Mechanical parking system operation training management system and mechanical parking system operation training program

Abstract

To provide a handling training management system capable of managing an execution situation of handling training by executing handling training for a mechanical parking facility by using a terminal device and application software.SOLUTION: A handling treatment management system for a mechanical parking facility includes: information of a user who uses a mechanical parking facility; database for managing presence / absence of execution completion of handling training for the mechanical parking facility by the user; and a control device connected so as to communicate with application software which executes handling training by a terminal device via a communication network. The control device communicates information showing presence / absence of execution completion of handling training by the user between itself and the application software, and stores the execution completion of handling training by associating it with the information of the user of the database.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a system for managing handling training for mechanical parking equipment and a handling training program for mechanical parking equipment. [Background Art]

[0002] When using mechanical parking equipment, only handlers who have received education and training on operation methods and handling precautions can operate the equipment. This is based on the requirement stated in the "Guidelines for Safety Measures of Mechanical Parking Lots" issued by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism that handlers (persons who handle mechanical parking equipment) must complete education and training for parking devices (mechanical parking equipment) and obtain approval from the manager (the person in charge of operating and managing parking equipment) before they are allowed to operate. For this reason, conventionally, for mechanical parking equipment, the management company (manager) side manages whether users who have signed a contract have received education and training (collectively referred to as "handling training" in this specification and the claims).

[0003] As a prior art of this type, for example, there is one in which parking lot users receive education on driving operation and handling through an interactive method on a driving operation panel (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this prior art, matters related to driving operation and handling are displayed on the display of the driving operation panel, and when the user touches the confirmation items with a finger or the like, safety confirmation is sequentially proceeded to the next item. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-182195 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0005] However, in the above prior art, while a first-time user is receiving instruction on how to use the control panel, other users who have already received instruction cannot use the control panel. Therefore, with the above method, other users have to wait while a first-time user is receiving instruction, resulting in long waiting times and reduced convenience.

[0006] Furthermore, since each user contract for a mechanical parking system is assigned a single PIN code for each parking space (including "parking spaces" in various mechanical parking systems), even if multiple people use the same parking space, they are managed under the same PIN code. Therefore, when providing training on how to use the system via the control panel, it is difficult for the administrator to keep track of whether each of the multiple users has completed the training.

[0007] Therefore, the purpose of this application is to provide a mechanical parking equipment handling training management system and handling training program that can manage the status of handling training by conducting training on the handling of mechanical parking equipment using application software on a terminal device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the handling instruction management system for mechanical parking equipment according to this application comprises: information of users of the mechanical parking equipment; a database that manages whether or not the user has completed the handling instruction for the mechanical parking equipment; and a control device that is communicably connected via a communication network to application software that performs the handling instruction on a terminal device. The control device is configured to communicate information with the application software indicating whether or not the user has completed the handling instruction, and to record the completion of the handling instruction in association with the user information in the database. In this specification and the claims, "terminal device" includes "personal computer," "tablet terminal," "mobile terminal," "smartphone," etc. Also, "user" includes the contract holder.

[0009] This configuration allows users to conduct training on the operation of mechanical parking equipment at any time using application software via a terminal device. Furthermore, whether or not a user has completed the training is recorded in association with the user's information in the database, allowing for proper management of the user's training completion status.

[0010] Furthermore, the control device may be configured to check the database to see if the user has completed their training when the user uses the mechanical parking equipment. If the training is complete, it may permit the user to operate the mechanical parking equipment; if it is not complete, it may prompt the user to complete the training. With this configuration, the control device checks whether the user has completed their training before the user operates the mechanical parking equipment. If the training is complete, the user is permitted to operate the mechanical parking equipment; if it is not complete, the user is prompted to complete the training.

[0011] Furthermore, the users may include primary and secondary users who use the same parking space, and the control device may be configured to notify the primary user to choose whether or not to allow the secondary user to register as a member when it detects the secondary user starting member registration or requesting registration via the application software after the primary user has registered as a member using the application software. With this configuration, when multiple users use the same parking space, secondary users cannot register as members without the permission of the primary user, thus preventing registration by persons not authorized by the primary user.

[0012] Furthermore, the control device may be configured to issue different member IDs to the primary user and the secondary user. With this configuration, when multiple users use the same parking space, the status of each user's training can be managed individually.

[0013] Furthermore, the application software may be configured to be installed on the terminal device to conduct the training. With this configuration, users can install the application software on the terminal device and conduct training using the application software on the terminal device at any time they wish.

[0014] Furthermore, the application software may be configured to conduct the instructional training via the communication network from the terminal device. With this configuration, users can conduct the instructional training using the application software via the communication network from the terminal device at any time they wish.

[0015] Furthermore, the database may be provided in the mechanical parking equipment and a server connected to the mechanical parking equipment via a communication network, and the control device may be configured to monitor the information recorded in the database of the mechanical parking equipment and the information recorded in the database of the server, and to synchronize the information in the other with the new information when one of the pieces of information is updated. With this configuration, it is possible to manage whether or not the training has been completed based on the information in the database provided in the mechanical parking equipment or the database provided in the server connected via the communication network. In addition, when the information in the database provided in the mechanical parking equipment or the information in the database provided in the server is updated, the data in the other is synchronized, so that the information in each database is always up-to-date.

[0016] On the other hand, the training program for handling mechanical parking equipment relating to this application is a program that provides training on the handling of mechanical parking equipment to users of the mechanical parking equipment using a terminal device, and causes a computer to provide the user with the training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment, to determine the completion of the training based on input information from the user regarding the content of the training, and to output the completion of the training to a database linked to the user's member ID. In this specification and the claims, "computer" may include not only computers such as "servers," but also "terminal devices" such as "personal computers," "tablet terminals," "mobile terminals," and "smartphones." Furthermore, the computer on which the program is executed may be multiple computers.

[0017] This configuration allows for the provision of instructional materials to users based on information about the mechanical parking system, using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the system can determine the completion of the instruction based on the user's input regarding the instructional material, and output this completion to a database linked to the user's member ID. Thus, the completion of user instructional materials can be managed in the database.

[0018] Furthermore, the program provides a terminal device for providing instruction on how to use a mechanical parking system to users of the mechanical parking system, and involves a computer providing the user with instruction using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking system; when the user uses the program, the computer obtains information about the target parking space of the target parking system that has been set in advance for the user, and determines whether or not to perform the instruction based on the completion status of the instruction linked to the member ID corresponding to the target parking space; if it is determined that the instruction should be performed, the computer provides the user with the content of the instruction, determines the completion of the instruction based on the input information from the user regarding the content of the instruction, and outputs the completion of the instruction to the database linked to the user's member ID.

[0019] This configuration allows for the provision of instructional materials to users based on information about the mechanical parking system, using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof. When a user uses the program on a terminal device, the system retrieves information about the target parking space of the target parking system, which has been pre-configured for the user. Based on the completion status of instructional materials linked to the member ID corresponding to the target parking space, the system can determine whether or not to perform the instructional materials. If it is determined that instructional materials should be performed, the content of the instructional materials is provided to the user. The completion of the instructional materials is determined based on the user's input information regarding the content of the instructional materials, and the completion status is output to the database linked to the user's member ID. Thus, the completion of user instructional materials can be managed in the database.

[0020] Furthermore, the program provides a terminal device for providing instruction on how to use a mechanical parking system to users of the mechanical parking system, and involves a computer providing the user with instruction using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking system; when the user uses the program, the computer obtains information about the target parking space of the target parking system that has been set in advance for the user, and determines whether to issue the member ID and perform the instruction based on whether or not a member ID corresponding to the target parking space has been issued; if it is determined that the instruction should be performed, the computer issues the member ID to the user and provides the content of the instruction; the computer determines the completion of the instruction based on the input information from the user regarding the content of the instruction; and outputs the completion of the instruction to the database, linked to the user's member ID.

[0021] This configuration allows the system to provide users with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment. When a user uses the program on a terminal device, the system can obtain information about the target parking space of the target parking equipment that has been pre-configured for the user, and determine whether to issue a member ID and perform instructional training based on whether a member ID corresponding to the target parking space has already been issued. If it is determined that a member ID should be issued and instructional training performed, the system will issue a member ID to the user and provide the instructional training content. The system can then determine the completion of the instructional training based on the user's input information regarding the instructional training content, and output the completion of the instructional training to the database, linked to the user's member ID. Thus, the completion of user instructional training can be managed in the database.

[0022] Furthermore, the program provides a terminal device with instructions on how to use a mechanical parking system to users of the mechanical parking system, and involves a computer providing the user with instructions using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking system; when the user uses the program, the computer obtains the identifier of the terminal device or the unique identifier of the terminal device, which was automatically set during the installation of the program, determines whether a member ID corresponding to either of the identifiers has been issued, generates and issues a member ID if it has not been issued, and outputs the member ID to a database in association with the identifier of the terminal device or the unique identifier of the terminal device; provides the user with the content of the instructions on how to use the system to the user who has been issued the member ID, determines the completion of the instructions on how to use the system based on the user's input information regarding the content of the instructions on how to use the system, and outputs the completion of the instructions on how to use the system to a database linked to the user's member ID.

[0023] This configuration allows the system to provide users with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment. When a user uses the program on a terminal device, the system can obtain the terminal device identifier or unique identifier that was automatically set during program installation, and determine whether a member ID corresponding to either identifier has already been issued. If a member ID has not been issued, the system can generate and issue a member ID, and output the member ID to the database in association with the terminal device identifier or unique identifier. The system can then provide the instructional training content to users who have been issued a member ID, determine the completion of the training based on the user's input information regarding the training content, and output the completion of the training to the database linked to the user's member ID. Thus, the completion of user instructional training can be managed in the database.

[0024] Furthermore, when generating and issuing a new said member ID for a target parking room of a target parking facility for which at least one said member ID has already been issued, the computer may be caused to notify the user of the already issued said member ID as to whether they approve the issuance of the new said member ID. With this configuration, when a new member ID is to be issued for a target parking room that already has an issued member ID, the user of the already issued member ID is notified as to whether they approve the issuance of the new member ID, thereby preventing member registration for a person who is not permitted by the user holding the already issued member ID.

[0025] Furthermore, the computer may be caused to issue the new said member ID after the user of the already issued said member ID approves the issuance of the new said member ID based on the notification. With this configuration, the new member ID is issued with the approval of the user holding the already issued member ID, thereby making it possible to restrict the users who use the same parking room.

Effects of the Invention

[0026] According to the present application, when a user conducts handling training for mechanical parking equipment using application software on a terminal device, the handling training can be conducted at any timing and the implementation status of the handling training can be managed.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0027] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an elevator-type parking facility provided with the handling training management system of the present application. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a handling training management system according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flow diagram showing the overall flow in a handling training management system according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flow chart showing an example of items related to the implementation of handling training in the flow diagram shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the screen of a terminal device during training, as shown in the flowchart in Figure 4. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the handling instruction management system in the case where multiple users share the same parking space, as shown in Figure 3. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the driver training management system shown in Figure 3, specifically for cases where multiple users share the same parking space and a user who has not completed driver training needs to perform the training using the driver's control panel. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of flags used to determine the completion of training and data updates in the database for elevator-type parking equipment in the training management system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of flags used in the server database of the training management system shown in Figure 1 to determine the completion of training, data updates, etc. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the training program covered by this application. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a training program for handling procedures, which is a different example from the training program shown in Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart of a training program for handling procedures, which is a different example from the training program shown in Figure 11. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a flowchart of a training program for handling procedures, which is a different example from the training program shown in Figure 12. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart of a training program, which is a different example from the training program shown in Figure 13. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] Hereinafter, an embodiment of this application will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiment, an elevator-type parking system 10 will be described as an example of a mechanical parking system. In the following embodiment, a mobile terminal (for example, a smartphone) will be described as an example of a terminal device 50. The terminal device 50 may also be a personal computer, a tablet, etc. In the following embodiment, an example will be described in which the elevator-type parking system 10 is equipped with a database 23, and a server 40 connected via a wireless communication network 30 is also equipped with a database 41.

[0029] (Configuration of elevator-type parking equipment (mechanical parking equipment)) Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an elevator-type parking facility 10 equipped with a handling instruction management system 1. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the handling instruction management system 1 according to one embodiment.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the handling education management system 1 of this embodiment comprises an elevator-type parking facility 10, a server 40 and a terminal device 50 connected to the elevator-type parking facility 10 via a communication network 30 capable of wireless communication 31.

[0031] The elevator-type parking facility 10 has a parking tower 11 for storing automobiles V. The parking tower 11 has entrance / exit doors 12 on the entrance / exit floors, and an operation panel 13 is provided on the side of the entrance / exit doors 12. The parking tower 11 has multiple parking spaces 14 arranged vertically inside. A control device 20 is also provided inside the parking tower 11.

[0032] The control device 20 has a computer 22 having a processor, volatile memory, and non-volatile memory. The control device 20 has a database 23 for recording information about users. The control device 20 has a communication unit 21 that communicates with the terminal device 50 via a communication network 30. The computer 22 is realized when the processor performs calculations using volatile memory based on a program stored in non-volatile memory. The computer 22 may also have a configuration that includes the database 23 and the communication unit 21.

[0033] The communication network 30 includes not only wirelessly connected communication networks 30 but also wired communication networks 30. The communication network 30 can be, for example, the Internet. The server 40 may be configured to include a database 41. The server 40 can be a computer. The server 40 may also have the functions of the control device 20. The terminal device 50 may be able to communicate with the control device 20 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 via short-range wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth®), and may be able to connect to the communication network 30 via the elevator-type parking equipment 10 to communicate with the server 40 31.

[0034] The terminal device 50 is a device capable of running application software (a "program" executed by a computer; hereinafter also simply referred to as "application software") used for conducting training. The application software may be a native application installed and run on the terminal device 50, or a web application executed from the terminal device 50 via the communication network 30. In this embodiment, the application software will be described using a native application downloaded to the terminal device 50 and installed and run on the terminal device 50 as an example. An example of application software (program) will be described at the end of this embodiment.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, in addition to the function of controlling each component of the elevator-type parking system 10, the control device 20 includes a communication unit 21 that communicates 31 with the terminal device 50 via a communication network 30, a computer 22 that sends and receives information to and from the terminal device 50, and a database 23 that records whether or not the training has been completed. The control device 20 also communicates 31 with the server 40 via the communication unit 21. The communication unit 21 and the database 23 may be included in the computer 22.

[0036] (Training and Management System) Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the overall flow of the handling education management system 1 according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the user (contractor) enters into a usage contract for a parking space 14 in a specific elevator-type parking facility 10. Upon entering into a usage contract, the contractor is given a contractor identification means corresponding to the parking space 14 in the target elevator-type parking facility 10. If there are multiple parking facility users under the same contractor, a member ID is assigned to identify each individual user. As the contractor identification means, known methods such as a PIN entered during entry and exit operations or an IC card can be used. When there are multiple parking facility users under the same PIN (contractor), if an IC card is issued for each user, individual management becomes possible by associating the member ID with the card serial number. Furthermore, to prevent misidentification of the education status due to mix-ups of IC cards, it is possible to select different patterns or colors that can be distinguished for each card serial number. In this embodiment, a PIN is issued as the contractor identification means. The application software for handling education in this embodiment is a native application that is downloaded and installed on the terminal device 50. Furthermore, the contract documents submitted by the user at the time of the user agreement shall include a document containing the equipment management number of a specific elevator-type parking facility 10 and a two-dimensional code (e.g., QR code (registered trademark)) or URL for downloading application software that can provide training on how to use that elevator-type parking facility 10. The application software may be a dedicated application software pre-configured to match the specifications of the specific elevator-type parking facility 10 contracted by the user, or it may be a general-purpose application software configured to support multiple specifications and capable of changing to match the specifications of a specific elevator-type parking facility 10 depending on the equipment management number entered during installation or member registration.If the subscriber identification means is an IC card, after launching the installed general-purpose application software, the terminal device 50's reader may read the equipment management number and PIN assigned at the time of contract recorded on the IC card, and select from several pre-prepared training contents so that training on how to use the specific elevator-type parking equipment 10 can be provided. In this embodiment, the case of dedicated application software will be described.

[0037] As shown in the diagram, the process proceeds as follows according to the training management system 1. The following example is just one example, and this application is not limited to this example.

[0038] First, the user downloads the dedicated application software for instructional training to the terminal device 50 using a document containing a QR code or URL included in the contract documents (S1). The application software is downloaded to the terminal device 50 via the communication network 30 by using the QR code or accessing the URL on the terminal device 50 and submitting a download request. If the user's contract is an electronic contract, the URL for downloading the dedicated application software may be displayed on the contract screen or the URL may be sent to the terminal device 50 via email. Alternatively, the QR code for downloading the application software may be posted on a shared bulletin board accessible to residents of an apartment building, etc., or near the driver's control panel 13 of the parking equipment 10, and the application software may be downloaded using that QR code.

[0039] Next, when the user launches the application software on the terminal device 50 (S2), the member registration screen is displayed. On the member registration screen, the user enters the PIN assigned at the time of contract and the contracted parking space number (user number), etc. If the application software is the general-purpose application mentioned above, the user also enters the equipment management number of the elevator-type parking facility 10. Note that the equipment management number of the contracted elevator-type parking facility 10 may be the property name of the elevator-type parking facility 10, etc. By entering the necessary information on the member registration screen, a member ID is assigned and member registration is completed (S3). Once a member ID is assigned, the application software becomes available for use.

[0040] Furthermore, the assignment of a member ID upon registration may be done independently of the application software execution by scanning a QR code posted on a shared bulletin board or parking equipment. In this case, after the member ID is assigned, the member registration is completed by entering the necessary information, and the application software becomes available. The registered member information is stored in a database 23 built into the control device 20 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10. The information stored in the database 23 includes the PIN and contracted parking space number (user number) recorded at the time of the usage contract, as well as the equipment management number, member ID, and whether or not the training for operation has been completed. In addition, at the time of the usage contract, member IDs may be assigned in advance according to the number of people using the same parking space. In this case, a member ID designated as the primary user may be decided in advance. In this case, instead of entering the PIN and contracted parking space number (user number), the user should be required to enter the member ID.

[0041] Next, once member registration is complete, or when the application software is launched again after member registration is complete, the user will be redirected to the training screen (S4). The training screen can be configured to notify the user that the elevator-type parking facility 10 cannot be used until the training is completed. Even if the training is not completed immediately and the user logs in later, the user will still be redirected to the training screen if the training is incomplete.

[0042] Next, on the instruction screen, training on operation methods and safety is conducted through interactive methods and video-based instruction (S5). A detailed example of this instruction screen will be described later.

[0043] Next, once the user training is complete (S6), the application software and the control device 20 communicate information regarding whether the user has completed the training, and this is registered as completed in the database 23 built into the control device 20 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 (S7). The flag (marker) indicating completion of the user training is recorded in association with the user information recorded in the database 23, so that the completion status of the user's training can be appropriately managed.

[0044] Then, a flag indicating completion of the training is registered in the database 23, associated with the member ID, PIN, parking space number (user number), and equipment management number, making it possible to use the contracted elevator-type parking facility 10 (S8). In other words, after the training for the elevator-type parking facility 10 is completed, the entrance / exit door 12 opens and the user can park their car V. Furthermore, once the completion of the training is recorded in the database 23, it becomes possible to park and retrieve the car V into the contracted elevator-type parking facility 10 without further training.

[0045] In this way, by downloading application software for providing instruction to the terminal device 50, and entering the PIN code and parking space number (user number) assigned at the time of contracting the parking facilities, as well as the facility management number of the contracted elevator-type parking facilities 10, each user is assigned a member ID. This makes it possible to manage the completion status of instruction for each user who has been assigned a member ID.

[0046] Furthermore, by conducting training using application software on the terminal device 50, users can take training using the application software at any time before using the elevator-type parking equipment 10. In addition, unlike training on the control panel 13, using the application software allows users to review the operating procedures at any time if they forget them. In other words, the application software can be equipped with functions such as the ability for users who have registered a flag indicating that training has been completed to choose to take training again, a function to recall specific training steps, and a function to display the instruction manual.

[0047] Furthermore, by providing instruction via the terminal device 50, users can utilize the parking facilities 10 without needing instruction from the manager or via the driver control panel 13, and the status of individual users' operational training can be managed on the parking facilities' database 23 or server 40.

[0048] In the above embodiment, the application software was described as a native application, but the application software used for training may be a web application that runs on the server 40, a separate application server, or the control device 20.

[0049] (An example of training in handling procedures) Figure 4 is a flowchart showing examples of items related to the implementation of training in the flowchart shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the screen of the terminal device 50 during the implementation of training in the flowchart shown in Figure 4. The content of training for the elevator-type parking equipment 10 (mechanical parking equipment) includes content related to vehicle storage, safety guidelines, and methods for entering and exiting the parking area. The following examples are just examples, and this application is not limited to these examples.

[0050] As an example of the training content shown in Figure 4, first, it is confirmed whether the vehicle specifications can be understood (S11). Vehicle specifications include, for example, the height and weight of the automobile V that can be accommodated in the parking space 14. The specifications corresponding to the target parking facility 10 are displayed on the screen of the terminal device 50, and it is confirmed whether the user understands those specifications.

[0051] Next, it is confirmed whether the user understands the safety precautions (S12). These precautions can be displayed on the screen 51 of the terminal device 50, for example, as shown in Figure 5. In this example, the following are displayed on the screen 51: "Unload luggage outside," "Close the entrance / exit doors after entering or exiting," "Do not accelerate or brake suddenly," and "Do not let children play nearby." At the bottom, there are two selection buttons: "I understand" 52 and "I do not understand" 53. The user can check the precautions displayed on the screen 51 and proceed by pressing either the "I understand" button 52 or the "I do not understand" button 53.

[0052] Next, it is checked whether the user understands how to check the emergency button (S13), and whether they understand how to check the emergency door (S14). For example, it is checked whether the user understands the location of the emergency button and the location of the emergency door. Here again, the location of the emergency button and the location of the emergency door corresponding to the target parking equipment 10 can be displayed on the screen of the terminal device 50, and the same applies to each of the other items.

[0053] Next, you will be asked if you understand how to check for passengers (S15), and if you understand how to check for luggage (S16). For example, you will be asked if you understand how to check that there are no passengers or luggage on the loading / unloading floor.

[0054] Next, they will be checked to see if they understand the procedure for entering and exiting the parking area after the entrance / exit door is opened (S17), if they understand the procedure for checking the unoccupied state of the vehicle and parking area after entering the parking area (S18), and if they understand the procedure for checking the exit method (S19). For example, they will be checked to see if they understand the operation during entry and exit, the unoccupied check after entry and exit, and the operation after exiting the parking area.

[0055] In addition, for each of the training sessions described in S11 to S19 above, the user will press either the "I understand" button 52 or the "I don't understand" button 53, as shown in Figure 5. If the user does not understand, pressing the "I don't understand" button 53 will display the relevant page of the instruction manual on the terminal device 50 screen, or display a screen for contacting the management company (S20). For example, in the case of the instruction manual, the screen can display the relevant section of the instruction manual corresponding to the displayed content. In the case of the management company's inquiry screen, the user can, for example, be connected to the customer center to receive an explanation.

[0056] (Example of a case where multiple people use the same parking space) Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the management of handling instruction when multiple users use the same parking space, as shown in Figure 3 for the handling instruction management system 1. When multiple users use the same parking space, handling instruction can be conducted as follows, and the status of handling instruction completion for each user can be managed. For example, if the person who has a contract for the elevator-type parking facility 10 is the primary user, and the user who uses the same parking space 14 with the same PIN is the secondary user, then even if the PIN is the same, different member IDs can be issued to manage the handling instruction completion status for both the primary and secondary users.

[0057] As shown in the diagram, a user of the parking facilities downloads application software to the terminal device 50 (S31). Then, the user launches the application software on the terminal device 50 (S32). The user registers as a member using the PIN provided at the time of contract on the member registration screen of the application software (S33).

[0058] If this membership registration is the second or subsequent registration for the same PIN, the user will be notified that they will be registered as a secondary user and that permission from the primary user is required (S34). When the application software detects that the secondary user has started membership registration or made a registration request, the application software will notify the primary user via email or other means whether or not to allow the secondary user to register. The permission request may also be made by the application software installed on the primary user's terminal device 50 displaying a notification message on the terminal device. The primary user who receives the permission request can access the URL provided in the email and enter permission, launch the application software installed on their terminal device 50 and perform the prescribed operation, or use any other known method. In this example, it is assumed that the primary user has granted permission (S35). The timing of detection of the start of membership registration or registration request operation can be set as appropriate, such as when the application software is launched for the first time on the terminal device 50 from which it was downloaded, when the application software automatically transitions to membership registration, or when membership registration input is started or finished.

[0059] With the permission of the primary user, the secondary user can register as a member (S36). Once the secondary user's registration is complete, the application software transitions to the instruction screen (S37). The secondary user then performs the instruction on the instruction screen of the application software (S38). The execution of the instruction is the same as in the examples shown in Figures 4 and 5 above, so no explanation is provided.

[0060] Once the secondary user's training is completed (S39), the fact that the secondary user has completed the training is registered in the database 23 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 (S40). This makes it possible for the secondary user to use the elevator-type parking equipment 10 (S41).

[0061] Thus, in this embodiment, if a second user (and subsequent users) downloads the application software using the same PIN and attempts to register as a member, a permission request is sent to the primary user. This allows the primary user to refuse registration, for example, if someone other than the contract holder downloads the application software using a QR code posted on a shared bulletin board or near the operation panel 13 of the parking equipment 10 and attempts to register as a member by entering the contract holder's PIN. Once the primary user grants permission for the secondary user to register, a member ID is issued to the secondary user, allowing the secondary user to use the application software for training.

[0062] In this way, even when multiple users use the same parking space 14, each user can download application software for instruction on how to use the parking space to the terminal device 50, and each user can receive instruction on how to use the parking space at any time using the application software.

[0063] Furthermore, since each user is assigned a member ID, it becomes possible to manage the implementation status of training for each user who has been assigned a member ID.

[0064] Regarding the method of distinguishing between primary and secondary users, if a second or subsequent user downloads the application software and registers as a member using the same PIN, the first user can automatically become the primary user. Alternatively, the person who first downloads the application software and registers as a member using a given PIN can be designated as the primary user. Determining whether a user is a second or subsequent user can be done by known means, such as comparing the operation history of the application software stored in the terminal device 50 with the training completion information stored in the database 23, or based on the terminal-specific number of the terminal device 50 obtained through the application. Primary and secondary users may be determined by other methods. Furthermore, the execution rights of the application software functions (e.g., changing registration information) can be set differently for primary and secondary users.

[0065] (Other examples of situations where multiple people use the same parking space) Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of the driver training management system 1 shown in Figure 3, specifically for cases where multiple people use the same parking space and a user who has not completed driver training needs to receive training using the driver control panel 13. This example includes cases where driver training is provided via the driver control panel 13 to a user who cannot use the terminal device 50.

[0066] As shown in the diagram, when a user starts entering or exiting the parking facility 10 (in this example, by entering a PIN) (S51), the user's information is checked in the database 23 (S52). This check determines whether there are multiple member IDs associated with the same PIN (S53).

[0067] If there are multiple member IDs associated with the same PIN, the user performing the loading / unloading operation is prompted to enter the member ID, and the member ID is entered (S54). Here, if an IC card or other device that can identify individual users is used instead of entering a PIN, the member ID may be automatically acquired. This determines whether the member associated with that member ID and PIN has completed the handling training (S55). If the member has completed the handling training, loading / unloading operations become possible (S56). If the member has not completed the handling training, the user is prompted to perform the handling training on the control panel 13, and the handling training is performed on the control panel 13 (S57). For the handling training on the control panel 13, the same items as those displayed on the screen 51 of the terminal device 50 are displayed on the display unit of the control panel 13 (same as Figures 4 and 5). When the handling training on the control panel 13 is completed, information that the handling training has been completed is recorded in the database 23, and loading / unloading operations become possible (S58).

[0068] On the other hand, in determining whether there are multiple member IDs associated with the same PIN (S53), if there are no multiple member IDs associated with the same PIN, it is determined whether the member associated with that member ID and PIN has completed the handling training (S59). If the member has completed the handling training, loading and unloading operations become possible (S60). If the member has not completed the handling training, they are prompted to complete the handling training on the control panel 13, and the handling training is conducted on the control panel 13 (S61). For the handling training conducted on the control panel 13, the same items as those displayed on the screen 51 of the terminal device 50 are displayed on the display unit of the control panel 13 (same as in Figures 4 and 5). Once the handling training conducted on the control panel 13 is completed, information indicating the completion of the handling training is recorded in the database 23, and loading and unloading operations become possible (S58).

[0069] In this example, when a user using the elevator-type parking facility 10 for the first time attempts to enter or exit the facility by entering a PIN into the control panel 13 (including operation using an IC card, remote control, etc.), the flag indicating completion of the training, associated with the PIN and facility management number in the database 23, is referenced. Then, by entering the member ID into the control panel 13, it is determined whether the user has completed or not the training, and those who have not completed the training are prompted to complete it.

[0070] Furthermore, for users without a member ID, since they have not registered a member ID through the application software, a member ID may be issued on the spot and they may be prompted to complete the training. In this case, the user can complete the training using the driver's control panel 13. Upon completion of the training using the driver's control panel 13, the vehicle V can be entered and exited. After the training is completed, data such as a flag indicating completion of the training is saved in the database 23, similar to users who have completed the training using the application software, and subsequent entry and exit will be possible without further training.

[0071] Furthermore, if all member IDs associated with the same PIN have completed the training, this is determined in step S53, and steps S54 and S55 are omitted, allowing all users using that PIN to operate the elevator-type parking equipment 10 to enter and exit the parking lot (S56).

[0072] (Example of database management) Figure 8 shows an example of flags used to determine the completion of training and data updates in the database 23 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 in the training management system 1 shown in Figure 1. Figure 9 shows an example of flags used to determine the completion of training and data updates in the database 41 of the server 40 in the training management system 1 shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the elevator-type parking equipment 10 is equipped with database 23, and the server 40 is also equipped with database 41. In the above embodiment, it was explained that the contents of member registration with a member ID and the completion of training are registered in the database 23 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10, but this may also be registered in the database 41 of the server 40. Furthermore, the database accessed when conducting training or entering / exiting the parking equipment (using the elevator-type parking equipment 10) may be either database 23 or database 41. Database 23 may be accessed when conducting training or entering / exiting the parking equipment, and database 41 may be accessed when the administrator uses or edits this information about users, for example, depending on the purpose. The following describes an example of managing the completion of training in databases 23 and 41, and the synchronization of data between database 23 and database 41. These diagrams show an example where multiple parking spaces 14 with the same equipment management number are under usage contracts.

[0073] In Figures 8 and 9, the "Handling Training Completed" column is a flag where "1" indicates completion and "0" indicates incomplete. The "Update" column indicates the update status of the training completion flag. "1" indicates that handling training has been performed on the driver's control panel 13 and the handling training completion flag has been updated in the database 23 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10, but the database 41 on the server 40 has not been updated. "2" indicates that handling training has been performed on the application software and the handling training completion flag has been updated in the database 41 on the server 40, but the database 23 of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 has not been updated. In the "Primary User / Sub-User" column, "0" indicates the primary user and "1" indicates the sub-user. In this embodiment, information regarding the same member ID with the same PIN is made consistent in databases 23 and 41. In this embodiment, "1" in the "Update" column indicates that when handling training is completed on the driver's control panel 13, the information that handling training has been completed is saved in the database 23 of the parking equipment 10, and an update is needed to synchronize that information with the database 41 on the server 40. In this embodiment, "2" indicates that when the terminal device 50 completes the training, information about the completion of the training is saved in the database 41 of the server 40, and this information is a flag that needs to be updated to synchronize with the database 23 of the parking equipment 10. Note that the data that records the data synchronization flag may be stored as a common file in either database 23 or database 41. In this case, the value "0", "1", or "2" will be recorded in the "Update" column. In addition, separate from Figures 8 and 9, data for managing users (member IDs) can be stored in either or both of databases 23 and 41. Furthermore, unique header information such as a serial number can be added to Figures 8 and 9 and the data for managing users, associated with each parking space (multiple header information may be associated with one parking space). In this way, even if it becomes necessary to change the PIN or member ID corresponding to a parking space, there will be no confusion in the association between the training completion flag and the parking space. In addition, data for primary users corresponding to the total number of parking spaces can be pre-initialized in Figures 8 and 9 and the data for managing users.In this case, a PIN code or member ID corresponding to the parking space may be pre-configured, or users may be required to specify or select both or either of these when registering as a member. Furthermore, although not shown in Figures 8 and 9, if a primary or secondary user is added to either database 23 or 41 (i.e., the number of rows in the diagram increases), either the value "1" or "2" can be recorded in the "Update" column.

[0074] The example of database 23 shown in Figure 8 is an example where three parking spaces 14 have user contracts with PINs "1111", "2222", and "3333". Two member IDs are registered for PIN "1111". The user with member ID "123456" has completed the training and is registered as the primary user. The user with member ID "134686" with the same PIN is registered as a secondary user and has not completed the training. The user with PIN "2222" has also completed the training and is registered as the primary user. This user with PIN "2222" has completed the training on the driver's control panel 13, and the "Training Completed" column is "1", but the "Update" column is also "1", and the database 41 on server 40 has not been updated. The user with PIN code "3333" has not yet completed the training on how to use the control panel 13, and is registered as the primary user. In this way, the status of whether or not training has been completed can be managed for each user.

[0075] The example of database 41 shown in Figure 9 is similar to that in Figure 8, where three parking spaces 14 with PINs "1111", "2222", and "3333" are contracted by users. In this example, the user with member ID "123456" has completed the training, so the training completion status is "1", the training update status is "0", and the information in databases 23 and 41 is synchronized. The user with member ID "134686" has not completed the training, so the training completion status is "0" and the training update status is also "0". Similarly, the user with PIN "2222" has not completed the training using the terminal device 50, so the training completion status is "0" and the training update status is also "0".

[0076] Furthermore, for the user with PIN "3333", the training completion status is "1" because the training has been completed, but the training update status is "2". A training update status of "2" indicates that the training in the application software of terminal device 50 has been completed, and the information in the database 41 of server 40 indicates that the training has been completed, but the information in the database 23 of elevator-type parking equipment 10 does not indicate that the training has been completed. In this case, the information in database 41 and the information in database 23 are synchronized at a predetermined timing, and the training update status flag becomes "0". The predetermined timing can be a fixed time each day, when a predetermined number of training sessions have been completed, when training is completed or a new member ID is issued (each time), or when a synchronization operation is performed by the administrator. Furthermore, if synchronization is performed each time a training course is completed or a new member ID is issued, and synchronization fails due to communication problems or other issues preventing proper access to the database, the training completion update status may be set to "1" or "2," and synchronization may be performed daily at a fixed time for data where the training completion update status is not "0."

[0077] By storing the same information in the database 23 of the elevator-type parking system 10 and the database 41 of the server 40, the operation of the elevator-type parking system 10 can be prevented even if the database 23 of the elevator-type parking system 10 is corrupted or if data communication is impossible due to a malfunction in the communication network 30.

[0078] (Training Program) Figure 10 is a flowchart of an example of a user training program. Figure 11 is a flowchart of a user training program different from the one shown in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a flowchart of a user training program different from the one shown in Figure 11. Figure 13 is a flowchart of a user training program different from the one shown in Figure 12. Figure 14 is a flowchart of a user training program different from the one shown in Figure 13. Below, based on these figures, an example of a user training program that provides user training to users of a mechanical parking system using a terminal device 50 and outputs the results to a database 41 will be described. Note that the following description may include the program content described in the user training management system 1 above. Also, the same reference numerals are used for the components described in the user training management system 1 above, and their explanations are omitted. In addition, "information pre-set for users" and "content of user training" are explained in Figure 10, and their explanations are omitted in other figures.

[0079] The instructional training program shown in Figure 10 allows the computer to provide the user with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment (71). This information about the mechanical parking equipment is information about the target parking equipment that the user has contracted for, and can be pre-installed in the program selected according to the URL used when installing the program on the computer, or can be obtained based on the equipment name, equipment identification information, or user identification information entered by the user during installation or program startup. In other words, it is information about the parking equipment that the user uses based on a contract, etc. The information about the mechanical parking equipment also includes the type of parking equipment, the size of the automobile V that can be parked in the parking space 14, etc. Subsequently, the content of the instructional training is provided to the terminal device 50 used by the user (S72). The content of this instructional training is selected or combined based on information such as the specifications of the vehicles that can be accommodated in the target parking equipment and information on safety precautions. Subsequently, the completion of the instructional training is determined based on the user's input information regarding the content of the instructional training, and the completion of the instructional training is output to the database 41 linked to the user's member ID (S73). According to this training program, it is possible to manage in the database 41 whether each user has completed the training using the terminal device 50. The text, audio, images, and videos used in the training can be stored in a storage device beforehand, acquired via the network, or automatically generated by the program. This is also the same as shown in Figure 11 and subsequent figures.

[0080] The instructional training program shown in Figure 11 allows the computer to provide users with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment (S81). When a user uses the program, the computer determines whether or not to perform the instructional training based on information about the completion status of the instructional training linked to the member ID corresponding to the parking space (S82). If it is determined that the instructional training should be performed, the computer provides the content of the instructional training to the terminal device 50 used by the user (S83). Subsequently, the computer determines whether the instructional training has been completed based on the input information from the user regarding the content of the instructional training, and outputs the completion of the instructional training to the database, linked to the user's member ID (S84). This instructional training program also allows the database 41 to manage whether each user has performed and completed the instructional training using the terminal device 50.

[0081] The instructional training program shown in Figure 12 allows the computer to provide users with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment (S91). When a user uses the program, the computer determines whether to issue a member ID and perform instructional training based on information about whether a member ID corresponding to the target parking space has already been issued (S92). If it is determined that a member ID should be issued, the member ID is issued (S93). If it is determined that instructional training should be performed, the instructional training content is provided to the terminal device 50 used by the user (S94). Subsequently, the completion of the instructional training is determined based on the input information of the user regarding the content of the instructional training, and the completion of the instructional training is output to the database, linked to the user's member ID (S95). This instructional training program also allows the database 41 to manage whether each user has completed instructional training using the terminal device 50.

[0082] The instructional training program shown in Figure 13 allows the computer to provide users with instructional training using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment (S101). When a user uses the program, the computer obtains the identifier of the terminal device 50, which was automatically set during program installation, or the unique identifier of the terminal device 50, and determines whether a member ID corresponding to either identifier has been issued (S102). If it has not been issued, the computer then generates and issues a member ID and outputs it to the database 41 in association with the identifier of the terminal device 50 or the unique identifier of the terminal device 50 (S103). In addition, information about parking spaces, etc., obtained by the method shown in other embodiments may also be output in association with the generated member ID. The computer then provides the content of the instructional training to the terminal device 50 used by the user who has been issued a member ID (S104). Subsequently, the computer determines the completion of the instructional training based on the input information for the content of the instructional training by the user, and outputs the completion of the instructional training to the database linked to the user's member ID (S105). This training program also allows the database 41 to manage whether each user has completed the training using the terminal device 50.

[0083] The instructional training program shown in Figure 14 allows the computer to provide users with instructional content using text, audio, images, videos, or a combination thereof, based on information about the mechanical parking equipment (S111). When a user uses the program, the computer obtains the identifier of the terminal device 50, which was automatically set during the program installation, or the unique identifier of the terminal device 50, and determines whether a member ID corresponding to either identifier has been issued (S112).

[0084] Then, when generating and issuing a new member ID for a target parking space of a target parking facility for which at least one member ID has already been issued, the user of the issued member ID is notified whether or not they approve the issuance of the new member ID (S113). After the user of the issued member ID approves the issuance of the new member ID based on the notification, the new member ID is issued (S114). Note that notifying whether or not to approve the issuance of the new member ID, and issuing the new member ID after the user of the issued member ID approves the issuance of the new member ID based on the notification, can also be applied to the member ID issuance process explained in Figure 12.

[0085] Then, for users who have been issued a new member ID, the system prompts them to provide the training content to the terminal device 50 they will be using (S115). Subsequently, the system determines whether the training has been completed based on the user's input information regarding the training content, and outputs the completion of the training to the database, linked to the user's member ID (S116). This training program also allows the database 41 to manage whether each user has completed the training using the terminal device 50.

[0086] (Summary) As described above, with the above-mentioned training management system 1, each user can perform training on the operation of the elevator-type parking equipment (mechanical parking equipment) 10 at any time using application software on the terminal device 50. Therefore, each user can perform training without affecting the operation of the elevator-type parking equipment 10 (waiting time while other users are performing training on the operation panel 13), thereby improving the convenience of the elevator-type parking equipment 10.

[0087] Furthermore, by issuing a member ID to each user and recording whether each user has completed the training management associated with that member ID, it becomes possible to manage whether each user has completed the training. Moreover, by having each user conduct the training using application software on the terminal device 50, it becomes possible to conduct and manage training for each individual user of the elevator-type parking facility 10.

[0088] Furthermore, administrators will no longer need to provide training to users (contractors), which is expected to reduce their workload and management costs. Additionally, administrators can use dedicated application software to monitor the training status of users (including contractors and users), allowing for visual monitoring and management of user training progress.

[0089] On the other hand, according to the above training program, each user can take training on the operation of the elevator-type parking equipment (mechanical parking equipment) 10 at any time using application software on the terminal device 50. In addition, a member ID can be issued to each user, and the completion of training for each user can be recorded in association with the member ID, making it possible to manage whether or not each individual user has completed the training.

[0090] (Other variations) The mechanical parking system is not limited to the configuration in the embodiment described above. In addition to the elevator type, the mechanical parking system includes various types of parking systems such as box-type circulating type, horizontal circulating type, plane reciprocating type, vertical and horizontal moving puzzle type, vertical circulating type, multi-level type, and plane parking moving type.

[0091] Furthermore, the items listed for training are merely examples, and the training should be conducted with appropriate items depending on the type of mechanical parking equipment, etc., and is not limited to the above-described embodiment. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] 1. Training Management System 10. Elevator-type parking facilities (mechanical parking facilities) 13. Control Panel 14 Parking spaces 20 Control device 22 Computers 21 Communications Department 23 Databases 30 Communication Networks 40 servers 41 Databases 50 Terminal devices 51 screens 52 Select button 53 Select button

Claims

1. A control device having a database and being communicably connected via a communication network to a terminal device for conducting training, the control device being capable of reading and writing information to the database, The database stores member registration information, including the member ID of a registered user of the mechanical parking system, the PIN code corresponding to the parking space of the mechanical parking system, and whether or not the user has completed training on how to use the mechanical parking system. The control device is The system can issue member IDs to multiple users, including a primary user and a secondary user, for a single PIN, and when a second or subsequent registration request is received for a PIN already registered by the primary user, a notification is output to the primary user that an application for permission for the secondary user's member registration has been received. Upon obtaining permission from the primary user for the secondary user's member registration, the system registers the secondary user by assigning a member ID different from the primary user's member ID, generates the secondary user's member registration information, stores it in the database, and enables the implementation of the secondary user's training. Information indicating the completion of the user's training is obtained from the terminal device, and the completion of the training is recorded in the user's member registration information in the database. The system is configured such that when a user uses the mechanical parking equipment, permission to operate the mechanical parking equipment is granted to the user if the user's membership registration information stored in the database indicates that the user has completed the instructional training. A training and management system for operating mechanical parking equipment.

2. The control device is configured to prompt the user to complete the user training if the user has not completed the user training when the user is using the mechanical parking equipment, as described in claim 1.

3. The terminal device is configured to run the installed application software and carry out the aforementioned training. A training and management system for the operation of mechanical parking equipment according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The terminal device is configured to operate web application software via the communication network from the terminal device to carry out the aforementioned training. A training and management system for the operation of mechanical parking equipment according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The database includes a first database provided in the mechanical parking equipment and a second database provided in a server connected to the control device via the communication network. The control device is configured to monitor the information recorded in the first database and the information recorded in the second database, and to synchronize the information in the other database with the new information when the information in one database is updated. A training and management system for the operation of mechanical parking equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A program that uses a computer to provide training on how to operate a mechanical parking system to users of the system, To the aforementioned computer, To output a registration request from the member for the PIN code corresponding to the target parking space of the aforementioned mechanical parking system. For each of the aforementioned PINs, a member ID is issued to multiple users, including the primary user and secondary users. Based on a database that stores member registration information including the member IDs, PINs, and whether or not the handling training for the mechanical parking equipment has been completed for registered users of the mechanical parking equipment, if the registration request is for the second or subsequent user for the target parking space, approval for the issuance of a new member ID is obtained from the primary user, and then the secondary user is registered with a member ID different from the member ID already issued for the target parking space, making it possible to conduct the handling training, and the secondary user's member registration information is stored in the database. With respect to the user having the aforementioned member ID, if the aforementioned training on handling the member registration information stored in the database has not been completed, the aforementioned training on handling the mechanical parking equipment will be provided to the user, using text, audio, images, and video, or a combination thereof. After providing the user with the content of the training, the system determines whether the user has completed the training and stores the completion of the training in the database, linked to the user's member ID. Training program for operating mechanical parking systems.

7. A method for training and managing the operation of mechanical parking equipment, performed by one or more computers, Record in a database member registration information including the member ID of a registered user of the mechanical parking system, the PIN corresponding to the parking space of the mechanical parking system, and whether or not training on the operation of the mechanical parking system has been completed. The system issues member IDs to multiple users, including the primary user and secondary users, for a single aforementioned PIN, and when a second or subsequent registration request is received for a PIN already registered by the primary user, it outputs a notification to the primary user indicating that an application for permission for the secondary user's member registration has been received. Upon obtaining permission from the primary user for the secondary user to register as a member, the primary user is assigned a member ID different from the primary user's member ID, and the secondary user's member registration information is generated and stored in the database, thereby enabling the secondary user to receive the handling training. With respect to the user having the aforementioned member ID, if there is no record of the completion of the aforementioned training of the member registration information stored in the database, it is determined that the aforementioned training should be conducted, and based on the information of the mechanical parking equipment, the aforementioned training is provided to the user in the form of text, audio, images, and video, or a combination thereof. To obtain information indicating the completion of the aforementioned training for the user, and to record the completion of the aforementioned training in the user's member registration information in the database, and, This includes, when the user uses the mechanical parking equipment, granting the user permission to operate the mechanical parking equipment if the user's membership registration information stored in the database indicates that the user has completed the instructional training. Methods for training and managing the operation of mechanical parking equipment.

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