Storage system and storage method

Abstract

[Problem] To store various types of articles so that the same can be easily used by a user. [Solution] This storage system comprises: a storage unit that stores, in a prescribed positional relationship, various types of articles which are used for prescribed processing; a detection unit that detects the state of the various types of articles which are stored in the storage unit; and a processing unit that, using the detection results from the detection unit, generates usage information pertaining to the usage state of the various types of articles.

Description

Storage system and storage method

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage system and a storage method.

[0002] Various tools and detergents are used in processes such as cleaning facilities. For example, in work such as cleaning buildings, workers prepare these tools and make efforts to achieve efficient work. Registered Utility Model No. 3028776 shown in Patent Document 1 below describes a technology for improving convenience in handling cleaning tools and the like. It is desirable, for example, for multiple types of tools used in various processes to be stored in a way that is easy for users to use.

[0003] Registered Utility Model No. 3028776

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage system comprising: a storage unit that stores multiple types of items used for a specified process in a specified positional relationship; a detection unit that detects the state of the multiple types of items stored in the storage unit; and a processing unit that generates usage information regarding the usage status of the multiple types of items using the detection results of the detection unit.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage method including detecting the state of multiple types of items used for a predetermined process in a storage section that stores the multiple types of items in a predetermined positional relationship, and using the detection results to generate usage information regarding the usage status of the multiple types of items by a computer.

[0006] It is a figure which shows the storage system of 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the storage part of 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the storage method of 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the storage part of the storage system of 2nd embodiment.

[0007] [First Embodiment] A first embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a storage system of the first embodiment. This storage system 1 stores, in a predetermined positional relationship, multiple types of items 2 used for a predetermined process such as cleaning, and generates usage information (e.g., information on replacement timing) related to the usage status (e.g., level of deterioration) of the items 2. For example, a user of the items 2 can understand the usage status of the items 2 through the storage system 1, and can use the items 2 in a way that suits the usage status to perform the predetermined process.

[0008] The storage system 1 includes a storage unit 3, a detection unit 4 (shown in FIG. 2), a processing unit 5, and a notification unit 6. The detection unit 4 (see FIG. 2) is provided, for example, in the storage unit 3. The processing unit 5 and the notification unit 6 are provided, for example, in an information processing device 7. The information processing device 7 is connected to a terminal 8 so as to be able to communicate with it. In the following description, the XYZ coordinate system shown in FIG. 1 and the like will be referenced as appropriate. In this XYZ coordinate system, the X direction and Y direction are, for example, horizontal directions, and the Z direction is, for example, vertical directions.

[0009] The storage unit 3 stores multiple types of items 2 used for a predetermined process in a predetermined positional relationship. The predetermined process includes, for example, cleaning an object. The object is, for example, a part of a structure such as a building. For example, the structure is a building, and the object is at least a part of the building's floors, walls, corridors, living rooms, toilets, washrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and items (e.g., desks, chairs, equipment) installed within the building. The multiple types of items 2 include, for example, tools used for cleaning. In the following description, the items 2 will be referred to as tools 2 as appropriate. Although one tool 2 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the storage unit 3 can store multiple tools 2 as shown in FIG. 2 and other figures.

[0010] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the storage unit 3 of the first embodiment. Fig. 2 corresponds to a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 1. The storage unit 3 includes a main body 9, a plurality of storage spaces (10A, 10B, 10C), a door 11, and a detection unit 4. In the following description, each of the plurality of storage spaces (10A, 10B, 10C) will be appropriately represented by the symbol 10 when not distinguished from other storage spaces, and by the symbols 10A, 10B, 10C when distinguished from other storage spaces.

[0011] The storage section 3 is, for example, a storage shelf. The number of storage spaces 10 arranged in the vertical direction (e.g., the number of stages of the storage shelf) is 3 in Fig. 2, but may be any number, for example, 1. The number of storage spaces 10 arranged in the vertical direction (e.g., the number of rows of the storage shelf) is 1 in Fig. 1, but may be any number.

[0012] The main body 9 is, for example, the housing of the storage unit 3. The main body 9 constitutes a frame for the storage space 10 formed inside the storage unit 3. The main body 9 has a wall that separates at least a portion of the space around the stored tool 2 (e.g., the storage space 10) from the outside of the main body 9. For example, the main body 9 has a bottom plate on which the tool 2 is placed, a top plate facing the bottom plate, and side plates disposed between the bottom plate and the top plate. There are no limitations on the material of the main body 9, and the main body 9 may include a resin portion or a metal portion. The main body 9 may be integrally molded or may be formed by assembling parts.

[0013] The storage spaces 10 are spaces formed inside the main body 9. The storage spaces 10 are, for example, spaces between a bottom plate on which the tools 2 are placed, a top plate facing the bottom plate, and side plates disposed between the bottom plate and the top plate. The storage spaces 10 are, for example, spaces that can be opened to the outside of the storage section 3 on the front side of the storage section 3. Each storage space 10 is, for example, associated with a tool 2 to be stored. For example, the information processing device 7 stores setting information that sets a correspondence between the storage spaces 10 and the items 2 to be stored in the storage spaces 10.

[0014] The storage section 3 includes a support member 12 that supports the stored items. The support member 12 is, for example, a platform on which the tools 2 are placed and corresponds to a bottom plate for the storage space 10. The support member 12 may include a dedicated holder that matches the shape of the tool 2 to be supported. For example, the support member 12 in contact with the storage space 10A may have a shape that fits a part of the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10A, but does not fit the tool 2 stored in storage spaces (10B, 10C) different from the storage space 10A.

[0015] The door 11 can be opened and closed to the front side of the storage unit 3 (see FIG. 1 ). For example, when the door 11 is open (appropriately referred to as the open state), the storage space 10 is open to the space on the front side of the storage unit 3. When the door 11 is open, the tools 2 can be carried out from the storage space 10 to the outside, and can be carried in from the outside to the storage space 10. For example, when the door 11 is closed (appropriately referred to as the closed state), the storage space 10 is separated from the space on the front side of the storage unit 3.

[0016] The door 11 includes, for example, a plate-shaped member. The door 11 is attached to, for example, an opening around the storage space 10 by a connecting structure such as a hinge. The opening is a portion of the main body 9 that surrounds the storage space 10 when viewed from the front (see FIG. 1 ). The storage section 3 may include a locking mechanism that restricts the door 11 from being in a closed state from being opened. The locking mechanism may be, for example, an electromagnetic lock, or may be a mechanism that attracts the door 11 to the main body 9 using an electromagnet and increases the external force required to change from the closed state to the open state. The doors 11 may be decorated or labeled to easily identify the tools 2 stored in the storage space 10. For example, if the tools 2 are cleaning tools, the top door 11 may be labeled with an illustration of a brush used for cleaning faucets, the middle door 11 may be labeled with an illustration of a brush used for cleaning sinks, and the bottom door 11 may be labeled with an illustration of a mop used for cleaning floors.

[0017] The multiple types of articles 2 include, for example, tools 2 that come into contact with an object to be treated. The multiple types of articles 2 include, for example, multiple tools 2 that are cleaned by a predetermined fluid. The storage unit 3 includes a flow path through which the predetermined fluid F flows. The storage unit 3 stores the multiple tools 2 by arranging the parts of the multiple tools 2 that are to be cleaned within the flow path.

[0018] An inlet 13 is formed on the top surface of the main body 9 to supply cleaning liquid to the inside of the storage unit 3. The inlet 13, for example, penetrates the top surface of the main body 9 and communicates with the storage space 10A. The inlet 13 is installed, for example, at the top of the back side of the storage space 10A. Inside the storage unit 3, the space below the inlet 13 includes a flow path for the cleaning liquid. In the storage unit 3, the space where two vertically adjacent storage spaces 10 communicate with each other includes a flow path for the cleaning liquid. The tool 2 is stored so that the part to be cleaned is positioned vertically relative to the space where two vertically adjacent storage spaces 10 communicate with each other. For example, the part of the tool 2 to be cleaned is positioned at the back side of the storage space 10A.

[0019] The cleaning liquid introduced from inlet 13 flows by gravity through storage space 10A, storage space 10B, and storage space 10C in that order. When an item is stored in storage space 10, the parts located in the flow path of the cleaning liquid (such as the brush part of the handled brush) are cleaned by the cleaning liquid. A reservoir 14 is formed at the bottom of main body 9 to store the cleaning liquid that has flowed downward from inlet 13. Reservoir 14 is formed with a discharge part 15 that communicates with the back side of main body 9.

[0020] The cleaning liquid is selected according to the purpose of the tool 2 to be cleaned. For example, the cleaning liquid is selected according to the type of dirt that will adhere to the tool 2 when it is used. For example, the purpose of the tool 2 in a predetermined process may be predetermined, and the type of cleaning liquid may be predetermined according to the purpose of the tool 2. Of the multiple tools 2 arranged in the flow path of the cleaning liquid, the tool 2 arranged relatively downstream may be a tool that has less stringent cleanliness restrictions due to cleaning than the tool 2 arranged relatively upstream. The tool 2 arranged downstream may be a tool whose cleanliness is ensured when it is cleaned with the cleaning liquid that has come into contact with the tool 2 arranged upstream. In this way, the positional relationship between the multiple tools 2 may be determined according to the order of cleaning.

[0021] The detection unit 4 detects the condition of the multiple types of items 2 stored in the storage unit 3. The detection unit 4 detects, for example, deterioration information indicating deterioration of the tool 2. For example, the detection unit 4 detects deformation of the tool 2 as deterioration information. The detection unit 4 detects the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10. The detection unit 4 includes, for example, a camera installed on the ceiling of the storage space 10. The detection unit 4 photographs the tool 2 and acquires multiple images as information indicating deformation of the tool 2. For example, if the tool 2 is a brush, the brush part (e.g., bristles or tip) of the tool 2 will bend (e.g., open) and deteriorate over time as it is used. A deteriorated brush will have a reduced cleaning effect, and the user of the brush may not be able to achieve the desired cleaning effect with normal effort or may need to exert more effort than normal to achieve the desired cleaning effect. The detection unit 4 outputs the detection result to an external device (e.g., an information processing device 7). The detection unit 4 may indirectly provide the detection result to the information processing device 7 via a repeater (e.g., a gateway). The detection unit 4 may be connected to the information processing device 7 via wired or wireless communication, and may provide the detection result to the information processing device 7 directly via this communication.

[0022] The information processing device 7 includes, for example, one or more computers. The computer may be a PC installed in a facility (home), a user's terminal, or a cloud computer. At least a part of the information processing device 7 is realized, for example, by a computer executing processing according to a program. The information processing device 7 may include a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processing circuit (e.g., ASIC).

[0023] The information processing device 7 includes a processing unit 5 and a notification unit 6. The processing unit 5 processes information. The processing executed by the processing unit 5 includes, for example, at least one of arithmetic processing, image processing, analysis processing, determination processing, inference processing, and control processing.

[0024] In this embodiment, the type of item 2 to be stored in each storage space 10 is predetermined. In the following description, the item 2 that is predetermined to be stored in the storage space 10 will be referred to as a specified item, as appropriate. The storage unit of the information processing device 7 stores setting information that associates the storage space 10 with the type of specified item. The setting information includes, for example, information that associates identification information that identifies the storage space 10 (referred to as a storage ID, as appropriate) with identification information that identifies the type of specified item (referred to as an item ID, as appropriate).

[0025] The processing unit 5 uses the detection results of the detection unit 4 to generate usage information regarding the usage status of multiple types of items 2. The processing unit 5, for example, compares an image of the tool 2 provided by the detection unit 4 with a reference image to determine the level of deterioration (e.g., deformation) of the tool 2. The reference image may, for example, be an image of the tool 2 previously taken by the detection unit 4, or an image provided by the manufacturer of the tool 2, etc. The processing unit 5 determines, for example, the level of deterioration of the tool 2. For example, the processing unit 5 calculates the amount of deformation of the current tool 2 from the reference, using an unused tool 2 as the reference. The processing unit 5 compares the amount of deformation of the tool 2 with a threshold to determine the level of deterioration of the tool 2.

[0026] The level of deterioration is determined, for example, by the amount of deformation of the current tool 2 from a reference, using an unused tool 2 as the reference. The level of deterioration may be expressed as "0" indicating that the tool is like new, "1" indicating that there are no problems with use, "2" indicating that the tool is nearing the time for replacement, or "3" indicating that the tool needs to be replaced. The processing unit 5 determines, for example, that the usage situation is one in which the tool 2 has been used to the level of deterioration. The level of deterioration can be used, for example, as information indicating the frequency or number of times the tool 2 has been used as the usage situation. The processing unit 5 generates, for example, information indicating the level of deterioration of the tool 2 as usage information. Such usage information can be used, for example, as information regarding maintenance (e.g., replacement) of the tool 2.

[0027] The usage information may include information different from the information indicating the deterioration of the tool 2. For example, the usage information may include information indicating whether or not a specified tool is stored in the storage space 10. For example, the processing unit 5 performs image recognition processing on the image provided by the detection unit 4 to determine whether or not the tool 2 is visible in the image. If the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 is not visible in the image, it determines that the usage situation is such that the tool 2 is not stored in the storage space 10. The processing unit 5 may generate, as the usage information, information indicating whether or not the tool 2 is stored in the storage space 10.

[0028] When the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 is captured in the image, it identifies the storage space 10 from which the image was captured. For example, a detection unit 4 is provided for each storage space 10, and outputs the detection result together with its own device's identification information (appropriately referred to as a detection unit ID). The information processing device 7 stores, for example, information that associates the storage ID of the storage space 10 with the detection unit ID of the detection unit 4 that captures the storage space 10. This information is, for example, part of the setting information.

[0029] When the processing unit 5 determines that a tool 2 is captured in the image, it identifies the type of the tool 2, for example, by image recognition. The processing unit 5 determines whether the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10 is a specified tool by comparing the item ID of the tool 2, the type of which was identified using the image, and the storage space 10, the storage space in which the image was captured, with the setting information. When the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 is a specified tool, it determines that the usage situation is one in which the tool 2 is stored in a predetermined storage space 10. When the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 is not a specified tool, it determines that the usage situation is one in which a tool 2 not specified in advance is stored in the storage space 10. The processing unit 5 may generate, as usage information, information indicating whether the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10 is a specified tool.

[0030] When the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10 is a specified tool, it may determine the level of deterioration of the tool 2. When the processing unit 5 determines that the tool 2 stored in the storage space 10 is not a specified tool, it may not be necessary to determine the level of deterioration of the tool 2.

[0031] The notification unit 6 uses the usage information to notify the terminal 8 of a user who uses multiple types of items 2. The notification unit 6 notifies the terminal 8 of the results of processing by the processing unit 5 (e.g., the detection results of the item status, etc.). The terminal 8 is a terminal of a user who uses the storage system 1. The notification unit 6 may notify information including the usage information, or may notify information generated using the usage information. For example, the terminal 8 receives a notification sent from the information processing device 7 and displays the notification. The terminal 8 accepts user operations according to the content of the notification sent from the information processing device 7. For example, the information processing device 7 uses the usage information (e.g., deterioration level) to generate a notification including information indicating the replacement time of the tool 2 and information (e.g., a link) guiding to an e-commerce site where the tool 2 can be purchased. For example, the user can receive the notification on the terminal 8 and access the e-commerce site from the terminal 8 to order a replacement tool.

[0032] Next, a storage method according to an embodiment will be described based on the above-described storage system 1. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the storage method of the first embodiment. For each part of the storage system 1, Figs. 1 and 2 will be referred to as appropriate.

[0033] In step S1, the user of the item 2 stores the item 2 in the storage unit 3. The storage space 10 in which the item 2 is stored is predetermined according to the type of item 2. In step S2, the detection unit 4 detects the state of the item 2. The detection unit 4 provides the detection result to an information processing device 7 (e.g., processing unit 5). The processing unit 5 determines the usage status of the tool 2 using the detection result provided by the detection unit 4. For example, the processing unit 5 determines the level of deterioration of the tool 2 as the usage status. The level of deterioration is defined, for example, by the absolute value of the amount of deformation of the item 2 or a value obtained by normalizing the amount of deformation. Here, the level of deterioration is expressed as a numerical value, and a higher numerical value indicates a more deteriorated state. In step S3, the processing unit 5 determines whether the level of deterioration of the item 2 is below a threshold value.

[0034] If the processing unit 5 determines that the deterioration level of the item 2 is less than the threshold value (Step S3; Yes), the processing unit 5 ends the series of processes. If the processing unit 5 determines that the deterioration level of the item is not less than the threshold value (Step S3; No), the processing unit 5 generates maintenance information in Step S4. For example, the processing unit 5 generates, as the maintenance information, information indicating when to replace the tool 2. In Step S5, the notification unit 6 notifies the user's terminal 8.

[0035] In the storage system 1 according to this embodiment, the storage spaces 10 are associated in advance with the types of items 2 to be stored in the storage spaces 10, and the multiple items 2 are stored in the storage section 3 in a predetermined positional relationship. Because the storage spaces 10 are associated in advance with the types of items 2 to be stored in the storage spaces 10, the storage system 1 can, for example, determine whether the items 2 stored in the storage spaces 10 are specified items. If the stored items 2 are specified items, the storage system 1 can, for example, accurately determine the usage status of the items 2. The storage system 1 can, for example, provide the user with information according to the usage status based on the accurately determined usage status of the items 2.

[0036] Second Embodiment A second embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a storage unit of a storage system according to the second embodiment. In this embodiment, the multiple types of articles include a tool 20 that comes into contact with an object to be treated and a consumable item 21 that is consumed through use of the tool 20. The tool 20 is used, for example, in a predetermined treatment, with the consumable item 21 attached. The consumable item 21 includes, for example, at least one of a detergent, a protective agent (coating agent), a deodorizer, and a disinfectant used to clean the object. The consumable item 21 includes, for example, a container such as a returnable bottle and a liquid stored in the container. The liquid is, for example, a citric acid detergent used to clean faucets, a liquid cleanser used to clean sinks, a polisher detergent used to clean floors, etc.

[0037] The storage unit 3 includes a tray 22 and an application unit 23. The tray 22 is a holding member that holds the consumables 21. The tray 22 is arranged in a storage space 24. The storage space 24 includes, for example, a space provided on the rear side of the storage unit 3. The storage space 24 is, for example, a space that is open to the outside. The storage space 24 includes, for example, a recess provided on the rear side of the storage unit 3. This recess is designed with respect to the rear side of the storage unit 3 so that the stored consumables 21 do not protrude toward the outside. The tray 22 can be pulled out from the storage space 24 to the outside. The consumables 21 are placed on the tray 22, and are stored in the storage space 24 by inserting the tray 22 into the storage space 24.

[0038] The dispenser 23 dispenses the consumable 21 to the tool 20 when the tool 20 is used, for example. The dispenser 23 includes, for example, a link mechanism or actuator that operates a pump (discharge unit) of the consumable in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door 11. The dispenser 23 dispenses, for example, a predetermined amount of the consumable 21 (e.g., detergent) to the tool. The type of consumable 21 and the type of tool 20 used together in a predetermined process are predetermined. The storage space 10 in which the tool 20 is accommodated is predetermined, and the storage space 24 for the consumable 21 paired with the tool 20 is set in a predetermined positional relationship with the storage space 10. Of the multiple types of items 2, the pair of tool 20 and consumable 21 are accommodated in the storage unit 3 in a predetermined positional relationship. In the following description, the consumable 21 that is predetermined to be accommodated in the storage space 24 is referred to as a predetermined consumable. The tray 22 may, for example, be shaped to match the predetermined consumable. The tray 22 may have a shape that allows specified consumables to be fitted therein, but does not allow consumables 21 other than the specified consumables to be fitted therein.

[0039] The storage system 1 includes a detection unit 25 that detects the state of the consumables 21. The detection unit 25 detects, for example, remaining amount information that indicates the remaining amount of the consumables 21 stored in the storage unit 3. The detection unit 25 includes, for example, a weighing scale. The detection unit 25 measures the weight of the tray 22 and the consumables 21 placed on the tray 22. The weighing scale may be a digital scale installed under the tray 22, or a load cell installed on the tray 22. The weight of the consumables measured by the detection unit 25 is output to the information processing device 7.

[0040] The detection unit 25 may detect information that identifies the type of consumable 21 placed on the tray 22. For example, the detection unit 25 may include the camera described in the first embodiment. The consumable 21 may be provided with a code pattern that includes identification information that identifies the consumable 21, and the detection unit 25 may include a reader that reads this code pattern. The code pattern may include a one-dimensional code such as a barcode, a two-dimensional code such as a QR code (registered trademark), or a pattern that has a function equivalent to a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code.

[0041] The processing unit 5 generates usage information related to the usage status of the consumable 21, which is part of the item 2, using the detection result of the detection unit 25. The processing unit 5, for example, uses the detection result of the detection unit 25 to estimate the remaining amount of the consumable 21 as the usage status of the consumable 21. For example, the processing unit 5 estimates the remaining amount of the consumable 21 using a change in weight detected by the detection unit 25. For example, the information processing device 7 stores setting information, and the setting information includes information on the capacity of the consumable 21. The processing unit 5 calculates the difference between the weight detected by the detection unit 25 when the consumable 21 is carried into the storage space 24 and the weight detected by the detection unit 25 after the consumable 21 has been used, as the consumption amount. The processing unit 5 compares the calculated consumption amount with the capacity of the consumable included in the setting information, and estimates the remaining amount of the consumable 21. The processing unit 5 generates, for example, information indicating the estimated result of the remaining amount of the consumable 21 as the usage information related to the usage status of the consumable 21.

[0042] The processing unit 5 determines the level of the remaining amount of the consumable 21 as the usage status of the consumable 21, for example. For example, the setting information includes the consumption amount of the consumable 21 per use, and the processing unit 5 estimates the number of times the consumable 21 can be used by using the estimated remaining amount of the consumable 21 and the consumption amount per use. The processing unit 5 determines the level of the remaining amount by, for example, comparing the estimated number of times the consumable 21 has been used with a threshold. The level of the remaining amount may be expressed, for example, as "0" indicating like-new, "1" indicating no problems in use, "2" indicating that the replacement time is approaching, or "3" indicating that replacement is required. For example, if the remaining number of uses of the consumable is 30 or more, the processing unit 5 may determine the level of the remaining amount to "1" indicating no problems in use. For example, if the remaining number of uses of the consumable is less than five, the processing unit 5 may determine the level of the remaining amount to "2" indicating that the replacement time is approaching. The processing unit 5 generates, as usage information relating to the usage status of the consumables 21, information indicating the remaining amount level of the consumables 21, for example.

[0043] The processing unit 5 may generate, as the usage information, information relating to maintenance (e.g., replacement) of the consumables 21. For example, information indicating the remaining amount of the consumables 21 can be used as maintenance information indicating when the consumables 21 should be replaced.

[0044] The usage information may include information different from the information indicating the remaining amount of the tool 20. For example, the usage information may include information indicating whether or not a specified consumable item is stored in the storage space 24. For example, the processing unit 5 determines whether or not the consumable item 21 is stored in the storage space 24. For example, if the weight detected by the detection unit 25 is less than a threshold value, the processing unit 5 determines that the usage situation is such that the consumable item 21 is not stored in the storage space 24. The processing unit 5 may generate, as the usage information, information indicating whether or not the consumable item 21 is stored in the storage space 24.

[0045] When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable item 21 is stored in the storage space 24, it identifies the storage space 24. For example, a detection unit 25 is provided for each storage space 24, and outputs the detection result together with its own device's identification information (appropriately referred to as a detection unit ID). The information processing device 7 stores, for example, information that associates the storage ID of the storage space 24 with the detection unit ID of the detection unit 25 provided in this storage space 24. This information is, for example, part of the setting information.

[0046] When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable 21 is stored in the storage space 24, it identifies the type of the consumable 21, for example. The type of the consumable 21 can be identified, for example, by a method similar to the method described for tools in the first embodiment. The processing unit 5 determines whether the consumable 21 stored in the storage space 24 is a specified consumable by comparing the item ID of the consumable 21 whose type has been identified and the specified storage space 24 with the setting information. When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable 21 is a specified consumable, it determines that the usage situation is such that the consumable 21 is stored in a predetermined storage space 24. When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable 21 is not a specified consumable, it determines that the usage situation is such that a non-predetermined consumable 21 is stored in the storage space 24. The processing unit 5 may generate, as the usage information, information indicating whether the consumable 21 stored in the storage space 24 is a specified consumable. When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable 21 stored in the storage space 24 is a specified consumable, it may estimate the remaining amount of the consumable 21. When the processing unit 5 determines that the consumable item 21 stored in the storage space 24 is not a specified consumable item, it does not need to estimate the remaining amount of the consumable item 21 .

[0047] In the storage system 1 according to this embodiment, the storage spaces 24 are pre-associated with the types of consumables 21 stored in the storage spaces 24, and the multiple consumables 21 are stored in the storage unit 3 in a predetermined positional relationship. For example, since the storage spaces 24 are pre-associated with the types of consumables 21 stored in the storage spaces 24, the storage system 1 can determine whether the consumables 21 stored in the storage spaces 24 are specified consumables. For example, if the tool 20 stored in the storage space 10 is a specified tool and the consumables 21 stored in the storage space 24 are specified consumables, the specified tool and the specified consumables are stored in a predetermined positional relationship. The assigning unit 23 can assign the specified consumable to the specified tool, for example. If the stored consumable 21 is the specified consumable, the storage system 1 can, for example, accurately determine the usage status of the consumable 21. For example, the storage system 1 can provide the user with information according to the usage status based on the accurately determined usage status of the consumable 21.

[0048] Note that storage spaces are provided in one-to-one correspondence with items, for example, but multiple tools of the same type may be placed in one storage space 10, or multiple types of tools may be placed in one storage space 10. The storage system 1 may include an identification unit that identifies the item 2 before it is stored and may unlock the door 11 of the storage space 10 corresponding to the identified item 2. The storage unit 3 may include a drying unit that dries the items. The drying unit dries the items, for example, by dehumidifying the storage space 10. The drying unit may dry the items by blowing air. The storage unit 3 may include a disinfection unit that sterilizes or removes viruses from the items. The disinfection unit sterilizes or removes viruses by, for example, irradiating the items with ultraviolet light. At least one of the multiple types of items does not need to be washed in the storage unit 3.

[0049] The detection unit 4 may include, for example, a sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door 11. The processing unit 5 can estimate the number of times an item has been used using the number of times the door 11 has been opened and closed. For example, if the door 11 has been opened and closed twice, an item has been taken in and out once, and the processing unit 5 may estimate that the item has been used once. The processing unit 5 may estimate the level of deterioration of the item using the estimated number of times the item has been used. For example, an upper limit of the number of times the item can be used may be given in advance as the durability of the item, and the processing unit 5 may compare the estimated number of times the item can be used with the upper limit of the number of times the item can be used to estimate the level of deterioration. The processing unit 5 may estimate the remaining amount of the consumable item 21 using the estimated number of times the tool 20 has been used. For example, the upper limit of the number of times the consumable item 21 can be calculated using the capacity of the consumable item 21 and the amount consumed per use. The processing unit 5 may estimate, for example, that the number of times the consumable item 21 has been used is the same as the estimated number of times the tool 20 has been used. The processing unit 5 may estimate the remaining amount of the consumable item 21 by comparing the estimated number of uses with an upper limit of the number of uses. The upper limit of the number of uses of the consumable item 21 and the amount of use of the consumable item 21 per use may be information provided by, for example, the manufacturer of the consumable item 21. The processing unit 5 may determine the deterioration of the item using an amount different from the amount of deformation of the item. For example, the processing unit 5 may determine the deterioration of the item using an amount of change in color or dimension of the item. The processing unit 5 may calculate the frequency of use of the item as information indicating the usage status of the item. The processing unit 5 may calculate the time since the item was last used as information indicating the usage status of the item. The processing unit 5 may generate information regarding the timing of performing a predetermined process as usage information using one or both of the frequency of use of the item and the time since the item was last used. For example, the predetermined process may include cleaning, and the processing unit 5 may send a message to the terminal 6 recommending cleaning if the time since the item was last used exceeds a threshold.

[0050] The storage system 1 may manage the orientation of the items stored in the storage space 10. If the stored items are not in a set orientation, the storage system 1 may notify (by issuing an alert, etc.) the terminal 8. For example, the orientation of the items may be set in consideration of the cleaning effect of the cleaning liquid.

[0051] The predetermined process includes, for example, maintenance. Maintenance includes, for example, cleaning and sanitizing of facilities (residential, commercial, public facilities). Maintenance may also include other maintenance, for example, machine maintenance. If the predetermined process includes machine maintenance, the multi-repair item may include tools, tape measures, and other implements, or consumables such as oil and rust remover. The usage information includes, for example, information related to the maintenance of the item. Information related to the maintenance of the item includes notifications indicating when the item (tools, consumables) should be replaced, and information to assist in ordering the replacement item. The usage information may also include information indicating a malfunction or abnormality of the item.

[0052] The technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the aspects described in the above-mentioned embodiments. One or more of the requirements described in the above-mentioned embodiments may be omitted. Furthermore, the requirements described in the above-mentioned embodiments may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, to the extent permitted by law, the disclosures of all documents cited in the above-mentioned embodiments are incorporated by reference and are included as part of the description in this document.

[0053] 1 Storage system, 2 Item, 3 Storage unit, 4 Detection unit, 5 Processing unit, 6 Notification unit, 8 Terminal, 10A Storage space, 10B Storage space, 10C Storage space, 20 Tool, 21 Consumables, 23 Application unit, 24 Storage space, 25 Detection unit

Claims

1. a storage section for storing a plurality of types of articles to be used in a predetermined process in a predetermined positional relationship; A detection unit that detects the state of the multiple types of items stored in the storage unit; a processing unit that generates usage information regarding usage conditions of the plurality of types of items using a detection result of the detection unit, The plurality of types of articles include a tool that comes into contact with the object of the predetermined process and a consumable item that is consumed by using the tool, the detection unit detects remaining amount information representing a remaining amount of the consumable contained in the container unit; The processing unit generates information regarding maintenance of the consumables by using a detection result of the detection unit. Containment system.

2. A storage section for storing multiple types of articles to be used in a predetermined process in a predetermined positional relationship; A detection unit that detects the state of the multiple types of items stored in the storage unit; a processing unit that generates usage information regarding usage conditions of the plurality of types of items using a detection result of the detection unit, the plurality of types of articles include a tool that comes into contact with the target of the predetermined treatment, The tool is used in the predetermined process in a state in which a consumable item is attached thereto, The storage unit includes an application unit that applies the consumable to the tool when the tool is used. Containment system.

3. A storage section for storing multiple types of items used in a predetermined process in a predetermined positional relationship; A detection unit that detects the state of the multiple types of items stored in the storage unit; a processing unit that generates usage information regarding usage conditions of the plurality of types of items using a detection result of the detection unit, the plurality of types of articles includes a plurality of tools to be cleaned with a predetermined fluid; The storage unit includes a flow path through which the predetermined fluid flows, and stores the plurality of tools by arranging the parts of the plurality of tools to be washed in the flow path. Containment system.

4. the plurality of types of articles include a tool that comes into contact with the target of the predetermined treatment, The detection unit detects deterioration information indicating deterioration of the tool, The processing unit generates information regarding maintenance of the tool as the usage information by using the detection result of the detection unit. A storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The detection unit detects a deformation of the tool as the deterioration information. The containment system of claim 4.

6. a notification unit that uses the usage information to notify a terminal of a user who uses the plurality of types of articles; A storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The predetermined process includes cleaning an object. A storage system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. Detecting states of a plurality of types of articles used in a predetermined process in a storage unit that stores the plurality of types of articles in a predetermined positional relationship; and generating, by a computer, usage information regarding usage conditions of the plurality of types of articles using a result of the detection; The plurality of types of articles include a tool that comes into contact with the object of the predetermined process and a consumable item that is consumed by using the tool, The detecting step includes detecting remaining amount information representing a remaining amount of the consumable contained in the container, The generating step includes generating information regarding maintenance of the consumables using a detection result of the remaining amount information. Containment methods.