Server device, system, control method and program for server device

Abstract

Provided is a server device that reduces the number of redeliveries of parcels to a housing complex and the like. The server device comprises an acquisition means and a delivery control means. The acquisition means acquires storage situation information indicating the presence or absence of parcels in storage spaces for storing parcels destined for a plurality of houses. The delivery control means calculates, on the basis of at least the storage situation information, a delivery route for delivering, to a delivery destination, a parcel stored in each of the storage spaces and a predicted delivery time at which the parcel is to be delivered to the delivery destination. The delivery control means notifies a worker of the calculated delivery route. The delivery control means notifies a resident at the delivery destination of the calculated predicted delivery time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device, a system, a control method for a server device, and a storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] Technological development related to the delivery of packages has been carried out.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes that a service for safely receiving packages from a home delivery locker on behalf of a user and delivering them to the user is realized. The information processing apparatus of Patent Document 1 includes a password generation unit that generates a plurality of different passwords for receiving a package from a home delivery locker for one package. Alternatively, the information processing apparatus includes a home delivery locker management unit that sets a plurality of different passwords for receiving a package for one package in the home delivery locker. Alternatively, the information processing apparatus includes a communication unit that transmits a second password different from the first password for the user for receiving the package in the home delivery locker to a forwarding agent who performs forwarding to receive the package in the home delivery locker and deliver it to the user.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes that an information processing apparatus capable of realizing the improvement of delivery efficiency is provided. The information processing apparatus of Patent Document 2 includes a derivation unit, a notification unit, and an update unit. The derivation unit derives a delivery plan including at least one of a delivery route, a delivery order, and a delivery time to each of a plurality of delivery destinations based on delivery information regarding the plurality of delivery destinations. The notification unit notifies a scheduled delivery time zone based on the delivery plan to at least one of the plurality of delivery destinations. The update unit updates the delivery plan so that the scheduled arrival time at the delivery destination is not included in the non-receivable time zone when a non-receivable time zone in which delivery cannot be received by the delivery destination is set and the scheduled arrival time at the delivery destination is included in the non-receivable time zone.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-144255 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-147186 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] In recent years, the spread of e-commerce (EC) and other technologies has led to problems related to package delivery. In particular, problems have arisen with the delivery of packages addressed to residents of apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings. Specifically, when many delivery companies enter and exit apartment buildings, problems such as a shortage of parking space for delivery vehicles occur. Therefore, smooth package delivery is necessary. In addition, packages addressed to apartment residents take time to deliver, and there is a need to reduce redeliveries. This is because if package delivery takes a long time, the aforementioned problem of limited parking space for delivery vehicles becomes even more serious.

[0007] The primary objective of this invention is to provide a server device, a system, a control method for the server device, and a storage medium that contribute to reducing the redelivery of packages in apartment buildings and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a server device is provided that includes: an acquisition means for acquiring storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space for storing packages addressed to each of a plurality of houses; and a delivery control means for calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering the packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, notifying workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifying residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time.

[0009] A second aspect of the present invention provides a system comprising: a worker terminal held by a worker; a resident terminal held by a resident; and a server device, wherein the server device includes: an acquisition means for acquiring storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space for storing packages addressed to each of a plurality of houses; and a delivery control means for calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering the packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information; transmitting a package delivery instruction including the calculated delivery route to the worker terminal; and transmitting a package delivery notification including the calculated estimated delivery time to the resident terminal.

[0010] A third aspect of the present invention provides a server device control method that acquires storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space for storing packages addressed to multiple residences, calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for the packages stored in each storage space to be delivered to the destination, based at least on the storage status information, notifies workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifies residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present invention is provided, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a program for a computer mounted on a server device to perform the following: a process of acquiring storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space for storing packages addressed to multiple houses; and a process of calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering the packages stored in each storage space to the destination based on at least the storage status information, notifying workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifying residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to each aspect of the present invention, a server device, a system, a control method for the server device, and a storage medium are provided that contribute to reducing the redelivery of packages in apartment buildings and the like. However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above. The present invention may produce other effects in lieu of or in conjunction with the effects described above. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the outline of one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operation overview of one embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the processing configuration of a server device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the display on a worker terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of a worker management database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the display on a resident terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of a resident management database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery control unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of the delivery control unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the processing configuration of a storage rack according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration of the worker terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the worker terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the worker terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration of the resident terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the resident terminal according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration of the resident terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the resident terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the resident management database according to the second embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the display of the worker terminal according to the second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal according to the disclosure of the present application.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0014] First, an overview of one embodiment will be described. The reference numerals in the drawings attached to this overview are provided for convenience as examples to aid understanding, and this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the blocks shown in each drawing represent functional units, not hardware units. The connecting lines between blocks in each drawing include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows schematically indicate the flow of the main signal (data) and do not exclude bidirectional flow. In this specification and in the drawings, elements that can be similarly described are given the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation.

[0015] A server device 100 according to one embodiment includes an acquisition means 101 and a delivery control means 102 (see Figure 1). The acquisition means 101 acquires storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space, which stores packages addressed to each of a plurality of houses (step S1 in Figure 2). The delivery control means 102 calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for the packages stored in each storage space to be delivered to the destination, based at least on the storage status information (step S2). The delivery control means 102 notifies the worker of the calculated delivery route (step S3). The delivery control means 102 notifies the resident of the delivery destination of the calculated estimated delivery time (step S4).

[0016] The server device 100 monitors the status of the storage space where packages are kept and determines whether or not there are packages addressed to each residence. If there are packages that need to be delivered, the server device 100 calculates a delivery route (delivery schedule) for efficient delivery and notifies the workers (workers stationed at the apartment complex) of this delivery route. The server device 100 also calculates the estimated time when the packages will be delivered to the residents based on the calculated delivery route and notifies the residents of this estimated time. Residents of the apartment complex only need to be aware of the workers' visits during the short time frame in which they are notified that their packages will be delivered. As a result, the likelihood of residents failing to receive their packages is reduced, thus reducing the number of redeliveries.

[0017] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0018] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] [System Configuration and General Operation] Figure 3 shows an example of a schematic configuration of the delivery system (information processing system) according to the first embodiment. The delivery system according to the first embodiment targets packages that have arrived addressed to residents of an apartment building.

[0020] As shown in Figure 3, a waiting area 20 and a storage warehouse 30 are installed on the premises of the apartment building.

[0021] Waiting area 20 is staffed by workers who receive packages addressed to apartment residents on their behalf. These workers are employees of a transportation company. The transportation company and the apartment management company enter into a contract, and the workers are stationed at the apartment building. The hours during which the workers are stationed may be limited to daytime hours or may be 24 hours.

[0022] When packages are brought onto the apartment complex grounds from outside, the worker will confirm that the packages are addressed to the residents of the apartment complex before accepting them.

[0023] The worker stores the received packages in storage shelves 40 located inside the storage warehouse 30. Each storage shelf 40 has a storage space for each apartment (household) in the building. The worker stores the received packages in the corresponding storage space of the storage shelf 40. Each storage space in the storage shelf 40 is labeled with information that identifies the corresponding apartment (e.g., room number).

[0024] The delivery system includes a server device 10. The server device 10 is a device that controls the entire delivery system. The server device 10 may be installed inside the apartment building or the apartment building management company, or it may be installed on a network (on the cloud).

[0025] The server device 10 monitors the status of the items stored in the storage shelves 40. Specifically, the server device 10 sends a "storage status transmission request" to the storage shelves 40. For example, the storage shelves 40 monitor the presence or absence of items in each storage space using sensors installed in each space. The storage shelves 40 then notifies the server device 10 of the status of the items it has monitored.

[0026] The server device 10 instructs the on-site workers to deliver packages periodically or at predetermined intervals. For example, the server device 10 instructs the workers to deliver packages at a frequency and timing such as once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

[0027] At that time, the server device 10 calculates the optimal delivery route (delivery schedule) according to the delivery destination of the package. The server device 10 notifies the worker of the calculated delivery route. More specifically, the server device 10 sends a "package delivery instruction" including the delivery route to the worker's terminal 50 (see Figure 4).

[0028] The workers, following instructions from the server device 10, deliver the packages stored in the storage shelves 40 to each resident of the apartment building.

[0029] Furthermore, when calculating the delivery route, the server device 10 estimates the expected time when the package will arrive for each resident. The server device 10 notifies the corresponding resident of this estimated time (hereinafter referred to as the estimated delivery time). Specifically, the server device 10 sends a "package delivery notification" including the estimated delivery time to the resident terminal 60 held by the resident (see Figure 5).

[0030] Furthermore, if a user has pre-set a preferred delivery time slot when calculating the delivery route, the server device 10 will take that preferred delivery time slot into consideration when calculating the delivery route. For example, if a package requested for afternoon delivery arrives in the morning, the server device 10 will exclude that package from the morning delivery targets and calculate the delivery route.

[0031] Here, information about workers entering and leaving the apartment building is pre-registered in the server device 10. Specifically, the server device 10 stores the workers' biometric information.

[0032] Examples of biometric information include data (feature quantities) calculated from individual physical characteristics such as face, fingerprints, voiceprints, veins, retina, and iris patterns. Alternatively, biometric information may be image data such as face images or fingerprint images. Biometric information only needs to include information about the user's physical characteristics. The embodiments disclosed herein describe a case in which biometric information (face image or feature quantities generated from a face image) relating to a person's "face" is used.

[0033] As shown in Figure 3, a camera device 80 is installed near the entrance door 70 of the apartment building. When a worker carrying luggage reaches the entrance door 70, the camera device 80 acquires image data of the worker.

[0034] The server device 10 performs biometric authentication using image data acquired from the camera device 80. If biometric authentication is successful, the server device 10 opens the entrance door 70 and allows the worker to enter the building.

[0035] The workers deliver packages to each resident's home according to the delivery route notified by the server device 10.

[0036] The delivery system configuration shown in Figure 3 is illustrative and not intended to limit the system's configuration. For example, the system may include multiple server devices 10. Also, although Figure 3 illustrates one worker, multiple workers may be stationed at the apartment building.

[0037] The server unit 10 is connected to each device included in the delivery system. Specifically, the server unit 10, storage shelves 40, camera equipment 80, etc., are connected by wired or wireless communication means and are configured to communicate with each other.

[0038] Next, we will describe the details of each device included in the delivery system according to the first embodiment.

[0039] [Server equipment] Figure 6 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the server device 10 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 6, the server device 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a worker information management unit 202, a resident information management unit 203, a storage status acquisition unit 204, a delivery control unit 205, an authentication unit 206, and a storage unit 207.

[0040] The communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the worker terminal 50. The communication control unit 201 also transmits data to the worker terminal 50. The communication control unit 201 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 201. The communication control unit 201 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0041] The Worker Information Management Unit 202 is a means of managing information about workers who receive packages addressed to apartment residents on their behalf. The Worker Information Management Unit 202 obtains information about workers (e.g., name, contact information, affiliated company, and biometric information) from the workers themselves or employees of the companies to which they belong. The information about workers obtained by the Worker Information Management Unit 202 is referred to as "worker information."

[0042] For example, the worker information management unit 202 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) on the worker terminal 50 or the like to obtain worker information when the worker terminal 50 or the like accesses the server device 10.

[0043] For example, the worker information management unit 202 acquires worker information using a GUI as shown in Figure 7. The worker information management unit 202 assigns an ID (worker ID) to the worker whose information has been acquired. The worker ID can be any information that can uniquely identify the worker. For example, the worker information management unit 202 may assign a unique value each time worker information is acquired and use that as the worker ID.

[0044] Once the worker ID is determined, the worker information management unit 202 generates feature vectors from the worker's facial image.

[0045] Regarding the feature generation process by the worker information management unit 202, existing technologies can be used, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. For example, the worker information management unit 202 extracts eyes, nose, mouth, etc., as feature points from a face image. Then, the worker information management unit 202 calculates the position of each feature point and the distance between each feature point as feature quantities (generating a feature vector consisting of multiple feature quantities).

[0046] The worker information management unit 202 stores the generated worker ID, worker name, biometric information (features), etc., in the worker management database (see Figure 8). Note that the worker management database shown in Figure 8 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored. For example, a "face image" may be registered as biometric information in the worker management database. Alternatively, the worker's on-site hours (working hours) may be registered in the worker management database.

[0047] The Resident Information Management Unit 203 is a means of managing information about condominium residents. The Resident Information Management Unit 203 obtains information about the residents of the condominium (for example, name, address (room number), contact information, etc.). The information about residents obtained by the Resident Information Management Unit 203 is referred to as "resident information."

[0048] Furthermore, the Resident Information Management Unit 203 acquires information regarding the delivery of packages for each resident living in the apartment building (hereinafter referred to as "delivery preference information"). For example, the Resident Information Management Unit 203 acquires preferences regarding the time of delivery for packages (desired delivery time slot). Alternatively, the Resident Information Management Unit 203 may acquire the days of the week (e.g., weekdays, holidays) on which residents prefer to receive packages as delivery preference information.

[0049] For example, when a resident terminal 60 accesses the server device 10, the resident information management unit 203 displays a GUI for obtaining resident information on the resident terminal 60.

[0050] For example, the resident information management unit 203 acquires resident information using a GUI as shown in Figure 9. The resident information management unit 203 assigns an ID (resident ID) to the resident whose information has been acquired. The resident ID can be any information that can uniquely identify a resident of the condominium. For example, the resident information management unit 203 may assign a unique value each time resident information is acquired and use that as the resident ID.

[0051] Once a resident ID is determined, the resident information management unit 203 stores the generated resident ID, the resident's name, address (room number), preferred delivery time, etc., in the resident management database (see Figure 10). Note that the resident management database shown in Figure 10 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored. For example, a "facial image" may be registered in the resident management database as biometric information.

[0052] The storage status acquisition unit 204 is a means for acquiring storage status information indicating the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to each of multiple residences.

[0053] The storage status acquisition unit 204 checks the status of the storage shelves 40, for example, at a predetermined time. If, as a result of checking the status, at least one package is stored in the storage shelves 40, a delivery route for a worker to deliver the package is calculated.

[0054] The storage status acquisition unit 204 obtains the room number corresponding to the storage space where the package is stored from the storage rack 40. Specifically, the delivery control unit 205 sends a "storage status transmission request" to the storage rack 40. The storage status acquisition unit 204 acquires storage status information in response to the storage rack 40 which has each storage space having received the storage status transmission request. The storage status acquisition unit 204 obtains the room number corresponding to the storage space where the package is stored based on the response to the request.

[0055] For example, the storage status acquisition unit 204 acquires a list of room numbers in which luggage is stored (room number list) as storage status information. Alternatively, the storage status acquisition unit 204 acquires the presence or absence of luggage in each apartment (residence) as storage status information.

[0056] The storage status acquisition unit 204 hands over the acquired storage status information to the delivery control unit 205.

[0057] The delivery control unit 205 is a means for controlling deliveries made by workers. Based on at least the storage status information, the delivery control unit 205 calculates a delivery route for delivering packages stored in each storage space to their destinations, and an estimated delivery time for when the packages will be delivered to their destinations. The delivery control unit 205 notifies the workers of the calculated delivery route and notifies the residents of the destinations of the calculated estimated delivery time.

[0058] The delivery control unit 205 calculates the delivery route based on the delivery destination of the package (resident's residence), information about the internal structure of the apartment building (location of each residence, number and location of elevators), and information about each resident's delivery preferences.

[0059] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery control unit 205 according to the first embodiment. The operation of the delivery control unit 205 will be explained with reference to Figure 11.

[0060] Upon obtaining storage status information, the delivery control unit 205 determines the package to be delivered (step S101). For example, the delivery control unit 205 uses the storage status information to identify the house to which the package that needs to be delivered has arrived, and uses the delivery preference information of the residents living in the identified house to identify the package to be delivered.

[0061] Specifically, the delivery control unit 205 searches the resident management database using the room number included in the room number list as a key and identifies the corresponding entry.

[0062] The delivery control unit 205 refers to the desired delivery time field of the identified entry and obtains the desired delivery time. Based on the current time and the desired delivery time, the delivery control unit 205 determines whether the package stored in the storage rack 40 is eligible for delivery.

[0063] If the current time falls within the desired delivery time slot, the delivery control unit 205 determines that the package stored in the storage shelf 40 is eligible for delivery. If the current time falls outside the desired delivery time slot, the delivery control unit 205 determines that the package stored in the storage shelf 40 is not eligible for delivery.

[0064] Subsequently, the delivery control unit 205 calculates a delivery route that visits each delivery destination of the package to be delivered (step S102). At this time, the delivery control unit 205 uses information about the internal structure of the apartment building to calculate a delivery route that allows the worker to complete the delivery of the package in the shortest possible time.

[0065] For example, the delivery control unit 205 determines the delivery route (delivery order of packages) so that the total distance traveled by the workers is shortest. For example, the delivery control unit 205 extracts the delivery destination on the highest floor from among multiple delivery destinations. Then, the delivery control unit 205 determines the delivery destination closest to the elevator entrance near the entrance door 70 as the first delivery destination.

[0066] Furthermore, the delivery control unit 205 extracts the delivery destination on the lowest floor from among the multiple delivery destinations. Then, the delivery control unit 205 determines the delivery destination closest to the elevator entrance / exit near the entrance door 70 as the final delivery destination.

[0067] For example, the delivery control unit 205 sets the first delivery destination as the starting point and the last delivery destination as the ending point and determines the delivery route using Dijkstra's algorithm.

[0068] The delivery control unit 205 calculates the estimated delivery time to each delivery destination based on the determined delivery route (delivery order) (step S103). In doing so, the delivery control unit 205 calculates the estimated delivery time considering the worker's movement speed, the elevator's movement speed, the time spent at each delivery destination (time required for handling packages), etc.

[0069] For example, consider the case in Figure 12 where the delivery destinations are rooms 501, 603, 701, and 703. In this case, the delivery control unit 205 determines the delivery route (delivery order) as "room 701, room 703, room 603, room 501". The delivery control unit 205 also calculates the estimated delivery time to each destination as "10:00", "10:03", "10:08", and "10:12".

[0070] Once the calculation of the delivery route and estimated delivery time is complete, the delivery control unit 205 transmits a package delivery instruction to the worker terminal 50 held by the worker (step S104). This package delivery instruction includes the delivery route.

[0071] Furthermore, the delivery control unit 205 sends a package delivery notification to the resident terminal 60 held by each resident at the delivery destination (step S105). The package delivery notification includes the time when the worker is expected to arrive at each resident's residence (estimated delivery time).

[0072] The authentication unit 206 is a means of authenticating workers. Specifically, the authentication unit 206 performs biometric authentication of workers when they enter the apartment building to deliver packages. If the authentication unit 206 successfully authenticates the worker's biometrics, it allows the worker to enter the apartment building.

[0073] When the authentication unit 206 acquires image data from the camera device 80, it attempts to extract a face image from the image data.

[0074] Note that the authentication unit 206 can use existing technologies for extracting face images, so a detailed explanation is omitted. For example, the authentication unit 206 may extract face images (face regions) from image data using a learning model trained by a CNN (Convolutional Neural Network). Alternatively, the authentication unit 206 may extract face images using methods such as template matching.

[0075] If a face image cannot be extracted from the image data, the authentication unit 206 does not perform any special processing.

[0076] If a facial image can be extracted from the image data, the authentication unit 206 performs a matching process using the facial image (biometric information) extracted from the image data and the biometric information stored in the worker management database.

[0077] Specifically, the authentication unit 206 generates feature quantities from the extracted facial image. The authentication unit 206 sets the generated feature quantities as the matching target and performs a matching process (one-to-many matching; N is a positive integer, the same applies hereafter) with the feature quantities registered in the worker management database.

[0078] The authentication unit 206 calculates the similarity between the feature quantity to be matched and each of the multiple feature quantities on the registration side. The chi-squared distance, Euclidean distance, etc., can be used to calculate this similarity. Note that the greater the distance, the lower the similarity, and the closer the distance, the higher the similarity.

[0079] The authentication unit 206 determines that the matching process has failed if, among the multiple features registered in the worker management database, there is no feature whose similarity to the feature to be matched is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0080] The authentication unit 206 determines that the matching process was successful if, among the multiple features registered in the worker management database, there is a feature whose similarity to the feature to be matched is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0081] If the matching process fails, the authentication unit 206 does not perform any special processing.

[0082] If the matching process is successful, the authentication unit 206 determines that it has successfully authenticated the person to be authenticated (the worker standing in front of the camera device 80). If the worker is successfully authenticated, the authentication unit 206 instructs the entrance door 70 to "unlock".

[0083] The authentication unit 206 authenticates residents of the condominium, etc., as needed. However, since this is outside the scope of the disclosure of this application, the explanation of the authentication of condominium residents, etc., and the unlocking of the entrance door 70 will be omitted.

[0084] Furthermore, if there is only one worker contracted by the apartment building (or the apartment building's management company), the authentication unit 206 only needs to perform one-to-one authentication instead of one-to-many authentication. That is, if one-to-one authentication is successful using the biometric information of the worker that has been registered in advance and the biometric information obtained from the image data transmitted by the camera device 80, the authentication unit 206 may unlock the entrance door 70.

[0085] The memory unit 207 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 10.

[0086] [Storage shelves] The storage rack 40 is equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and communication means, and processes "package status notification requests" received from the server device 10.

[0087] Figure 13 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the storage rack 40 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 13, the storage rack 40 comprises a communication control unit 301, a transmission request processing unit 302, and a storage unit 303.

[0088] The communication control unit 301 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 301 receives data (packets) from the server device 10. The communication control unit 301 also transmits data to the server device 10. The communication control unit 301 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 301 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0089] The transmission request processing unit 302 is a means for processing storage status transmission requests. Upon receiving a storage status transmission request, the transmission request processing unit 302 determines whether or not packages are stored in each storage space of the storage rack 40.

[0090] For example, the transmission request processing unit 302 may determine the presence or absence of luggage based on the output signals from weight sensors installed in each storage space. Alternatively, the transmission request processing unit 302 may determine the presence or absence of luggage by analyzing image data obtained by photographing each storage space.

[0091] The transmission request processing unit 302 sends a list of room numbers corresponding to the storage spaces where the luggage is stored (room number list) to the server device 10 as a response to the storage status transmission request (storage status information). Alternatively, the transmission request processing unit 302 may send to the server device 10 the presence or absence of luggage for each room in the apartment building as storage status information.

[0092] The memory unit 303 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the storage shelf 40.

[0093] [Worker terminal] Examples of worker terminals 50 include mobile devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game consoles, and tablets, as well as computers (personal computers, laptops). The worker terminal 50 can be any device or equipment as long as it can receive worker commands and communicate with the server device 10, etc.

[0094] Figure 14 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the worker terminal 50 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 14, the worker terminal 50 comprises a communication control unit 401, a delivery instruction processing unit 402, and a storage unit 403.

[0095] The communication control unit 401 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 401 receives data (packets) from the server device 10. The communication control unit 401 also transmits data to the server device 10. The communication control unit 401 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 401 transmits the data obtained from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 401. The communication control unit 401 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0096] The delivery instruction processing unit 402 is a means for processing package delivery instructions received from the server device 10. Upon receiving a package delivery instruction, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 notifies the worker that the package needs to be delivered.

[0097] For example, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 notifies the worker that a package needs to be delivered using voice, screen display, etc. At that time, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 presents the delivery route to the worker.

[0098] For example, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 displays a message as shown in Figure 15. The worker retrieves the package from the storage space corresponding to the room number displayed on the worker terminal 50. The worker delivers the retrieved package to the delivery destination instructed by the worker terminal 50.

[0099] Alternatively, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 may display the delivery route in a way that allows workers to understand it more visually. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 may overlay the delivery route onto the structure of the apartment building. In this case, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 may color the target apartments or indicate the delivery route with arrows or the like. In the example in Figure 16, the delivery route displayed shows a worker going up to the 7th floor using the west elevator (EV), and then moving to the 6th and 5th floors using the east elevator.

[0100] The memory unit 403 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the storage shelf 40.

[0101] [Resident terminal] Examples of resident terminals 60 include mobile devices such as smartphones, mobile phones, game consoles, and tablets, as well as computers (personal computers, laptops). Resident terminals 60 can be any device or equipment as long as they can receive operations from apartment residents and communicate with the server device 10, etc.

[0102] Figure 17 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of a resident terminal 60 according to the first embodiment. Referring to Figure 17, the resident terminal 60 comprises a communication control unit 501, a delivery notification processing unit 502, and a storage unit 503.

[0103] The communication control unit 501 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 501 receives data (packets) from the server device 10. The communication control unit 501 also transmits data to the server device 10. The communication control unit 501 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 501 transmits the data obtained from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 501. The communication control unit 501 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0104] The delivery notification processing unit 502 is a means for processing package delivery notifications received from the server device 10. Upon receiving a package delivery notification, the delivery notification processing unit 502 notifies the resident that a package is scheduled to be delivered to their home.

[0105] For example, the delivery notification processing unit 502 displays a message as shown in Figure 18. The delivery notification processing unit 502 notifies the apartment residents of the estimated delivery time.

[0106] The memory unit 503 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the resident terminal 60.

[0107] [Camera equipment and entrance door] Detailed explanations regarding the processing configuration of the camera device 80 and the entrance door 70 are omitted. For example, the camera device 80 detects a person standing in front of the entrance door 70 using a motion sensor or the like. When the camera device 80 detects the person, it takes a picture of the area in front of the entrance door 70 and transmits the image data to the server device 10.

[0108] The entrance door 70 should be unlocked based on instructions from the server device 10. The entrance door 70 should be locked after the person (worker) has passed through the door.

[0109] [System operation] Next, the operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0110] Figure 19 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. The operation of the delivery system according to the first embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 19.

[0111] The server device 10 checks the status of the storage shelves 40 periodically or at predetermined intervals. Specifically, the server device 10 sends a "storage status transmission request" to the storage shelves 40 at a predetermined time (step S01).

[0112] If goods are stored in storage rack 40, for example, the server device 10 obtains a list of room numbers as storage status information.

[0113] If there are packages that need to be delivered, the server device 10 calculates the delivery route for those packages (step S02). At the same time, the server device 10 also calculates the estimated delivery time.

[0114] The server device 10 sends delivery instructions, including the delivery route, to the worker terminal 50 (step S03).

[0115] Before or after sending the delivery instructions, the server device 10 sends a delivery notification to the resident terminal 60, including the estimated delivery time (step S04).

[0116] Upon receiving a delivery instruction, the worker terminal 50 notifies the worker of the delivery route (step S05).

[0117] Upon receiving a delivery notification, the worker terminal 50 notifies the resident of the estimated delivery time (step S06).

[0118] As described above, the server device 10 according to the first embodiment constructs a delivery system for apartment buildings with many residences. In the first embodiment, workers wait outside the apartment building and store packages received from the carrier in the corresponding storage space (storage space of the storage shelf 40). Since workers stationed at the apartment building receive packages addressed to residents on behalf of those residents, the delivery of packages is carried out smoothly. In addition, since the carrier only needs to hand over the packages to the workers stationed at the apartment building, there is no need to park the delivery vehicle for a long time. In other words, there is no problem regarding the parking of the delivery vehicle in the delivery of packages to residents of an apartment building.

[0119] Furthermore, in the delivery system according to the first embodiment, the server device 10 calculates the delivery route for the worker when delivering packages and notifies the worker of the calculated delivery route. At that time, the server device 10 calculates the estimated time when the package will be delivered to each resident according to the delivery route. As a result, an accurate estimated delivery time is calculated. This estimated delivery time is notified to the resident who will receive the package, so the resident only needs to be careful of the worker's visit during the short time frame in which the package is expected to be delivered. As a result, the possibility of the resident failing to receive the package is reduced, and thus the number of redeliveries is reduced.

[0120] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0121] In the first embodiment, it was described that the server device 10 notifies the resident that a package is scheduled to be delivered. In the second embodiment, it was described that the server device 10 obtains the resident's preference regarding the delivery method before the worker delivers the package.

[0122] Since the configuration of the delivery system according to the second embodiment can be the same as that of the first embodiment, the explanation corresponding to Figure 3 will be omitted.

[0123] The following will focus on explaining the differences between the first and second embodiments.

[0124] In the second embodiment, the storage status acquisition unit 204 of the server device 10 acquires storage status information, such as a room number list, from the storage shelf 40 by sending a storage status transmission request to the storage shelf 40. The delivery control unit 205 identifies the houses that require delivery of packages based on the room number list.

[0125] The delivery control unit 205 sends a "delivery format inquiry" to the resident terminal 60 held by the resident who is the recipient of the package and whose desired delivery time slot is suitable.

[0126] Figure 20 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the resident terminal 60 according to the second embodiment. Referring to Figure 20, an inquiry processing unit 504 is added to the configuration of the resident terminal 60 according to the first embodiment.

[0127] In response to an inquiry regarding the delivery method, the inquiry processing unit 504 displays a GUI to obtain the resident's (the resident who received the package from outside) preference regarding the delivery method. For example, the inquiry processing unit 504 displays a GUI as shown in Figure 21.

[0128] For example, the inquiry processing unit 504 displays a GUI that allows the resident to select one of the following options: "in-person pickup," "leave at door," or "inside delivery." "Leave at door" is a delivery method where the worker leaves the package in front of the house without calling the resident. "Inside delivery" is a delivery method where the worker leaves the package inside the house (for example, at the entrance).

[0129] Leaving packages at the door and in-home delivery are methods that allow for package delivery even when residents are absent. In-home delivery is a delivery method that relies on the residents' trust in the workers contracted by the apartment building (or the apartment management company). As shown in Figure 21, it is desirable for the resident terminal 60 to notify the resident that a stranger (worker) will be entering their home when in-home delivery is selected.

[0130] Residents decide on the delivery method for packages stored in storage rack 40, taking into consideration their own circumstances (whether they are at home or away), the contents of the package (expensive items, inexpensive items), etc. The inquiry processing unit 504 sends a response (response to the delivery method inquiry) to the server device 10, including the resident's preference (in-person pickup, unattended delivery, delivery inside the building).

[0131] In this case, residents who request delivery to their homes are usually not at home. Therefore, the doors to their homes are locked. This necessitates that workers enter the homes of residents who have chosen this option (which requires unlocking the doors).

[0132] Each apartment in the second embodiment of the condominium is equipped with biometric authentication (facial recognition). Specifically, each apartment is equipped with a camera device (not shown) capable of photographing a person standing in front of the door. The image data obtained from the photograph is transmitted to the server device 10. The server device 10 performs biometric authentication using the biometric information obtained from the acquired image data and the biometric information of the residents that has been registered in advance. If biometric authentication is successful, the server device 10 unlocks the door of the apartment.

[0133] The delivery system according to the second embodiment performs the same biometric authentication process for workers (workers who perform intermediate deliveries) as described above for residents.

[0134] The delivery control unit 205 of the server device 10 stores information about workers entering the homes of residents who have requested mid-range delivery in the resident management database. Specifically, for residents who have requested mid-range delivery, the delivery control unit 205 stores in the resident management database the biometric information of workers permitted to enter the homes (authorized person biometric information) and the time period during which entry is permitted (permitted time period) (see Figure 22).

[0135] The delivery control unit 205 reads biometric information (features) of the worker going to make a delivery from the worker management database and stores the read biometric information in the authorized person biometric information field of the entry for the resident who requested delivery.

[0136] Furthermore, the delivery control unit 205 calculates the permitted time slot based on the estimated delivery time when the worker will arrive at the residence of the resident who requested mid-day delivery. The delivery control unit 205 determines the permitted time slot by, for example, setting a predetermined period (margin) before and after the estimated delivery time. Alternatively, the delivery control unit 205 may set the delivery time slot requested by the resident who requested mid-day delivery as the permitted time slot.

[0137] Once information is set in the resident management database, the delivery control unit 205 sends a package delivery instruction to the worker terminal 50. At the same time, the delivery control unit 205 also notifies the worker terminal 50 of each resident's (the resident living at the delivery destination) preferences regarding the delivery method. Specifically, the delivery control unit 205 sends a package delivery instruction to the worker terminal 50 that includes the delivery route and the delivery method preferred by each resident at the delivery destination included in the route.

[0138] The delivery instruction processing unit 402 of the worker terminal 50 notifies the worker of the delivery format desired by each resident. For example, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 displays a message as shown in Figure 23. As shown in Figure 23, the delivery instruction processing unit 402 displays the delivery format desired by each resident of each delivery destination near the corresponding house.

[0139] The worker delivers the package according to instructions from server device 10.

[0140] When a camera device in each house detects a person standing in front of the door using a motion sensor or the like, it transmits image data and a house ID (for example, room number) to the server device 10.

[0141] The authentication unit 206 of the server device 10 authenticates the person to be authenticated (worker) using image data acquired from the camera device in each house and the house ID.

[0142] The authentication unit 206 searches the resident management database using the residential ID obtained from the camera device as a key and identifies the corresponding entry. The authentication unit 206 then refers to the permitted time period of the identified entry and determines whether the processing time (current time) falls within that permitted time period.

[0143] If the processing time does not fall within the permitted time period, the authentication unit 206 does not perform any special processing.

[0144] If the processing time falls within the permitted time period, the authentication unit 206 extracts a face image from the image data acquired from the camera device and generates feature vectors. The authentication unit 206 then performs biometric authentication (one-to-one authentication) using the generated feature vectors and the biometric information (feature vectors) of the authorized user of the identified entry.

[0145] If biometric authentication fails, the authentication unit 206 does not perform any special processing.

[0146] If biometric authentication is successful, the authentication unit 206 instructs the door of the house corresponding to the camera device that transmitted the image data and house ID to unlock.

[0147] Thus, if a resident receiving a package requests an in-home delivery, the authentication unit 206 performs biometric authentication on the worker upon arrival in front of the resident's residence. If the authentication unit 206 successfully authenticates the worker's biometrics, it permits the worker to enter the resident's residence.

[0148] When a worker arrives at a resident's home who has chosen central delivery during the permitted time period, the door to that home will open. The worker will enter the home and place the package at the entrance or elsewhere. In contrast, when a worker reaches the front door of a resident's home who has chosen a method other than central delivery (face-to-face delivery, contactless delivery), the door will not open. Furthermore, when a worker stands in front of a resident's home who has chosen central delivery outside of the permitted time period, the door will not open.

[0149] [System operation] Next, the operation of the delivery system according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0150] Figure 24 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the second embodiment. The operation of the delivery system according to the second embodiment will be explained with reference to Figure 24.

[0151] The server device 10 sends a "storage status transmission request" to the storage shelf 40 at a predetermined time (step S11).

[0152] If there are packages that need to be delivered, the server device 10 sends a delivery format inquiry to the resident terminal 60 (step S12).

[0153] The resident terminal 60 obtains the resident's preference regarding the delivery method and sends a response including the obtained delivery method to the server device 10 (step S13).

[0154] The server device 10 calculates the delivery route and estimated delivery time (step S14). Additionally, if necessary, the server device 10 registers the worker's biometric information in the resident management database.

[0155] The server device 10 transmits delivery instructions, including the delivery route and the delivery format preferred by the resident, to the worker terminal 50 (step S15).

[0156] Upon receiving a delivery instruction, the worker terminal 50 notifies the worker of the delivery route, etc. (step S16).

[0157] As described above, the server device 10 according to the second embodiment uses storage status information to identify each house where a package that needs to be delivered has arrived, and sends an inquiry to the resident of each identified house regarding the delivery method of the delivered package. The server device 10 notifies the worker of the delivery method desired by each resident who made the inquiry, and the calculated delivery route. The worker delivers the package according to the delivery method desired by the resident. Residents can choose "leave at door" or "deliver inside the house" if they are not home. As a result, the number of redeliveries of packages is reduced.

[0158] Next, we will describe the hardware of each device that makes up the delivery system. Figure 25 shows an example of the hardware configuration of server device 10.

[0159] The server device 10 can be configured using an information processing device (a so-called computer), and has the configuration illustrated in Figure 25. For example, the server device 10 includes a processor 311, memory 312, input / output interface 313, and communication interface 314, etc. The components of the processor 311, etc. are connected by an internal bus or the like and are configured to communicate with each other.

[0160] However, the configuration shown in Figure 25 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 10. The server device 10 may include hardware not shown, and it may not have to have an input / output interface 313 if necessary. Also, the number of processors 311 etc. included in the server device 10 is not intended to be limited to the example in Figure 25; for example, the server device 10 may include multiple processors 311.

[0161] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The processor 311 executes various programs, including an operating system (OS).

[0162] Memory 312 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. Memory 312 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data.

[0163] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device or input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input device is, for example, a device that accepts user input such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel.

[0164] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc., that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), etc.

[0165] The functions of the server device 10 are realized by various processing modules. These processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in memory 312. The program can also be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transitory material such as semiconductor memory, hard disk, magnetic recording medium, or optical recording medium. In other words, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. Furthermore, the program can be downloaded via a network or updated using the storage medium on which the program is stored. Moreover, the processing module may be realized by a semiconductor chip.

[0166] Furthermore, worker terminals 50, resident terminals 60, etc., can also be configured using information processing devices in the same way as the server device 10, and their basic hardware configuration is no different from that of the server device 10, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0167] The server device 10 is equipped with a computer, and its functions can be realized by having the computer execute a program. Furthermore, the server device 10 executes a control method for the server device 10 using this program.

[0168] [Differentiation] The configuration and operation of the delivery system described in the above embodiment are illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the system configuration.

[0169] In the above embodiment, the server device 10 was described as allowing the worker to enter the apartment building if it successfully authenticated the worker's biometric data. However, the worker may also enter the apartment building using a physical key (hard key) provided by the apartment building management company, etc. Alternatively, the worker may enter the apartment building using authentication with a 2D barcode or the like.

[0170] The delivery system disclosed in this application may be intended for apartment buildings consisting of multiple buildings. That is, the delivery destinations for packages may be residences in multiple buildings located on the same site.

[0171] In the above embodiment, the explanation was based on the premise that one worker is permanently stationed at the apartment building. However, multiple workers may be permanently stationed at the apartment building simultaneously (at the same time). In this case, the server device 10 may calculate the delivery route for each worker so that packages that need to be delivered are delivered immediately, and instruct each worker to deliver according to the calculated delivery route. For example, the server device 10 may instruct worker A to deliver within building A, and worker B to deliver within another building B located on the same premises. Alternatively, the server device 10 may instruct at least one of the multiple workers to wait at the waiting area 20.

[0172] When the server device 10 presents the delivery route to the worker, it may also instruct the worker on the order in which to load the packages. The server device 10 may also instruct the worker on the order in which to load the packages so that packages with earlier delivery dates are placed on top of the loading platform. In this case, the delivery control unit 205 only needs to send a package delivery instruction, including the order in which to load the packages, to the worker terminal 50.

[0173] The server device 10 may store a history of authentication processes related to workers. The server device 10 may store as authentication history the time a worker entered the apartment building, the time a worker entered a residence for delivery, etc. The server device 10 may also provide an interface to the residents of the apartment building that allows each resident to check the authentication history. That is, the information processing system disclosed in this application may allow all residents of the apartment building to check the authentication history (behavioral history) of workers stationed at the apartment building. Alternatively, the server device 10 may store the authentication history of workers in association with their delivery routes. In this case, the server device 10 may verify whether the worker is making deliveries as instructed by the server device 10 based on the worker's authentication history and delivery route. Furthermore, if it is determined that a worker is not following instructions, the server device 10 may notify the worker or their affiliated company of this fact.

[0174] If, based on the resident's delivery preference information, it is determined that a package already stored in the storage rack 40 is not eligible for delivery, the server device 10 (delivery control unit 205) may send a notification to the resident's terminal 60 indicating this. The resident's terminal 60 may, in response to the notification, obtain the resident's intention to receive the package and notify the server device 10 of this intention. If the resident indicates their intention to receive the package, the server device 10 calculates a delivery route for the package addressed to that resident.

[0175] When the delivery control unit 205 notifies the worker terminal 50 of the delivery route, it may also notify the name of the resident living in the delivery destination house. The worker terminal 50 may display not only the room number of the delivery destination but also the notified name. Alternatively, the resident information management unit 203 may obtain whether the resident permits the notification of their name and other information to the worker, and store the obtained selection in the resident management database.

[0176] If the server device 10 is capable of controlling elevators within the apartment building, it may control the elevators in accordance with the delivery route. For example, the server device 10 may move the elevator to the elevator hall in advance at the time when it is expected that the worker will arrive at the elevator hall according to the delivery route.

[0177] In the above embodiment, the case in which the server device 10 obtains the status of goods in each storage space from the storage shelves 40 was described. However, the server device 10 may also obtain the status from the worker who stores the goods in the storage space. The worker may operate the worker terminal 50 each time they store a goods in a storage space to notify the server device 10 of the room number where the goods were stored, etc.

[0178] In the second embodiment, the case was described in which the server device 10 sends a delivery format inquiry to the resident terminal 60 taking into account the resident's delivery preference information (desired delivery time slot). However, the server device 10 may also send a delivery format inquiry to the resident terminal 60 without taking the delivery preference information into account. In this case, the resident terminal 60 may also allow the resident to select "I do not wish to receive delivery" in response to the inquiry. If the resident does not wish to receive delivery, the server device 10 can simply exclude the package addressed to that resident from the delivery targets (the targets for calculating the delivery route).

[0179] Residents can change their delivery preference information (desired delivery time slot) set in the server device 10 as needed. Residents who wish to change their delivery time can access the server device 10 by operating the resident terminal 60 and change their desired delivery time slot. Alternatively, when the server device 10 receives a "delivery format inquiry," the resident may not be able to receive the package at that time. In this case, the resident may operate the resident terminal 60 and send the server device 10 a time slot (date and time) in which they can receive the package as a response to the delivery format inquiry. The server device 10 should then calculate the delivery route so that the package addressed to the resident is delivered at the time slot (date and time) specified by the resident. In this way, the server device 10 accepts changes to the delivery time of residents and controls the delivery so that the package is delivered at the changed time slot.

[0180] In a second embodiment, the server device 10 may send a delivery format inquiry to the resident terminal 60, including worker information (e.g., facial image, name, affiliated company, etc.). The resident terminal 60 may provide the resident with the worker's information. The resident may select a delivery format (in-person pickup, contactless delivery, or delivery to the delivery room) based on the provided information. In this case, for example, the resident may choose delivery to the delivery room if the worker is familiar to them.

[0181] In the second embodiment, the case in which the server device 10 determines the permitted time period (the time period during which workers can enter the residence when selecting a mid-term delivery) was described. However, the permitted time period may be determined by the residents.

[0182] In the second embodiment, if the authentication unit 206 has unlocked the door of a resident's residence who requested intermediate delivery during the delivery of the same package (i.e., the worker's biometric authentication is successful), it may treat subsequent biometric authentication attempts as failures and refuse to unlock the door. That is, since there is no need to enter a residence that has already been delivered to during the delivery of the same package, the authentication unit 206 may unconditionally treat subsequent biometric authentication attempts as failures. In this case, if the authentication unit 206 successfully authenticates the worker's biometric authentication, it should delete the authorized person's biometric information in the corresponding entry in the resident management database.

[0183] In the second embodiment, a case was described in which residents could choose from three delivery methods: "in-person pickup," "leave at door," and "delivery to the center." However, residents may have other options available. For example, residents may have the option to "go and pick up their packages from the storage shelf 40 themselves."

[0184] In the above embodiment, the case in which the worker management database and the resident management database are configured inside the server device 10 was described, but these databases may be built on an external database server or the like. In other words, some functions of the server device 10 may be implemented in another device. More specifically, it is sufficient that the "storage status acquisition unit (storage status acquisition means)", "delivery control unit (delivery control means)", etc. described above are implemented in any device included in the system.

[0185] The above embodiment describes a case where a worker stationed at the apartment building stores packages received from a delivery company in the storage shelves 40. However, the storage of such packages may be achieved by other means. For example, an employee of a delivery company that comes to deliver a package to the apartment building may store the package in the storage shelves 40 and also register information about the storage location (storage space) and destination of the package in the system (input into the server device 10).

[0186] The form of data transmission and reception between each device (server device 10, worker terminal 50, resident terminal 60) is not particularly limited, but the data transmitted and received between these devices may be encrypted. Since biometric information and other sensitive data are transmitted and received between these devices, it is desirable that encrypted data be transmitted and received in order to properly protect this information.

[0187] In the flowcharts (sequence diagrams) used in the above description, multiple processes (processes) are shown in order, but the execution order of the processes performed in the embodiment is not limited to the order in which they are shown. In the embodiment, the order of the illustrated processes can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content, for example, by executing each process in parallel.

[0188] The embodiments described above are explained in detail to facilitate understanding of the disclosure, and it is not intended that all the configurations described above are necessary. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used individually or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with those of another embodiment, or to add configurations from other embodiments to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with those of another.

[0189] As described above, the industrial applicability of the present invention is clear, and it is particularly suitable for delivery systems that deliver packages to residents of apartment buildings and the like.

[0190] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: [Note 1] A means for acquiring storage status information, which indicates the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, A delivery control means that calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, notifies workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifies residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. A server device equipped with the following features. [Note 2] The delivery control means is The server device described in Appendix 1, which uses the storage status information to identify the house to which a package that needs to be delivered has arrived, and uses the delivery preference information of the residents living in the identified house to identify the package to be delivered. [Note 3] The delivery control means is a server device as described in Appendix 2, which uses the storage status information to identify each house to which a package that needs to be delivered has arrived, and sends an inquiry to the residents of each identified house regarding the delivery method of the delivered package. [Note 4] The delivery control means is a server device as described in Appendix 3, which notifies the worker of the delivery format desired by each resident who has inquired about the delivery format, and the calculated delivery route. [Note 5] The delivery control means is a server device as described in Appendix 4, which obtains from each resident who has inquired about the delivery method whether to receive the package in person, leave it at the door, or deliver it inside the building. [Note 6] The aforementioned multiple residences are apartment buildings, The server device described in Appendix 5, wherein the worker waits outside the apartment building and stores packages received from the transport company in the corresponding storage space. [Note 7] The system further includes an authentication means for biometric authentication of the worker when the worker enters the building of the apartment complex to deliver the package to be delivered. The authentication means is a server device as described in Appendix 6, which, upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permits the worker to enter the interior of the apartment building. [Note 8] If the resident receiving the package requests the delivery service, the authentication means will perform biometric authentication of the worker upon arrival at the resident's residence. The server device described in Appendix 7, which, upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permits the worker to enter the residence of the resident who requested the aforementioned intermediary service. [Note 9] The acquisition means is a server device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, which acquires the storage status information in response to a request for transmission of storage status being sent to a storage rack having each of the storage spaces. [Note 10] The worker's terminal, Resident terminals owned by residents, Server device, Includes, The server device is A means for acquiring storage status information, which indicates the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, A delivery control means that calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, transmits a package delivery instruction including the calculated delivery route to the worker terminal, and transmits a package delivery notification including the calculated estimated delivery time to the resident terminal. A system equipped with these features. [Note 11] The worker terminal is the system described in Appendix 10, which displays the delivery route. [Note 12] The resident terminal is a system as described in Appendix 10 or 11, which displays the estimated delivery time. [Note 13] In the server device, To store packages addressed to multiple residences, we obtain storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space. A control method for a server device, which calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, notifies workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifies residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. [Note 14] The computer installed in the server device A process to obtain storage status information indicating the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, The process includes, at least based on the storage status information, calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering the packages stored in each storage space to the destination, notifying the workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifying the residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program to execute.

[0191] Furthermore, each disclosure of the above-mentioned prior art documents cited herein is incorporated herein by reference. Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. That is, the present invention naturally includes the entire disclosure, including the claims, and various modifications and alterations that can be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the technical idea. [Explanation of symbols]

[0192] 10 Server devices 20 Waiting area 30 Storage warehouse 40 storage shelves 50 Worker terminals 60 Resident terminals 70 Entrance Door 80 Camera equipment 100 Server Devices 101 Acquisition method 102 Delivery control means 201 Communication Control Unit 202 Worker Information Management Department 203 Resident Information Management Department 204 Storage Status Acquisition Unit 205 Delivery Control Unit 206 Certification Department 207 Memory section 301 Communication Control Unit 302 Transmission Request Processing Unit 303 Storage section 311 Processors 312 memory 313 Input / Output Interfaces 314 Communication Interface 401 Communication Control Unit 402 Delivery Instruction Processing Unit 403 Storage section 501 Communication Control Unit 502 Delivery Notification Processing Unit 503 Storage section 504 Inquiry Processing Unit

Claims

1. A means for acquiring storage status information, which indicates the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, A delivery control means that calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, notifies the worker of the calculated delivery route, and notifies the resident of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. Equipped with, The aforementioned multiple residences are apartment buildings, The worker, while waiting outside the apartment building, stores the packages received from the transport company into the corresponding storage space. The system further includes an authentication means for biometric authentication of the worker when the worker enters the apartment building to deliver the package, The aforementioned authentication means is Upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permission will be granted for the worker to enter the interior of the apartment building. If the resident receiving the package requests delivery to an intermediate location, when the worker arrives in front of the resident's residence, biometric authentication of the arriving worker will be performed, and if the biometric authentication of the worker is successful, the worker will be permitted to enter the residence of the resident who requested delivery to an intermediate location. An authentication history is generated that includes the time the worker entered the apartment complex and the time the worker entered the apartment of the resident who requested the inter-unit delivery, and the generated authentication history is made available for each resident of the apartment complex to review. The generated authentication history and the delivery route are stored in association with each other. A server device further comprising a determination means for determining whether the worker is delivering the package according to the instructed delivery route based on the stored authentication history and delivery route, and notifying an external party of the determination result.

2. The delivery control means is The server device according to claim 1, which uses the storage status information to identify a house to which a package that needs to be delivered has arrived, and uses the delivery preference information of the residents living in the identified house to identify the package to be delivered.

3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein the delivery control means identifies each house to which a package that needs to be delivered has arrived using the storage status information, and sends an inquiry to the residents of each identified house regarding the delivery method of the delivered package.

4. The server device according to claim 3, wherein the delivery control means notifies the worker of the delivery format desired by each resident who has inquired about the delivery format, and the calculated delivery route.

5. The server device according to claim 4, wherein the delivery control means obtains from each resident who has inquired about the delivery format whether to receive the package in person, leave it at the door, or deliver it inside the building.

6. The server device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the acquisition means acquires the storage status information in response to sending a storage status transmission request to a storage shelf equipped with each of the storage spaces.

7. The worker's terminal, Resident terminals owned by residents, Server device, Includes, The server device is A means for acquiring storage status information, which indicates the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, A delivery control means that calculates a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information, transmits a package delivery instruction including the calculated delivery route to the worker terminal, and transmits a package delivery notification including the calculated estimated delivery time to the resident terminal. Equipped with, The aforementioned multiple residences are apartment buildings, The worker, while waiting outside the apartment building, stores the packages received from the transport company into the corresponding storage space. The server device is The system further includes an authentication means for biometric authentication of the worker when the worker enters the apartment building to deliver the package, The aforementioned authentication means is Upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permission will be granted for the worker to enter the interior of the apartment building. If the resident receiving the package requests delivery to an intermediate location, when the worker arrives in front of the resident's residence, biometric authentication of the arriving worker will be performed, and if the biometric authentication of the worker is successful, the worker will be permitted to enter the residence of the resident who requested delivery to an intermediate location. An authentication history is generated that includes the time the worker entered the apartment complex and the time the worker entered the apartment of the resident who requested the inter-unit delivery, and the generated authentication history is made available for each resident of the apartment complex to review. The generated authentication history and the delivery route are stored in association with each other. The server device is A system further comprising a determination means that determines, based on the stored authentication history and delivery route, whether the worker is delivering the package according to the instructed delivery route, and notifies an external party of the determination result.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the worker terminal displays the delivery route.

9. The system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the resident terminal displays the estimated delivery time.

10. In the server device, To store packages addressed to multiple residences, we obtain storage status information indicating the presence or absence of packages in each storage space. A control method for a server device, comprising: calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering packages stored in each storage space to a destination, based at least on the storage status information; notifying workers of the calculated delivery route; and notifying residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time; The aforementioned multiple residences are apartment buildings, The worker, while waiting outside the apartment building, stores the packages received from the transport company into the corresponding storage space. When the worker enters the apartment building to deliver the package, biometric authentication of the worker is performed. Upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permission will be granted for the worker to enter the interior of the apartment building. If the resident receiving the package requests delivery to an intermediate location, when the worker arrives in front of the resident's residence, biometric authentication of the arriving worker will be performed, and if the biometric authentication of the worker is successful, the worker will be permitted to enter the residence of the resident who requested delivery to an intermediate location. An authentication history is generated that includes the time the worker entered the apartment complex and the time the worker entered the apartment of the resident who requested the inter-unit delivery, and the generated authentication history is made available for each resident of the apartment complex to review. The generated authentication history and the delivery route are stored in association with each other. A control method for a server device, which determines whether the worker is delivering the package according to the instructed delivery route based on the stored authentication history and delivery route, and notifies an external party of the determination result.

11. The computer installed in the server device A process to obtain storage status information indicating the presence or absence of items in each storage space, for storing items addressed to multiple residences, The process includes, at least based on the storage status information, calculating a delivery route and an estimated delivery time for delivering the packages stored in each storage space to the destination, notifying the workers of the calculated delivery route, and notifying the residents of the destination of the calculated estimated delivery time. A program to execute, The aforementioned multiple residences are apartment buildings, The worker, while waiting outside the apartment building, stores the packages received from the transport company into the corresponding storage space. To the aforementioned computer, When the worker enters the apartment building to deliver the package, an authentication process is further performed to authenticate the worker's biometric data. The aforementioned authentication process is, Upon successful biometric authentication of the worker, permission will be granted for the worker to enter the interior of the apartment building. If the resident receiving the package requests delivery to an intermediate location, when the worker arrives in front of the resident's residence, biometric authentication of the arriving worker will be performed, and if the biometric authentication of the worker is successful, the worker will be permitted to enter the residence of the resident who requested delivery to an intermediate location. An authentication history is generated that includes the time the worker entered the apartment complex and the time the worker entered the apartment of the resident who requested the inter-unit delivery, and the generated authentication history is made available for each resident of the apartment complex to review. The generated authentication history and the delivery route are stored in association with each other. To the aforementioned computer, A program that, based on the stored authentication history and delivery route, determines whether the worker is delivering the package according to the instructed delivery route, and further executes a determination process to notify an external party of the determination result.

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