Authentication information output system and authentication information output method

Abstract

To provide an authentication information output system that can provide authentication information necessary to use a facility.SOLUTION: An authentication information output system 10 includes: an acquisition unit 15 for acquiring information on a user of a housing complex 100; a registration unit 16 for registering the user on the basis of the acquired information; and an output unit 17. The acquisition unit 15 further acquires application information on an application for using a housing complex 100 from the registered user, and acquires approval propriety information as to whether the application is to be approved after the application information is acquired. The output unit 17 outputs the authentication information to unlock a key device provided in the housing complex 100 when the acquired approval propriety information shows approval of the usage application.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an authentication information output system and an authentication information output method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an intercom system used in apartment buildings. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-38817 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention provides an authentication information output system and the like that can provide authentication information required to use a facility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An authentication information output system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises an acquisition unit that acquires information regarding facility users, a registration unit that registers the users based on the acquired information, and an output unit, wherein the acquisition unit further acquires application information regarding the registered users' application to use the facility, and after the application information is acquired, acquires approval / rejection information regarding whether the application to use is approved, and the output unit outputs authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the facility if the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0006] An authentication information output system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires application information regarding a user's application to use a facility, and after the application information has been acquired, acquires approval / rejection information regarding whether the application to use is approved, and an output unit that outputs authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the facility if the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0007] An authentication information output method according to one embodiment of the present invention is an authentication information output method executed by a computer, and includes a first acquisition step of acquiring information regarding a user of a facility, a registration step of registering the user based on the acquired information, a second acquisition step of acquiring application information regarding the registered user's application to use the facility, a third acquisition step of acquiring approval / rejection information regarding whether the application to use is approved after the application information has been acquired, and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the facility if the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0008] An authentication information output method according to one aspect of the present invention is an authentication information output method executed by a computer, and includes an acquisition step of acquiring application information regarding a user's application to use a facility, and after the application information has been acquired, acquiring approval / rejection information regarding whether the application to use is approved, and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the facility if the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute the authentication information output method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The authentication information output system etc. of the present invention can provide authentication information required to use a facility. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of an authentication information output system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram of the pre-registration operation. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram of the authentication information issuing operation. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an application list screen for a service provider. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the new work application screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the property list screen. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the top screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an application list screen for a management company. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the approval / non-approval decision screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a comment input screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an application details screen for a service provider. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram of the automatic approval setting operation. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram of the operation of adding account information. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of an autolock door. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of the key box. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a top screen related to a facility usage application. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a facility list screen. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen for instructing transmission of application information. [Figure 19]FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of an application list screen for residents. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an application details screen for residents. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of an autolock door according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, component placement and connection forms, steps, and step order shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, among the components in the following embodiments, components not recited in independent claims will be described as optional components.

[0013] It should be noted that the drawings are schematic diagrams and are not necessarily strict illustrations. In addition, in the drawings, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptions may be omitted or simplified.

[0014] (Embodiment) [composition] First, the configuration of the authentication information output system according to the embodiment will be described below: Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the authentication information output system according to the embodiment.

[0015] The authentication information output system 10 is a system applied to an apartment building 100. The apartment building 100 is an example of a facility, and specifically, is an apartment building, a dormitory, company housing, or the like. The apartment building 100 includes a common area 101 and a plurality of private areas 102.

[0016] Here, a business providing services such as repairs to the apartment building 100, cleaning the apartment building 100, or electrical work for the apartment building 100 (hereinafter also referred to as a service provider) may dispatch a worker to the apartment building 100. In such cases, it is common for the manager of the apartment building 100 to be present at the apartment building 100 at the time and date of the worker's visit, unlock the auto-lock door 35 to let the worker into the apartment building 100, and hand over the key necessary for the work to the worker.

[0017] In response to this, the authentication information output system 10 can reduce the hassle of handing over the keys and the like by assisting the management company in providing the service provider with temporary authority (authentication information) to enter the apartment complex 100.

[0018] Specifically, the authentication information output system 10 issues and notifies temporary authentication information to the service provider in response to an application from the service provider to use the apartment building 100 and the management company's approval of the application. A worker dispatched by the service provider to the apartment building 100 can unlock the auto-locking door 35 by entering this authentication information into the lobby intercom 31. Furthermore, the authentication information output system 10 can output authentication information for unlocking the key box 38 in addition to authentication information for unlocking the auto-locking door 35.

[0019] Although only one apartment building 100 is shown in Figure 1, the authentication information output system 10 can provide authentication information related to multiple apartment buildings, including the apartment building 100, that are managed by the management company.

[0020] The following describes a specific configuration of such an authentication information output system 10. The authentication information output system 10 is a system realized by one or more server devices located, for example, outside an apartment building 100. Specifically, the authentication information output system 10 includes a first communication unit 11, an information processing unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a second communication unit 14.

[0021] The first communication unit 11 is a communication module (communication circuit) that enables the authentication information output system 10 to communicate with the intercom system 30 (VPN router 39), the authentication management server 40, the first information terminal 50, and the second information terminal 60 via a wide area communication network 80 such as the Internet. The communication performed by the first communication unit 11 is packet-switched communication. The communication performed by the first communication unit 11 is, for example, wired communication, but may also be wireless communication. There is no particular limitation on the communication standard used for the communication.

[0022] The information processing unit 12 performs information processing for issuing authentication information to the service provider in response to a service provider's application to use the facility 100 and the management company's approval of the application. The information processing unit 12 is realized, for example, by a microcomputer, but may also be realized by a processor. The information processing unit 12 includes, as functional components, an acquisition unit 15, a registration unit 16, an output unit 17, a setting unit 18, and an authentication unit 19. The functions of the acquisition unit 15, the registration unit 16, the output unit 17, the setting unit 18, and the authentication unit 19 are realized, for example, by the microcomputer or processor constituting the information processing unit 12 executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 13.

[0023] The storage unit 13 is a storage device that stores information necessary for the above information processing, computer programs executed by the information processing unit 12, etc. The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but may also be realized by a semiconductor memory or the like.

[0024] The second communication unit 14 is a communication module (communication circuit) that enables the authentication information output system 10 to communicate with the mobile phone 70 for voice calls via a communication network for voice calls. That is, the communication performed by the second communication unit 14 is circuit-switched communication. The communication performed by the second communication unit 14 is, for example, wired communication, but may also be wireless communication.

[0025] 1 also shows an intercom system 30, an authentication management server 40, a first information terminal 50, a second information terminal 60, and a mobile phone 70, in addition to the authentication information output system 10. The configurations of these systems or devices will be described below.

[0026] The intercom system 30 is a system installed within an apartment building 100. The intercom system 30 includes a lobby intercom 31, multiple intercom base units 32, a control device 33, a gateway device 34, an auto-locking door 35, an authentication management device 36, a delivery box 37, a key box 38, and a VPN (Virtual Private Network) router 39. The lobby intercom 31, the control device 33, the gateway device 34, the auto-locking door 35, the authentication management device 36, the delivery box 37, the key box 38, and the VPN router 39 are installed in a common area 101 of the apartment building 100. The multiple intercom base units 32 are installed in a private area 102 of the apartment building 100.

[0027] The lobby intercom 31 is an information terminal installed outside (on the outdoor side) of the auto-locking door 35 at the entrance (i.e., the common area 101) of the apartment building 100. The lobby intercom 31 controls, for example, the auto-locking door 35. The lobby intercom 31 has a user interface consisting of a numeric keypad and a call button, and a visitor to the apartment building 100 can speak to a resident and request that the auto-locking door 35 be unlocked by entering the room number of the visitor using the numeric keypad.

[0028] Intercom master unit 32 is an information terminal fixedly installed in private unit 102 of apartment building 100. Intercom master unit 32 performs information processing and the like to enable residents of private unit 102 to communicate with visitors via lobby intercom 31 or an intercom handset (not shown). The intercom handset is a so-called door phone, and is installed outside the entrance to private unit 102.

[0029] The control device 33 is a device that controls the devices installed within the apartment building 100 and controls communication between the devices installed within the apartment building 100 (for example, communication between the lobby intercom 31 and the intercom master unit 32).

[0030] The gateway device 34 is a communication device that enables devices installed in the apartment building 100, such as the lobby intercom 31 or the intercom master unit 32, to communicate with the authentication information output system 10, the authentication management server 40, the first information terminal 50, and the second information terminal 60 via the VPN router 39 and the wide area communication network 80.

[0031] The auto-locking door 35 is a door provided at the entrance of the apartment complex 100 (i.e., the common area 101). The auto-locking door 35 is automatically locked (or closed) a certain time after it is unlocked (or opened). The door that the auto-locking door 35 has may be a sliding door or a swing door. Note that unlocking here means, for example, releasing the locking mechanism (such as an electric lock) of the auto-locking door 35. Opening means, for example, releasing the locking mechanism and then opening the auto-locking door 35.

[0032] In the following embodiments, an example in which the auto-locking door 35 is unlocked will be described, but the auto-locking door 35 may also be opened. That is, in the following embodiments, unlocking the auto-locking door 35 may be appropriately interpreted as opening the auto-locking door 35.

[0033] The authentication management device 36 is a device that performs authentication processing related to unlocking (or opening) of the auto-locking door 35. Specifically, the authentication management device 36 performs authentication to determine whether a passcode entered into a user interface (not shown) of the lobby intercom 31 matches predetermined authentication information, and unlocks (or opens) the auto-locking door 35 if they match. The authentication management device 36 is installed, for example, in a caretaker's room of the apartment building 100. The authentication management device 36 and the auto-locking door 35 communicate with each other via the control device 33.

[0034] Delivery box 37 is a storage device into which a delivery person from a parcel delivery company deposits parcels addressed to a resident of apartment complex 100 when the resident is absent from the private area 102. Delivery box 37 is a delivery box shared by multiple residents living in apartment complex 100. Delivery box 37 has an electric lock, and the door of delivery box 37 is locked and unlocked by the electric lock. Delivery box 37 is provided in common area 101.

[0035] The delivery box 37 has a user interface consisting of a numeric keypad or the like, and the delivery person or resident can use the delivery box 37 (unlock the door of the delivery box 37) by entering a specified passcode via the numeric keypad.

[0036] The key box 38 is a storage device that stores multiple keys used within the apartment building 100. The key box 38 has a first electric lock that unlocks or locks the door of the key box 38, and a second electric lock that unlocks or locks a holding structure that holds the multiple keys stored in the key box 38. The key box 38 also has a sensor that senses whether a key is held in the holding structure. The key box 38 is installed in the common area 101. Workers and others can access the key box 38 by unlocking the auto-locking door 35 and entering the apartment building 100.

[0037] The key box 38 has a user interface configured with a numeric keypad and the like, and the caretaker or the like can take out the key from the key box 38 by inputting a predetermined passcode using the numeric keypad.

[0038] In the following embodiments, the key box 38 is described as having both a first electric lock and a second electric lock, but it may also have only the first electric lock. The second electric lock may lock the holding structure for only some of the keys stored in the key box 38, in which case the remaining keys can be taken out once the first electric lock is unlocked.

[0039] The VPN router 39 is a router equipped with a VPN function. The key box 38 is connected to the VPN router 39.

[0040] The authentication management server 40 is a server that performs authentication processing related to unlocking the key box 38. The authentication management server 40 is an example of a second information processing system that is installed outside the apartment building 100. Specifically, the authentication management server 40 authenticates whether or not a number entered into a user interface (not shown) of the key box 38 matches a predetermined number, and if the number matches, unlocks the door of the key box 38 (an electric lock installed in the key box 38). The authentication management server 40 is installed outside the apartment building 100. The authentication management server 40 and the key box 38 communicate with each other via a VPN router 39 and a wide area communication network 80.

[0041] The first information terminal 50 is an information terminal used by the management company of the apartment complex 100 (more specifically, an employee of the management company; hereinafter also referred to as a management user). The first information terminal 50 is, for example, a stationary information terminal such as a personal computer, but may also be a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. In FIG. 1, the first information terminal 50 is located outside the apartment complex 100, but it may also be located inside the apartment complex 100.

[0042] The second information terminal 60 is an information terminal used by the service provider (more specifically, an employee of the service provider; hereinafter, also referred to as the applicant user). The second information terminal 60 is, for example, a stationary information terminal such as a personal computer, but may also be a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

[0043] The mobile phone 70 is an information terminal, or in other words, a telephone terminal, that the worker uses to call a predetermined telephone number during the unlocking operation of the auto-locking door 35 according to the modified example described below. The mobile phone 70 is a portable telephone terminal such as a feature phone or a smartphone.

[0044] [Pre-registration behavior] As described above, the authentication information output system 10 can issue authentication information to the service provider for use of the apartment complex 100 in response to an application from the service provider to use the apartment complex 100 (hereinafter also simply referred to as an application) and approval of the application by the management company. Account information (login ID, password, etc.) for using the authentication information output system 10 has been issued in advance to the management user who belongs to the management company. In this state, the authentication information output system 10 performs pre-registration of the service provider (processing for issuing account information to the applying user who belongs to the service provider) in response to a request from the management company. Figure 2 is a sequence diagram of the pre-registration operation.

[0045] The administrative user logs in to the authentication information output system 10 and performs a registration operation to register information about the service provider, and the first information terminal 50 accepts this registration operation (S11). When the registration operation is accepted, the first information terminal 50 transmits a registration request including the information input by the registration operation to the authentication information output system 10 (S12).

[0046] The information input by the registration operation includes, for example, the name of the service provider, the address of the service provider, the name of the applying user, and the email address of the applying user. This can be rephrased as information about the user (service provider) of the apartment complex 100. Note that the information input by the registration operation is merely an example, and some of the exemplified information may be omitted, or the information input by the registration operation may include information not exemplified.

[0047] The first communication unit 11 of the authentication information output system 10 receives a registration request. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the received registration request (S13), and the registration unit 16 registers the service provider based on the acquired registration request (S14). Specifically, the registration unit 16 associates the identification information (name, etc.) of the management company with the identification information (name, etc.) of the service provider and stores them in the storage unit 13. The registration unit 16 also issues account information to the applicant user whose name is included in the registration request (S15). The account information is also notified to the applicant user's email address included in the registration request.

[0048] In addition, in Figure 2, an example is described in which a service provider is registered based on the registration operation of the management provider (management user), but the service provider itself (applicant user) may perform the registration operation, or an operator other than the management provider and the service provider (for example, a user belonging to the operator of the authentication information output system 10) may perform the registration operation.

[0049] [Authentication information issuance behavior] Next, an explanation will be given of the authentication information issuing operation of the authentication information output system 10. Fig. 3 is a sequence diagram of the authentication information issuing operation of the authentication information output system 10. In the following explanation, each of the first information terminal 50 and the second information terminal 60 displays various display screens based on the display screen information received from the authentication information output system 10, but the process related to receiving the display screen information is omitted in the sequence diagram.

[0050] An applicant user who belongs to a service provider uses the second information terminal 60 to access a predetermined website provided by the authentication information output system 10 and inputs the above-mentioned account information from the login screen. As a result, an application list screen is displayed on the display unit of the second information terminal 60 (S21). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the application list screen. The second information terminal 60 can access the predetermined website by executing a dedicated application program or a browser.

[0051] The application list screen displays a list of applications already submitted by the application user. The application list screen displays the application status, application date and time, applicant, work date and time, management company name (shown as company name in Figure 4), and work location. The application status column displays the application status, such as pending, rejected, or approved.

[0052] Next, the applying user performs an operation to make a new application to use the apartment building 100, and the second information terminal 60 accepts this operation (S22). The applying user, for example, selects the "New work application" icon in the upper right corner of the application list screen in FIG. 4, and a new work application screen is displayed on the display unit of the second information terminal 60. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the new work application screen. The applying user can make a new application by inputting the necessary information through the new work application screen and performing an operation on the second information terminal 60 to select the "Apply" icon at the bottom of the screen. The necessary information includes, for example, the name of the management company, the name of the property, the date and time of the work, the work content, and the name of the person in charge.

[0053] When the second information terminal 60 receives an operation to select the "Apply" icon with the necessary information entered, it transmits the application information to the authentication information output system 10 (S23).

[0054] The application information includes information indicating the above-mentioned necessary items. That is, the application information includes information for identifying the apartment complex 100 (corresponding to the property name above), information indicating the planned period of use (corresponding to the work date and time above), and information regarding the purpose for which the apartment complex is used (corresponding to the work content above). Note that in the example of FIG. 5, both the start date and time and the end date and time must be entered as the work date and time, but it is sufficient to enter at least the start date and time. In this case, the application information includes information indicating the start time of use.

[0055] The first communication unit 11 of the authentication information output system 10 receives application information. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the received application information (S24), and the output unit 17 performs application processing (S25). Specifically, the output unit 17 performs information processing to add an application to be displayed on the application list screen (FIG. 4) of the service provider (applying user) based on the application information. Furthermore, the output unit 17 performs information processing to add an application to be displayed on the application list screen (described later) of the management company (management user) based on the application information. The application status of the added application is "application in progress".

[0056] Thereafter, the administrative user belonging to the management company uses the first information terminal 50 to access a predetermined website provided by the authentication information output system 10 and enters account information on a login screen. The first information terminal 50 can access the predetermined website by executing a dedicated application program or by executing a browser. As a result, a property list screen is displayed on the display unit of the first information terminal 50 (S26). FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the property list screen. The property list screen is a screen showing a list of properties (e.g., apartment buildings) managed by the management company. When an operation to select an apartment building 100 is performed on the property list screen, the top screen of the selected property (here, the apartment building 100) is displayed (S27). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the top screen.

[0057] When an operation to select the "Affiliated Company Support" icon on the top screen is performed, an application list screen is displayed (S28). FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the application list screen. In FIG. 8, a list of applications submitted by service providers to use the apartment complex 100 is displayed. The application list screen displays the application status, application date and time, and the name of the affiliated company (corresponding to the name of the service provider). The application status column displays the application status, such as unapproved, rejected, or approved. Furthermore, the application list screen displays not only a list of applications (left side) but also a list of affiliated companies (right side). The list of affiliated companies displays a list of the names of service providers that may use the apartment complex 100.

[0058] On the application list screen, an application whose application status is "unapproved" has been added by the processing of step S25. When an operation to select this application is performed, an approval / rejection decision screen is displayed (S29). Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the approval / rejection decision screen.

[0059] When an operation to select the "Approve" icon is performed on the approval / non-approval decision screen, a comment input screen is displayed (S30). Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the comment input screen. The administrative user can freely input a comment on the comment input screen.

[0060] When the second information terminal 60 receives an operation to select the "Approve" icon on the comment input screen, it transmits approval / rejection information regarding whether or not to approve the application to the authentication information output system 10 (S31). The approval / rejection information includes information indicating whether or not to approve the application, and comment information indicating the content of the comment entered on the comment input screen. Note that the comment information may be transmitted as information separate from the approval / rejection information.

[0061] Although not shown, the comment input screen is also displayed when an operation to select the "Deny" icon is performed on the approval / deny decision screen.

[0062] The first communication unit 11 of the authentication information output system 10 receives the approval / rejection information. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the received approval / rejection information (S32), and if the approval / rejection information indicates approval, the output unit 17 performs approval processing (S33). Specifically, the output unit 17 issues first authentication information for unlocking the auto-locking door 35 and second authentication information for unlocking the key box 38. Each of the first authentication information and the second authentication information is, for example, different for each user, has a number that changes each time the application is approved, and is valid for a predetermined period or a predetermined number of times. Each of the first authentication information and the second authentication information is determined, for example, by a predetermined algorithm based on random numbers or the like.

[0063] The first authentication information is authentication information for unlocking an electric lock provided on the auto-locking door 35, and the second authentication information is authentication information for unlocking an electric lock provided on the key box 38 (key storage device). The authentication information can be referred to as a password or a passcode.

[0064] In addition, in the approval process, the output unit 17 changes the application status of the application (the application added in the application process of step S25) displayed on the application list screen (described later) of the service provider (applicant user) to "approved," and performs information processing so that when the application is selected, the first authentication information, the second authentication information, and the comment indicated by the comment information are displayed.

[0065] If the approval / denial information acquired in step S32 indicates denial, the output unit 17 performs denial processing instead of approval processing. In the denial processing, the output unit 17 does not issue authentication information. In the denial processing, the output unit 17 changes the application status of the application (the application added in the application processing in step S25) displayed on the application list screen (described later) of the service provider (applicant user) to "denied," and performs information processing so that the comment indicated by the comment information is displayed when the application is selected.

[0066] In addition, when the approval process (or denial process) is performed, the applying user and other users registered as notification recipients may be notified of the approval process (or denial process) by email or other means.

[0067] Thereafter, the applying user who belongs to the service provider displays the application list screen (FIG. 4) on the display unit of the second information terminal 60 in the same procedure as in step S21. If a notification is given when the approval process is completed as described above, the URL of the login screen may be displayed in the email or the like used for the notification, thereby allowing the applying user to easily display the application list screen.

[0068] On the application list screen, the application status of the application added in the application processing of step S25 has been changed from "applying" to "approved" by the approval processing of step S33. When an operation to select the application is performed, an application details screen is displayed (S34). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the application details screen. In addition to the application content, the application details screen displays a comment indicated by the comment information (top right of FIG. 11), first authentication information (corresponding to the lobby passcode in FIG. 11), and second authentication information (corresponding to the key box passcode in FIG. 11). When a notification is made when the approval processing is performed as described above, the first authentication information and the second authentication information may be displayed in an email or the like used for the notification. When the application details screen is displayed and when an email is sent, it can be said that the output unit 17 of the authentication information output system 10 outputs the first authentication information and the second authentication information to the second information terminal 60 based on the approval / non-approval information.

[0069] If the application is rejected, the application status on the application list screen will change from "Application in progress" to "Rejected," and the application details screen will display the application content as well as the comments indicated by the comment information, but the first authentication information and second authentication information will not be displayed.

[0070] As described above, the authentication information output system 10 acquires information about users (service providers) of the apartment complex 100, and registers the users based on the acquired information. In addition, the authentication information output system 10 acquires application information related to the registered user's application to use the apartment complex 100, and after acquiring the application information, acquires approval / disapproval information regarding whether the application to use is approved, and outputs authentication information for unlocking an electric lock (locking device) installed in the apartment complex 100 if the acquired approval / disapproval information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0071] Such an authentication information output system 10 can assist the management company in granting authority (authentication information) to enter the apartment complex 100 to the service provider.

[0072] 3, the authentication information output system 10 outputs both the first authentication information for unlocking the electric lock provided on the auto-lock door 35 in the common area 101 of the apartment building 100 and the second authentication information for unlocking the electric lock provided on the key box 38 in the common area 101. However, it is sufficient for the authentication information output system 10 to output at least one of the first authentication information and the second authentication information.

[0073] It has also been explained that the authentication information output by the authentication information output system 10 is different for each user and is changed each time an application is approved. However, the authentication information may be information common to multiple users and not be changed each time an application is approved. Alternatively, the authentication information may be information fixed for each service provider and not changed each time an application is approved. If the authentication information is not changed each time an application is approved, the authentication information may be changed at predetermined intervals, such as every month.

[0074] Furthermore, the authentication information may be different for each user and may not need to be changed each time an application is approved. For example, authentication information for a service provider may be determined when the service provider is registered, and this authentication information may be used continuously. In this case, the determined authentication information and account information are associated with each other through the registration process and stored in the storage unit 13. In this case, the application is made to temporarily validate the authentication information, and the authentication information need not be issued or output (notified).

[0075] Furthermore, although it has been explained that the first authentication information for unlocking the autolocking door 35 and the second authentication information for unlocking the key box 38 are issued separately, it is also possible to issue single authentication information that can unlock both the autolocking door 35 and the key box 38. In other words, the output unit 17 may output single authentication information for unlocking both the electric lock provided on the autolocking door 35 and the electric lock provided on the key box 38 (key storage device).

[0076] [Automatic Approval Setting Behavior] Incidentally, in the list of affiliated companies in Fig. 8, the automatic approval setting can be set to on or off for each service provider. The operation of setting automatic approval will be described below. Fig. 12 is a sequence diagram of the operation of setting automatic approval.

[0077] The administrative user performs an operation to set up automatic approval when the application list screen of Fig. 8 is displayed, and the first information terminal 50 accepts this setting operation (S41). The setting operation is an operation on the toggle button located to the right of the name of the service provider in the list of affiliated companies of Fig. 8. When the setting operation is accepted, the first information terminal 50 transmits a setting request to the authentication information output system 10 (S42). The setting request is information for making settings related to automatic approval of the application.

[0078] The first communication unit 11 of the authentication information output system 10 receives the setting request. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the received setting request (S43), and the setting unit 18 sets automatic approval (setting on or setting off) based on the acquired setting request (S44).

[0079] When a request is made from a service provider for which automatic approval is set to on (enabled), the output unit 17 outputs authentication information even if approval / non-approval information for the request has not been acquired. This allows the management company (management user) to save the trouble of giving approval.

[0080] [Additional registration behavior for applicant users] In addition, an "Account Settings" icon is displayed in the upper right corner of the application list screen in Fig. 4. An applicant user who belongs to a service provider can register a new applicant user by operating this icon. The operation for additionally registering account information will be explained below. Fig. 13 is a sequence diagram of the operation for adding account information.

[0081] 4 is displayed, the applying user performs an operation to add account information, including an operation on the "Account Settings" icon, and the second information terminal 60 accepts this addition operation (S51). The additional registration operation includes an operation to input identification information (such as name and email address) of the new applying user.

[0082] When the additional registration operation is accepted, the second information terminal 60 transmits an additional registration request to the authentication information output system 10 (S52). The additional registration request includes the identification information of the new applicant user input by the additional registration operation.

[0083] The first communication unit 11 of the authentication information output system 10 receives the additional registration request. The acquisition unit 15 acquires the received additional registration request (S53), and the registration unit 16 registers the identification information of the new applicant user based on the acquired additional registration request (S54). Specifically, the registration unit 16 issues new account information, associates the new account information with the identification information of the new applicant user, and stores the new account information in the storage unit 13. In addition, the account information is notified to the email address of the new applicant user.

[0084] In this way, the registration unit 16 can register the identification information of a new application user based on an additional registration request requesting additional registration of identification information of a new application user (another employee) who belongs to the service provider.

[0085] Although not explained in detail, an "account settings" icon is displayed in the upper right corner of the property list screen in FIG. 6. An administrative user belonging to the administrative company can register a new administrative user by operating this icon. The operation at this time is the same as in FIG. 13, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. In the explanation of FIG. 13 above, the "second information terminal 60," "service provider," and "applicant user" may be read as the "first information terminal 50," "administration company," and "administrative user."

[0086] [Auto-lock door unlocking operation] Next, a description will be given of the unlocking operation of the auto-locking door 35. Fig. 14 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of the auto-locking door 35.

[0087] 3, the output unit 17 of the authentication information output system 10 outputs (transmits) a setting command for the first authentication information to the authentication management device 36 (S61). More specifically, the setting command is transmitted by the first communication unit 11 to the authentication management device 36 via the wide area communication network 80, the VPN router 39, the gateway device 34, and the control device 33.

[0088] The authentication management device 36 receives the setting command and, based on the received setting command, performs an authentication information setting process to temporarily validate the first authentication information included in the setting command only for the expiration date included in the setting command (S62).

[0089] Thereafter, a worker dispatched from the service provider visits the apartment complex 100 on the day the work is to be performed, and performs an operation to input the first authentication information into a user interface of the lobby intercom 31. The lobby intercom 31 accepts the input operation of the passcode (S63), and transmits an authentication request to the authentication management device 36 (S64). Although not shown in FIG. 14 , the authentication request is, in more detail, transmitted to the authentication management device 36 via the control device 33. The authentication request includes the passcode input in step S63.

[0090] The authentication management device 36 receives the authentication request and performs authentication processing based on the received authentication request (S65). In the authentication processing, it is determined whether the passcode included in the authentication request matches the first authentication information that is valid at that time. If authentication is successful (the authentication processing is successful), the authentication management device 36 unlocks the autolocking door 35 (S66). This allows the worker to enter the apartment building 100. Note that the unlocking of the autolocking door 35 in step S66 may be performed by the lobby intercom 31 instead of the authentication management device 36. If authentication is not successful (the authentication processing is unsuccessful), the authentication management device 36 does not unlock the autolocking door 35.

[0091] Here, we will provide a supplementary example of operation in a case where multiple lobby intercoms 31 (in other words, multiple auto-locking doors 35) are installed in the apartment building 100. In this case, the lobby intercom 31 caches the input passcode and then transmits the passcode to the authentication information output system 10. The authentication information output system 10 performs an authentication process for the passcode and then outputs an authentication result (e.g., authentication successful) to all of the multiple lobby intercoms 31 installed in the apartment building 100 via the VPN router 39, gateway device 34, and control device 33. Then, of the multiple lobby intercoms 31, the lobby intercom 31 that caches the passcode unlocks the auto-locking door 35.

[0092] The above has described the unlocking operation of the auto-locking door 35. In the example of Fig. 14, authentication of the passcode of the auto-locking door 35 is performed by the authentication management device 36 provided in the apartment building 100, but it may also be performed by another device (such as the lobby intercom 31) within the apartment building 100. Authentication of the passcode of the auto-locking door 35 may also be performed by a device provided outside the apartment building 100, by the authentication information output system 10, or by a server system other than the authentication information output system 10.

[0093] In addition, the authentication management device 36 may be included in another device (such as the lobby intercom 31 or the control device 33) within the apartment building 100, or may be included in the authentication information output system 10, or may be included in a server system other than the authentication information output system 10.

[0094] [Key box unlocking operation] Next, a description will be given of the unlocking operation of the key box 38. Fig. 15 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of the key box 38.

[0095] 3, the output unit 17 of the authentication information output system 10 outputs (transmits) a setting command for the second authentication information to the authentication management server 40 (S71). More specifically, the setting command is transmitted by the first communication unit 11 to the authentication management server 40 via the wide area communication network 80.

[0096] The authentication management server 40 receives the setting command and, based on the received setting command, performs an authentication information setting process to temporarily validate the second authentication information included in the setting command only for the expiration date included in the setting command (S72).

[0097] Thereafter, the worker dispatched by the service provider enters the apartment complex 100 (common area 101), approaches the key box 38, and performs a passcode input operation on a user interface provided in the key box 38. The key box 38 accepts the passcode input operation from the worker (S73) and sends an authentication request to the authentication management server 40 (S74). Although not shown in FIG. 15 , the authentication request is sent to the authentication management server 40 more specifically via the VPN router 39 and the wide area communication network 80. The authentication request includes the passcode input in step S73 and the ID of the key box 38.

[0098] The authentication management server 40 receives the authentication request and performs authentication processing based on the received authentication request (S75). In the authentication processing, it is determined whether the passcode included in the authentication request matches the second authentication information that is valid at that time. If authentication is successful (the authentication processing is successful), the authentication management server 40 sends an unlock command to the key box 38 (S76). More specifically, the unlock command is sent to the key box 38 via the wide area communication network 80 and the VPN router 39. The unlock command includes takeout permission information (key identification information) that is associated with the ID of the key box 38 in the setting information. If authentication is not successful (the authentication processing fails), the authentication management server 40 does not output the unlock command.

[0099] The key box 38 receives the unlock command and unlocks the first electric lock corresponding to the door of the key box and the second electric lock corresponding to the key holding structure based on the received unlock command (S77).

[0100] If the application information or approval / rejection information specifies a required key, the output unit 17 can include carry-out permission information indicating the required key in the setting command. The authentication management server 40 can then include the carry-out permission information in the unlocking command based on the setting command. In this case, the key box 38 unlocks the second electric lock corresponding to the key holding structure based on the carry-out permission information included in the unlocking command, allowing the worker to carry out only the key specified by the carry-out permission information. This allows the worker to carry out only the key previously registered by the carry-out permission information.

[0101] The above describes the unlocking operation of the key box 38. Note that, in the example of Fig. 15, authentication of the passcode for the key box 38 is performed by the authentication management server 40 provided outside the apartment building 100, but it may also be performed by the authentication information output system 10. Authentication of the passcode for the key box 38 may be performed by the key box 38 itself, or may be performed by another device provided within the apartment building 100.

[0102] [User Variation] In the above embodiment, the person (user) making the application for use is the service provider and its employees, but there are also cases where a resident of the apartment complex 100 applies to use the facilities or equipment within the apartment complex 100. The facilities or equipment within the apartment complex 100 (hereinafter also simply referred to as facilities, etc.) are, for example, a shared parking lot, a meeting place, or a kids' room provided in the common area 101.

[0103] In this case, residents may be pre-registered and account information may be issued to them, just as service providers are pre-registered, but pre-registration is not required since the intercom base unit 32 is used to apply for use.

[0104] For example, suppose that the authentication information output system 10 manages identification information for distinguishing the apartment building 100 from other apartment buildings and the room numbers of the private units 102 currently existing within the apartment building 100. In this case, when transmitting information to the authentication information output system 10, the intercom master unit 32 includes the room number of the private unit 102 in which the intercom master unit 32 is installed in the information. This allows the authentication information output system 10 to know which room in the apartment building 100 the resident from whom the application has been made. Therefore, the operations of pre-registering the resident and issuing account information to the resident (operations corresponding to those in FIG. 2) can be omitted.

[0105] Examples of information for distinguishing the apartment building 100 from other apartment buildings include the control device ID of the control device 33, the gateway ID of the gateway device 34, or the router ID of the VPN router 39. The control device ID, gateway ID, and router ID are each a device ID such as a MAC address. When information is sent from the intercom master unit 32 to the authentication information output system 10, the information passes through the control device 33, the gateway device 34, and the VPN router 39. At this time, the control device ID, gateway ID, or router ID is assigned to the information, allowing the authentication information output system 10 to distinguish the apartment building 10 from other apartment buildings.

[0106] The procedure for a resident to apply to use a facility, etc. is the same as that shown in Fig. 3, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The contents of Fig. 3 may be appropriately interpreted as the resident making an application through intercom base unit 32 and confirming the contents of the application through intercom base unit 32. Below, examples of display screens that are displayed on the display unit of intercom base unit 32 when applying and when confirming the contents of the application will be described.

[0107] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a top screen related to a facility usage application displayed on the display unit of the intercom master unit 32. When a resident requests usage, the resident selects the "Submit usage application" icon on the top screen of Fig. 16. When this icon is selected, a facility list screen is displayed. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the facility list screen.

[0108] The resident selects a facility etc. on the list screen in Fig. 17 and then specifies the date and time of use. Although not shown, when specifying the date and time of use, it is not possible to specify a period when another resident is already planning to use the facility.

[0109] When a facility or the like is selected on the list screen in Fig. 17 and the date and time of use is specified, a display screen for instructing transmission of application information is displayed. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the display screen for instructing transmission of application information. When the "Yes" icon is selected on the display screen in Fig. 18, the application information is transmitted from the intercom master unit 32 to the authentication information output system 10.

[0110] When the top screen of Figure 7 is displayed on the display unit of the first information terminal 50, an administrative user belonging to the management company can select the "Application Counter" icon to display a list screen of applications (application information) sent by residents (intercom base unit 32) of the apartment building 100 as described above, and approve or deny the applications.

[0111] The administrative user can set the automatic approval setting to on or off for each facility in the apartment complex 100. The operation for setting the automatic approval is the same as that in FIG. 12, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0112] Furthermore, when a resident wants to check whether or not their usage application has been approved, they select the "Check application status" icon on the top screen in Figure 16. When this icon is selected, a list screen of applications for residents is displayed. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of the list screen of applications for residents.

[0113] In addition, when the approval process (or denial process) is performed, the resident and other users registered as notification recipients may be notified by email or the like that the approval process (or denial process) has been performed.

[0114] When an application is selected on the list screen of FIG. 19, a display screen showing the results of the application is displayed. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an application details screen (display screen showing the results of the application) for residents. FIG. 20 shows the display screen when the application is approved and authentication information is displayed. Note that some facilities do not require authentication information, and in such cases, authentication information may not be displayed even if the application is approved. If a notification is made when the approval process is performed as described above, authentication information may be displayed in the email or the like used for the notification.

[0115] Just as service providers are pre-registered, residents may be pre-registered and issued account information. In this case, residents can apply to use facilities or equipment within the apartment complex 100 using a mobile terminal or the like.

[0116] Even when a usage application is made from a mobile terminal or the like, when approval processing (or denial processing) is performed, the resident and other users registered as notification recipients may be notified of the approval processing (or denial processing) by email or the like. This email or the like may display the URL of the login screen or authentication information.

[0117] In this way, the authentication information output system 10 can provide authentication information to both the service provider and the resident. The authentication information output system 10 may be realized as a system specialized in providing authentication information to the service provider, or may be realized as a system specialized in providing authentication information to the resident.

[0118] [Variations of service provider] In the above embodiment, the service provider is a business that dispatches a worker to the apartment building 100 based on a request from a management business or the like. Here, the service provider may be a business that dispatches a worker to the apartment building 100 based on a personal request from a resident or the like of the apartment building 100. Such a business is, for example, a business that provides a delivery service, a home care service, or a housekeeping service.

[0119] Here, if the service provider is a business that provides a delivery service, the service provider may be provided with authentication information for delivery box 37 as the second authentication information.

[0120] [Variations of the unlocking operation of auto-locking doors] In the above embodiment, the first authentication information has been described as a passcode to be input into the lobby intercom 31. However, the first authentication information may be a passcode to be input into the mobile phone 70 when unlocking the autolocking door 35 using the mobile phone 70, as described below. Fig. 21 is a sequence diagram of the unlocking operation of the autolocking door 35 according to such a modified example. Note that in the operation shown in Fig. 21 below, it is assumed that the telephone number of the mobile phone 70 has been registered in advance in the authentication information output system 10 using application information or the like.

[0121] On the day of the work, the worker visits the apartment complex 100 and calls a predetermined telephone number. Specifically, the worker performs an input operation of the predetermined telephone number, and the mobile phone 70 accepts the input operation of the telephone number (S81).

[0122] When the mobile phone 70 accepts the input operation of the predetermined phone number, it connects to the authentication information output system 10 by circuit-switched communication (S82). That is, a dedicated communication line between the mobile phone 70 and the authentication information output system 10 is formed. The communication connection between the mobile phone 70 and the authentication information output system 10 is maintained at least until step S86, which will be described later. At this time, the authentication information output system 10 is notified of the phone number of the mobile phone 70. In other words, the second communication unit 14 (and the acquisition unit 15) of the authentication information output system 10 acquires the phone number of the mobile phone 70.

[0123] The authentication unit 19 of the authentication information output system 10 performs phone number authentication based on the acquired phone number of the mobile phone 70 (S83). The authentication unit 19 determines that phone number authentication is successful if the phone number of the mobile phone 70 is registered, and determines that phone number authentication is unsuccessful if the phone number of the mobile phone 70 is not registered in the registration information. When the authentication unit 19 determines that phone number authentication is successful, it causes the second communication unit 14 to send a passcode request (sound signal) to the mobile phone 70 (S84).

[0124] The mobile phone 70 receives the passcode request and reproduces the received passcode request (sound signal). Specifically, the mobile phone 70 outputs a message (sound) such as "Please enter your passcode" to prompt the user to enter a passcode (S85).

[0125] The worker inputs the passcode in accordance with the message prompting the worker to input the passcode, and the mobile phone 70 accepts the input of the passcode (S86). The passcode to be input here is the first authentication information displayed on the application details screen of FIG.

[0126] When the mobile phone 70 receives the passcode input operation, it transmits the passcode to the authentication information output system 10 (S87).

[0127] The second communication unit 14 of the authentication information output system 10 acquires (receives) the passcode, and the authentication unit 19 performs passcode authentication based on the acquired passcode (S88). The authentication unit 19 determines that passcode authentication is successful if the passcode acquired in step S87 matches the first authentication information. On the other hand, the authentication unit 19 determines that passcode authentication is unsuccessful if the passcode acquired in step S87 does not match the first authentication information.

[0128] When it is determined in step S88 that the passcode authentication is successful, the authentication unit 19 outputs (transmits) an unlock command to unlock the auto-lock door 35 to the authentication management device 36 (S89). Specifically, the unlock command is transmitted by the first communication unit 11 to the authentication management device 36 via the wide area communication network 80, the VPN router 39, the gateway device 34, and the control device 33.

[0129] The authentication management device 36 receives the unlock command and unlocks the autolock door 35 based on the received unlock command (S90). This allows the worker to enter the apartment building 100. Note that the unlocking of the autolock door 35 in step S90 may be performed by the lobby intercom 31 instead of the authentication management device 36.

[0130] [Effects, etc.] As described above, the authentication information output system 10 includes an acquisition unit 15 that acquires information about users of the apartment building 100, a registration unit 16 that registers users based on the acquired information, and an output unit 17. The acquisition unit 15 further acquires application information regarding the registered user's application to use the apartment building 100, and after the application information is acquired, acquires approval / denial information regarding whether the application to use the apartment building 100 is approved. The output unit 17 outputs authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the apartment building 100 when the acquired approval / denial information indicates that the application to use the apartment building 100 is approved. The apartment building 100 is an example of a facility. The user is, for example, a service provider (applicant user) or a resident of the apartment building 100. The locking device is, for example, an electric lock installed in the auto-lock door 35, the delivery box 37, the key box 38, or the like. The locking device may also be an electric lock installed in a facility such as a kids' room within the apartment building 100.

[0131] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide the authentication information required to use the apartment complex 100.

[0132] Furthermore, for example, the authentication information is changed every time a usage application is approved, and is valid for a predetermined period or a predetermined number of times.

[0133] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide temporary authentication information required to use the apartment complex 100.

[0134] Furthermore, for example, the authentication information is information common to a plurality of users including the user.

[0135] Such an authentication information output system 10 can reduce the amount of information processing required to issue authentication information.

[0136] Furthermore, for example, the application information includes information for identifying the apartment complex 100.

[0137] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide authentication information to users of a plurality of facilities including the apartment building 100.

[0138] Furthermore, for example, the application information includes information indicating the planned period of use or information indicating the start time of use.

[0139] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide authentication information that is temporarily valid according to the planned period of use.

[0140] Furthermore, for example, the application information includes information regarding the purpose for which the apartment complex 100 is to be provided.

[0141] Such an authentication information output system 10 can assist the management company or the like in determining whether to approve the use application in consideration of the requirements for the apartment complex 100.

[0142] Furthermore, for example, the locking device includes at least one of a first locking device provided on a door of common area 101 of apartment building 100 and a second locking device provided on a storage device in common area 101. The door of common area 101 is an auto-lock door 35 or the like, and the storage device is a delivery box 37 or a key box 38 or the like.

[0143] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide the authentication information required to unlock at least one of the first locking device and the second locking device.

[0144] Also, for example, the output unit 17 outputs, as the authentication information, a single piece of authentication information for unlocking both the first locking device and the second locking device.

[0145] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide a single authentication information for unlocking both the first lock device and the second lock device.

[0146] Also, for example, the output unit 17 outputs, as the authentication information, first authentication information for unlocking the first locking device and second authentication information for unlocking the second locking device, which is different from the first authentication information.

[0147] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide authentication information for unlocking the first locking device and authentication information for unlocking the second locking device separately.

[0148] Furthermore, for example, the acquiring unit 15 further acquires comment information of a person who has determined whether or not to approve the usage application. In the above embodiment, the person who has determined whether or not to approve the usage application is an administrative user who belongs to the administrative company.

[0149] Such an authentication information output system 10 can present to the user the comments of the person who has decided whether or not to approve the usage application.

[0150] Furthermore, for example, the acquisition unit 15 further acquires a setting request for making settings related to automatic approval of the use request. If automatic approval is set to be valid based on the acquired setting request, the output unit 17 outputs authentication information even if approval / denial information for the acquired use request has not been acquired.

[0151] Such an authentication information output system 10 can automatically approve a usage application.

[0152] For example, the user may be a business operator, and the identification information of employees belonging to the business operator is registered when the user is registered. The acquisition unit 15 further acquires an additional registration request requesting the additional registration of identification information of other employees belonging to the business operator. The registration unit 16 registers the identification information of the other employees based on the acquired additional registration request.

[0153] Such an authentication information output system 10 can additionally register users.

[0154] The authentication information output system 10 also includes an acquisition unit 15 that acquires application information regarding a user's application to use the apartment building 100 and, after the application information has been acquired, acquires approval / rejection information regarding whether or not the application to use is approved, and an output unit 17 that outputs authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the apartment building 100 when the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0155] Such an authentication information output system 10 can provide the authentication information required to use the apartment complex 100.

[0156] In addition, an authentication information output method executed by a computer such as the authentication information output system 10 includes a first acquisition step of acquiring information regarding a user of the apartment building 100, a registration step of registering the user based on the acquired information, a second acquisition step of acquiring application information regarding the registered user's application to use the apartment building 100, a third acquisition step of acquiring approval / rejection information regarding whether the application to use is approved after the application information has been acquired, and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the apartment building 100 if the acquired approval / rejection information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0157] Such an authentication information output method can provide the authentication information required to use the apartment complex 100.

[0158] In addition, the authentication information output method executed by a computer such as the authentication information output system 10 includes an acquisition step of acquiring application information regarding a user's application to use the apartment building 100, and after the application information has been acquired, acquiring approval / non-approval information regarding whether or not the application to use is approved, and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a locking device installed in the apartment building 100 if the acquired approval / non-approval information indicates that the application to use is approved.

[0159] Such an authentication information output method can provide the authentication information required to use the apartment complex 100.

[0160] (Other embodiments) Although the embodiments have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments.

[0161] For example, in the above embodiment, the authentication information output system is applied to an apartment building, but it may also be applied to facilities other than apartment buildings. For example, the authentication information output system may be applied to facilities such as offices, factories, research facilities, medical facilities, and accommodation facilities that have a shared entrance. If the facility is an office, the authentication information output system may be an access control system or the like.

[0162] Furthermore, the authentication information output system may be realized by a plurality of devices (e.g., a plurality of servers) or may be realized as a single device (e.g., a single server). When the authentication information output system is realized by a plurality of devices, the components (especially functional components) of the authentication information output system may be distributed among the devices in any manner.

[0163] Furthermore, the method of communication between the devices in the above-described embodiment is not particularly limited. Furthermore, a relay device (such as a broadband router, not shown) may be involved in the communication between the devices.

[0164] In the above-described embodiment, the processing performed by a specific processing unit may be performed by another processing unit. The order of multiple processing operations may be changed, or multiple processing operations may be performed in parallel.

[0165] In the above-described embodiments, each component may be realized by executing a software program suitable for that component, or by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

[0166] Furthermore, each component may be realized by hardware. For example, each component may be a circuit (or integrated circuit). These circuits may form a single circuit as a whole, or each may be a separate circuit. Furthermore, each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

[0167] Furthermore, the general or specific aspects of the present invention may be realized as a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, or as any combination of a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium.

[0168] For example, the present invention may be realized as an authentication information output method executed by a computer such as the authentication information output system of the above-described embodiment, or as a program (computer program product) for causing a computer to execute the authentication information output method. Furthermore, the present invention may be realized as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which such a program is recorded.

[0169] In addition, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to each embodiment that a person skilled in the art would think of, or forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 10 Authentication information output system 15 Acquisition Department 16 Registration Department 17 Output section 35 Auto-locking door 37 Delivery box (storage device) 38 Key box (storage device) 100 Apartment complex (facility) 101 Common area

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires information about facility users; a registration unit that registers the user based on the acquired information; an output unit, The acquisition unit further Acquire application information regarding the registered user's application to use the facility; After the application information is acquired, approval / non-approval information regarding whether or not the use application is approved is acquired; The output unit outputs authentication information for unlocking a lock device provided in a storage device located within the facility when the acquired approval / denial information indicates that the use application is approved. Authentication information output system.

2. The authentication information is changed each time the application for use is approved, and is valid for a predetermined period or a predetermined number of times. The authentication information output system according to claim 1 .

3. The authentication information is information common to a plurality of users including the user. The authentication information output system according to claim 1 .

4. The application information includes information for identifying the facility.

4. The authentication information output system according to claim 1.

5. The application information includes information indicating the planned period of use or information indicating the start time of use.

5. The authentication information output system according to claim 1.

6. The application information includes information regarding the purpose of the facility. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The locking device is a second locking device provided in the storage device in the common area of ​​the facility, The output unit outputs, as the authentication information, a single piece of authentication information for unlocking both the first locking device and the second locking device provided on the door of the common area.

7. The authentication information output system according to claim 1.

8. The locking device is a second locking device provided in the storage device in the common area of ​​the facility, The output unit outputs, as the authentication information, first authentication information for unlocking a first locking device provided on the door of the common area and second authentication information for unlocking the second locking device, which is different from the first authentication information.

7. The authentication information output system according to claim 1.

9. The acquisition unit further acquires comment information of a person who has decided whether or not to approve the usage application. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The acquisition unit further acquires a setting request for making settings related to automatic approval of the use application, When the automatic approval is set to be valid based on the acquired setting request, the output unit outputs the authentication information even if the approval / non-approval information for the acquired use request has not been acquired. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The user is a business operator, In the registration of the user, identification information of employees belonging to the business is registered, The acquisition unit further acquires an additional registration request for requesting additional registration of identification information of another employee belonging to the business, The registration unit registers the identification information of the other employee based on the acquired additional registration request. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The storage device is a key box that stores multiple keys used within the facility. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The storage device is a delivery box. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

14. The acquisition unit acquires the application information from an intercom system within the facility. The authentication information output system according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. an acquisition unit that acquires application information regarding a user's application to use a facility, and acquires approval / non-approval information regarding whether or not the application to use the facility is approved after the application information is acquired; an output unit that outputs authentication information for unlocking a lock device provided in a storage device located within the facility when the acquired approval / denial information indicates that the use application is approved; Authentication information output system.

16. 1. A computer-implemented authentication information output method, comprising: a first acquisition step of acquiring information about facility users; a registration step of registering the user based on the acquired information; a second acquisition step of acquiring application information regarding an application for use of the facility by the registered user; a third acquisition step of acquiring approval / non-approval information regarding whether or not the use application is approved after the application information is acquired; and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a lock device provided in a storage device located within the facility when the acquired approval / denial information indicates that the use application is approved. Authentication information output method.

17. 1. A computer-implemented authentication information output method, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring application information relating to a user's application to use a facility, and after the application information is acquired, acquiring approval / non-approval information relating to whether or not the application to use the facility is approved; and an output step of outputting authentication information for unlocking a lock device provided in a storage device located within the facility when the acquired approval / denial information indicates that the use application is approved. Authentication information output method.

18. 18. A program for causing a computer to execute the authentication information output method according to claim 16 or 17.

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