Delivery system, delivery management device, delivery management method, and delivery management program

Abstract

This invention provides a delivery system, delivery management device, delivery management method, and delivery management program that can minimize the decrease in efficiency of delivering packages to destinations where users of the delivery service receive their packages. [Solution] The delivery system 1 comprises a mobile body 17, a plurality of delivery boxes 10, and a delivery management device 23. Each delivery box 10, located in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 within the building 2, contains a package 4 to be delivered to a delivery destination 8. Each delivery box 10 can be connected to and separated from the mobile body 17. In the delivery management device 23, the reception unit 24 receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 contained in the delivery box 10. Based on the delivery information, the command unit 25 instructs the mobile body 17 to connect with the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and transport the delivery box 10 to the delivery destination 8 of the package 4.

Description

[[TECHNICAL FIELD]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a delivery system, a delivery management apparatus, a delivery management method, and a delivery management program. [[BACKGROUND ART]]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a system including a home delivery device applied to a building. In this system, a delivery person stores packages to be delivered in the home delivery device. Based on information input by the delivery person, the home delivery device moves inside the building to a delivery destination where a user of the delivery service receives the package, and delivers the stored package to the user. [[PRIOR ART DOCUMENT]] [[PATENT DOCUMENT]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Patent No. 7246425 [[SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] However, in the system of Patent Document 1, the delivery person in charge of delivering packages to the building where the delivery destination is located cannot store packages while the home delivery device is moving inside the building, and cannot complete the delivery of packages to the building. Therefore, the efficiency of package delivery to each building by the delivery person may decrease. As a result, the efficiency of package delivery to the delivery destination located in each building may also decrease.

[0005] The present disclosure relates to solving such a problem. The present disclosure provides a delivery system, a delivery management apparatus, a delivery management method, and a delivery management program that can suppress a decrease in the efficiency of package delivery to a delivery destination where a user of a delivery service receives the package. [[Means for Solving the Problem]]

[0006] The delivery system according to this disclosure comprises: a mobile body that moves within a building, including a target area within the building; a plurality of delivery boxes arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body; a reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including destination information of packages contained in any of the plurality of delivery boxes; and a command unit that, based on the delivery information of the packages received by the reception unit, instructs the mobile body to connect with the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. The reception unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and accepts the input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. . The delivery system according to this disclosure comprises: a mobile body that moves within a building, including a target area within the building; a plurality of delivery boxes arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body; a reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including destination information of packages contained in any of the plurality of delivery boxes; a command unit that instructs the mobile body to connect with the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit; and a relay unit that receives input of delivery information of the package from a delivery person who places the package in any of the plurality of delivery boxes and inputs the received delivery information of the package to the reception unit. The relay unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of the package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in any of the plurality of delivery boxes, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and inputs the information extracted from the input image to the reception unit as the delivery information of the package.

[0007] The delivery management device relating to this disclosure is a delivery management device applied to deliveries using a mobile body that moves within a building including a target area, and a plurality of delivery boxes arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body, and comprises: a reception unit that receives input of delivery information including information on the destination of a package contained in one of the plurality of delivery boxes; and a command unit that, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, instructs the mobile body to connect with the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. The reception unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and accepts the input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. . The delivery management device relating to this disclosure is a delivery management device applicable to deliveries using a mobile body that moves within a building including a target area, and a plurality of delivery boxes arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body. The device comprises: a reception unit that receives input of delivery information including destination information of packages contained in any of the plurality of delivery boxes; a command unit that instructs the mobile body to connect with the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit; and a relay unit that receives input of delivery information of the package from a delivery person who places the package in any of the plurality of delivery boxes and inputs the received delivery information of the package to the reception unit. The relay unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of the package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in any of the plurality of delivery boxes through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and inputs the information extracted from the input image to the reception unit as the delivery information of the package.

[0008] The delivery management method relating to this disclosure is a delivery management method applicable to deliveries using a mobile body that moves within a building including a target area, and a plurality of delivery boxes arranged at the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body, wherein a computer... The delivery terminal carried by the delivery person who places the package in one of the aforementioned delivery boxes reads an input image that represents delivery information including the destination information of the package, and extracts information from the input image to determine the package's status.The method involves receiving delivery information and, based on the received delivery information, instructing the mobile unit to combine the delivery box containing the package with one of the multiple delivery boxes and transport that delivery box to the destination of the package. The delivery management method relating to this disclosure is a delivery management method applicable to deliveries using a mobile body that moves within a building including a target area, and a plurality of delivery boxes arranged at the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body, wherein a computer... Through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, the camera reads an input image representing delivery information, including the destination information of the package, which is displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places a package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and extracts information from the input image to determine the package's delivery location. The method involves receiving delivery information and, based on the received delivery information, instructing the mobile unit to combine the delivery box containing the package with one of the multiple delivery boxes and transport that delivery box to the destination of the package.

[0009] The delivery management program relating to this disclosure is a delivery management program applied to deliveries using a mobile body that moves within a building, including a target area, and a plurality of delivery boxes located at the entrance area of ​​the target area, which contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area and which can be connected to and separated from the mobile body, and is programmed on a computer, The above delivery management method Make it run. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The delivery system, delivery management device, delivery management method, or delivery management program described herein can help to minimize the decrease in efficiency of package delivery. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the delivery system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the delivery system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3]FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of main parts of the delivery system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the delivery system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of the delivery system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery system according to the third embodiment. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Modes for carrying out the subject matter of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding portions are denoted by the same reference symbols, and overlapping descriptions are appropriately simplified or omitted. Note that the subject matter of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and any constituent elements of the embodiments can be modified or omitted without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0013] First Embodiment. FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a delivery system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0014] The delivery system 1 is applied to a building 2. Here, the building 2 may include outdoor areas such as a perimeter, a courtyard, a rooftop, and connecting passages, in addition to indoor areas such as rooms and corridors. The building 2 may be, for example, an apartment complex, an office building, a commercial facility, a public facility, an accommodation facility, a mixed-use facility, or other facilities. In the building 2, an entrance door 3 is provided. The entrance door 3 is a door that partitions the indoor area and the outdoor area of the building 2.

[0015] Delivery System 1 is a system responsible for delivering packages 4 delivered by a delivery service within Building 2. Packages 4 of the delivery service may include, for example, letters, documents, parcels, and other items. Building 2 includes the service area 5 of Delivery System 1. Service area 5 is the area within Building 2 where Delivery System 1 delivers packages 4. Service area 5 is, for example, part or all of the interior of Building 2. Service area 5 is, for example, a residential area including common areas and the private areas of each resident in an apartment building. In Building 2 in this example, an entrance door 6 is provided. The entrance door 6 is a door that separates the inside and outside of Service area 5. In Building 2, a security gate or the like may be provided instead of, or in conjunction with, the entrance door 6. The entrance area 7 of Service area 5 in Building 2 is the area through which people enter and exit Service area 5. The entrance area 7 of Service area 5 is, for example, the area outside Service area 5 facing the entrance door 6. The entrance area 7 of the target area 5 may consist only of the area outside the target area 5, or it may include the area inside the target area 5. In the delivery system 1, the package 4 is delivered to the delivery destination 8. The delivery destination 8 of the package 4 is the place where the user 9 of the delivery service receives the package 4. The delivery destination 8 is, for example, the private unit where the user 9 lives in an apartment building. In the delivery system 1, the delivery destination 8 is located within the target area 5.

[0016] Delivery system 1 comprises one or more delivery boxes 10. In this example, delivery system 1 comprises a plurality of delivery boxes 10. Delivery box 10 is a device that accommodates packages 4 delivered by a delivery service. Delivery boxes 10 are arranged in an entrance area 7 of a target area 5. Some or all of the plurality of delivery boxes 10 may have the same size of accommodatable packages 4, or may have different sizes from each other. In this example, the plurality of delivery boxes 10 include a combination of delivery boxes 10 in which the sizes of accommodatable packages 4 are different from each other. A package 4 for a delivery service is transported to a building 2 by a delivery worker 11 of the delivery service from a shipping source or a relay point of the package 4. The delivery worker 11 is responsible for delivering the package 4 to the building 2 where the delivery address 8 of the package 4 is located. In this example, the delivery worker 11 does not transport the package 4 to the delivery address 8 where the user 9 receives the package 4. The delivery worker 11 completes the delivery work of the package 4 to the building 2 by placing the package 4 into a delivery box 10 in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 of the building 2. The delivery box 10 may have an opening / closing locking function or the like so that the accommodated package 4 cannot be taken out by anyone other than the user 9 who receives the package 4. Note that some or all of the delivery boxes 10 may be devices within the system included in delivery system 1, or may be devices outside the system that cooperate with delivery system 1.

[0017] In this example, the delivery person 11 carries a delivery terminal 12. The delivery terminal 12 is a portable information processing terminal device. The delivery terminal 12 may be a general-purpose device such as a smartphone, or it may be a device dedicated to the delivery service. The delivery terminal 12 comprises an operation unit 13, a display unit 14, and a generation unit 15. The operation unit 13 is the part that receives input operations from the delivery person 11. The operation unit 13 may be, for example, a touch panel or buttons. The display unit 14 is the part that displays information. The display unit 14 may be, for example, a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel (EL: Electro-Luminescence), electronic paper, a dot matrix LED (LED: Light Emitting Diode), or other device. The operation unit 13 and the display unit 14 may be integrated. The operation unit 13 may accept input operations such as image input through images captured by a camera installed on the delivery terminal 12, scan input through information read by a code reader installed on the delivery terminal 12, and voice input through sound picked up by a microphone installed on the delivery terminal 12. The generation unit 15 is the part that generates the information to be displayed on the display unit 14. The delivery terminal 12 communicates with external devices directly or indirectly via a communication network 16, etc. The communication network 16 includes, for example, the Internet, a telephone network, or an optical communication network.

[0018] In building 2 to which delivery system 1 is applied, one or more mobile units 17 are in operation. In this example, multiple mobile units 17 are in operation in building 2. Each mobile unit 17 is a device that moves around building 2 and provides services, etc. The services provided by the mobile units 17 include, for example, the delivery of packages 4 within the target area 5 of building 2. The mobile units 17 are, for example, autonomous mobile units that move autonomously. The mobile units 17 may also be, for example, robots, drones, mobility devices, autonomous vehicles, or other mobile devices. The mobile units 17 move, for example, by driving, walking, flying, or in other manner. The mobile units 17 have mobile camera 18 that takes pictures of the area around the mobile unit 17. The mobile units 17 move around building 2, for example, based on images taken by the mobile camera 18. Note that some or all of the mobile units 17 may be devices within the system included in delivery system 1, or they may be devices outside the system that cooperate with the mobile units 17. Part or all of the mobile unit 17 may be dedicated equipment for the delivery system 1, or it may be a multi-purpose unit that also operates as equipment for other systems. The mobile unit 17 may provide services other than delivery services. The services provided by the mobile unit 17 may include, for example, transportation, guidance, security, or cleaning services.

[0019] The mobile device 17 is equipped with wireless communication capabilities so that it can communicate information with external devices. The mobile device 17 communicates with external devices directly or indirectly via a communication network 16. The communication network 16 includes, for example, the Internet, a telephone network, or an optical communication network. The communication network 16 may include a local network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) within building 2, or it may include industrial communication such as short-range wireless communication. The communication network 16 may include a wired or wireless intranet. The mobile device 17 communicates, for example, its own location information within building 2 to external devices.

[0020] Part or all of the mobile body 17 may operate under the control of an external device such as a mobile body control device 19. The mobile body control device 19 is a device that controls the movement and other actions of the mobile body 17. The mobile body control device 19 is, for example, a computer system consisting of one or more server devices. Here, a computer system consisting of one or more devices may be simply referred to as a computer. The mobile body control device 19 communicates control signals and the like to the mobile body 17, for example, through a communication network 16. Part or all of the functions of the mobile body control device 19 may be mounted on the mobile body 17. In this case, the mobile body 17 may operate autonomously without being under the control of an external device.

[0021] In the delivery system 1, the mobile unit 17 and the delivery box 10 can be connected to and separated from each other. The mobile unit 17 moves within the target area 5 connected to the delivery box 10 containing the package 4, thereby transporting the package 4 together with the delivery box 10 to the delivery destination 8. After the user 9 receives the package 4 at the delivery destination 8, the mobile unit 17 moves to the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 together with the connected delivery box 10. At the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the mobile unit 17 separates from the delivery box 10 from which the package 4 has been removed. The connection between the mobile unit 17 and the delivery box 10 is not limited to any particular manner, as long as the mobile unit 17 and the delivery box 10 can move together within the target area 5. The mobile unit 17 can be connected to the delivery box 10 by, for example, docking, loading, towing, or other means. The separation of the mobile body 17 and the delivery box 10 is not limited in any particular manner, as long as the mobile body 17, which was connected to the delivery box 10, can move away from the delivery box 10.

[0022] In this example, one or more surveillance cameras 20 are installed in building 2. The surveillance cameras 20 are examples of fixed cameras installed in building 2. For example, the surveillance cameras 20 are installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. At this time, the surveillance cameras 20 capture images of the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The surveillance cameras 20 may also be network cameras connected to, for example, a communication network 16. Some or all of the surveillance cameras 20 may be internal equipment of the delivery system 1, or external equipment that cooperates with the delivery system 1.

[0023] In this example, in building 2, an intercom 21 is installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The intercom 21 has functions such as communication between visitors to building 2 and people inside building 2. The intercom 21 is positioned, for example, adjacent to the entrance door 6. The intercom 21 may be connected to a communication network 16 so that it can communicate with external devices. In this example, the intercom 21 includes an intercom camera 22 that photographs the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The intercom camera 22 is an example of a fixed camera installed in building 2. The intercom 21 may be an internal device of the delivery system 1 or an external device that works in conjunction with the delivery system 1.

[0024] The delivery system 1 includes a delivery management device 23. The delivery management device 23 is a device in the delivery system 1 that is responsible for processing information regarding the management of deliveries of packages 4 within the building 2 by the mobile unit 17. The delivery management device 23 is a computer system consisting of, for example, one or more server devices. The multiple server devices constituting the delivery management device 23 may be located in different locations. In this case, the multiple server devices communicate information with each other, for example, through a communication network 16. Some or all of the functions of the delivery management device 23 may be implemented by, for example, processing, storage, or other resources on a cloud service. Some or all of the server devices constituting the delivery management device 23 may be located in the building 2. Some or all of the functions of the delivery management device 23 may be mounted on the mobile unit 17 or the mobile unit control device 19, etc. Some or all of the functions of the delivery management device 23 may be mounted on the delivery box 10. The delivery management device 23 includes a reception unit 24, a command unit 25, and a storage unit 26.

[0025] The reception unit 24 is equipped with functions such as receiving input of delivery information for package 4. The delivery information for package 4 includes information about the delivery destination 8 of package 4. The delivery information for package 4 may also include information that identifies the delivery box 10 in which package 4 is contained from among multiple delivery boxes 10. Information that identifies the delivery box 10 may include, for example, the identifier of the delivery box 10 or the location information of the delivery box 10. However, if the delivery box 10 can be identified from the information of the delivery destination 8 itself, such as when a dedicated delivery box 10 is set up at the delivery destination 8, the delivery information for package 4 to the delivery destination 8 does not need to include information that identifies the delivery box 10.

[0026] The reception unit 24 receives, for example, the input of delivery information for a package 4 from a delivery terminal 12 held by a delivery person 11 who has placed the package 4 in a delivery box 10. For example, after placing the package 4 in one of the delivery boxes 10, the delivery person 11 inputs the delivery information into the delivery terminal 12 via the operation unit 13. The input operation of the delivery information may be, for example, by scanning the barcode written on the delivery slip of the package 4, or by direct input via buttons or a touch panel. The generation unit 15 of the delivery terminal 12 generates an input image representing the delivery information. The input image is a coded image generated to include the delivery information, or an image of a string of characters representing the delivery information. Coded images include, for example, one-dimensional barcodes and two-dimensional codes. Two-dimensional codes are, for example, coded images according to the ISO / IEC 18004:2024 standard or other standards, or related standards, preceding standards, succeeding standards, compatible standards, or similar standards. The display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12 displays the input image generated by the generation unit 15. The reception unit 24 reads the input image displayed on the display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12. The reception unit 24 reads the input image through the mobile camera 18 of a mobile body 17 located in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, for example. At this time, the delivery person 11 holds the input image displayed on the display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12 within the shooting range of the mobile camera 18. The mobile body 17 transmits the input image captured by the mobile camera 18 to the reception unit 24, for example, through a communication network 16. The reception unit 24 reads the input image through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, for example. At this time, the delivery person 11 holds the input image displayed on the display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12 within the shooting range of a fixed camera such as a surveillance camera 20 or an intercom camera 22. The input image captured by the fixed camera is transmitted to the reception unit 24, for example, through a communication network 16. When the input image is transmitted, the reception unit 24 accepts the input of delivery information by extracting information from the input image. The reception unit 24 extracts delivery information from the input image, for example, by image recognition or character recognition.

[0027] The command unit 25 is equipped with functions such as issuing instructions to the mobile units 17 based on the output of commands. Based on the delivery information of the package 4 received by the reception unit 24, the command unit 25 identifies the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and the delivery destination 8 for the package 4. Based on the delivery information, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to one of the mobile units 17, instructing it to transport the delivery box 10 to the delivery destination 8 for the package 4, in combination with the identified delivery box 10. The delivery command includes information on the identified delivery box 10 and the delivery destination 8. For example, if a mobile unit 17 is in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to that mobile unit 17. If there is no mobile unit 17 in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the command unit 25 may select a mobile unit 17 to which to output a delivery command, for example, depending on the positional relationship between the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 and the mobile unit 17, and the state of the mobile unit 17, such as whether or not it is performing a task. The command unit 25 may, if there are no mobile units 17 in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, wait to output a delivery command until, for example, one of the mobile units 17 arrives in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The delivery command may also include delivery information. In this case, the process of identifying the delivery box 10 may be performed by the mobile unit 17 that receives the delivery command from the command unit 25. The mobile unit 17 connects with the delivery box 10 identified by the delivery information. After that, the mobile unit 17 transports the package 4 contained in the connected delivery box 10, along with the delivery box 10, to the delivery destination 8 of the package 4.

[0028] The memory unit 26 is a part equipped with a function for storing information such as delivery history. The delivery history represents the history of the transportation of the package 4 to the delivery destination 8 by the mobile unit 17 connected to the delivery box 10 in which the package 4 was contained. The delivery history includes, for example, the identifier of the mobile unit 17 that made the delivery, the identifier of the delivery box 10 in which the package 4 was contained, information about the delivery destination 8, the time of delivery, the time taken for delivery, or other information.

[0029] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of delivery system 1 using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0030] The delivery person 11 of the delivery service transports the package 4 from its origin or transit point to building 2. At the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 of building 2, the delivery person 11 selects a delivery box 10 to accommodate the package 4, according to its size and other factors. The delivery person 11 places the package 4 into the selected delivery box 10. The delivery person 11 inputs the delivery information of the package 4 into the delivery terminal 12. The delivery person 11 holds the input image displayed on the display unit 14 within the shooting range of the mobile camera 18 of the mobile body 17 located in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The mobile body 17 captures the input image through the mobile camera 18. By placing the package 4 in the delivery box 10 and having the mobile body 17 capture the input image, the delivery information is input into the delivery system 1, completing the delivery of the package 4 to building 2 by the delivery person 11.

[0031] In step S101 of the mobile device 17, the mobile device 17 transmits the captured input image to the reception unit 24 via the communication network 16 or the like. After that, the processing of the mobile device 17 proceeds to step S102.

[0032] In step S201 of the delivery management device 23, the reception unit 24 acquires the captured input image. The reception unit 24 accepts delivery information by extracting information from the input image. When the reception unit 24 accepts delivery information, the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S202. On the other hand, when the reception unit 24 has not accepted delivery information, the delivery management device 23 proceeds back to step S201.

[0033] In step S202 of the delivery management device 23, the command unit 25 identifies the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 based on the delivery information of the package 4 received by the reception unit 24. After that, the processing of the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S203.

[0034] In step S203 of the delivery management device 23, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to the mobile body 17. In this example, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to the mobile body 17 located in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The command unit 25 may also output a delivery command to the mobile body 17 whose input image has been captured by the mobile body camera 18. After that, the processing of the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S204.

[0035] In step S102 of the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 receives a delivery command from the command unit 25 via the communication network 16 or the like. Based on the delivery command, the mobile unit 17 connects with the identified delivery box 10 at the entrance area 7. After that, the processing of the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S103.

[0036] In step S103 of the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 moves to the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 while coupled with the delivery box 10 containing the package 4. At the delivery destination 8, the mobile unit 17 hands over the package 4 to the user 9. After the user 9 receives the package 4, the mobile unit 17 sends a completion report to the delivery management device 23 indicating the completion of the delivery. The completion report includes, for example, the identifier of the mobile unit 17 that made the delivery, the identifier of the delivery box 10 containing the package 4, information about the delivery destination 8, the delivery time, the time taken for the delivery, or other information. Subsequently, the processing of the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S104.

[0037] In step S104 of the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 moves to the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 while still connected to the delivery box 10 from which the package 4 was retrieved. At the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the mobile unit 17 separates from the delivery box 10 to which it was connected. After that, the mobile unit 17 moves to a waiting area such as the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 so that it can wait for the next delivery. After that, the processing of the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S101.

[0038] In step S204 of the delivery management device 23, the storage unit 26 stores the delivery history based on the completion report received from the mobile body 17. After that, the processing of the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S201.

[0039] As described above, the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 1 comprises a mobile body 17, a plurality of delivery boxes 10, and a delivery management device 23. The mobile body 17 moves within a building 2, within an area including the target area 5 inside the building 2. The plurality of delivery boxes 10 are arranged in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. Each delivery box 10 contains a package 4 to be delivered to a delivery destination 8 within the target area 5. Each delivery box 10 can be connected to and separated from the mobile body 17. The delivery management device 23 comprises a reception unit 24 and a command unit 25. The reception unit 24 receives input of delivery information. The delivery information includes information on the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 contained in any of the delivery boxes 10. Based on the delivery information of the package 4 received by the reception unit 24, the command unit 25 instructs the mobile body 17 to connect with the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and transport the delivery box 10 to the delivery destination 8 of the package 4.

[0040] With this configuration, even if the mobile unit 17 is making deliveries within building 2, the delivery person 11 can complete the delivery to building 2 by placing the package 4 into the delivery box 10. This allows the delivery person 11 to deliver packages 4 more efficiently. Also, since the mobile unit 17 delivers the package 4 while it is contained in the delivery box 10, the type and quantity of the package 4 are kept secret within building 2. This makes it easier to protect the privacy of users 9 within building 2. In addition, users 9 do not need to carry the package 4 from the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 to their own private area, thus increasing the convenience for users 9 within building 2. Furthermore, since the delivery box 10 is detachable from the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 can perform tasks for other services when not making deliveries. This increases the operational efficiency of the mobile unit 17 within building 2. In addition, since the delivery box 10 and the mobile unit 17 can be connected and separated, the delivery system 1 can be operated with fewer mobile units 17 than the number of delivery boxes 10. Because the number of delivery boxes 10 and mobile units 17 can be flexibly configured, the cost of introducing the delivery system 1 can be further reduced.

[0041] Furthermore, the delivery information for the package 4 received by the reception unit 24 includes information that identifies the delivery box 10 in which the package 4 is contained. Based on the delivery information for the package 4 received by the reception unit 24, the command unit 25 identifies the delivery box 10 in which the package 4 is contained. The command unit 25 instructs the mobile unit 17 to transport the delivery box 10 to the delivery destination 8 of the package 4, along with the identified delivery box 10.

[0042] This configuration allows for a variable correspondence between the delivery box 10 and the delivery destination 8, enabling the delivery box 10 to be shared among multiple delivery destinations 8. Since there is no need to set up a dedicated delivery box 10 for each delivery destination 8, the number of delivery boxes 10 required to be placed in building 2 is reduced. As a result, space in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 where the delivery boxes 10 are to be installed is saved. In addition, since the number of delivery boxes 10 is reduced, the cost of introducing the delivery system 1 is further reduced.

[0043] Furthermore, the reception unit 24 reads an input image representing the delivery information of package 4, which is displayed on the delivery terminal 12 held by the delivery person 11. The reception unit 24 accepts the input of the delivery information of package 4 by extracting information from the input image.

[0044] With this configuration, even if the delivery terminal 12 is not connected to the communication network 16, or if the delivery terminal 12 cannot access the delivery system 1 through the communication network 16, the delivery terminal 12 can input delivery information to the delivery system 1 through the display of the input image. This reduces the likelihood of problems caused by communication issues with the delivery terminal 12. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for communication settings for each building 2 on the delivery terminal 12, and the delivery person 11 can complete the delivery completion process with an intuitive operation of holding the input information displayed on the display unit 14 over the terminal. This further improves the efficiency of the delivery person 11's work in delivering packages 4.

[0045] Furthermore, the reception unit 24 reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal 12 through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5.

[0046] With this configuration, even if the mobile object 17 is not present in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the delivery person 11 can complete the delivery to building 2 by inputting delivery information through the stationary camera. This allows the delivery person 11 to deliver packages 4 more efficiently. The stationary camera may be an existing camera such as a surveillance camera 20 or an intercom camera 22. Since there is no need to install a new camera solely for the introduction of the delivery system 1, the cost of introducing the delivery system 1 can be further reduced.

[0047] Furthermore, the reception unit 24 reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal 12 through the mobile camera 18 installed on the mobile unit 17.

[0048] This configuration allows for the input of delivery information using input images without the need to install additional cameras. Since there is no need to install new cameras, the cost of introducing the delivery system 1 can be further reduced. The functions of the delivery management device 23, such as the reception unit 24 and the command unit 25, may also be installed on the mobile unit 17 itself. This reduces the use of information communication via the communication network 16, making it less likely for problems caused by communication to occur.

[0049] Furthermore, the multiple delivery boxes 10 include combinations of delivery boxes 10 that can accommodate different sizes of packages 4.

[0050] This configuration allows the delivery person 11 to select an appropriate delivery box 10 according to the size of the package 4, enabling flexible handling of the package 4.

[0051] The delivery management device 23 also includes a storage unit 26. The storage unit 26 stores the delivery history. The delivery history represents the history of the transportation of the package 4 to the delivery destination 8 by a mobile unit 17 connected to the delivery box 10 in which the package 4 is contained.

[0052] This configuration allows for flexible configuration of resources, such as the number of delivery boxes 10 and mobile units 17, to match the actual delivery situation.

[0053] The delivery information for package 4 may be entered into the reception unit 24 without using an input image. The delivery information may also be entered into the reception unit 24 via a communication network 16 or the like from a delivery terminal 12 held by the delivery person 11 who has placed package 4 in the delivery box 10. The delivery person 11 may also enter the delivery information via an intercom 21 or other device installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. In this case, the device that receives the delivery information input will enter the delivery information into the reception unit 24 via the communication network 16 or the like.

[0054] Furthermore, the delivery information for package 4 may include information such as the attributes of package 4. The attributes of package 4 may include, for example, the weight of package 4, or information about the type of package or handling method, such as precision equipment, refrigerated goods, frozen goods, fragile goods, or "this side up." The command unit 25 may select a mobile unit 17 that outputs a delivery command according to the attributes of package 4. The mobile unit 17 may also change its method of movement within building 2, such as its speed, according to the attributes of package 4.

[0055] Next, we will explain an example of the hardware configuration of delivery system 1 using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of the main parts of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0056] Some or all of the functions of the delivery system 1 can be implemented by a processing circuit. The processing circuit comprises at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b. The processing circuit may also include at least one dedicated hardware 200 together with the processor 100a and memory 100b, or as a substitute for them.

[0057] When the processing circuit includes a processor 100a and a memory 100b, each function of the delivery system 1 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is written as a program. This program is stored in the memory 100b. The processor 100a realizes each function of the delivery system 1 by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 100b. The program may be a program package that includes multiple subprograms, modules, or libraries. The program may also be treated as a program product that includes the program.

[0058] The processor 100a is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 100b is composed of non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM.

[0059] If the processing circuit includes dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuit may be implemented as, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

[0060] Each function of the delivery system 1 can be implemented by a separate processing circuit. Alternatively, each function of the delivery system 1 can be implemented collectively by a processing circuit. For each function of the delivery system 1, some may be implemented by dedicated hardware 200, and others by software or firmware. In this way, the processing circuit implements each function of the delivery system 1 using dedicated hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0061] Embodiment 2. In Embodiment 2, the differences from the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 will be explained in particular detail. For features not described in Embodiment 2, any of the features from the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 may be adopted.

[0062] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0063] In this example, Area 5 is a controlled area where people's entry and exit are managed. In Area 5, for example, entry and exit of other people is restricted for those who have been given prior permission to enter and exit. In Area 5, for example, entry and exit of people who do not possess a device such as a card key indicating that they are permitted to enter and exit is restricted. Area 5 is, for example, a residential area including common areas and the private areas of each resident, where entry and exit of people other than residents of an apartment building is restricted. The delivery box 10 is located outside Area 5 at the entrance area 7 of Area 5. Embodiment 2 discloses an example of a delivery system 1 that further enhances the security of Area 5, which is a controlled area.

[0064] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 2.

[0065] The delivery person 11 of the delivery service transports the package 4 from its origin or transit point to building 2. The delivery person 11 places the package 4 into one of the delivery boxes 10. The delivery person 11 inputs the delivery information of the package 4 into the delivery terminal 12. In this example, there is no moving object 17 in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. At this time, the delivery person 11 holds the input image displayed on the display unit 14 within the shooting range of a stationary camera installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, such as a surveillance camera 20. The input image captured by the surveillance camera 20, etc., is transmitted to the reception unit 24 via a communication network 16, for example. By placing the package 4 in the delivery box 10 and inputting the delivery information into the delivery system 1 by having the stationary camera capture the input image, the delivery person 11 completes the delivery of the package 4 to building 2. Having completed the delivery, the delivery person 11 exits the entrance area 7 of the target area 5 and moves outside building 2 through the front door 3.

[0066] In the operation of the delivery management device 23 shown in Figure 5, the processes from step S201 to step S202 and from step S203 to step S204 are the same as the processes in the operation of the delivery management device 23 shown in Figure 2. In the operation shown in Figure 5, after step S202, in which the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 are identified, the delivery management device 23 proceeds to the process of step S211.

[0067] In step S211 of the delivery management device 23, the command unit 25 determines whether there is a person in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The command unit 25 determines, for example, whether there is a person in the entrance area 7 outside the target area 5. The command unit 25 determines whether there is a person in the entrance area 7 by, for example, image recognition of images taken by a stationary camera installed in the entrance area 7, such as a surveillance camera 20 or an intercom camera 22. If a motion sensor (not shown) is installed in the entrance area 7, the command unit 25 may determine whether there is a person in the entrance area 7 based on the detection signal of the motion sensor. In this case, the detection signal of the motion sensor is transmitted to the delivery management device 23, for example, through a communication network 16. The command unit 25 determines that there is a person when, for example, a visitor to building 2 or a delivery person 11 is in the entrance area 7. When the command unit 25 determines that there is a person in the entrance area 7, the processing of the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S212. On the other hand, when the command unit 25 determines that there are no people in the entrance area 7, the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S203.

[0068] In step S212 of the delivery management device 23, the command unit 25 outputs a standby command to the mobile body 17. The command unit 25 outputs a standby command to the mobile body 17, for example, when it has selected a mobile body 17 to which it will output a delivery command. After that, the processing of the delivery management device 23 proceeds to step S211.

[0069] In step S111 of the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 receives a command from the command unit 25 via the communication network 16 or the like. The mobile unit 17 determines the type of command from the command unit 25. If the command from the command unit 25 is a standby command, the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S112. On the other hand, if the command from the command unit 25 is a delivery command, the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S102.

[0070] In step S112 of the mobile unit 17, the mobile unit 17 waits without entering or leaving the target area 5. If the mobile unit 17 does not enter or leave the target area 5, it may perform other processes such as connecting with the delivery box 10 in advance. After that, the mobile unit 17 proceeds to step S111.

[0071] In the operation of the mobile body 17 shown in Figure 5, the processing from step S102 to step S104 is the same as the processing in the operation of the mobile body 17 shown in Figure 2. In the operation shown in Figure 5, after step S104 in which the mobile body 17 separates from the delivery box 10, the mobile body 17 proceeds to the processing of step S111.

[0072] Furthermore, regardless of whether it has received a standby command from the command unit 25, the mobile unit 17 may remain in standby mode without entering or leaving the target area 5 if it determines, via the mobile camera 18 or the like, that there is a person in the entrance area 7. In addition, the command unit 25 may output a standby command to the mobile unit 17 when it determines that there is a person in the entrance area 7, such as when the mobile unit 17, which is connected to the delivery box 10 from which the package 4 has been retrieved, is returning to the entrance area 7. In this case, the mobile unit 17 that has received the standby command will remain in standby mode without entering or leaving the target area 5.

[0073] As described above, in the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 2, the target area 5 is a managed area where the entry and exit of people are controlled. Multiple delivery boxes 10 are arranged outside the target area 5. The command unit 25 causes the mobile unit 17 to wait for entry into or exit from the target area 5 when there is a person in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5.

[0074] With this configuration, if there is a person in the entrance area 7, the mobile device 17 will not enter or exit the target area 5. This reduces the possibility of unauthorized people entering or exiting by following the mobile device 17 as it enters or exits. As a result, the security of the target area 5 is further enhanced.

[0075] Embodiment 3. In Embodiment 3, the differences from the examples disclosed in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 will be described in particular detail. For features not described in Embodiment 3, any of the features from the examples disclosed in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 may be adopted.

[0076] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0077] The delivery system 1 includes a relay device 27. The relay device 27 receives delivery information input from the delivery person 11 and relays the delivery information to a receiving unit 24 that receives delivery information input so that it can be used by the command unit 25. In this example, the relay device 27 is connected to a communication network 16 so that it can communicate information with external devices or systems. In this example, the relay device 27 is located in building 2. In this case, the relay device 27 may be directly connected to a fixed camera installed in building 2, such as a surveillance camera 20 or an intercom camera 22. Note that some or all of the functions of the relay device 27 may be located outside building 2. Some or all of the functions of the relay device 27 may be installed in, for example, a delivery management device 23. The delivery management device 23 may be located in building 2. The relay device 27 is an example of a relay unit.

[0078] In this example, the relay device 27 is equipped with a function to acquire information on whether or not the package can be received at each delivery destination 8. The information on whether or not the package can be received at a delivery destination 8 indicates whether or not the user 9 can receive the package 4 at that delivery destination 8. The information on whether or not the package can be received at a delivery destination 8 may also be, for example, presence information indicating whether or not the user 9 is present at that delivery destination 8. The presence or absence information of the user 9 is determined, for example, based on image recognition of images taken by a surveillance camera 20. The presence or absence information of the user 9 is determined, for example, based on authentication of the user 9 performed when unlocking a locked entrance door 6. The presence or absence information of the user 9 may also be set by an explicit operation by the user 9. The operation by the user 9 is performed, for example, through an information device possessed by the user 9. The information on whether or not the package can be received at a delivery destination 8 may also be set to "cannot be received" by an explicit operation by the user 9. The relay device 27 may have a function to determine whether or not the package can be received, such as the presence or absence information of the user 9, or it may use whether or not the package can be received determined by an external system.

[0079] The delivery system 1 includes a display device 28. The display device 28 is a device that displays an input image representing delivery information received by the relay device 27. The display device 28 is located in the building 2. The display device 28 is located, for example, inside the target area 5. The display device 28 may be located outside the target area 5, or it may be located in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The display device 28 is located in an area of ​​the building 2 where the mobile body 17 can move. The display device 28 is located, for example, in a waiting area for the mobile body 17. The display device 28 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, electronic paper, a dot matrix LED, or other device. The display device 28 may be mounted on each delivery box 10 itself.

[0080] In building 2, stationary cameras such as surveillance cameras 20 may be installed inside the target area 5. In this example, some or all of the surveillance cameras 20 installed in building 2 are installed so as to include the display device 28 in their shooting range.

[0081] The delivery person 11 of the delivery service transports the package 4 from its origin or transit point to building 2. The delivery person 11 places the package 4 into one of the delivery boxes 10. The delivery person 11 inputs the delivery information of the package 4 into the delivery terminal 12. The delivery person 11 holds the input image displayed on the display unit 14 over the shooting range of a stationary camera installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, such as a surveillance camera 20. If there is a moving object 17 in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the delivery person 11 may hold the input image displayed on the display unit 14 over the shooting range of the mobile camera 18 of the moving object 17. The input image captured by the surveillance camera 20 or mobile camera 18 is transmitted to the relay device 27. By placing the package 4 into the delivery box 10 and inputting the delivery information into the delivery system 1 by having the surveillance camera 20 or mobile camera 18 capture the input image, the delivery person 11 completes the delivery of the package 4 to building 2.

[0082] The relay device 27 receives delivery information from the delivery person 11 in the same manner as the reception unit 24 according to Embodiment 1. When an input image captured by the surveillance camera 20 or mobile camera 18 in the entrance area 7 is transmitted, the relay device 27 receives the input of delivery information by extracting information from the input image. The relay device 27 generates an input image representing the extracted delivery information. The input image generated at this time may be the same as the input image displayed on the display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12, or it may be a different type of input image. The display device 28 displays the input image generated by the relay device 27.

[0083] When the relay device 27 receives multiple delivery information from the delivery terminal 12, it displays one input image corresponding to each delivery information on the display device 28. The relay device 27 may, for example, display the corresponding input images on the display device 28 sequentially in the order in which the delivery information was received. In this example, the relay device 27 displays the input images on the display device 28 based on the acceptance / receiving information of the delivery destination 8. The relay device 27 prioritizes displaying the input images of delivery information for packages 4 delivered to acceptable delivery destinations 8 on the display device 28, over the input images of delivery information for packages 4 delivered to unacceptable delivery destinations 8. The relay device 27 manages the display order of the input images of the delivery information, for example, by a delivery list. The delivery list is a list that stores the delivery information for each package 4 in an ordered manner. The delivery list may be a first-in, first-out queue or the like.

[0084] A mobile body 17 moving within building 2 captures an input image displayed on the display device 28 using its mobile camera 18 when it is in front of the display device 28. At this time, the mobile body 17 may be moving within building 2 with the display device 28 as its destination, or it may be patrolling within building 2, or it may be moving to perform a task. The mobile body 17 transmits the input image captured by the mobile camera 18 to the receiving unit 24, for example, via a communication network 16. The input image displayed on the display device 28 may also be captured by a surveillance camera 20, etc., which is installed so as to include the display device 28 in its shooting range. The input image captured by the surveillance camera 20 is transmitted to the receiving unit 24, for example, via a communication network 16. The receiving unit 24 acquires the input image captured by the mobile camera 18 or the surveillance camera 20, etc. The receiving unit 24 accepts delivery information input by extracting information from the input image.

[0085] The command unit 25 identifies the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 based on the delivery information of the package 4 received by the reception unit 24. Based on the delivery information, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to the mobile unit 17. The command unit 25 may output the delivery command to the mobile unit 17 that has taken a picture of the input image displayed on the display device 28 with the mobile unit camera 18, or it may output the delivery command to another mobile unit 17.

[0086] Upon receiving a delivery command from the command unit 25, the mobile unit 17 connects with the specified delivery box 10 at the entrance area 7 based on the delivery command. The mobile unit 17 then begins delivering the package 4 contained in the delivery box 10. When the mobile unit 17 begins delivery, it may notify the delivery management device 23 or the relay device 27 of the start of delivery.

[0087] The relay device 27 detects the start of delivery of the package 4 contained in the delivery box 10. The relay device 27 detects the start of delivery, for example, by notification from the mobile body 17. The relay device 27 may also detect the start of delivery by the movement of the delivery box 10. The relay device 27 detects the movement of the delivery box 10 based on the position information of the mobile body 17 coupled to the delivery box 10. At this time, the position information of the mobile body 17 and the coupling state with the delivery box 10 are transmitted to the relay device 27 from, for example, the mobile body 17 or the mobile body control device 19. The relay device 27 may also detect the movement of the delivery box 10 based on the position information of the delivery box 10 itself. At this time, the position information of the delivery box 10 is transmitted to the relay device 27 from the delivery box 10 or the like. In addition, a detector (not shown) that detects the movement of the delivery box 10 may be provided in the entrance area 7 where the delivery box 10 is located. At this time, the relay device 27 detects the start of delivery of the delivery box 10 based on the detection signal of the detector. The relay device 27 may detect the start of delivery of the delivery box 10 by, for example, image recognition of an image of the delivery box 10 or by other methods.

[0088] When the relay device 27 detects the start of delivery from the delivery box 10, it terminates the display on the display device 28 of the input image representing the delivery information of the package 4 contained in the delivery box 10. For example, if the relay device 27 has the next delivery information stored in the delivery list, it displays the input image representing the next delivery information on the display device 28.

[0089] Next, we will explain an example of the operation of delivery system 1 using Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 3.

[0090] In step S301, the relay device 27 obtains information on whether each delivery destination 8 can be received. If the relay device 27 has already obtained the information on whether the delivery can be received, it may update the information. After that, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S302.

[0091] In step S302, the relay device 27 acquires an image of the input image on the display unit 14 of the delivery terminal 12. The relay device 27 accepts delivery information by extracting information from the input image. If the relay device 27 has not accepted delivery information, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S303. On the other hand, if the relay device 27 has accepted delivery information, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S304.

[0092] In step S303, the relay device 27 adds the received delivery information to the end of the delivery list. After that, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S305.

[0093] In step S304, the relay device 27 determines whether the delivery list is empty. If the delivery list is empty, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S301. On the other hand, if the delivery list is not empty, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S305.

[0094] In step S305, the relay device 27 determines whether delivery has begun for the package 4 corresponding to the delivery information at the top of the delivery list, specifically for the delivery box 10 containing the package 4. If delivery has begun, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, if delivery has not begun, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S307.

[0095] In step S306, the relay device 27 deletes the delivery information at the beginning of the delivery list. The relay device 27 then moves the delivery information from the beginning of the delivery list forward sequentially. After that, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S301. The relay device 27 may retain the delivery information of package 4, which has been started for delivery, until the delivery of package 4 is completed. If the delivery of package 4 is not completed, such as when user 9 is unable to receive package 4, the relay device 27 may add the delivery information of package 4 back to the end of the delivery list.

[0096] In step S307, the relay device 27 determines, based on the acceptance / receiving information, whether the delivery destination 8 for the package 4 corresponding to the delivery information at the top of the delivery list is able to receive the package 4. If it is able to receive the package, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S308. On the other hand, if it is not able to receive the package, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S309.

[0097] In step S308, the relay device 27 moves the delivery information at the beginning of the delivery list to the end of the delivery list. After that, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S301.

[0098] In step S309, the relay device 27 causes the display device 28 to display an input image representing the delivery information at the beginning of the delivery list. If the input image is already displayed, the display device 28 continues to display the input image, for example. If another input image is already displayed, the display device 28 switches the display of the input image, for example. After that, the relay device 27 proceeds to step S301.

[0099] In building 2, the mobile unit 17 captures the input image displayed on the display device 28 using the mobile camera 18. The mobile unit 17 transmits the input image captured by the mobile camera 18 to the delivery management device 23, for example, via a communication network 16. In the delivery management device 23, the reception unit 24 accepts delivery information input by extracting information from the input image. The command unit 25 identifies the delivery box 10 containing the package 4 and the delivery destination 8 of the package 4 based on the delivery information of the package 4 received by the reception unit 24. Based on the delivery information, the command unit 25 outputs a delivery command to one of the mobile units 17. Upon receiving the delivery command from the command unit 25, the mobile unit 17 connects with the identified delivery box 10 at the entrance area 7 based on the delivery command. The mobile unit 17 begins the delivery of the package 4 contained in the delivery box 10.

[0100] As described above, the delivery system 1 according to Embodiment 3 includes a relay device 27. The relay device 27 receives delivery information for a package 4 from a delivery person 11 who places the package 4 in one of the delivery boxes 10. The relay device 27 inputs the received delivery information into the reception unit 24 of the delivery management device 23. Furthermore, the relay device 27 reads an input image representing the delivery information of the package 4 displayed on the delivery terminal 12 held by the delivery person 11, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5. The relay device 27 inputs the information extracted from the input image as the delivery information of the package 4 to the reception unit 24.

[0101] With this configuration, even if the mobile body 17 is not present in the entrance area 7 of the target area 5, the delivery person 11 can complete the delivery to building 2 by inputting delivery information through a stationary camera. This allows the delivery person 11 to deliver packages 4 more efficiently.

[0102] The delivery system 1 also includes a display device 28. The display device 28 displays an input image representing the delivery information of the package 4 received by the relay device 27. The receiving unit 24 reads the input image displayed on the display device 28 through a mobile camera 18 installed on the mobile body 17. The receiving unit 24 accepts the input of delivery information by extracting information from the input image.

[0103] With this configuration, delivery information is input from the relay device 27 to the reception unit 24 via an input image. For example, even if the delivery terminal 12 and the relay device 27 cannot access the delivery management device 23 via the communication network 16, delivery information can still be input to the delivery system 1 through the display of the input image. This reduces the likelihood of malfunctions caused by communication with the delivery management device 23. The functions of the delivery management device 23, such as the reception unit 24 and the command unit 25, may also be installed in the mobile unit 17 itself. This reduces the use of information communication via the communication network 16, thus reducing the likelihood of malfunctions caused by communication.

[0104] Furthermore, when the relay device 27 receives input of multiple delivery information items, it inputs each of these delivery information items one by one into the reception unit 24.

[0105] The relay device 27, for example, displays the input images one by one on the display device 28, thereby inputting delivery information to the reception unit 24 one by one. With this configuration, the delivery order of packages 4 is managed by the relay device 27. This makes it less likely for problems such as congestion of mobile bodies 17 to occur, for example, when multiple mobile bodies 17 try to connect with the delivery box 10 at the same time.

[0106] Furthermore, the relay device 27 acquires information on whether the delivery destination 8 can receive the package. The relay device 27 prioritizes inputting the delivery information of packages 4 delivered to delivery destination 8 that can receive the package into the receiving unit 24, over the delivery information of packages 4 delivered to delivery destination 8 that cannot receive the package.

[0107] The relay device 27, for example, prioritizes displaying the delivery information of packages 4 destined for delivery destinations 8 that are available for receipt on the display device 28, and inputs this delivery information to the reception unit 24 with priority. With this configuration, packages 4 that are more likely to be received are delivered with higher priority, thereby increasing the efficiency of deliveries within the building 2. The relay device 27 may also set the priority of delivery information based on other information such as the availability information. The relay device 27 may also set the priority of delivery information based on information such as attributes included in the delivery information. The relay device 27 may, for example, prioritize packages 4 such as refrigerated or frozen goods over other packages 4. In this case, the delivery box 10 may be equipped with a cooling function or a refrigeration function.

[0108] Furthermore, the input of delivery information from the relay device 27 to the reception unit 24 may be performed without using input images. The relay device 27 may, for example, input the delivery information received from the delivery terminal 12 to the reception unit 24 directly or indirectly via a communication network 16, etc., through wired communication or wireless communication.

[0109] To summarize the above explanation, the possible configurations of the technology relating to this disclosure include the configurations listed below as appendices. (Note 1) A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. Prepare a delivery system. (Note 2) The delivery information of the package received by the reception department includes information that identifies the delivery box in which the package is contained from among the multiple delivery boxes. The command unit, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, identifies the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes, and instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box to the destination of the package, after combining it with the identified delivery box. The delivery system described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The reception unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and accepts the input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. The delivery system described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2. (Note 4) The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area. The delivery system described in Appendix 3. (Note 5) The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal through a camera installed on the mobile unit. The delivery system described in Appendix 3. (Note 6) A relay unit receives delivery information for a package from a delivery person who places the package in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, and inputs the received delivery information into the reception unit. A delivery system as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2, comprising the above. (Note 7) The relay unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and inputs the information extracted from the input image into the reception unit as the delivery information of the package. The delivery system described in Appendix 6. (Note 8) A display device that displays an input image representing the delivery information of a package received by the relay unit. Equipped with, The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the display device through a camera provided on the mobile body, and accepts delivery information input by extracting information from the input image. The delivery system described in Appendix 7. (Note 9) When the relay unit receives input of multiple delivery information items, it inputs each of these delivery information items into the reception unit. The delivery system described in Appendix 7 or Appendix 8. (Note 10) The relay unit obtains information on whether the recipient can receive the package, and prioritizes inputting the delivery information of packages delivered to recipients who can receive the package over the delivery information of packages delivered to recipients who cannot receive the package, into the reception unit. The delivery system described in Appendix 9. (Note 11) The aforementioned target area is a controlled area where the entry and exit of people are managed. The aforementioned multiple delivery boxes are located outside the target area. The command unit, when a person is in the entrance area, instructs the mobile body to wait before entering or leaving the target area. The delivery system described in any one of the appendices 1 through 10. (Note 12) The aforementioned plurality of delivery boxes include combinations of delivery boxes with different sizes of packages they can accommodate. The delivery system described in any one of the appendices 1 through 11. (Note 13) A storage unit that stores a delivery history representing the history of transporting the package to its destination by the mobile unit connected to the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes. A delivery system comprising any one of the features described in Appendix 1 to Appendix 12. (Note 14) A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management device applied to deliveries using this method. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. A delivery management device equipped with the following features. (Note 15) A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management method applied to deliveries using this method. Computers The system accepts input of delivery information, including the destination information of packages placed in any of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, Based on the delivery information of the received package, the mobile unit is instructed to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. A delivery management method to implement. (Note 16) A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management program applied to deliveries using this method. On the computer, The system accepts input of delivery information, including the destination information of packages placed in any of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, Based on the delivery information of the received package, the mobile unit is instructed to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. A delivery management program that executes the delivery management process. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 1 Delivery system, 2 Building, 3 Entrance door, 4 Package, 5 Target area, 6 Entrance door, 7 Entrance area, 8 Delivery destination, 9 User, 10 Delivery box, 11 Delivery person, 12 Delivery terminal, 13 Operation unit, 14 Display unit, 15 Generation unit, 16 Communication network, 17 Mobile unit, 18 Mobile unit camera, 19 Mobile unit control unit, 20 Surveillance camera, 21 Intercom, 22 Intercom camera, 23 Delivery management device, 24 Reception unit, 25 Command unit, 26 Storage unit, 27 Relay device, 28 Display device, 100a Processor, 100b Memory, 200 Dedicated hardware

Claims

1. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. Equipped with, The reception unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and accepts the input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. Delivery system.

2. The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area. The delivery system according to claim 1.

3. The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the delivery terminal through a camera installed on the mobile unit. The delivery system according to claim 1.

4. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. A relay unit that receives delivery information for a package from a delivery person who places the package in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, and inputs the received delivery information for the package into the reception unit, Equipped with, The relay unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and inputs the information extracted from the input image into the reception unit as the delivery information of the package. Delivery system.

5. A display device that displays an input image representing the delivery information of a package received by the relay unit. Equipped with, The reception unit reads the input image displayed on the display device through a camera provided on the mobile body, and accepts delivery information input by extracting information from the input image. The delivery system according to claim 4.

6. When the relay unit receives input of multiple delivery information items, it inputs each of the multiple delivery information items into the reception unit. The delivery system according to claim 4.

7. The relay unit obtains information on whether the recipient can receive the package, and prioritizes inputting the delivery information of packages delivered to recipients who can receive the package over the delivery information of packages delivered to recipients who cannot receive the package, into the reception unit. The delivery system according to claim 6.

8. The delivery information of the package received by the reception department includes information that identifies the delivery box in which the package is contained from among the multiple delivery boxes. The command unit, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, identifies the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes, and instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box to the destination of the package, after combining it with the identified delivery box. A delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The aforementioned target area is a controlled area where the entry and exit of people are managed. The aforementioned multiple delivery boxes are located outside the target area. The command unit, when a person is in the entrance area, instructs the mobile body to wait before entering or leaving the target area. A delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. The aforementioned plurality of delivery boxes include combinations of delivery boxes with different sizes of packages they can accommodate. A delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. A storage unit that stores a delivery history representing the history of transporting the package to its destination by the mobile unit connected to the delivery box containing the package from among the plurality of delivery boxes. A delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising:

12. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management device applied to deliveries using this method. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. Equipped with, The reception unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, and accepts the input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. Delivery management device.

13. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management device applied to deliveries using this method. A reception unit that receives input of delivery information, including information about the delivery destination of a package placed in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, A command unit instructs the mobile unit to transport the delivery box containing the package to the destination of the package, based on the delivery information of the package received by the reception unit, and to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes. A relay unit that receives delivery information for a package from a delivery person who places the package in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes, and inputs the received delivery information for the package into the reception unit, Equipped with, The relay unit reads an input image representing the delivery information of a package displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places the package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and inputs the information extracted from the input image into the reception unit as the delivery information of the package. Delivery management device.

14. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management method applied to deliveries using this method. Computers The delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places a package in one of the aforementioned multiple delivery boxes reads an input image representing delivery information, including the destination information of the package, and accepts input of the package's delivery information by extracting information from the input image. Based on the delivery information of the received package, the mobile unit is instructed to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. A delivery management method to implement.

15. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management method applied to deliveries using this method. Computers The system reads an input image, which is displayed on a delivery terminal held by a delivery person who places a package in one of the multiple delivery boxes, through a fixed camera installed in the entrance area, and which includes information about the delivery destination of the package. By extracting information from the input image, the system accepts input of the delivery information for the package. Based on the delivery information of the received package, the mobile unit is instructed to combine the delivery box containing the package with the delivery box containing the package from among the multiple delivery boxes and transport the delivery box to the destination of the package. A delivery management method to implement.

16. A mobile body that moves within a building, including the area of ​​the target within the building, and Multiple delivery boxes are arranged in the entrance area of ​​the target area, contain packages to be delivered to destinations within the target area, and are capable of being connected to and separated from the mobile body. This is a delivery management program applied to deliveries using this method. On the computer, Delivery management method according to claim 14 or claim 15 A delivery management program that executes the delivery management process.

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