost item uses the owner terminal 2 to set search conditions for the lost item, etc.

[0012] The lost property management device 3 includes an identification code generation unit 11, an identification code storage unit 12, a search unit 13, an identification code transmission unit 14, and a return instruction unit 15. The lost item management device 3 realizes the return of the lost item without the user of the owner terminal 2 knowing the finder's personal information, that is, the email address of the finder terminal.

[0013] The identification code generating unit 11 is realized by, for example, an identification code generating circuit 31 shown in FIG. The identification code generation unit 11 generates an identification code that includes information about the lost item deposited in the lost-item deposit machine 1. Specifically, the identification code generation unit 11 generates an identification code containing information about the lost item, such as information indicating the location where the lost item deposited in the lost item deposit machine 1 was picked up, information indicating the date and time the lost item was picked up, or an image of the lost item. The identification code generating unit 11 outputs the identification code to the identification code storage unit 12 .

[0014] The identification code storage unit 12 is realized by, for example, an identification code storage circuit 32 shown in FIG. The identification code storage unit 12 stores the identification code output from the identification code generation unit 11.

[0015] The search unit 13 is realized by, for example, a search circuit 33 shown in FIG. When search conditions for lost property are given from the owner terminal 2, the search unit 13 checks the search conditions against information included in the identification code stored in the identification code storage unit 12, thereby searching for lost property that matches the search conditions from one or more lost property deposited in the lost property deposit machine 1. The search unit 13 outputs to the identification code transmission unit 14 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0016] The identification code transmitting unit 14 is realized by, for example, the identification code transmitting circuit 34 shown in FIG. The identification code transmitting unit 14 acquires the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the searching unit 13 from among the identification codes generated by the identification code generating unit 11 . The identification code transmitting unit 14 transmits the acquired identification code to the main terminal 2 .

[0017] The return instruction unit 15 is realized by, for example, a return instruction circuit 35 shown in FIG. When the owner terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, the return instruction unit 15 instructs the lost-item deposit machine 1 to return the lost item.

[0018] In Fig. 1, it is assumed that each of the components of the lost property management device 3, that is, the identification code generation unit 11, the identification code storage unit 12, the search unit 13, the identification code transmission unit 14, and the return instruction unit 15, is realized by dedicated hardware as shown in Fig. 2. In other words, it is assumed that the lost property management device 3 is realized by an identification code generation circuit 31, an identification code storage circuit 32, a search circuit 33, an identification code transmission circuit 34, and a return instruction circuit 35. The identification code storage circuit 32 may be, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, a magnetic disk, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, or a mini disk. Each of the identification code generation circuit 31, search circuit 33, identification code transmission circuit 34 and return instruction circuit 35 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0019] The components of the lost property management device 3 are not limited to those realized by dedicated hardware, and the lost property management device 3 may be realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. The software or firmware is stored as a program in the memory of a computer. A computer refers to hardware that executes the program, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), central processing unit, processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, processor, or DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0020] FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a computer in the case where the lost-item management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like. When the lost property management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like, the identification code storage unit 12 is configured on the computer's memory 51. Programs for causing the computer to execute the respective processing procedures of the identification code generation unit 11, search unit 13, identification code transmission unit 14, and return instruction unit 15 are stored in the memory 51. The computer's processor 52 then executes the programs stored in the memory 51.

[0021] 2 shows an example in which each of the components of the lost-item management device 3 is realized by dedicated hardware, while Fig. 3 shows an example in which the lost-item management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, etc. However, this is merely an example, and some of the components in the lost-item management device 3 may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the remaining components may be realized by software, firmware, etc.

[0022] Next, the operation of the lost property management system shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a lost-item management method, which is a processing procedure of the lost-item management device 3. The finder of the lost item goes to a location where the lost item deposit machine 1 is installed in order to deposit the lost item in the lost item deposit machine 1. When the finder of a lost item places the lost item into the lost-item deposit machine 1 through a lost-item deposit slot (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1, a message prompting the finder to enter information about the lost item and information about the finder is displayed on a display (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. However, it is displayed that the entry of information about the finder is optional.

[0023] The information about the lost item includes, for example, information indicating the location where the lost item was found and information indicating the date and time when the lost item was found. The information about the finder includes, for example, the finder's name and contact information. The finder of the lost item inputs information about the lost item and information about the finder by operating an operation unit (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. For the sake of convenience, it is assumed here that information about the finder has also been input, but this does not have to be the case. The lost-item deposit machine 1 photographs the lost item placed through the lost-item deposit opening, and outputs the photographed image of the lost item, information about the lost item, and information about the finder to an identification code generation unit 11 of the lost-item management device 3. Lost items placed through the lost-and-found entrance are stored on a table or the like within the lost-and-found machine 1.

[0024] Here, a photographed image of the lost item is output from the lost-item deposit machine 1 to the identification code generation unit 11. In addition to the photographed image of the lost item, for example, the name of the lost item or characteristics of the lost item may also be output from the lost-item deposit machine 1 to the identification code generation unit 11. The item name may be entered by the finder of the lost item by operating an operation unit (not shown) of the lost item deposit machine 1, or the lost item deposit machine 1 may identify the item name of the lost item by comparing teacher images of multiple items with a photographed image of the lost item. The characteristics of the lost item may be, for example, the name of the owner printed on the lost item, the owner's fingerprints on the lost item, or a scar on the lost item. The characteristics of the lost item may be input by the finder of the lost item operating an operation unit (not shown) of the lost item deposit machine 1, or the lost item deposit machine 1 may identify the characteristics of the lost item by analyzing a photographed image of the lost item. Here, the finder of the lost item inputs information about the lost item by operating the operation unit of the lost item deposit machine 1, but it is also possible to have a system in which information about the lost item is generated from a photographed image of the lost item, and the finder of the lost item does not need to input anything.

[0025] The identification code generation unit 11 acquires information about the lost item, including a photographed image of the lost item, and information about the finder, from the lost item deposit machine 1. The identification code generation unit 11 generates an identification code including information about the lost item and information about the finder (step ST1 in FIG. 4). The information about the lost item includes, for example, one or more of information indicating the location where the lost item was found, information indicating the date and time the lost item was found, a photograph of the lost item, the name of the lost item, or characteristics of the lost item. The information about the finder includes, for example, one or more of the name of the finder or contact information of the finder. The identification code may be in any code format, but for example, a two-dimensional bar code may be used as the identification code. The identification code generating unit 11 outputs the identification code to the identification code storage unit 12 . As a result, the identification code corresponding to the lost item deposited in the lost-item deposit machine 1 is stored in the identification code storage unit 12.

[0026] The owner operates the owner terminal 2 to set search conditions for the lost item. Specifically, the owner terminal 2 can access a website that manages information on the storage of lost items by the lost item deposit machine 1, allowing the owner to set search conditions for the lost item. The search conditions for lost items include, for example, the location where the lost item was dropped, the date and time when the lost item was dropped, an image of the lost item, the name of the lost item, or the characteristics of the lost item.

[0027] The search unit 13 searches for lost property that matches the search conditions from among one or more lost property deposited in the lost property deposit machine 1 by comparing the search conditions for lost property with the information contained in the identification code stored in the identification code memory unit 12 (step ST2 in Figure 4). For example, if the search conditions for lost items are the location where the item was lost, the date and time the item was lost, and an image of the item, the lost items shown below will be lost items that match the search conditions. A lost item that satisfies the search conditions is one in which the place where the lost item was dropped matches the place where the lost item indicated by the information included in the identification code was picked up, the date and time when the lost item was dropped is earlier than the date and time when the lost item indicated by the information included in the identification code was picked up, and the similarity between the set image of the lost item and the photographed image of the lost item included in the identification code is equal to or greater than a threshold value. The process of calculating the similarity of images is a well-known technique, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The threshold value may be stored in the internal memory of the search unit 13, or may be provided from outside the lost property management device 3.

[0028] For example, if the item name and characteristics of the lost item are set as search conditions for lost items, the lost items listed below will be lost items that match the search conditions. A lost item whose set item name matches the item name indicated by the information included in the identification code and whose set characteristics match the characteristics of the lost item indicated by the information included in the identification code is determined to be a lost item that matches the search conditions. The search unit 13 outputs to the identification code transmission unit 14 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0029] The identification code transmitting unit 14 obtains from the searching unit 13 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions. The identification code transmitting unit 14 transmits the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions to the owner terminal 2 (step ST3 in FIG. 4). When transmitting the identification code to the owner's terminal 2, the identification code transmission unit 14 may also transmit information indicating the location of the lost-item deposit machine 1 to the owner's terminal 2. When the owner terminal 2 receives the identification code, the owner goes to a location where the lost item deposit machine 1 is installed to collect the lost item. In the lost property management system shown in Fig. 1, an identification code transmission unit 14 transmits an identification code to the owner terminal 2. The identification code may be transmitted by any method, such as a reply from a website, email, a social networking service (SNS), or by mail.

[0030] If the owner terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to a lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST4 in Figure 4: YES), the return instruction unit 15 instructs the lost item deposit machine 1 to return the lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST5 in Figure 4). If the owner terminal 2 does not present an identification code corresponding to a lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST4 in Figure 4: NO), the return instruction unit 15 will not instruct the lost item deposit machine 1 to return the lost item that matches the search criteria. The method of presenting the identification code may be, for example, to hold the identification code displayed on the display of the owner terminal 2 over a code confirmation window (not shown) of the lost property deposit machine 1, or the owner terminal 2 may send the identification code to the return instruction unit 15 of the lost property management device 3. An identification code reader is installed in a code confirmation window (not shown) of the lost property deposit machine 1, and the reader transmits the read identification code to the return instruction unit 15.

[0031] When the lost-item deposit machine 1 receives an instruction to return the lost item from the return instruction unit 15, it transports the lost item stored on a table or the like to a lost-item return port (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. This allows the owner to collect the lost item that has been delivered to the lost item return port. When the lost-item deposit machine 1 detects that the owner has received the lost item, it outputs the detection information of the reception to the return instruction unit 15. When the return instruction unit 15 receives the receipt detection information from the lost-item deposit machine 1, if the identification code corresponding to the lost item contains information about the finder, it transmits the receipt detection information to the finder's terminal, etc. Furthermore, when the return instruction unit 15 receives the receipt detection information from the lost-item deposit machine 1, the lost-item management device 3 may delete information about the returned lost item from the lost-item management device 3. In the lost property management system shown in Figure 1, the finder does not need to manage the lost property until it is returned to the owner. The finder does not need to return the lost property to the owner.

[0032] In the first embodiment described above, the lost-item management device 3 is configured to include an identification code generation unit 11 that generates an identification code containing information about a lost item deposited in the lost-item deposit machine 1, and a search unit 13 that, when search conditions for the lost item are provided from the owner terminal 2 used by the owner searching for the lost item, searches for a lost item that matches the search conditions from one or more lost items deposited in the lost-item deposit machine 1 by comparing the search conditions with information contained in the identification code generated by the identification code generation unit 11. The lost-item management device 3 also includes an identification code transmission unit 14 that transmits to the owner terminal 2 an identification code, from among the identification codes generated by the identification code generation unit 11, that corresponds to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, and a return instruction unit 15 that instructs the lost-item deposit machine 1 to return the lost item when the owner terminal 2 presents the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13. This allows the lost-item management device 3 to smoothly return the lost item.

[0033] In the lost property management system shown in Fig. 1, an identification code is sent from the identification code sending unit 14 to the owner's terminal 2, but the email address of the finder's terminal, which is the finder's personal information, is not made known to the user of the owner's terminal 2. For this reason, the lost property management system shown in Fig. 1 is useful in that it can protect personal information. The system disclosed in Patent Document 1 involves direct communication between individuals. Direct communication includes the exchange of emails and the exchange of lost property. Some finders may wish to avoid direct communication with strangers, so this system is not desirable in that respect either. In contrast, the lost property management system shown in Figure 1 does not involve direct interaction between individuals, and therefore can provide a service that is easier for finders to use.

[0034] Embodiment 2 In embodiment 2, we will explain a lost property management device 3 in which an identification code sending unit 16 issues a reception number for the return of lost property searched for by a search unit 13, and sends the reception number and an identification code corresponding to the lost property searched for by the search unit 13 to the owner terminal 2.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to embodiment 2. In Fig. 5, the same reference numerals as in Fig. 1 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 6 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of the lost property management device 3 according to embodiment 2. In Fig. 6, the same reference numerals as in Fig. 2 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0036] The lost property management device 3 shown in FIG. 5 includes an identification code generation unit 11, an identification code storage unit 12, a search unit 13, an identification code transmission unit 16, and a return instruction unit 17. The identification code transmitting unit 16 is realized by, for example, an identification code transmitting circuit 36 ​​shown in FIG. The identification code transmitting unit 16, like the identification code transmitting unit 14 shown in FIG. 1, acquires the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the searching unit 13 from among the identification codes generated by the identification code generating unit 11. The identification code sending unit 16 issues a reception number for the return of the lost item found by the search unit 13, and sends the reception number and the acquired identification code to the owner's terminal 2.

[0037] The return instruction unit 17 is realized by, for example, a return instruction circuit 37 shown in FIG. When the receipt number and the identification code are presented from the owner terminal 2, the return instruction unit 17 instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost property found by the search unit 13.

[0038] In Fig. 5, it is assumed that each of the components of the lost property management device 3, that is, the identification code generation unit 11, the identification code storage unit 12, the search unit 13, the identification code transmission unit 16, and the return instruction unit 17, is realized by dedicated hardware as shown in Fig. 6. In other words, it is assumed that the lost property management device 3 is realized by an identification code generation circuit 31, an identification code storage circuit 32, a search circuit 33, an identification code transmission circuit 36, and a return instruction circuit 37. Each of the identification code generation circuit 31, search circuit 33, identification code transmission circuit 36 ​​and return instruction circuit 37 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0039] The components of the lost property management device 3 are not limited to those realized by dedicated hardware, and the lost property management device 3 may be realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. When the lost property management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like, the identification code storage unit 12 is configured on the memory 51 of the computer. Programs for causing the computer to execute the respective processing procedures of the identification code generation unit 11, the search unit 13, the identification code transmission unit 16, and the return instruction unit 17 are stored in the memory 51 shown in Fig. 3. Then, the processor 52 shown in Fig. 3 executes the programs stored in the memory 51.

[0040] 6 shows an example in which each of the components of the lost-item management device 3 is realized by dedicated hardware, while Fig. 3 shows an example in which the lost-item management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, etc. However, this is merely an example, and some of the components in the lost-item management device 3 may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the remaining components may be realized by software, firmware, etc.

[0041] Next, the operation of the lost-item management system shown in Fig. 5 will be described. However, since the lost-item management system is the same as that shown in Fig. 1 except for the identification code transmission unit 16 and the return instruction unit 17, only the operation of the identification code transmission unit 16 and the return instruction unit 17 will be described here.

[0042] The identification code transmitting unit 16, like the identification code transmitting unit 14 shown in FIG. 1, acquires the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the searching unit 13 from among the identification codes generated by the identification code generating unit 11. The identification code transmitting unit 16 issues a receipt number for the return of the lost item found by the searching unit 13 . The identification code transmitting unit 16 transmits the reception number and the acquired identification code to the owner terminal 2 of the lost item.

[0043] When the receipt number and the identification code are presented from the owner terminal 2, the return instruction unit 17 instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost property found by the search unit 13. Here, the condition for return is the presentation of the reception number, so the possibility of the lost item being returned to someone other than the owner is reduced compared to when the return of the lost item is instructed simply by presenting the identification code.

[0044] In the above-described second embodiment, the identification code sending unit 16 issues a reception number for the return of the lost item found by the search unit 13, and sends the reception number and the identification code corresponding to the lost item found by the search unit 13 to the owner terminal 2. The lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 5 is configured so that the return instruction unit 17 instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost item when the reception number and the identification code are presented by the owner terminal 2. Therefore, the lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 5 can increase the likelihood that the lost item will be returned to the true owner more than the lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 1.

[0045] Embodiment 3 In the third embodiment, we will explain a lost property management device 3 in which the return instruction unit 18 performs a personal authentication process for the owner of the lost item after the owner's terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, and if the owner's identity is confirmed, instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost item.

[0046] Fig. 7 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to embodiment 3. In Fig. 7, the same reference numerals as in Figs. 1 and 5 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 8 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of the lost property management device 3 according to embodiment 3. In Fig. 8, the same reference numerals as in Fig. 2 and Fig. 6 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0047] The return instruction unit 18 is realized by, for example, a return instruction circuit 38 shown in FIG. After the owner's terminal 2 presents the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, the return instruction unit 18 performs a personal authentication process for the owner. The return instruction unit 18 performs a personal authentication process on the owner of the lost item, and if the owner's identity is confirmed, instructs the lost item deposit machine 1 to return the lost item found by the search unit 13.

[0048] In the lost-item management system shown in Fig. 7, the return instruction unit 18 is applied to the lost-item management device 3 shown in Fig. 1. However, this is merely an example, and the return instruction unit 18 may also be applied to the lost-item management device 3 shown in Fig. 5.

[0049] In Fig. 7, it is assumed that each of the components of the lost property management device 3, that is, the identification code generation unit 11, the identification code storage unit 12, the search unit 13, the identification code transmission unit 14, and the return instruction unit 18, is realized by dedicated hardware as shown in Fig. 8. In other words, it is assumed that the lost property management device 3 is realized by an identification code generation circuit 31, an identification code storage circuit 32, a search circuit 33, an identification code transmission circuit 34, and a return instruction circuit 38. Each of the identification code generation circuit 31, search circuit 33, identification code transmission circuit 34 and return instruction circuit 38 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0050] The components of the lost property management device 3 are not limited to those realized by dedicated hardware, and the lost property management device 3 may be realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. When the lost property management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like, the identification code storage unit 12 is configured on the memory 51 of the computer. Programs for causing the computer to execute the respective processing procedures of the identification code generation unit 11, the search unit 13, the identification code transmission unit 14, and the return instruction unit 18 are stored in the memory 51 shown in Fig. 3. Then, the processor 52 shown in Fig. 3 executes the programs stored in the memory 51.

[0051] 8 shows an example in which each of the components of the lost-item management device 3 is realized by dedicated hardware, while Fig. 3 shows an example in which the lost-item management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, etc. However, this is merely an example, and some of the components in the lost-item management device 3 may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the remaining components may be realized by software, firmware, etc.

[0052] Next, the operation of the lost-item management system shown in Fig. 7 will be described. However, since the system is the same as the lost-item management system shown in Fig. 1 except for the return instruction unit 18, only the operation of the return instruction unit 18 will be described here.

[0053] After the owner's terminal 2 presents the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, the return instruction unit 18 performs a personal authentication process for the owner. The personal authentication process performed by the return instruction unit 18 will now be described in detail.

[0054] In the lost property management system shown in FIG. 7, a condition for transmitting an identification code is that personal authentication information is presented before the identification code is transmitted from the identification code transmitting unit 14 to the owner terminal 2. Examples of the presentation of personal identification information include the submission of the owner's identification card or biometric information. When the return instruction unit 18 receives the personal authentication information from the owner terminal 2, it associates the personal authentication information with the identification code and stores a pair of the identification code and the personal authentication information (hereinafter referred to as "pair information"). After the return instruction unit 18 receives the personal authentication information, the identification code transmission unit 14 transmits to the owner terminal 2 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0055] When the owner terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to a lost item that matches the search conditions, the return instruction unit 18 requests the presentation of personal identification information. When the personal authentication information is presented, the return instruction unit 18 collates the personal authentication information with the personal authentication information included in the stored pair information. If the presented personal identification information matches the personal identification information included in the pair information, the return instruction part 18 determines that the identity of the owner has been confirmed and instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost property corresponding to the presented identification code. If the presented personal identification information does not match the personal identification information included in the pair information, the return instruction part 18 determines that the identity of the owner has not been confirmed and does not instruct the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost property corresponding to the presented identification code.

[0056] In the above-described third embodiment, the lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 7 is configured so that the return instruction unit 18 performs a personal authentication process for the owner of the lost item after the owner's terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 13, and if the owner's identity is confirmed, instructs the lost property deposit machine 1 to return the lost item. Therefore, the lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 7 can increase the possibility that the lost item will be returned to the true owner more than the lost property management device 3 shown in Fig. 1.

[0057] Embodiment 4 In the fourth embodiment, a lost-item management system will be described in which lost items deposited in a lost-item deposit machine 1 are stored in a lost-item storage machine 4 installed in a different location from the lost-item deposit machine 1.

[0058] Fig. 9 is a configuration diagram showing a lost-item management system including a lost-item management device 3 according to embodiment 4. In Fig. 9, the same reference numerals as those in Figs. 1, 5 and 7 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 10 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the hardware of the lost property management device 3 according to embodiment 4. In Fig. 10, the same reference numerals as those in Fig. 2, Fig. 6, and Fig. 8 indicate the same or corresponding parts, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0059] The lost-item management system shown in FIG. 9 includes a lost-item deposit machine 1, an owner terminal 2, a lost-item management device 3, and a lost-item storage machine 4. The lost-and-found machine 4 is installed in a different location from the lost-and-found machine 1, and stores the lost items deposited in the lost-and-found machine 1.

[0060] The lost property management device 3 includes an identification code generation unit 21, an identification code storage unit 12, a search unit 23, an identification code transmission unit 14, and a return instruction unit 25. The identification code generating unit 21 is realized by, for example, an identification code generating circuit 41 shown in FIG. The identification code generation unit 21 generates an identification code that includes at least information indicating the location of the lost-and-found deposit machine 4 as information about the lost item deposited in the lost-and-found deposit machine 1. The identification code generating unit 21 outputs the identification code to the identification code storage unit 12 .

[0061] The search unit 23 is realized by, for example, a search circuit 43 shown in FIG. When search conditions for lost items are given from the owner terminal 2, the search unit 23 checks the search conditions against information included in the identification code stored in the identification code storage unit 12, and searches for lost items matching the search conditions from one or more lost items stored in the lost-item storage machine 4. The search unit 23 outputs to the identification code transmission unit 14 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0062] The return instruction unit 25 is realized by, for example, a return instruction circuit 45 shown in FIG. When the owner terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit 23, the return instruction unit 25 instructs the lost-item storage machine 4 to return the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0063] In the lost-item management system shown in Fig. 9, the identification code generation unit 21, the search unit 23, and the return instruction unit 25 are each applied to the lost-item management device 3 shown in Fig. 1. However, this is merely an example, and the identification code generation unit 21, the search unit 23, and the return instruction unit 25 may each be applied to the lost-item management device 3 shown in Fig. 5 or the lost-item management device 3 shown in Fig. 7.

[0064] 9, it is assumed that each of the components of the lost property management device 3, that is, the identification code generation unit 21, the identification code storage unit 12, the search unit 23, the identification code transmission unit 14, and the return instruction unit 25, is realized by dedicated hardware as shown in Fig. 10. In other words, it is assumed that the lost property management device 3 is realized by the identification code generation circuit 41, the identification code storage circuit 32, the search circuit 43, the identification code transmission circuit 34, and the return instruction circuit 45. Each of the identification code generation circuit 41, search circuit 43, identification code transmission circuit 34 and return instruction circuit 45 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0065] The components of the lost property management device 3 are not limited to those realized by dedicated hardware, and the lost property management device 3 may be realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. When the lost property management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, or the like, the identification code storage unit 12 is configured on the memory 51 of the computer. Programs for causing the computer to execute the respective processing procedures of the identification code generation unit 21, the search unit 23, the identification code transmission unit 14, and the return instruction unit 25 are stored in the memory 51 shown in Fig. 3. Then, the processor 52 shown in Fig. 3 executes the programs stored in the memory 51.

[0066] 10 shows an example in which each of the components of the lost-item management device 3 is realized by dedicated hardware, while Fig. 3 shows an example in which the lost-item management device 3 is realized by software, firmware, etc. However, this is merely an example, and some of the components in the lost-item management device 3 may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the remaining components may be realized by software, firmware, etc.

[0067] Next, the operation of the lost property management system shown in FIG. 9 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a lost-item management method, which is a processing procedure of the lost-item management device 3. The finder of the lost item goes to a location where the lost item deposit machine 1 is installed in order to deposit the lost item in the lost item deposit machine 1. When the finder of a lost item places the lost item into the lost-item deposit machine 1 through a lost-item deposit slot (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1, a message prompting the finder to enter information about the lost item and information about the finder is displayed on a display (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. However, it is displayed that the entry of information about the finder is optional.

[0068] The information about the lost item includes, for example, information indicating the location where the lost item was found and information indicating the date and time when the lost item was found. The information about the finder includes, for example, the finder's name and contact information. The finder of the lost item inputs information about the lost item and information about the finder by operating an operation unit (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. For the sake of convenience, it is assumed here that information about the finder has also been input. The lost-and-found machine 1 photographs the lost item placed through the lost-and-found entrance. The lost property deposited in the lost property deposit machine 1 is transported to a lost property storage machine 4 installed in a different location from the lost property deposit machine 1. The lost-and-found machine 4 stores the lost items deposited in the lost-and-found machine 1. The lost property deposit machine 1 outputs information about the lost property, including a photographed image of the lost property and information indicating the installation location of the lost property storage machine 4, as well as information about the finder, to the identification code generation unit 21 of the lost property management device 3.

[0069] Here, a photographed image of the lost item is output from the lost-item deposit machine 1 to the identification code generation unit 21. In addition to the photographed image of the lost item, for example, the name of the lost item or characteristics of the lost item may also be output from the lost-item deposit machine 1 to the identification code generation unit 21.

[0070] The identification code generation unit 21 acquires information about the lost item, including information indicating the location of the lost-item deposit machine 4, and information about the finder, from the lost-item deposit machine 1. The identification code generating unit 21 generates an identification code including information about the lost item, including information indicating the installation location of the lost-item storage machine 4, and information about the finder (step ST11 in FIG. 11). The identification code may be in any code format, but for example, a two-dimensional bar code may be used as the identification code. The identification code generating unit 21 outputs the identification code to the identification code storage unit 12 . As a result, the identification code storage unit 12 stores the identification code corresponding to the lost item stored in the lost-and-found storage machine 4.

[0071] The owner operates the owner terminal 2 to set search conditions for the lost item. The search unit 23 searches for lost items that match the search conditions from among one or more lost items stored in the lost-item storage device 4 by comparing the search conditions for lost items with the identification code stored in the identification code storage unit 12 (step ST12 in Figure 11). The search unit 23 outputs to the identification code transmission unit 14 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions.

[0072] The identification code transmitting unit 14 obtains from the searching unit 23 the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions. The identification code transmitting unit 14 transmits the identification code corresponding to the lost item that matches the search conditions to the owner terminal 2 (step ST13 in FIG. 11). When transmitting the identification code to the owner terminal 2, the identification code transmission unit 14 may also transmit information indicating the installation location of the lost-item storage device 4 to the owner terminal 2. When the owner terminal 2 receives the identification code, the owner goes to a location where the lost-item storage machine 4 is installed to retrieve the lost item. In the lost property management system shown in Fig. 9, an identification code transmission unit 14 transmits an identification code to the owner terminal 2. The identification code may be transmitted by any method, such as a reply from a website, email, SNS, or by mail.

[0073] If the owner terminal 2 presents an identification code corresponding to a lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST14 in Figure 11: YES), the return instruction unit 25 instructs the lost item storage machine 4 to return the lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST15 in Figure 11). If the owner terminal 2 does not present an identification code corresponding to a lost item that matches the search criteria (step ST14 in Figure 11: NO), the return instruction unit 25 will not instruct the lost item storage machine 4 to return the lost item that matches the search criteria. The method of presenting the identification code may be, for example, to hold the identification code displayed on the display of the owner terminal 2 over a code confirmation window (not shown) of the lost property storage device 4, or the owner terminal 2 may send the identification code to the return instruction unit 25 of the lost property management device 3. An identification code reader is installed in a code confirmation window (not shown) of the lost-and-found storage machine 4, and the reader transmits the read identification code to the return instruction unit 25.

[0074] When the lost-item deposit machine 4 receives an instruction to return the lost item from the return instruction unit 25, it transports the stored lost item to a lost-item return port (not shown) of the lost-item deposit machine 1. This allows the owner to collect the lost item that has been delivered to the lost item return port. When the lost-item storage device 4 detects that the owner has received the lost item, it outputs the detection information of the reception to the return instruction unit 25. When the return instruction unit 25 receives the receipt detection information from the lost-item storage machine 4, if the identification code corresponding to the lost item contains information about the finder, it transmits the receipt detection information to the finder's terminal, etc. Furthermore, when the return instruction unit 25 receives the receipt detection information from the lost-item storage machine 4, the lost-item management device 3 may delete information about the returned lost item from the lost-item management device 3. In the lost property management system shown in Fig. 9, the finder does not need to manage the lost property until it is returned to the owner. The finder does not need to return the lost property to the owner.

[0075] As a result, even if the lost property deposited in the lost property deposit machine 1 is stored in the lost property storage machine 4 installed in a different location from the lost property deposit machine 1, the lost property can be returned smoothly.

[0076] Embodiment 5. In the lost property management systems according to the first to fourth embodiments, the finder of a lost property deposits the lost property in the lost property deposit machine 1. However, this is merely an example, and the lost property may be dropped in a certain facility, the finder may be an employee of the facility, and the employee may deposit the lost property in the lost property deposit machine 1.

[0077] In this case, the identification code generating units 11 and 21 may generate an identification code including information about the employee or the like. Furthermore, when the return instruction units 15, 17, 18, and 25 receive detection information of receipt from the lost-and-found deposit machine 1 or the lost-and-found storage machine 4, they transmit the detection information of receipt to a terminal of an employee or the like, for example.

[0078] In addition, the present disclosure allows for free combination of the respective embodiments, modification of any of the components of the respective embodiments, or omission of any of the components of the respective embodiments. [Industrial Applicability]

[0079] The present disclosure is suitable for a lost-item management device, a lost-item management method, and a lost-item management system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0080] 1 Lost property deposit machine, 2 Owner terminal, 3 Lost property management device, 4 Lost property storage machine, 11 Identification code generation unit, 12 Identification code storage unit, 13 Search unit, 14 Identification code transmission unit, 15 Return instruction unit, 16 Identification code transmission unit, 17 Return instruction unit, 18 Return instruction unit, 21 Identification code generation unit, 23 Search unit, 25 Return instruction unit, 31 Identification code generation circuit, 32 Identification code storage circuit, 33 Search circuit, 34 Identification code transmission circuit, 35 Return instruction circuit, 36 Identification code transmission circuit, 37 Return instruction circuit, 38 Return instruction circuit, 41 Identification code generation circuit, 43 Search circuit, 45 Return instruction circuit, 51 Memory, 52 Processor.

Claims

1. an identification code generating unit that generates an identification code including information about the lost item; a search unit that searches for lost items that match the search conditions set by the owner terminal of the lost item and the information included in the identification code; an identification code sending unit that sends to the owner terminal an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit, the identification code being presented by the owner terminal when the lost item is returned; a return instruction unit that instructs the lost-item deposit machine where the lost item has been deposited to return the lost item when the identification code is presented; A lost property management device comprising:

2. The identification code includes at least one of information indicating the location where the lost item was found, information indicating the date and time when the lost item was found, and an image of the lost item.

2. The lost property management device according to claim 1.

3. The identification code transmission unit A receipt number for the return of the lost item found by the search unit is issued, and the receipt number and an identification code corresponding to the lost item found by the search unit are transmitted to the owner's terminal.

3. The lost property management device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The return instruction unit After the identification code is presented, a personal authentication process is performed on the owner of the lost item, and if the owner's identity is confirmed, an instruction is given to the lost item deposit machine to return the lost item.

2. The lost property management device according to claim 1.

5. The lost property is stored in a lost property deposit machine installed in a different location from the lost property deposit machine, The identification code includes information indicating the location of the lost and found machine, The return instruction unit instructs the lost-and-found storage machine to return the lost item when the identification code is presented.

2. The lost property management device according to claim 1.

6. an identification code generating unit that generates an identification code including information about the lost item deposited in the lost item deposit machine; a search unit that, when search conditions for lost items are given from an owner terminal used by an owner searching for lost items, searches for lost items that match the search conditions from among one or more lost items deposited in the lost-item deposit machine by comparing the search conditions with information included in the identification code generated by the identification code generation unit; an identification code sending unit that sends to the owner terminal an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit, among the identification codes generated by the identification code generating unit; a return instruction unit that instructs the lost-item deposit machine to return the lost item when an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit is presented from the owner terminal; A lost property management device comprising:

7. an identification code generating unit that generates an identification code including information about the lost item deposited in the lost item deposit machine; a return instruction unit that instructs the lost-item deposit machine to return the lost item when the identification code is presented; A lost property management device comprising:

8. an identification code generating unit generating an identification code including information about the lost item; a search unit searches for lost items that match the search conditions set by the owner terminal and the information included in the identification code; an identification code transmitting unit transmits to the owner terminal an identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the searching unit, the identification code being presented by the owner terminal when the lost item is returned; A return instruction unit instructs the lost-item deposit machine where the lost item was deposited to return the lost item when the identification code is presented. How to manage lost items.

9. a lost property deposit machine that accepts the deposit of lost property; an identification code generation unit that generates an identification code including information about the lost item deposited in the lost item deposit machine; a search unit that searches for lost items that match the search conditions set by the owner terminal of the lost item and the information included in the identification code; an identification code sending unit that sends to the owner terminal the identification code corresponding to the lost item searched for by the search unit, the identification code being presented by the owner terminal when the lost item is returned; a return instruction unit that instructs the lost-item deposit machine where the lost item has been deposited to return the lost item when the identification code is presented; A lost property management system equipped with

10. When the lost item deposit machine detects that the owner has received the lost item, it outputs the detection information of the receipt to the return instruction unit.

10. The lost property management system according to claim 9.

11. The lost property deposited in the lost property deposit machine is stored in a lost property deposit machine installed in a different location from the lost property deposit machine, When the lost-item storage device detects that the owner has received the lost item, it outputs the detection information of the receipt to the return instruction unit.

10. The lost property management system according to claim 9.

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