showcase

Abstract

To provide a showcase allowing easily seeing the inside of a storage part.SOLUTION: A showcase comprises a first storage part and a first storage area including a control part. A door of the first storage part is made of a transparent material or a material having translucency. The door of the first storage part closes an opening of the first storage part. When the door is locked, a door locking part of the first storage part retains a closed state of the opening of the first storage part by the door of the first storage part, and when unlocked, unlocks the closed state of the opening of the first storage part by the door of the first storage part. The control part executes control of unlocking of the door locking part of the first storage part. The door of the first storage part can be stored inside the first storage part. The control part unlocks the door locking part of the first storage part based on a comparison result of first preset information for unlocking the door locking part of the first storage part preset by the control part and first unlocking information input or transmitted to the control part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a showcase.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a mechanism for controlling the opening and closing of a plurality of storage units has been proposed, such as the home delivery storage locker system of Patent Document 1.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, it is difficult to visually recognize the inside when the door is closed.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a showcase that allows easy visual recognition of the inside of the storage unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The showcase according to the present invention includes a first storage unit and a first storage area having a control unit. [[ID=​​​​​​​​​​The control unit unlocks the door lock of the first storage unit based on the result of comparing the first pre-configured information for unlocking the door lock of the first storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, with the first unlock information that has been input to or transmitted to the control unit.

[0007] Since the door is made of transparent material, the inside of the storage area can be seen through the door. With the door closed and locked, it becomes possible to see the items stored inside the storage compartment. The door can be stored inside the storage compartment, and with the opening of the storage compartment open, it becomes possible to see the items stored inside the compartment.

[0008] Preferably, the first storage compartment is provided with a sensor that detects whether or not an object to be stored is placed inside. When the lock on the door of the first storage compartment is released and the opening of the first storage compartment is opened, the control unit deletes the first preset information based on the sensor's detection information regarding whether or not an object to be stored inside the first storage compartment is present.

[0009] If the door lock is released but then re-locked without removing the stored items, the pre-configured information will be retained without being deleted, and it will be possible to release the lock again by entering the same release information.

[0010] More preferably, the first pre-configuration information is generated by the control unit or input via an operation unit provided in the control unit.

[0011] More preferably, the control unit includes a communication unit and a reading unit. The control unit generates a barcode containing the first pre-configuration information and transmits it to a designated terminal via the communication unit. The reading unit reads the barcode output via a designated terminal. The control unit compares the information obtained from the reading unit with the first preset information as the first release information.

[0012] Using a terminal displaying a barcode, or printed material containing a barcode, it becomes possible to easily and accurately input unlock information.

[0013] More preferably, the door locking mechanism of the first storage compartment moves the door of the first storage compartment to close the opening of the first storage compartment with the door of the first storage compartment, and / or to store the door of the first storage compartment inside the first storage compartment.

[0014] The lock can be turned on or off, and the door can be automatically closed, closing the opening of the storage compartment, or the door can be retracted into the storage compartment, leaving the opening open.

[0015] More preferably, the first storage area has a second storage section and a first power distribution section. The first storage section, the second storage section, and the control unit are integrally formed. The door to the second storage compartment is made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. The door to the second storage compartment closes the opening of the second storage compartment. The door locking mechanism of the second storage compartment maintains the closed state of the opening of the second storage compartment by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the second storage compartment by the door when unlocked. The control unit controls the locking and unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the second storage compartment. The door to the second storage compartment can be stored inside the second storage compartment. The control unit unlocks the door lock of the second storage unit based on the result of comparing the second pre-configured information, which is set in advance by the control unit, with the second unlock information that is input to or transmitted to the control unit. Power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section of the first storage unit and the door locking section of the second storage unit via the first power distribution section.

[0016] More preferably, each of the first and second storage compartments has an illumination section. When the locking of the door locking part of the first storage part is released, the lighting part of the first storage part lights up in a pattern different from that before the locking of the door locking part of the first storage part is released. When the locking of the door locking part of the second storage part is released, the lighting part of the second storage part lights up in a pattern different from that before the locking of the door locking part of the second storage part is released.

[0017] More preferably, the showcase includes a second storage area configured separately from the first storage area. The second storage area is adjacent to the first storage area. The second storage area has a third storage part and a second power distribution part. The door of the third storage part is made of a transparent material or a material having translucency. The door of the third storage part closes the opening of the third storage part. When the door locking part of the third storage part locks, it maintains the closed state of the opening of the third storage part by the door of the third storage part, and when the locking is released, it releases the closed state of the opening of the third storage part by the door of the third storage part. The control part performs control regarding the release of the locking of the door locking part of the third storage part. The door of the third storage part can be stored inside the third storage part. The control part releases the locking of the door locking part of the third storage part based on the comparison result between the third preset information for releasing the locking of the door locking part of the third storage part preset in the control part in advance and the third release information input or transmitted to the control part. Electric power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking part of the third storage part via the first power distribution part and the second power distribution part.

[0018] Depending on the number of storage objects and the size of the installation space, it is possible to use only one storage area (the first storage area) or multiple storage areas (for example, the first storage area, the second storage area, and the third storage area).

[0019] More preferably, the showcase includes a third storage area and a fourth storage area configured separately from the first storage area. The third storage area is adjacent to the first storage area, with the second storage area and the second storage area sandwiching the first storage area. The fourth storage area is adjacent to the third storage area, with the first storage area and the third storage area sandwiching each other in that position. The third storage area includes a fourth storage section and a third power distribution section. The fourth storage area includes the fifth storage section and the fourth power distribution section. The doors of the fourth storage compartment and the fifth storage compartment are made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. The door to the fourth storage compartment closes the opening of the fourth storage compartment. The door to the fifth storage compartment closes the opening of the fifth storage compartment. The door locking mechanism for the fourth storage compartment maintains the closed state of the opening of the fourth storage compartment by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the fourth storage compartment by the door when unlocked. The door locking mechanism of the fifth storage compartment maintains the closed state of the opening of the fifth storage compartment by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the fifth storage compartment by the door when unlocked. The control unit performs control related to the unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the fourth storage unit, and control related to the unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the fifth storage unit. The door to the fourth storage compartment can be stored inside the fourth storage compartment. The door to the fifth storage compartment can be stored inside the fifth storage compartment. The control unit unlocks the door lock of the fourth storage unit based on the result of comparing the fourth pre-setting information, which is set in advance by the control unit, with the fourth release information, which is input to or transmitted to the control unit. The control unit unlocks the door lock of the fifth storage unit based on the result of comparing the fifth pre-configuration information, which is set in advance by the control unit, with the fifth release information, which is input to or transmitted to the control unit. Power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking mechanism of the fourth storage unit via the first and third power distribution units, and then supplied to the door locking mechanism of the fifth storage unit via the first, third, and fourth power distribution units.

[0020] This system allows for a reduction in the number of electrical wires branching from a single power distribution unit (e.g., the first power distribution unit), simplifying the wiring. Furthermore, it facilitates the addition or removal of electrical wires when expanding or contracting storage areas.

[0021] More preferably, the showcase comprises a housing that holds at least a first storage area and a second storage area. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] As described above, the present invention provides a showcase that allows for easy viewing of the inside of the storage compartment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the showcase in the first embodiment, where all the openings of the storage compartments are closed. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the configuration of each part of the showcase in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the three storage areas and the housing in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view of the control unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of a showcase in the first embodiment, in which the openings of several storage compartments are in the open position. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the 301st storage section, the 305th storage section, and the 309th storage section in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a showcase in the second embodiment, in which the openings of several storage compartments are in the open position. [Figure 8] This diagram shows the configuration of each part of the showcase in the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The first embodiment will be described below with reference to the figures (see Figures 1 to 6). The embodiments are not limited to those described below. Furthermore, the information described in one embodiment generally applies to other embodiments as well. Also, each embodiment and its variations can be combined as appropriate.

[0025] In the first embodiment, the showcase 1 comprises a housing 3 and a storage area 10 (see Figure 1). Showcase 1 is placed in the display area of ​​a store that sells goods to be stored or displayed in the storage area 10.

[0026] To explain the directions, the left-right direction in which the second storage area 12, the first storage area 11, and the third storage area 13 are arranged is described as the x-direction, the front-back direction perpendicular to the x-direction is described as the y-direction, and the approximately vertical direction perpendicular to the x-direction and y-direction is described as the z-direction. In Figures 1, 3 through 6, the directions indicated by the arrows on the x, y, and z axes are defined as the right, forward, and upward directions, respectively. Note that in Figure 4, the control unit 11b is enlarged, and the adjacent storage units (such as the 102nd storage unit 11a02) are not shown. Furthermore, Figure 6 shows enlarged views of the 301st storage section 13a01, the 305th storage section 13a05, and the 309th storage section 13a09, while omitting the depiction of other adjacent storage sections (such as the 310th storage section 13a10).

[0027] (Correspondence with the wording of the patent claims) The terms "first storage section" and "second storage section" in the claims correspond to any of the 101st storage section 11a01 to the 106th storage section 11a06 in the first embodiment. The "third storage section" in the claims corresponds to any of the 201st storage section 12a01 to the 209th storage section 12a09 in the first embodiment. The "fourth storage section" in the claims corresponds to any of the 301st storage section 13a01 to the 311th storage section 13a11 in the first embodiment. The "fifth storage section" in the claims corresponds to any of the 401st storage section 14a01 to the 404th storage section 14a04 in the second embodiment.

[0028] The "first pre-configuration information" and the "second pre-configuration information" in the claims correspond to the pre-configuration information of any of the 101st storage section 11a01 to the 106th storage section 11a06 in the first embodiment. The “third pre-configuration information” in the claims corresponds to the pre-configuration information of any of the 201st storage unit 12a01 to the 209th storage unit 12a09 in the first embodiment. The "fourth pre-configuration information" in the claims corresponds to the pre-configuration information of any of the 301st storage section 13a01 to the 311th storage section 13a11 in the first embodiment. The “fifth pre-configuration information” in the claims corresponds to the pre-configuration information of any of the 401st storage section 14a01 to the 404th storage section 14a04 in the second embodiment.

[0029] The "first release information" and "second release information" in the claims correspond to the release information of any of the 101st storage section 11a01 to the 106th storage section 11a06 in the first embodiment. The “third release information” in the claims corresponds to the release information of any of the 201st storage unit 12a01 to the 209th storage unit 12a09 in the first embodiment. The "fourth release information" in the claims corresponds to the release information of any of the 301st storage section 13a01 to the 311th storage section 13a11 in the first embodiment. The “fifth release information” in the claims corresponds to the release information of any of the 401st storage unit 14a01 to the 404th storage unit 14a04 in the second embodiment.

[0030] (Cabinet 3) The enclosure 3 holds the storage area 10. The housing 3 has a roughly hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape, with an open front, and the storage area 10 is housed in a region recessed in the y-direction from the front opening. The rear of the housing 3 is closed, but may be open. Alternatively, the enclosure 3 may be omitted, and the storage area 10 may be installed directly on the floor or other surface.

[0031] (Storage area 10) The storage area 10 has a region that includes multiple storage compartments (a first storage area 11, a second storage area 12, and a third storage area 13). The multiple storage compartments of the storage area 10 are used for storing purchased goods and / or for displaying goods for sale.

[0032] (First storage area 11) The first storage area 11 includes a first storage unit group 11a, a control unit 11b, a first power distribution unit 11c, and a first hub 11d (see Figure 2). The first storage unit group 11a and the control unit 11b are formed integrally. The first storage area 11 is configured separately from other storage areas (such as the second storage area 12).

[0033] (First storage compartment group 11a) The first storage section group 11a includes the 101st storage section 11a01 to the 106th storage section 11a06 (see Figure 3). The 101st storage compartment 11a01 is provided on the left side of the first row from the top, the 102nd storage compartment 11a02 is provided on the left side of the second row from the top, and the 103rd storage compartment 11a03 is provided on the left side of the fourth row from the top. The 104th storage compartment 11a04 is provided on the right side of the first row from the top, the 105th storage compartment 11a05 is provided on the right side of the second row from the top, and the 106th storage compartment 11a06 is provided on the right side of the fourth row from the top. Details of each storage compartment will be described later.

[0034] (Control Unit 11b) The control unit 11b transmits control signals to each storage unit via a hub (such as the first hub 11d) regarding the locking of the door locking unit A2 and control signals regarding the lighting of the lighting unit A4. The control unit 11b receives signals from each storage unit, including information (such as the locking status), via a hub (such as the first hub 11d). In other words, the control unit 11b controls not only the storage units of the first storage unit group 11a, but also the storage units of the second storage unit group 12a and the third storage unit group 13a (such as locking control).

[0035] In the first embodiment, the control unit 11b is provided in the third row from the top, that is, between the second row of storage compartments from the top (102nd storage compartment 11a02, 105th storage compartment 11a05) and the fourth row of storage compartments from the top (103rd storage compartment 11a03, 106th storage compartment 11a06). However, the control unit 11b may be provided in a different location.

[0036] The control unit 11b is provided with a communication unit 11b1. Pre-configuration information and other data are transmitted from the control unit 11b to the terminal T1 via the communication unit 11b1. Release information and other data are transmitted from terminal T1 to control unit 11b via communication unit 11b1.

[0037] An operating unit 11b2 and a reading unit 11b3 are provided on the front side of the control unit 11b (see Figure 4).

[0038] The control unit 11b2 consists of a touch panel and a display device, etc. The control unit 11b2 is used for inputting information related to locking the storage compartment (pre-set information, unlocking information), etc.

[0039] The reading unit 11b3 consists of a barcode reading device, such as a barcode reader. The reading unit 11b3 is used for inputting information related to the locking (unlocking) of the storage unit (such as reading barcodes). The reading unit 11b3 may read a barcode displayed on terminal T1, or it may read a barcode printed via terminal T1 or another device.

[0040] The pre-configured information, such as an identification number and password, is used to unlock the door locking unit A2 of the corresponding storage compartment. It is set when locking the compartment and recorded in the control unit 11b. The release information is information transmitted from terminal T1 to control unit 11b, or input via operation unit 11b2, or input via reading unit 11b3, in order to release the lock on the door locking unit A2 of the corresponding storage unit. Based on the comparison result between the pre-set information and the release information, the control unit 11b releases the lock on the door locking unit A2 of the storage compartment corresponding to the pre-set information. Specifically, if the pre-configuration information recorded in the control unit 11b matches the release information transmitted to or input to the control unit 11b, the lock on the door locking unit A2 of the storage compartment corresponding to the pre-configuration information is released.

[0041] The pre-configured information is deleted when the corresponding door locking unit A2 is unlocked, and new pre-configured information is set the next time the door is locked.

[0042] (Recording and transmitting pre-configured information) The control unit 11b records pre-configured information for each storage unit. The pre-configuration information may be set by the user of the showcase 1 entering an arbitrary string via the operation unit 11b2, or it may be set by the control unit 11b generating it. If the door locking section A2 is locked for the purpose of storing purchased goods, the control unit 11b transmits pre-configuration information to the terminal T1 corresponding to the purchaser of the goods (such as a terminal owned by the purchaser of the goods). In this case, the user of the showcase 1 inputs an instruction via the operation unit 11b2 to transmit the configured pre-configuration information to the terminal T1. The pre-configuration information transmitted to terminal T1 may consist of a string such as an identification number, or it may be a barcode generated by the control unit 11b corresponding to the identification number.

[0043] (1st power distribution section 11c) The first power distribution unit 11c supplies power from the commercial power source to each storage unit of the first storage unit group 11a, the control unit 11b, the second power distribution unit 12c, and the third power distribution unit 13c (see Figure 2). The first power distribution unit 11c is located behind the first storage unit group 11a.

[0044] (1st Hub 11d) The first hub 11d is a concentrator that connects to each storage unit of the first storage unit group 11a, the second hub 12d, and the third hub 13d. Control signals from the control unit 11b are transmitted to each storage unit of the first storage unit group 11a via the first hub 11d. Signals containing information (such as the locked state) from each storage unit in the first storage unit group 11a are transmitted to the control unit 11b via the first hub 11d. The first hub 11d is located on the rear side of the first storage unit group 11a.

[0045] The first hub 11d, the second hub 12d (described later), and the third hub 13d (described later) may be composed of a concentrator used in Ethernet, or they may be composed of a concentrator using USB (Universal Serial Bus). The first power distribution unit 11c and the first hub 11d may be configured as a single unit.

[0046] (Second storage area 12) The second storage area 12 includes a second storage group 12a, a second power distribution unit 12c, and a second hub 12d. The second storage area 12 is located to the left of the first storage area 11. The second storage section group 12a is formed integrally. The second storage area 12 is constructed separately from other storage areas (such as the first storage area 11).

[0047] (Second storage unit group 12a) The second storage section group 12a includes the 201st storage section 12a01 to the 209th storage section 12a09. The 201st storage compartment 12a01 is provided in the first row from the top and in the first and second columns from the left, the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 is provided in the second and third rows from the top and in the first and second columns from the left, and the 203rd storage compartment 12a03 is provided in the first and second columns from the left in the fourth row from the top. Storage compartment 204 12a04 is provided in the first row from the top and in the third column from the left, storage compartment 205 12a05 is provided in the first row from the top and in the fourth column from the left, and storage compartment 206 12a06 is provided in the second row from the top and in the third and fourth columns from the left. Storage compartment 207 12a07 is provided in the third row from the top and in the third and fourth columns from the left, storage compartment 208 12a08 is provided in the fourth row from the top and in the third column from the left, and storage compartment 209 12a09 is provided in the fourth row from the top and in the fourth column from the left. Details of each storage compartment will be described later.

[0048] (Second power distribution section 12c) The second power distribution unit 12c supplies power from the first power distribution unit 11c to each storage unit of the second storage unit group 12a. In other words, power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section A2 of the storage compartments of the second storage compartment group 12a via the first power distribution section 11c and the second power distribution section 12c. Furthermore, if another power distribution unit is connected to the second power distribution unit 12c, the second power distribution unit 12c supplies power from the first power distribution unit 11c to the other power distribution unit. The second power distribution unit 12c is located behind the second storage unit group 12a.

[0049] (Second Hub 12d) The second hub 12d is a concentrator that connects to the first hub 11d and each of the storage units in the second storage unit group 12a. Control signals from the control unit 11b are transmitted to each storage unit of the second storage unit group 12a via the first hub 11d and the second hub 12d. Signals containing information (such as the locked state) from each storage unit in the second storage unit group 12a are transmitted to the control unit 11b via the second hub 12d and the first hub 11d.

[0050] Furthermore, if another hub is connected to the second hub 12d, separate from the first hub 11d, signal transmission and reception between the control unit 11b and the storage unit connected to the other hub will occur via the first hub 11d, the second hub 12d, and the other hub. The second hub 12d is located on the rear side of the second storage group 12a. The second power distribution unit 12c and the second hub 12d may be configured as a single unit.

[0051] (Storage area 3, 13) The third storage area 13 includes a third storage group 13a, a third power distribution unit 13c, and a third hub 13d. The third storage area 13 is located to the right of the first storage area 11. Therefore, the third storage area 13 is adjacent to the first storage area 11, with the second storage area 12 sandwiching the first storage area 11 in the x-direction. The third storage section group 13a is formed integrally. The third storage area 13 is constructed separately from the other storage areas (such as the first storage area 11).

[0052] (Third storage compartment group 13a) The third storage section group 13a includes the 301st storage section 13a01 to the 311th storage section 13a11. The 301st storage compartment 13a01 is provided in the first row from the top and in the first column from the left, the 302nd storage compartment 13a02 is provided in the second row from the top and in the first column from the left, the 303rd storage compartment 13a03 is provided in the third row from the top and in the first column from the left, and the 304th storage compartment 13a04 is provided in the fourth row from the top and in the first column from the left. The 205th storage compartment 12a05 is provided in the first row from the top and in the second column from the left, the 306th storage compartment 13a06 is provided in the second row from the top and in the second and third columns from the left, the 307th storage compartment 13a07 is provided in the third row from the top and in the second and third columns from the left, and the 308th storage compartment 13a08 is provided in the fourth row from the top and in the second column from the left. Storage compartment 309 13a09 is provided in the first row from the top and in the third and fourth columns from the left, storage compartment 310 13a10 is provided in the second and third rows from the top and in the fourth column from the left, and storage compartment 311 13a11 is provided in the fourth row from the top and in the third and fourth columns from the left. Details of each storage compartment will be described later.

[0053] (3rd power distribution section 13c) The third power distribution unit 13c supplies power from the first power distribution unit 11c to each storage unit of the third storage unit group 13a. In other words, power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section A2 of the storage compartments in the third storage compartment group 13a via the first power distribution section 11c and the third power distribution section 13c. Furthermore, if another power distribution unit (the fourth power distribution unit 14c in the second embodiment) is connected to the third power distribution unit 13c, the third power distribution unit 13c supplies power from the first power distribution unit 11c to the other power distribution unit. The third power distribution unit 13c is located behind the third storage unit group 13a.

[0054] (Third Hub 13d) The third hub 13d is a concentrator that connects to the first hub 11d and each of the storage units in the third storage unit group 13a. Control signals from the control unit 11b are transmitted to each storage unit of the third storage unit group 13a via the first hub 11d and the third hub 13d. Signals containing information (such as the locked state) from each storage unit in the third storage unit group 13a are transmitted to the control unit 11b via the third hub 13d and the first hub 11d.

[0055] Furthermore, if another hub (the fourth hub 14d in the second embodiment) is connected to the third hub 13d, then signal transmission and reception between the control unit 11b and the storage unit connected to the other hub (the storage unit of the fourth storage unit group 14a) is performed via the first hub 11d, the third hub 13d, and the other hub. The third hub 13d is located on the rear side of the third storage unit group 13a. The third power distribution unit 13c and the third hub 13d may be configured as a single unit.

[0056] (Structure of each storage compartment) Each storage compartment has a roughly hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape, with an open front and a closed rear. However, the rear of the storage compartment may also be open. The storage compartments, which are roughly hollow rectangular prisms, come in multiple sizes to accommodate different sizes of items (products) to be stored. For example, the 101st storage section 11a01 is set as the standard size, and compared to the 101st storage section 11a01, storage sections with a wider width in the x-direction (such as the 201st storage section 12a01), storage sections with a higher height in the z-direction (the 310th storage section 13a10), and storage sections with a wider width in the x-direction and a higher height in the z-direction (the 202nd storage section 12a02) are provided. Each storage compartment is provided with a door A1, a door locking mechanism A2, a door storage compartment A3, and a lighting mechanism A4 (see Figures 5 and 6).

[0057] (Door A1) Door A1 closes or opens the opening of the storage compartment. The closed state of the storage compartment opening may be such that door A1 and the storage compartment opening are in contact, or there may be a gap between door A1 and the storage compartment opening. This gap is such that a user's hand cannot reach through it to remove the stored goods. Door A1 is held in the storage compartment (door storage compartment A3) in a state that allows it to be stored inside the storage compartment. In other words, when door A1 is closed, the opening of the storage compartment is closed, and when door A1 is open or stored in door storage compartment A3, the opening of the storage compartment is open.

[0058] Door A1 is made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. Here, "transparent" refers to the property of a material through which light passes, specifically a state where the transmittance is extremely high, allowing one to see through the material to the other side. Therefore, if door A1 is made of a transparent material, the inside of the storage compartment can be clearly seen from the outside of door A1 through door A1. Furthermore, "translucent" means that, like "transparent," it has the property of transmitting light, but because the transmitted light is diffused or the transmittance is low, unlike "transparent," the shape of what is on the other side cannot be clearly perceived through the material. Therefore, if door A1 is made of a translucent material, the components installed inside door A1 can be seen from the outside of door A1 through door A1. However, Figures 1, 3, 5, and 6 omit the illustration of the opposite side of door A1.

[0059] Door A1 consists of either a single-leaf or double-leaf door. In the first embodiment, a storage compartment with a wide width in the horizontal direction (for example, the 309th storage compartment 13a09) is provided with a double-opening door A1, while a storage compartment with a narrow width in the horizontal direction (for example, the 301st storage compartment 13a01) is provided with a single-opening door A1.

[0060] The pivot axis of door A1 extends in the z direction and is held in the storage compartment in a state that allows it to be stored inside the storage compartment. When door A1 closes the opening of the storage compartment, and when the opening of the storage compartment is switched between the closed and open states, the axis of rotation of door A1 is located at the front of the storage compartment. When door A1 is stored in door storage compartment A3 inside the storage compartment, the axis of rotation of door A1 is located towards the rear in the y-direction of the storage compartment (away from the front).

[0061] Figure 5 shows an example where both doors A1 of storage compartment 202 12a02 are stored in door storage compartment A3, both doors A1 of storage compartment 203 12a03 are stored in door storage compartment A3, the door A1 of storage compartment 208 12a08 is stored in door storage compartment A3, the door A1 of storage compartment 209 12a09 is stored in door storage compartment A3, the door A1 of storage compartment 301 13a01 is open, the door A1 of storage compartment 305 13a05 is closed, one door (the right door) of storage compartment 309 13a09 is open, the other door (the left door) of storage compartment 309 13a09 is stored in door storage compartment A3, and the doors A1 of all other storage compartments are closed.

[0062] Figure 6 shows an example where the door A1 of storage compartment 301 13a01 is open, the door A1 of storage compartment 305 13a05 is closed, one of the doors (the right door) of storage compartment 309 13a09 is open, and the other door (the left door) of storage compartment 309 13a09 is stored in door storage compartment A3.

[0063] Except when the door locking mechanism A2 maintains the closed state of the opening of the storage compartment by door A1, the user of the showcase 1 can manually close door A1 to close the opening of the storage compartment, open door A1 to open the opening of the storage compartment, or store door A1 in door storage compartment A3.

[0064] (Door locking mechanism A2) When the door locking mechanism A2 is locked, it maintains the closed state of the opening of the storage compartment by door A1, and when the lock is released, it releases the closed state of the opening of the storage compartment by door A1. When the door A1 releases the closed state of the storage compartment opening, the user of showcase 1 can open door A1 to open the storage compartment opening, store door A1 in door storage compartment A3, and close door A1 again to close the storage compartment opening.

[0065] The door locking mechanism A2 is locked only after the door A1 is closed, the opening of the storage compartment is closed, and the operation to lock the door locking mechanism A2 is performed via the operating mechanism 11b2. However, when door A1 is closed and the opening of the storage compartment is closed, the door locking mechanism A2 may be locked. Furthermore, the door locking mechanism A2 may be locked after the door A1 is closed to close the opening of the storage compartment, and after the pre-configured information for the storage compartment has been set.

[0066] The door locking unit A2 may include an actuator that rotates the door A1 around its axis of rotation and moves the axis of rotation of the door A1 in the y-direction. In this case, based on the operation of the control unit 11b2, the actuator can move door A1 to close door A1 and close the opening of the storage compartment, open door A1 and open the opening of the storage compartment, or store door A1 in door storage compartment A3.

[0067] (Door storage section A3) Door storage area A3 is a part of the interior of the storage area, and is the area where door A1 is positioned when the opening of the storage area is kept open. The door storage section A3 may be formed in a part of the first space in which the items to be stored in the storage section are stored, or it may be formed in a second space separate from the first space (a section separated from the first space by at least a wall or the like).

[0068] (Lighting section A4) Lighting unit A4 is installed inside the storage compartment and lights up under predetermined conditions to illuminate the inside of the storage compartment. For example, when an item is placed inside the storage compartment, the lighting unit A4 will turn on. However, in the storage area, the lighting unit A4 may remain constantly lit when the power to showcase 1 is on. Furthermore, when the locking mechanism A2 on the storage compartment door is released, the lighting mechanism A4 on the storage compartment lights up in a different pattern than before the locking mechanism A2 was released. For example, before the lock on the storage compartment door A2 is released, the lighting unit A4 remains lit without blinking, and when the lock on the storage compartment door A2 is locked, the lighting unit A4 blinks.

[0069] (Locking procedure) Next, we will explain the procedure for closing the opening of the storage compartment. As an example, the procedure for storing an object (such as a product) in the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 and closing the opening will be explained. Prior to this, the opening of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 is in the open position, and the door A1 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 is stored in the door storage compartment A3. The user of showcase 1 (such as a store employee) stores the goods in storage section 202 12a02. In this context, "storage of goods" refers to the storage of purchased items or the display of goods for sale. After storing the goods, the user of showcase 1 closes the door A1 of the 202nd storage section 12a02, thereby closing the opening of the 202nd storage section 12a02.

[0070] The user of showcase 1 operates the control unit 11b2 to lock the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02. The user of showcase 1 operates the control unit 11b2 to set information (pre-configured information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02) for unlocking the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02. For example, an identification number or passcode is entered as pre-configuration information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02. The control unit 11b records the pre-configuration information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02. If the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is locked for the purpose of storing purchased goods, the control unit 11b transmits the pre-configuration information of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 to the terminal T1 corresponding to the purchaser of the goods via the communication unit 11b1. The transmission of information to terminal T1 is not limited to being performed by the control unit 11b of showcase 1. Information may also be transmitted to terminal T1 from other communication equipment in the store where showcase 1 is installed.

[0071] (Unlocking procedure) Next, we will explain the procedure for opening the storage compartment. As an example, the procedure for opening the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 will be explained. Prior to this, the 202nd storage section 12a02 is filled with items to be stored (such as goods), the door A1 of the 202nd storage section 12a02 closes the opening of the 2nd storage section 12a02, and the door locking section A2 of the 202nd storage section 12a02 maintains the closed state of the opening of the 202nd storage section 12a02 by the door A1.

[0072] If the door lock A2 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 is locked for the purpose of displaying goods for sale, the user of the showcase 1 operates the operation unit 11b2 to unlock the door lock A2 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02, that is, to input information (release information) to open the opening of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02.

[0073] The control unit 11b compares the pre-configured information of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 with the release information entered by operating the operation unit 11b2. If they match, it releases the lock on the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02. As a result, the user of showcase 1 can open the door A1 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02, and the opening of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 becomes open. At this time, the lighting unit A4 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 lights up in a different state than before the door locking unit A2 was unlocked (for example, it blinks repeatedly for a certain period of time). Furthermore, the pre-configured information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is deleted, and new pre-configured information is set the next time the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is locked. Subsequently, the user of showcase 1 stores or closes the door A1 of the 202nd storage section 12a02 in the door storage section A3 of the 2nd storage section 12a02, thereby closing the opening of the 202nd storage section 12a02.

[0074] If the door lock A2 of the 202 storage compartment 12a02 is locked for the purpose of storing purchased goods, the purchaser of the goods operates the operation unit 11b2 to unlock the door lock A2 of the 202 storage compartment 12a02, that is, to input information (release information) to open the opening of the 202 storage compartment 12a02 from a closed state. Furthermore, if the door locking section A2 of the 202nd storage section 12a02 is locked for the purpose of storing purchased goods, the purchaser of the goods may use the reading section 11b3 to input unlocking information for the 202nd storage section 12a02. Specifically, a terminal T1 displaying a barcode containing information on how to unlock the door lock A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is placed opposite the reading unit 11b3, and the reading unit 11b3 reads the barcode. Furthermore, if the door locking section A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is locked for the purpose of storing purchased goods, the purchaser of the goods may send release information from terminal T1 to control unit 11b to release the lock on the door locking section A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02. Specifically, terminal T1 transmits a signal to control unit 11b that includes release information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02.

[0075] The control unit 11b compares the pre-configured information of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 with the release information entered by operating the operation unit 11b2, the release information contained in the barcode read by the reading unit 11b3, or the release information contained in the signal received by the control unit 11b from terminal T1. If they match, the control unit 11b releases the lock on the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02. As a result, the purchaser of the product can open the door A1 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02, and the opening of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 becomes open. At this time, the lighting unit A4 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 lights up in a different state than before the door locking unit A2 was unlocked (for example, it blinks repeatedly for a certain period of time). Furthermore, the pre-configured information for the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is deleted, and new pre-configured information is set the next time the door locking unit A2 of the 202nd storage unit 12a02 is locked. Subsequently, the purchaser of the product stores or closes the door A1 of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02 in the door storage compartment A3 of the 2nd storage compartment 12a02, thereby closing the opening of the 202nd storage compartment 12a02.

[0076] (An example of an application where products are displayed in an open state.) When the purpose is to display goods for sale, the storage compartment is not limited to being stored with the opening closed; it may also be stored with the opening open. For example, in relatively inexpensive products, door A1 is stored in the storage compartment, with the opening open, and the compartment is stored in that position. Furthermore, relatively expensive items are stored in the storage compartment with door A1 closed and the opening sealed.

[0077] (The effect of opening, closing, and storing door A1, which is made of transparent material, etc.) Since door A1 is constructed from a transparent material, the inside of the storage area can be seen through door A1. With door A1 closed and locked, it becomes possible to see the stored items (such as goods) placed inside the storage compartment. Door A1 can be stored inside the storage compartment, and with the opening of the storage compartment open, it becomes possible to see the stored items (such as goods) placed inside the storage compartment.

[0078] (Effects of barcode scanning) Using terminal T1 displaying a barcode, or printed material containing a barcode, it becomes possible to easily and accurately input unlock information to control unit 11b.

[0079] (Effects of including an actuator in the door locking mechanism A2) By turning the lock on and off, it becomes possible to automatically close door A1, closing the opening of the storage compartment, or to retract door A1 into the storage compartment, leaving the opening of the storage compartment open.

[0080] (The benefits of providing multiple storage areas) Depending on the number of items to be displayed or stored, and the size of the installation space, it is possible to use only one storage area (first storage area 11) or multiple storage areas (for example, the first storage area 11, the second storage area 12, and the third storage area 13).

[0081] (The effect of having multiple power distribution units) This allows for a reduction in the number of electrical wires branching from a single power distribution unit (for example, the first power distribution unit 11c), simplifying the wiring. Furthermore, it facilitates the addition or removal of electrical wires when expanding or contracting storage areas.

[0082] (Application examples of power distribution hubs) In the first embodiment, an example was described in which multiple power distribution units and multiple hubs are provided. However, it is also possible to provide only one power distribution unit (for example, the first power distribution unit 11c) and connect all electrical equipment (such as the door locking unit A2 of the 101st storage unit 11a01) to this single power distribution unit. Alternatively, only one hub (for example, the first hub 11d) may be provided, and all electrical equipment (such as the door locking mechanism A2 of the 101st storage compartment 11a01) may be connected to this single hub.

[0083] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, an example is described in which signals are transmitted and received between the control unit 11b and each storage unit via signal lines, the first hub 11d, etc., but the transmission and reception of signals between the control unit 11b and each storage unit may be performed wirelessly via a communication unit 11b1, etc. In this case, the signal lines for transmitting control signals (dotted lines in Figure 2), the first hub 11d, etc., are omitted.

[0084] (Examples of applications for the number of storage compartments) In the first embodiment, an example was described in which six storage compartments (such as the 101st storage compartment 11a01) are provided in the first storage area 11, nine storage compartments (such as the 201st storage compartment 12a01) are provided in the second storage area 12, and eleven storage compartments (such as the 301st storage compartment 13a01) are provided in the third storage area 13. However, the number of storage compartments provided in each storage area is not limited to this.

[0085] (Examples of applications of the number of storage compartments) In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which one storage area (second storage area 12 and third storage area 13) is provided on the left and one on the right of the first storage area 11. However, the storage area may be further expanded (see the second embodiment, Figures 7 and 8). The storage area 10 of the second embodiment has a region that includes a plurality of storage compartments (a first storage area 11, a second storage area 12, a third storage area 13, and a fourth storage area 14). The four storage compartments are held within the enclosure 4.

[0086] (Storage area 4, 14) The fourth storage area 14 includes a fourth storage unit group 14a, a fourth power distribution unit 14c, and a fourth hub 14d. The fourth storage area 14 is located to the right of the third storage area 13. Therefore, the fourth storage area 14 is adjacent to the third storage area 13, with the first storage area 11 sandwiching the third storage area 13 in the x-direction. The storage compartments of the fourth storage compartment group 14a are formed integrally. The fourth storage area 14 is constructed separately from the other storage areas (such as the third storage area 13).

[0087] (Fourth storage compartment group 14a) The fourth storage section group 14a includes the 401st storage section 14a01 to the 404th storage section 14a04. The 401st storage compartment 14a01 is provided in the first row from the top, the 402nd storage compartment 14a02 is provided in the second row from the top, the 403rd storage compartment 14a03 is provided in the third row from the top, and the 404th storage compartment 14a04 is provided in the fourth row from the top.

[0088] (4th power distribution section 14c) The fourth power distribution unit 14c supplies power from the third power distribution unit 13c to each storage unit of the fourth storage unit group 14a. In other words, power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section A2 of the storage compartments in the fourth storage compartment group 14a via the first power distribution section 11c, the third power distribution section 13c, and the fourth power distribution section 14c. Furthermore, if another power distribution unit is connected to the fourth power distribution unit 14c, the fourth power distribution unit 14c supplies power from the third power distribution unit 13c to the other power distribution unit. The fourth power distribution unit 14c is located behind the fourth storage unit group 14a.

[0089] (Hub 4, 14d) The fourth hub 14d is a concentrator that connects to the third hub 13d and each of the storage units in the fourth storage unit group 14a. Control signals from the control unit 11b are transmitted to each storage unit of the fourth storage unit group 14a via the first hub 11d, the third hub 13d, and the fourth hub 14d. Signals containing information (such as the locking status) from each storage unit in the fourth storage unit group 14a are transmitted to the control unit 11b via the fourth hub 14d, the third hub 13d, and the first hub 11d.

[0090] Furthermore, if another hub is connected to the fourth hub 14d, separate from the third hub 13d, then signal transmission and reception between the control unit 11b and the storage unit connected to the other hub will occur via the first hub 11d, the third hub 13d, the fourth hub 14d, and the other hub. The fourth hub 14d is located on the rear side of the fourth storage unit group 14a. The fourth power distribution unit 14c and the fourth hub 14d may be configured as a single unit.

[0091] (An example of an application to check whether or not an item has been removed from storage) In the first embodiment, a case was described in which the pre-configured information is deleted when the corresponding door locking unit A2 is unlocked, and new pre-configured information is set when the door is locked again. However, the deletion of pre-configured information may be performed after the stored item (product) has been removed from the corresponding storage compartment. In this case, the storage compartment is equipped with a sensor A5 that detects whether or not an object (product) to be stored inside is placed there (see Figure 8). When the lock on the door lock A2 of the storage compartment is released and the opening of the storage compartment is opened, the control unit 11b deletes the pre-configured information of the storage compartment based on the detection information from the sensor A5 of the storage compartment regarding whether or not an object to be stored inside the storage compartment is installed. Specifically, when the lock on the door locking mechanism A2 of the storage compartment is released and the opening of the storage compartment is opened, and the detection information includes information indicating that no object to be stored is placed inside the storage compartment, the control unit 11b deletes the pre-configured information of the storage compartment.

[0092] (Effects of installing sensor A5) If the door lock section A2 is unlocked but the stored items are not removed and the door is locked again, the pre-configured information will be retained without being deleted, and it will be possible to unlock the door again by entering the same unlock information.

[0093] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 1. Showcase 3. Enclosure (First Embodiment) 4. Enclosure (Second Embodiment) 10 Storage Areas 11. First Storage Area 11a First storage compartment group 11a01~11a06 Storage Unit 101~Storage Unit 106 11b Control Unit 11b1 Communication Department 11b2 Operation section 11b3 Reading section 11c 1st power distribution section 11d First Hub 12. Second Storage Area 12a Second storage compartment group 12a01~12a09 Storage Unit 201~Storage Unit 209 12c 2nd distribution section 12d Second Hub 13. Third Storage Area 13a Third Storage Unit Group 13a01~13a11 Storage Unit 301~Storage Unit 311 13c 3rd distribution section 13d Third Hub A1 Door A2 Door locking mechanism A3 Door Storage Section A4 lighting section A5 Sensor

Claims

1. A showcase for displaying items to be stored, which are products for sale, comprising a first storage section and a first storage area having a control unit, The door of the first storage compartment is made of a transparent material or a light-transmitting material. The door of the first storage compartment closes the opening of the first storage compartment in such a state that the object stored in the first storage compartment can be seen through the material. The door locking mechanism of the first storage compartment maintains the closed state of the opening of the first storage compartment by the door of the first storage compartment when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the first storage compartment by the door of the first storage compartment when unlocked. The control unit performs control over the unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the first storage unit. The door of the first storage compartment can be stored inside the first storage compartment. The control unit, based on the comparison result between first pre-set information for releasing the lock on the door lock of the first storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, and first release information input to or transmitted to the control unit, releases the lock on the door lock of the first storage unit. A showcase for the purpose of displaying the items to be stored, wherein the door of the first storage section can close the opening of the first storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the first storage section to be visible, and the door of the first storage section can be stored inside the first storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the first storage section to be visible.

2. The first storage compartment is equipped with a sensor that detects whether or not an object to be stored is placed inside. The showcase according to claim 1, wherein when the lock on the door lock of the first storage unit is released and the opening of the first storage unit is opened, the control unit deletes the first pre-configured information based on the detection information from the sensor regarding whether or not the storage object is placed inside the first storage unit.

3. The showcase according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first pre-configuration information is generated by the control unit or input via an operation unit provided in the control unit.

4. The control unit has a communication unit and a reading unit, The control unit generates a barcode containing the first pre-configuration information and transmits it to a predetermined terminal via the communication unit. The reading unit reads the barcode output via the predetermined terminal, The showcase according to claim 1, wherein the control unit compares the information obtained by the reading unit with the first pre-set information as the first release information.

5. The door locking mechanism of the first storage compartment moves the door of the first storage compartment in order to close the opening of the first storage compartment with the door of the first storage compartment, and / or to store the door of the first storage compartment inside the first storage compartment. The first storage unit has a lighting unit, The showcase according to claim 1, wherein when the lock on the door of the first storage unit is released, the lighting unit of the first storage unit lights up in a different pattern than before the lock on the door of the first storage unit was released.

6. The first storage area has a second storage section and a first power distribution section. The first storage section, the second storage section, and the control section are integrally formed, The door of the second storage compartment is made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. The door of the second storage compartment closes the opening of the second storage compartment so that the object stored in the second storage compartment can be seen through the material. The door locking mechanism of the second storage unit maintains the closed state of the opening of the second storage unit by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the second storage unit by the door when unlocked. The control unit performs control related to unlocking the door locking mechanism of the second storage unit. The door of the second storage compartment can be stored inside the second storage compartment. The control unit, based on the comparison result between the second pre-setting information for releasing the lock on the door lock of the second storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, and the second release information input to or transmitted to the control unit, releases the lock on the door lock of the second storage unit. Power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section of the first storage unit and the door locking section of the second storage unit via the first power distribution section. The showcase according to claim 1, wherein, for the purpose of displaying the items to be stored, the door of the second storage section can close the opening of the second storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the second storage section to be visible, and the door of the second storage section can be stored inside the second storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the second storage section to be visible.

7. The door locking mechanism of the first storage unit moves the door of the first storage unit in order to close the opening of the first storage unit with the door of the first storage unit, and / or to store the door of the first storage unit inside the first storage unit. The door locking mechanism of the second storage compartment moves the door of the second storage compartment in order to close the opening of the second storage compartment with the door of the second storage compartment, and / or to store the door of the second storage compartment inside the second storage compartment. Each of the first and second storage compartments has a lighting unit. When the lock on the door of the first storage unit is released, the lighting unit of the first storage unit lights up in a different pattern than before the lock on the door of the first storage unit was released. The showcase according to claim 6, wherein when the lock on the door of the second storage unit is released, the lighting unit of the second storage unit lights up in a different pattern than before the lock on the door of the second storage unit was released.

8. It includes a second storage area which is configured separately from the first storage area, The second storage area is adjacent to the first storage area, The second storage area has a third storage section and a second power distribution section. The door of the third storage compartment is made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. The door of the third storage compartment closes the opening of the third storage compartment so that the stored object can be seen through the material. The door locking mechanism of the third storage unit maintains the closed state of the opening of the third storage unit by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the third storage unit by the door when unlocked. The control unit performs control related to unlocking the door locking mechanism of the third storage unit. The door of the third storage compartment can be stored inside the third storage compartment. The control unit, based on the comparison result between a third pre-set information for releasing the lock on the door lock of the third storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, and a third release information input to or transmitted to the control unit, releases the lock on the door lock of the third storage unit. Power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section of the third storage section via the first and second power distribution sections. The showcase according to claim 6, wherein, for the purpose of displaying the items to be stored, the door of the third storage section can close the opening of the third storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the third storage section to be visible, and the door of the third storage section can be stored inside the third storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the third storage section to be visible.

9. It comprises a third storage area and a fourth storage area, which are configured separately from the first storage area. The third storage area is adjacent to the first storage area, with the second storage area and the third storage area sandwiching the first storage area. The fourth storage area is adjacent to the third storage area, with the first storage area and the third storage area sandwiching the third storage area. The third storage area has a fourth storage section and a third power distribution section. The fourth storage area has a fifth storage section and a fourth power distribution section, The doors of the fourth storage compartment and the fifth storage compartment are made of a transparent or light-transmitting material. The door of the fourth storage compartment closes the opening of the fourth storage compartment so that the object stored in the fourth storage compartment can be seen through the material. The door of the fifth storage compartment closes the opening of the fifth storage compartment so that the stored object can be seen through the material. The door locking mechanism of the fourth storage unit maintains the closed state of the opening of the fourth storage unit by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the fourth storage unit by the door when unlocked. The door locking mechanism of the fifth storage compartment maintains the closed state of the opening of the fifth storage compartment by the door when locked, and releases the closed state of the opening of the fifth storage compartment by the door when unlocked. The control unit performs control related to the unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the fourth storage unit, and control related to the unlocking of the door locking mechanism of the fifth storage unit. The door of the fourth storage compartment can be stored inside the fourth storage compartment. The door of the fifth storage compartment can be stored inside the fifth storage compartment. The control unit, based on the comparison result between the fourth pre-setting information for releasing the lock on the door lock of the fourth storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, and the fourth release information input to or transmitted to the control unit, releases the lock on the door lock of the fourth storage unit. The control unit, based on the comparison result between the fifth pre-setting information for releasing the lock on the door lock of the fifth storage unit, which has been set in advance by the control unit, and the fifth release information input to or transmitted to the control unit, releases the lock on the door lock of the fifth storage unit. Power from the commercial power supply is supplied to the door locking section of the 4 storage section via the first and third power distribution sections, and to the door locking section of the 5 storage section via the first, third, and fourth power distribution sections. For the purpose of displaying the items to be stored, the door of the fourth storage section can be closed to the opening of the fourth storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the fourth storage section to be visible, and the door of the fourth storage section can be stored inside the fourth storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the fourth storage section to be visible. The showcase according to claim 8, wherein, for the purpose of displaying the items to be stored, the door of the fifth storage section can close the opening of the fifth storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the fifth storage section to be visible, and the door of the fifth storage section can be stored inside the fifth storage section, allowing the items to be stored inside the fifth storage section to be visible.

10. The showcase according to claim 8, comprising a housing that holds at least the first storage area and the second storage area.

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