Delivery system and delivery method

Abstract

[Problem] To ensure reliable delivery from a shipper to a recipient in a delivery service by enabling the recipient to check information about an actual package (such as image and size) in advance for scheduled shipment thereof. [Solution] In a delivery system 1, a shipping-side terminal 3 acquires a pre-packaging package image and a post-packaging package image captured before and after packaging, and transmits the pre-packaging package image and the post-packaging package image to a reception-side terminal 5 via a network 6. The reception-side terminal 5 acquires a pre-unpackaging package image generated by imaging of the package before unpacking, executes pre-unpackaging comparison processing for comparing the pre-unpackaging package image with the post-packaging package image, acquires a post-unpackaging package image generated by imaging of the unpacked package, executes post-unpackaging comparison processing for comparing the post-unpackaging package image with the pre-packaging package image, and determines that the package has been delivered successfully if both the pre-unpackaging comparison processing and the post-unpackaging comparison processing are successful.

Description

Delivery system and method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a delivery system and method for delivering packaged packages from a shipper to a consignee.

[0002] Delivery services in which a delivery company delivers a package from a sender to a specified destination have become widespread. With regard to such delivery services, technologies have been developed to enable a recipient of the package to safely receive the package at the destination.

[0003] For example, a delivery system is known that includes a transmitter that transmits identification information set according to the package over a predetermined range, a receiver that is held by the consignee and receives the identification information, a notification unit that notifies the consignee of the identification information from either the sender or the delivery company before the package is delivered to the consignee, a determination unit that determines whether the identification information received by the receiver matches the identification information notified by the notification unit, and an indication unit that indicates the determination result to the consignee (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] JP 2016-078948 A

[0005] In the delivery services described above, it is necessary for the consignor to reliably send a package with the intended contents and for the consignee to reliably receive the package. In particular, in electronic commerce such as online shopping and online markets, it is extremely important that the consignor delivers the intended contents of the package (e.g., ordered products) to the consignee. Another issue in electronic commerce is that the consignee (purchaser) cannot verify the actual purchased products.

[0006] The conventional delivery system disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 aims to prevent damage caused by burglaries and frauds by thieves disguised as delivery companies. However, in this conventional delivery system, no special consideration is given to ensuring that packages with the planned contents are delivered from the shipper to the consignee.

[0007] Therefore, the main purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a delivery system and a delivery method that enables a consignee to check in advance the actual package information (image, size, etc.) of the planned package contents in a delivery service, thereby enabling a consignor to reliably deliver the package to the consignee.

[0008] The delivery system disclosed herein is a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, and includes a shipping terminal that performs processing related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage. The shipping terminal acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before packing, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after packing, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network. The receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before unpacking, performs a pre-unpacking matching process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage images with the post-packing luggage images, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after unpacking, and performs a post-unpacking matching process to compare the post-unpacking luggage images with the pre-packing luggage images. If both the pre-unpacking matching process and the post-unpacking matching process are successful, it is determined that the delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully.

[0009] The delivery method disclosed herein is a delivery method using a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, the delivery system comprising a shipping terminal that performs processing related to the dispatch of the luggage and a receiving terminal that performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage, the shipping terminal acquiring pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before packing, acquiring post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after packing, and transmitting the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, the receiving terminal receiving the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquiring pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before unpacking, performing a pre-unpacking matching process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage images with the post-packing luggage images, acquiring post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after unpacking, and performing a post-unpacking matching process to compare the post-unpacking luggage images with the pre-packing luggage images, and determining that delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully if both the pre-unpacking matching process and the post-unpacking matching process are successful.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, in a delivery service, by allowing the consignee to check the actual package information (image, size, etc.) of the planned package in advance, it becomes possible to ensure reliable delivery from the shipper to the consignee.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a shipper terminal shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a package photography screen for photographing packages before packaging; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a package photography screen for photographing packages after packaging; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for acquiring package dimension data; FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a deliverer terminal shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen for unpacking methods; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen for photographing packages after unpacking;

[0012] A first invention made to solve the above problem is a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, comprising a shipping terminal that performs processing related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage, wherein the shipping terminal acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before packing, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after packing, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before unpacking, performs a pre-unpacking matching process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage images with the post-packing luggage images, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after unpacking, and performs a post-unpacking matching process to compare the post-unpacking luggage images with the pre-packing luggage images, and if both the pre-unpacking matching process and the post-unpacking matching process are successful, determines that delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully.

[0013] According to this, if both the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are successful, the receiving terminal determines that delivery of the package has been completed successfully.Therefore, in a delivery service, by allowing the consignee to check the actual package information (image, size, etc.) in advance for packages with the planned contents, it becomes possible to ensure delivery from the shipper to the consignee.

[0014] Furthermore, a second invention relates to the first invention, and is configured such that the shipping terminal acquires post-packing dimension data relating to the external dimensions of the package after it has been packed, and transmits the post-packing dimension data to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal acquires pre-unpacking dimension data relating to the external dimensions of the package before it has been unpacked, and executes a dimension matching process to compare the pre-unpacking dimension data with the post-packing dimension data, and executes the post-unpacking matching process only if the dimension matching process is successful.

[0015] According to this, the receiving terminal executes the post-unpacking verification process only if the dimension verification process is successful, thereby avoiding unnecessary execution of the post-unpacking verification process.

[0016] Furthermore, a third invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that if any of the pre-unpacking verification process, the post-unpacking verification process, and the dimension verification process fails, the receiving terminal sends an abnormality notification to the shipping terminal via a network, indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package.

[0017] This allows the user of the shipping terminal (for example, the shipper) to quickly become aware of any abnormalities that have occurred in the delivery of the package.

[0018] A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to the third aspect of the present invention, wherein the abnormality occurrence notification includes information indicating the reason why the abnormality occurred.

[0019] This allows the user of the shipping terminal to quickly understand the reason for any abnormality in the delivery of the package.

[0020] Furthermore, a fifth invention relates to the first invention, and is configured such that, when the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are all successful and the user of the receiving terminal performs an approval operation regarding receipt of the package, the receiving terminal sends a receipt confirmation notification to the shipping terminal via a network, indicating that delivery of the package has been completed successfully.

[0021] This allows a receipt confirmation notification to be sent if the matching process is successful and if the user of the receiving terminal performs an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package, thereby preventing an uncertain receipt confirmation notification from being sent to the shipping terminal.

[0022] Furthermore, a sixth invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that the shipping terminal transmits unpacking guide information for guiding the unpacking of the package to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal presents information indicating how to unpack the package to the user based on the unpacking guide information before acquiring an image of the package after unpacking.

[0023] This allows the user of the receiving terminal (for example, the consignee) to easily unpack the package.

[0024] A seventh invention relates to the sixth invention, wherein the unpacking guide information is generated based on the unpacked package image, the packed package image, and the packed dimension data.

[0025] This allows unpacking guide information to be easily generated based on appropriate images and data.

[0026] Furthermore, an eighth invention relates to the sixth or seventh invention, and is configured such that after acquiring the unopened luggage image, the receiving terminal displays on a display a screen showing how to photograph the unpacked luggage based on the unpacking guide information.

[0027] This allows the user of the receiving terminal to properly photograph the unpacked package, thereby improving the accuracy of the post-unpacking verification process.

[0028] Furthermore, a ninth invention relates to the second invention, and is configured such that when the shipping terminal successfully acquires the post-packaging dimension data, it stores the post-packaging dimension data in association with the pre-packaging luggage image and the post-packaging luggage image.

[0029] This makes it easier to handle data required for the pre-unpacking verification process, post-unpacking verification process, and dimension verification process executed at the receiving terminal.

[0030] Furthermore, a tenth invention relates to any of the first to ninth inventions, wherein the shipping terminal includes at least one of a shipper terminal used by a shipper who ships the package and a deliverer terminal used by a deliverer who delivers the package, and the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal used by a consignee who receives the package.

[0031] This allows the shipping terminal to properly execute the process related to shipping and the receiving terminal to properly execute the process related to receiving.

[0032] An eleventh invention is a delivery system for delivering packaged packages, comprising: a shipping terminal that executes processing related to the shipment of the package; a receiving terminal that executes processing related to the receipt of the package; and a delivery terminal that executes processing related to a delivery procedure for the package, wherein the shipping terminal acquires pre-packing package images generated by photographing the package before packing, acquires post-packing package images generated by photographing the package after packing, transmits the pre-packing package images and the post-packing package images to the delivery terminal via a network, acquires post-packing dimension data related to external dimensions of the package after packing, and transmits the post-packing package images to the delivery terminal via a network. The dimension data is transmitted to the delivery terminal via a network, the delivery terminal acquires an in-delivery package image generated by photographing the package during delivery, performs an in-delivery matching process to compare the in-delivery package image with the package image after packaging, acquires in-delivery package dimension data regarding the external dimensions of the package during delivery, and performs an in-delivery package dimension matching process to compare the in-delivery package dimension data with the packaged package dimension data, and if both the in-delivery package matching process and the in-delivery package dimension matching process are successful, transmits an in-delivery notification to the receiving terminal via the network indicating that the package is being delivered normally.

[0033] This allows the user of the receiving terminal to quickly understand that the delivery of the package is proceeding normally through the delivery notification from the delivery terminal, and enables the package with the planned contents to be reliably delivered from the sender (e.g., shipper) to the recipient.

[0034] Furthermore, a twelfth invention relates to the eleventh invention, and is configured such that the shipping terminal acquires shipping time information and shipping location information of the package, and the delivery terminal acquires current location information and current time information of the package, calculates a delivery time based on the shipping time information and the current time information, calculates a delivery distance based on the shipping location information and the current location information, and determines whether the delivery of the package is being carried out normally based on the delivery time and delivery distance.

[0035] This allows, for example, the user of the delivery terminal (for example, the deliverer) to easily understand that delivery is proceeding normally.

[0036] Furthermore, a thirteenth invention relates to the twelfth invention, and is configured such that the delivery terminal transmits the determination result as to whether or not the delivery of the package is being carried out normally to the shipping terminal via a network.

[0037] This allows the shipper to easily understand that delivery is proceeding normally.

[0038] Furthermore, a fourteenth invention relates to any of the eleventh to thirteenth inventions, and is configured to obtain at least one of the temperature of the luggage and the ambient temperature of the luggage as the luggage temperature, and to determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the luggage by comparing the luggage temperature with a preset temperature tolerance range.

[0039] This allows, for example, a user of a delivery terminal (for example, a delivery person) to easily understand whether or not a package is being delivered in an appropriate temperature environment.

[0040] A fifteenth invention relates to the fourteenth invention, and is configured such that the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal which is a terminal used by the consignee to receive the package, and when the delivery terminal determines that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package, it transmits an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package to the consignee terminal via a network.

[0041] This allows the recipient to easily understand if there is an abnormality in the delivery of the package.

[0042] A sixteenth invention is a delivery method using a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, the delivery system comprising a shipping terminal that performs processing related to the dispatch of the luggage, and a receiving terminal that performs processing related to the receipt of the luggage, the shipping terminal acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before packing, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after packing, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, the receiving terminal receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before unpacking, performs a pre-unpacking matching process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage images with the post-packing luggage images, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after unpacking, and performs a post-unpacking matching process to compare the post-unpacking luggage images with the pre-packing luggage images, and if both the pre-unpacking matching process and the post-unpacking matching process are successful, it is determined that the delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully.

[0043] According to this, if both the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are successful, the receiving terminal determines that delivery of the package has been completed successfully.Therefore, in a delivery service, by allowing the consignee to check the actual package information (image, size, etc.) in advance for packages with the planned contents, it becomes possible to ensure delivery from the shipper to the consignee.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0045] 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a delivery system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The delivery system 1 is a system related to a delivery service for delivering packaged packages from a shipper to a consignee.

[0046] The delivery system 1 includes a delivery management server 2 operated by a business providing delivery services (hereinafter referred to as a "delivery company"). The delivery system 1 also includes a shipper terminal 3 (an example of a shipping terminal) used by a shipper, a deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a delivery terminal) used by a deliverer, and a consignee terminal 5 (an example of a receiving terminal) used by a consignee.

[0047] The shipper terminal 3, the deliverer terminal 4, and the consignee terminal 5 can each communicate with the delivery management server 2 via a known communication network 6 such as the Internet. These terminals 3-5 can communicate with each other (i.e., indirectly) via the delivery management server 2. However, the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5 can also communicate directly with the deliverer terminal 4 by using known short-range wireless functions, etc.

[0048] 1, for the sake of convenience, only one shipper terminal 3, one deliverer terminal 4, and one consignee terminal 5 are shown. However, in practice, the delivery system 1 may include multiple terminals 3-5. The delivery system 1 may also include multiple delivery management servers 2 that cooperate to execute processes related to delivery services.

[0049] Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of the delivery management server 2 shown in Fig. 1. The delivery management server 2 includes a computer for executing processes required to manage the delivery services provided by the delivery company.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the delivery management server 2 includes a communication unit 11, a control unit 12, and a storage unit 13.

[0051] The communication unit 11 performs wireless or wired communication with other devices (here, the shipper terminal 3, the deliverer terminal 4, the consignee terminal 5, etc.) via the communication network 6 in accordance with a known communication protocol.

[0052] In the control unit 12, the usage acceptance unit 21 executes a process of accepting applications for use of delivery services and applications for delivery of packages from shippers via the shipper terminal 3. By accepting applications for use of delivery services from shippers, the usage acceptance unit 21 acquires information about the shippers (for example, the shipper's address, name, and payment information). The information about the shippers is sequentially stored in the storage unit 13 as service user information 26.

[0053] Furthermore, the usage reception unit 21 acquires information about the package to be delivered (for example, the contents of the package (i.e., the contents and type) and the address and name of the consignee) by accepting a package delivery application from the consignor terminal 3. The information about the package is sequentially stored in the storage unit 13 as package information 27. The package information 27 may include at least a portion of the shipping procedure information 48 from the consignor terminal 3. Note that the application to use the delivery service or the application for package delivery may be made by the consignee from the consignee terminal 5.

[0054] The delivery management unit 22 executes delivery management processing to ensure smooth shipment of packages by the shipper, delivery of packages by the deliverer, and receipt of packages by the consignee. As part of the delivery management processing, the delivery management unit 22 can provide the deliverer with instructions regarding delivery work and information necessary for delivery work via the deliverer terminal 4. Instructions regarding delivery work include, for example, instructions to collect the package. Information necessary for delivery work includes, for example, the address of the delivery destination, contact information, and estimated delivery time.

[0055] Furthermore, as part of the delivery management process, the delivery management unit 22 can notify the consignor or consignee (i.e., the consignor terminal 3 or the consignee terminal 5) of the delivery status of the package. The notification of the delivery status includes, for example, information on the delivery schedule of the package, information on the start of delivery of the package, or information indicating that the package is currently being delivered.

[0056] In addition to the above-mentioned service user information 26 and package information 27, the storage unit 13 can store information necessary for managing the delivery service, such as delivery work information 28. The delivery work information 28 includes information about the deliverer in charge of the delivery work, information about the deliverer terminal 4 used by the deliverer, and the like.

[0057] The computer that constitutes the delivery management server 2 may include known hardware such as a processor (CPU, MPU, etc.), memory, a display, an input device, a network interface, and storage.

[0058] The communication unit 11 may include a communication device equipped with an antenna, a communication circuit, and the like.

[0059] At least some of the functions of the units 21-22 in the control unit 12 can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program. The control unit 12 can also comprehensively control the operation of the delivery management server 2.

[0060] The memory unit 13 may include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information required for processing by the delivery management server 2.

[0061] In the delivery system 1, at least a part of the functions of the delivery management server 2 described above may be realized by a plurality of computers working together.

[0062] Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram of the shipper terminal 3 shown in Fig. 1. Figs. 4 and 5 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of a package photography screen for photographing packages before and after packaging, respectively. Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for acquiring package dimension data.

[0063] The shipper terminal 3 includes a computer for executing the processes necessary to ship the package. The shipper terminal 3 includes an information device with a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook PC, carried by the shipper.

[0064] The shipper terminal 3 may be a computer installed in a store operated by a delivery company and available to the shipper. If the shipper does not have a shipper terminal 3, a deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a shipping terminal) may be used instead of the shipper terminal 3. In this case, the operation of the deliverer terminal 4 functioning as the shipper terminal 3 may be performed by the deliverer.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 3 , the shipper terminal 3 includes a communication unit 31 , a photographing unit 32 , a position acquisition unit 33 , an operation input unit 34 , a display unit 35 , a control unit 36 ​​, and a memory unit 37 .

[0066] The communication unit 31 has the same functions and configuration as the above-described communication unit 11. The photographing unit 32 includes a camera equipped with known hardware.

[0067] The location acquisition unit 33 includes a receiver that receives satellite positioning signals from satellites in a satellite positioning system such as GPS (Global Positioning System). The location acquisition unit 33 measures the location of its own device from the received satellite positioning signals, thereby acquiring location information of the shipper terminal 3 at the time of shipping the package (hereinafter referred to as "shipping location information"). Note that the shipping location information may be information input into the shipper terminal 3 by the shipper.

[0068] The operation input unit 34 includes a known input device such as a touch panel or input buttons that can be used by the user of the shipper terminal 3 (here, the shipper) to perform input operations.

[0069] The display unit 35 includes a known display device such as a liquid crystal display, etc. However, a touch panel display used as an input device may also function as the display device.

[0070] In the control unit 36, the package image acquisition unit 41 generates a captured image (still image or video) by capturing an image of the package to be shipped using the imaging unit 32 based on an input operation by the user. Hereinafter, the captured images of the package before and after packaging will be referred to as a "pre-packaging package image" and a "post-packaging package image," respectively, as necessary.

[0071] In this embodiment, the terms "before packaging" and similar terms mean that the contents of the package are placed in packaging material and the lid of the packaging material is open so that the contents can be seen (i.e., photographed). Furthermore, the terms "after packaging" and similar terms mean that the lid of the packaging material is closed (i.e., packaging is completed).

[0072] As shown in FIG. 4 , the package image acquisition unit 41 can display a first package image capture screen 52A on the display serving as the display unit 35 to guide the user of the shipper terminal 3 to take a photograph of the package 51A before packaging. The user can generate a package image before packaging by performing a camera capture operation while the contents of the package 51A (here, multiple wine bottles) are placed in packaging material (here, cardboard) and the lid (here, the inner and outer flaps on the top surface) of the packaging material are open so that the contents are visible. The package image capture screen 52A can also display a guidance message (in the example of FIG. 4 , a message such as "Please take a photograph of the package before packaging.") encouraging the user to take a photograph of the package before packaging. The position and content of such a guidance message are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 and can be changed as appropriate. The shipper terminal 3 may also output audio guidance, along with (or instead of) the guidance message, encouraging the user to take a photograph of the package before packaging.

[0073] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5 , the package image acquisition unit 41 can display a second package image capture screen 52B on the display screen to guide the user of the shipper terminal 3 to take a picture of the package 51B after packaging. The user can generate a package image by using a camera to capture the package 51B with the lid of the packaging closed. The package image capture screen 52B can also display a guidance message urging the user to take a picture of the package after packaging (in the example of FIG. 5 , a message such as "Please take a picture of the package after packaging"). The position and content of such a guidance message are not limited to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 and can be changed as appropriate. The shipper terminal 3 may also output audio guidance urging the user to take a picture of the package after packaging, along with (or instead of) displaying the guidance message.

[0074] The size measurement unit 42 acquires dimensional data of the package (hereinafter referred to as "post-packaging dimensional data") by measuring the size of the external shape of the package after packaging based on an image of the package (e.g., an image of the package after packaging) captured by the imaging unit 32. In this embodiment, the post-packaging dimensional data obtained is the lengths of three sides (length (or depth), width (or width), and height) of the packaging material (e.g., cardboard) of a cubic package. When the post-packaging dimensional data is successfully acquired, the size measurement unit 42 can store the data in the memory unit 37 in association with the pre-packaging package image and the post-packaging package image.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 6 , the size measurement unit 42 can display a size measurement screen 55 on the display screen to guide the user of the consignor terminal 3 in measuring the external dimensions of the package 51B after packaging. The user can obtain post-packing dimension data by checking the size measurement results 56 on the size measurement screen 55 and pressing a confirm button 57. If the user determines that there is a problem with the size measurement results 56, the user can remeasure the size by pressing a remeasurement button 58. The size measurement screen 55 may be integrated into the above-described package photograph screen 52B (see FIG. 5 ). For example, while the user is photographing the package on the package photograph screen 52B, the size measurement results may be superimposed on the package photograph screen 52B in real time at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 5 seconds). This allows the user of the consignor terminal 3 to photograph the package after packaging while checking the size on the package photograph screen 52B, improving convenience.

[0076] The weight information acquisition unit 43 acquires information on the weight of the package to be shipped (hereinafter referred to as "shipping weight") based on the user's input operation, and stores it in the memory unit 37 as part of the shipping procedure information 48.

[0077] The time information acquisition unit 44 acquires current time information as package shipping time information at a predetermined timing. For example, the time information acquisition unit 44 can acquire the current time when a package shipping application is submitted from the shipper terminal 3 to the delivery management server 2, and use that time as the package shipping time. Alternatively, the time information acquisition unit 44 may use the photographing time of the package image after packaging (i.e., the current time at the time of photographing) as the package shipping time. The shipping time information is associated with the current location information acquired by the location acquisition unit 63, and these are stored in the storage unit 37 as part of the shipping procedure information.

[0078] The shipping procedure processing unit 45 executes processing related to the shipping procedures of the package by the shipper. The processing related to the shipping procedures includes processing related to the package shipping application to the delivery management server 2 (hereinafter referred to as "shipping processing"), as well as sending and receiving information related to the delivery and receipt of the package after shipping. Furthermore, in the shipping processing, the shipping procedure processing unit 45 can generate unpacking guide information to guide the consignee in unpacking the package based on the package image before packing, the package image after packing, and the package dimension data after packing.

[0079] The memory unit 37 stores a delivery application 47 as a control program for the consignor terminal 3 to execute the shipping process. The delivery application 47 is installed in the consignor terminal 3 in advance. The memory unit 37 also stores shipping procedure information 48 and user information 49, which are transmitted to the delivery management server 2 when a package shipping application is submitted. The shipping procedure information 48 includes an image of the package before packaging, an image of the package after packaging, the contents of the package, the delivery destination (such as the address and name of the consignee), shipping weight, the shipping time of the package, the shipping location of the package, and package dimension data. The shipping procedure information 48 may also include unpacking guide information to guide the consignee in unpacking the package. The user information 49 includes information about the user using the consignor terminal 3 (such as the address and name of the consignor and payment information).

[0080] At least some of the functions of each of the units 41-45 in the control unit 36 ​​can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program (including a delivery application 47). The control unit 36 ​​can also comprehensively control the operation of the shipper terminal 3. The memory unit 37 can include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information required for processing related to shipping procedures.

[0081] Figure 7 is a functional block diagram of the deliverer terminal 4 shown in Figure 1. The deliverer terminal 4 includes a computer that executes the processes necessary for the deliverer to perform delivery work. The deliverer terminal 4 includes an information device with communication functions, such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or laptop PC, carried by the deliverer.

[0082] The deliverer terminal 4 has a communication unit 61, a photographing unit 62, a position acquisition unit 63, an operation input unit 64, a display unit 65, a control unit 66, and a memory unit 67. The communication unit 61, the photographing unit 62, the position acquisition unit 63, the operation input unit 64, and the display unit 65 have the same functions and configurations as the communication unit 31, the photographing unit 32, the position acquisition unit 33, the operation input unit 34, and the display unit 35 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0083] In the control unit 66, the luggage image acquisition unit 71, size measurement unit 72, weight information acquisition unit 73, and time information acquisition unit 74 function generally in the same way as the luggage image acquisition unit 41, size measurement unit 42, weight information acquisition unit 43, and time information acquisition unit 44 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0084] The package image acquisition unit 71 can display a package photographing screen on the display to guide the user (here, the deliverer) to photograph the package during delivery. The user can generate a package image (hereinafter referred to as a "package image during delivery") by photographing the package during delivery with a camera.

[0085] The size measurement unit 72 obtains dimensional data of the package (hereinafter referred to as "dimension data during delivery") by measuring the external size of the package during delivery based on an image of the package taken by the photographing unit 62 (e.g., an image of the package during delivery).

[0086] The time information acquisition unit 74 acquires information on the current time at a predetermined timing as information on the time during delivery (hereinafter referred to as "time during delivery"). The information on the time during delivery is associated with information on the current location (hereinafter referred to as "location during delivery") acquired by the location acquisition unit 63, and these are stored in the storage unit 67 as part of the package delivery information 79. Information on the time during delivery and the location during delivery can be acquired at multiple points (i.e., multiple times) along the package delivery route.

[0087] The weight information acquisition unit 73 acquires information on the weight of the package during delivery (hereinafter referred to as “weight during delivery”) based on the user's input operation, and stores it in the storage unit 37 as shipping procedure information 48 .

[0088] In the control unit 66, the temperature information acquisition unit 75 acquires at least one of the temperature of the package being delivered and the ambient temperature of the package as the package temperature. The user can input the package temperature to the deliverer terminal 4 by referring to temperature measurement data from an external thermometer. Alternatively, the deliverer terminal 4 may communicate with the external thermometer and acquire the temperature measurement data as the package temperature.

[0089] The delivery processing unit 76 executes processes related to the delivery of packages by a deliverer. The processes related to the delivery work include processes related to the management of packages to be delivered (hereinafter referred to as "package management processes"), as well as the sending and receiving of information related to package delivery. The package management processes include, for example, a process of comparing images of packages during delivery with images of packages after packaging (an example of a process of comparing weights during delivery with shipping weights), and a process of comparing dimension data during delivery with dimension data after packaging (an example of a process of comparing dimension data during delivery).

[0090] The package management process also includes checking the package temperature against a preset temperature tolerance range. If the package temperature is outside the predetermined temperature tolerance range, the delivery processing unit 76 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the package delivery.

[0091] The package management process also includes a comparison process for determining whether the package is being delivered normally (e.g., on schedule). The delivery processing unit 76 acquires package dispatch time information and current time information (i.e., information on the time at a predetermined point along the delivery route) to calculate the delivery time from the difference between these information. The delivery processing unit 76 also acquires package dispatch location information and current location information (i.e., information on the location at a predetermined point along the delivery route) to calculate the delivery distance from the difference between these information. The delivery processing unit 76 can then compare the delivery speed calculated from the delivery time and delivery distance with a preset standard delivery speed (i.e., determine whether the difference between these information is within an acceptable range) to determine whether the package is being delivered normally.

[0092] At least some of the functions of each of the units 71-76 in the control unit 66 can be realized by at least one processor executing a predetermined control program. The control unit 66 can also comprehensively control the operation of the deliverer terminal 4. The memory unit 67 can include a storage device such as a storage for storing data and information necessary for processing related to delivery work.

[0093] The storage unit 67 stores package delivery information 79 relating to packages and their delivery. The package delivery information 79 includes at least a portion of the shipping procedure information 48 received from the shipper terminal 3 via the delivery management server 2, as well as information such as images of the package during delivery, dimension data during delivery, time during delivery, location during delivery, weight during delivery, and package temperature.

[0094] Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram of the consignee terminal 5 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen relating to a method for unpacking a package. Fig. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a navigation screen relating to a method for photographing a package after unpacking.

[0095] The consignee terminal 5 includes a computer for executing the processing required to confirm receipt of the package. The consignee terminal 5 includes an information device with a communication function, such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a laptop computer, carried by the consignee.

[0096] The consignee terminal 5 may be a computer installed in a store operated by the delivery company and available to the consignee. If the consignee does not have a consignee terminal 5, the deliverer terminal 4 (an example of a receiving terminal) may be used instead of the consignee terminal 5. In this case, the deliverer terminal 4 functioning as the consignee terminal 5 may be operated by the deliverer.

[0097] The consignee terminal 5 has a communication unit 81, a photographing unit 82, a position acquisition unit 83, an operation input unit 84, a display unit 85, a control unit 86, and a memory unit 87. The communication unit 81, the photographing unit 82, the position acquisition unit 83, the operation input unit 84, and the display unit 85 have the same functions and configurations as the communication unit 31, the photographing unit 32, the position acquisition unit 33, the operation input unit 34, and the display unit 35 of the consignor terminal 3, respectively.

[0098] In the control unit 86, the package image acquisition unit 91 and size measurement unit 92 function in roughly the same manner as the package image acquisition unit 41 and size measurement unit 42 of the shipper terminal 3, respectively.

[0099] The package image acquisition unit 91 generates a photographed image by photographing the received package using the photographing unit 82 based on an input operation by a user (here, the consignee). Hereinafter, the photographed images of the package before and after unpacking will be referred to as a "pre-unpacking package image" and a "post-unpacking package image", respectively, as necessary.

[0100] In this embodiment, "before unpacking" or similar terms refer to a state in which the lid of the packaging material is closed, similar to "after packaging." Furthermore, "after unpacking" or similar terms refer to a state in which the contents of the package remain in the packaging material, but the lid of the packaging material is open so that the contents can be seen, similar to "before packaging."

[0101] The package image acquisition unit 91 can display an unpacking navigation screen 101 (an example of information showing how to unpack a package) on the display to guide the user on how to unpack the package, as shown in FIG. 9 . The package image acquisition unit 91 can generate the unpacking navigation screen 101 based on unpacking guide information acquired from the shipper terminal 3 via the delivery management server 2. For example, the unpacking navigation screen 101 displays a virtual image showing the state in which the lid of the package has been opened (see the dashed line in FIG. 9 ). Note that the display on the unpacking navigation screen 101 is not limited to the form shown in FIG. 9 , and may be any display that shows the state of the package after unpacking and the unpacking process to the user. For example, animations or videos may be displayed on the unpacking navigation screen 101. In addition, on the consignee terminal 5, along with the display on the unpacking navigation screen 101 (or instead of the display on the unpacking navigation screen 101), audio guidance (an example of information indicating how to unpack a package) may be provided to inform the user of the state of the package after it has been unpacked and the unpacking process.

[0102] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10 , for example, the luggage image acquisition unit 91 can display on the display a photography navigation screen 102 (an example of a screen showing how to photograph luggage) for guiding the user on how to photograph the luggage 51A after unpacking. Similar to the unpacking navigation screen 101, the luggage image acquisition unit 91 can generate the photography navigation screen 102 based on the unpacking guide information. For example, the photography navigation screen 102 displays a virtual image (see the dashed line in FIG. 10 ) showing the position where the luggage should be placed after unpacking (i.e., the placement of the luggage to be photographed). By photographing the luggage with a camera in accordance with the photography navigation screen 102, the user can generate a luggage image (hereinafter referred to as a "received luggage image") suitable for a later matching process with the unpacked luggage image.

[0103] The size measurement unit 92 obtains dimensional data of the package (hereinafter referred to as "pre-unpacking dimensional data") by measuring the external size of the received package based on an image of the package (e.g., an image of the received package) taken by the photographing unit 82.

[0104] In the control unit 86, the receiving procedure processing unit 93 executes processing related to the procedure for receiving a package by the consignee. The processing related to the receiving procedure includes a verification process (hereinafter referred to as "receiving process") for determining whether delivery of the package has been completed successfully, as well as sending and receiving information related to the dispatch, delivery, and receipt of the package.

[0105] The receiving process includes, for example, a process of comparing a package image before unpacking with a package image after packing (an example of a pre-unpacking comparison process), a process of comparing a package image after unpacking with a package image before packing (an example of a post-unpacking comparison process), and a process of comparing pre-unpacking dimension data with post-packing dimension data (an example of a dimension comparison process). The receiving process may also include a process in which the consignee inputs to the consignee terminal 5 that he or she has determined that he or she has received the package with the expected contents (an example of an approval operation related to the receipt of the package).

[0106] The storage unit 87 stores a delivery application 96 as a control program for the consignee terminal 5 to execute the receiving process. The delivery application 96 is installed in advance in the consignee terminal 5. The delivery application 96 may be the same application program as the delivery application 47. The storage unit 87 also stores package receiving information 97. The package receiving information 97 includes images of the package before unpacking, images of the package after unpacking, and pre-unpacking dimension data.

[0107] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of a package delivery process in the delivery system 1.

[0108] The shipper starts the delivery application 47 on the shipper terminal 3 (1001) and submits an application for package delivery to the delivery management server 2 (1002). At this time, delivery application information is sent from the shipper terminal 3 to the delivery management server 2 (1003). The delivery application information includes the shipper's address and name, payment information, and the like.

[0109] The delivery management server 2 accepts the use of the parcel delivery service based on the delivery application information received from the shipper terminal 3 (1004). The delivery management server 2 stores the information included in the received delivery application information in the storage unit 13 as service user information 26.

[0110] Next, when the consignor completes preparations for shipping the package (i.e., packing, etc.), he / she executes the shipping process using the delivery application 47 (1005). At this time, the consignor terminal 3 transmits the shipping procedure information (or at least a part thereof) to the delivery management server 2 (1006).

[0111] The delivery management server 2 starts delivery of the package based on the shipping procedure information received from the shipper terminal 3 (1007). At this time, the delivery management server 2 determines the deliverer responsible for delivering the accepted package and transmits package collection instruction information to the deliverer terminal 4 used by the deliverer (1008). The package collection instruction information includes at least a portion of the shipping procedure information from the shipper terminal 3 (e.g., images of the package before packing, images of the package after packing, and post-packing dimension data). Furthermore, the delivery management server 2 transmits a package delivery schedule notice to the consignee terminal 5 used by the consignee (1009). The delivery schedule notice includes information regarding the package shipping schedule as well as at least a portion of the shipping procedure information (e.g., images of the package before packing, images of the package after packing, and post-packing dimension data).

[0112] The consignee terminal 5 stores the package information 27 contained in the delivery schedule notice received from the delivery management server 2 in the storage unit 87 as part of the package receipt information 97 (1010).

[0113] When the deliverer terminal 4 receives package collection instruction information from the delivery management server 2, it displays package collection instructions for the deliverer on the display unit 65 (1011) and executes delivery start processing (1012). The package collection instruction display allows the deliverer to recognize that delivery work needs to be carried out. In the delivery start processing, the deliverer terminal 4 sends delivery start information to the delivery management server 2 (1013). The delivery start information includes information such as the start time of delivery.

[0114] When the delivery management server 2 receives the delivery start information from the deliverer terminal 4, it transmits the delivery start information (or at least a part of it) to the consignee terminal 5 (1014).

[0115] The deliverer terminal 4 can execute package management processing as needed while the deliverer is delivering the package (1015). The deliverer terminal 4 then transmits the results of the package management processing to the delivery management server 2 as delivery in progress information (1016). At this time, if the results of the package management processing (i.e., the determination result as to whether the package is being delivered normally) are undesirable, the deliverer terminal 4 can transmit an abnormality occurrence notification to at least one of the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5 via the delivery management server 2, indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package.

[0116] When the delivery management server 2 receives the delivery in progress information from the deliverer terminal 4, it transmits the delivery in progress information (or at least a part of it) to the consignee terminal 5 (1017).

[0117] Thereafter, when the consignee receives the package delivered by the deliverer, the consignee starts the delivery application 96 on the consignor terminal 3 (1018) and executes the receiving process using the delivery application 96 (1019).

[0118] When the receiving process is completed normally, the consignee terminal 5 determines that the delivery of the package has been completed normally. Furthermore, the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice indicating that the receipt of the package has been completed to the delivery management server 2 (1020). When the delivery management server 2 receives the receipt confirmation notice from the consignee terminal 5, it transmits the receipt confirmation notice (or part of the information contained therein) to the shipper terminal 3 (1021).

[0119] In this way, if the receiving process (including, for example, the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process) is successful, the consignee terminal 5 determines that the delivery of the package has been completed successfully, thereby enabling the delivery service to reliably deliver the package with the planned contents from the shipper to the consignee.

[0120] When the consignor terminal 3 receives the receipt confirmation notice from the delivery management server 2, it displays a delivery completion message for the consignor on the display unit 35 (1022). This delivery completion message allows the consignor to recognize that the delivery of the package has been completed.

[0121] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the flow of the shipping process (1005) by the shipper terminal 3 shown in FIG.

[0122] In the shipping process, the shipper terminal 3 photographs the package before packing based on the operation of the shipper (i.e., the user of the shipper terminal 3) (ST101). This generates an image of the package before packing that allows the contents of the package to be confirmed. Next, the shipper terminal 3 photographs the package after packing based on the operation of the shipper (ST102). This generates an image of the package after packing that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed.

[0123] Thereafter, the consignor terminal 3 acquires post-packing dimension data of the package by measuring the external dimensions of the package based on the consignor's operation (ST103). The consignor terminal 3 also acquires the shipping weight of the package to be shipped based on the user's input operation (ST104). Furthermore, the consignor terminal 3 acquires information on the current time as the package shipping time (ST105).

[0124] Therefore, the shipper terminal 3 generates shipping procedure information including the information obtained in steps ST101-ST105 and transmits this to the delivery management server 2 (ST106). The shipping procedure information includes information intended for the deliverer terminal 4. At least a portion of the shipping procedure information is then transmitted (i.e., forwarded) from the delivery management server 2 to the deliverer terminal 4. The shipping procedure information also includes information intended for the consignee terminal 5, and at least a portion of the shipping procedure information is transmitted from the delivery management server 2 to the consignee terminal 5.

[0125] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram showing the flow of the package management process (1015) by the deliverer terminal 4 shown in FIG.

[0126] In the package management process, the deliverer terminal 4 acquires at least a portion of the shipping procedure information (ST201). The shipping procedure information is included in, for example, the package collection instruction information (see 1008 in FIG. 11) received from the delivery management server 2.

[0127] Next, the deliverer terminal 4 takes a picture of the package being delivered based on the operation of the deliverer (i.e., the user of the deliverer terminal 4) (ST202), thereby generating an image of the package being delivered that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed.

[0128] Next, the deliverer terminal 4 acquires the package's dimension data during delivery by measuring the external dimensions of the package based on the deliverer's operation (ST203). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the package's weight during delivery based on the deliverer's input operation (ST204). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the current time as the package's delivery time (ST205). The deliverer terminal 4 also acquires the package temperature based on the deliverer's input operation or temperature measurement data from an external thermometer (ST206).

[0129] The deliverer terminal 4 then executes a verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (ST206). The verification process is executed using at least a portion of the shipping procedure information acquired in ST201 and the image (i.e., appearance), size, weight, delivery time, and temperature of the package acquired in steps ST202-ST206. However, the deliverer terminal 4 may omit part of the verification process relating to the image, size, weight, delivery time, and temperature of the package.

[0130] Therefore, if all the collation processes in step ST207 are successful (Yes in ST208), the deliverer terminal 4 transmits delivery status information to the delivery management server 2 to inform the consignee of the delivery status of the package (ST209).

[0131] On the other hand, if the verification in step ST207 fails (No in ST208), the deliverer terminal 4 displays an error message on the display unit 65 to notify the deliverer that the verification failed (ST210). This allows the deliverer to recognize that an abnormality has occurred in any of the package's appearance, size, weight, delivery time, or temperature.

[0132] The deliverer terminal 4 can also transmit information indicating an abnormality in the appearance, size, weight, delivery time, or temperature of the package to the delivery management server 2 as delivery in progress information. In this case, the delivery management server 2 can further transmit (i.e., transfer) the delivery in progress information indicating an abnormality to at least one of the shipper terminal 3 and the consignee terminal 5.

[0133] FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the flow of the receiving process (1019) by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0134] In the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 photographs the package received from the deliverer based on the operation of the consignee (i.e., the user of the consignee terminal 5) (ST301). This generates a pre-unpacking package image that allows the appearance of the package to be confirmed. Next, the consignee terminal 5 measures the external dimensions of the package before unpacking based on the operation of the consignee, thereby acquiring pre-unpacking dimension data of the package (ST302).

[0135] Thereafter, when the consignee unpacks the package, the consignee terminal 5 photographs the package after unpacking based on the operation of the consignee (ST303), thereby generating an unpacked package image that allows the contents of the package to be confirmed.

[0136] Thereafter, the consignee terminal 5 executes a receipt verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (i.e., whether the package has been received with the planned contents) (ST304). The receipt verification process is executed using a portion of the shipping procedure information and the image (i.e., appearance) and size of the package obtained in steps ST301-ST303. However, the consignee terminal 5 may omit part of the receipt verification process related to the image and size of the package. Note that a portion of the shipping procedure information is included, for example, in the shipping schedule notice (see 1009 in FIG. 11) that the consignee terminal 5 receives from the delivery management server 2.

[0137] If the verification in step ST304 is successful (Yes in ST305), the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice (see 1020 in FIG. 11) to the delivery management server 2 to notify the sender that the package has been received (ST306). The delivery management server 2 can then transmit the receipt confirmation notice (or at least a part of it) to the deliverer terminal 4.

[0138] On the other hand, if the verification in step ST304 fails (No in ST305), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error message on the display unit 85 to notify the consignee that the verification has failed (ST307). This allows the consignee to recognize that an abnormality has occurred in either the appearance or size of the package.

[0139] The consignee terminal 5 can also send an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in either the appearance or size of the package to the delivery management server 2 instead of the receipt confirmation notification. In this case, the delivery management server 2 can send (i.e., forward) the abnormality notification to the shipper terminal 3 instead of the receipt confirmation notification. The abnormality notification can include information indicating the reason for the abnormality (for example, a failure of image matching due to a difference in appearance).

[0140] FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing a first modification of the receiving process by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0141] In the first modified example of the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 executes steps ST401-ST402, which are the same as steps ST301-ST302 in FIG. 14. The consignee terminal 5 then executes a first receiving verification process (ST403) to determine whether the package has been delivered successfully. The first receiving verification process is executed using part of the shipping procedure information and the image (i.e., appearance) and size of the package obtained in steps ST401-ST402. The consignee terminal 5 may omit part of the receiving verification process related to the image and size of the package in step ST403.

[0142] If the verification in step ST403 is successful (YES in ST404), the consignee terminal 5 photographs the unpacked package in the same manner as in step ST303 (ST405). Furthermore, the consignee terminal 5 executes a second receipt verification process to determine whether the package has been delivered normally (ST406). The second receipt verification process is executed using part of the shipping procedure information and the unpacked package image obtained in step ST405.

[0143] If the collation in step ST406 is successful (Yes in ST407), the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receipt confirmation notice to the delivery management server 2 (ST408), as in step ST306.

[0144] On the other hand, if the collation in step ST403 or step ST407 fails (No in ST404 or No in ST407), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error (ST409) in the same manner as in step ST307. By displaying an error (i.e., a notice to make the consignee aware of the failure of the collation process) when the collation process (an example of the dimension collation process) in step ST404 fails, it is possible to avoid the trouble of the consignee opening the wrong delivered package.

[0145] In this way, in the first modified example of the receiving process, the photographing of the package after opening and the second receipt verification process are executed only if the first receipt verification process is successful. This makes it possible to avoid the consignee terminal 5 from needlessly photographing the package after opening and the second receipt verification process being executed even if the appearance of the package differs from the expected package (i.e., the first receipt verification process has failed).

[0146] FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing a second modification of the receiving process by the consignee terminal 5 shown in FIG.

[0147] In the second modified example of the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 executes steps ST501 to ST504 similar to steps ST301 to ST304 in FIG.

[0148] If the verification in step ST504 is successful (Yes in ST505), the consignee terminal 5 displays an approval screen requesting the consignee's approval on the display unit 85. When the consignee performs an approval operation (i.e., an input operation) on the approval screen displayed on the shipper terminal 3, the consignee terminal 5 determines that the consignee's approval has been completed (Yes in ST506) and, as in step ST306, transmits a receipt confirmation notice to the delivery management server 2 (ST507).

[0149] On the other hand, if the collation in step 505 fails (No in ST505), the consignee terminal 5 displays an error message (ST508) in the same manner as in step ST307.

[0150] In this way, in the second modified example of the receiving process, the consignee terminal 5 transmits a receiving confirmation notice when the verification process is successful and the consignee has performed an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package. Therefore, it is possible to avoid sending an uncertain receiving confirmation notice from the consignee terminal 5 to the delivery management server 2 or the shipper terminal 3.

[0151] As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above embodiments to create new embodiments.

[0152] The delivery system and delivery method of the present disclosure enable reliable delivery of planned packages from a shipper to a consignee in a delivery service, and are useful as a delivery system and delivery method for delivering packaged packages from a shipper to a consignee.

[0153] 1: Delivery system 2: Delivery management server 3: Consignor terminal 4: Deliverer terminal 5: Consignee terminal 6: Communication network 11: Communication unit 12: Control unit 13: Memory unit 21: Usage reception unit 22: Delivery management unit 26: Service user information 27: Package information 28: Delivery work information 31: Communication unit 32: Photography unit 33: Position acquisition unit 34: Operation input unit 35: Display unit 36: Control unit 37: Memory unit 41: Package image acquisition unit 42: Size measurement unit 43: Weight information acquisition unit 44: Time information acquisition unit 45: Shipping procedure processing unit 47, 96: Delivery application 48: Shipping procedure information 49: User information 55: Size measurement screen 56: Size measurement result 61: Communication unit 62 : Photography unit 63 : Position acquisition unit 64 : Operation input unit 65 : Display unit 66 : Control unit 67 : Memory unit 71 : Parcel image acquisition unit 72 : Size measurement unit 73 : Weight information acquisition unit 74 : Time information acquisition unit 75 : Temperature information acquisition unit 76 : Delivery processing unit 79 : Parcel delivery information 81 : Communication unit 82 : Photography unit 83 : Position acquisition unit 84 : Operation input unit 85 : Display unit 86 : Control unit 87 : Memory unit 91 : Parcel image acquisition unit 92 : Size measurement unit 93 : Receiving procedure processing unit 97 : Parcel receiving information 101 : Unpacking navigation screen 102 : Photography navigation screen

Claims

1. A delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, comprising: a shipping terminal which executes processes related to the shipping of the luggage; and a receiving terminal which executes processes related to the receipt of the luggage, wherein the shipping terminal: acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal: receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, performs a pre-unpacking comparison process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and performs a post-unpacking comparison process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and determines that delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully if both the pre-unpacking comparison process and the post-unpacking comparison process are successful.

2. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the shipping terminal acquires post-packing dimensional data relating to the external dimensions of the package after it has been packed, and transmits the post-packing dimensional data to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal acquires pre-unpacking dimensional data relating to the external dimensions of the package before it has been unpacked, and performs a dimension matching process to match the pre-unpacking dimensional data with the post-packing dimensional data, and performs the post-unpacking matching process only if the dimension matching process is successful.

3. The delivery system of claim 2, wherein the receiving terminal transmits an abnormality notification to the shipping terminal via a network, indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package, if any of the pre-unpacking comparison process, the post-unpacking comparison process, and the dimension comparison process fails.

4. The delivery system according to claim 3, wherein the abnormality occurrence notification includes information indicating the reason why the abnormality occurred.

5. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the receiving terminal transmits a receipt confirmation notification to the shipping terminal via a network, indicating that delivery of the package has been completed successfully, when the pre-unpacking verification process and the post-unpacking verification process are all successful and the user of the receiving terminal has performed an approval operation regarding the receipt of the package.

6. The delivery system of claim 2, wherein the shipping terminal transmits unpacking guide information for guiding the unpacking of the package to the receiving terminal via a network, and the receiving terminal presents information indicating how to unpack the package to the user based on the unpacking guide information before acquiring an image of the package after unpacking.

7. The delivery system according to claim 6, wherein the unpacking guide information is generated based on the unpacked package image, the packed package image, and the packed dimension data.

8. A delivery system as described in claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the receiving terminal, after acquiring the unopened package image, displays on a display a screen showing how to photograph the unpacked package based on the unpacking guide information.

9. A distribution system as described in claim 2, wherein, when the post-packaging dimension data is normally acquired, the shipping terminal stores the post-packaging dimension data in association with the unpackaged package image and the post-packaging package image.

10. A delivery system as described in claim 1, wherein the shipping terminal includes at least one of a shipper terminal which is a terminal used by a shipper who ships the package and a shipper terminal which is a terminal used by a shipper who delivers the package, and the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal which is a terminal used by a consignee who receives the package.

11. A delivery system for delivering packaged packages, comprising: a delivery terminal which executes processes related to the delivery of the package; a receiving terminal which executes processes related to the receipt of the package; and a delivery terminal which executes processes related to delivery procedures for the package, wherein the delivery terminal: acquires pre-packaged package images generated by photographing the package before it is packed; acquires post-packaged package images generated by photographing the package after it is packed; transmits the pre-packaged package images and the post-packaged package images to the delivery terminal via a network; acquires post-packaged dimensional data relating to the external dimensions of the package after it is packed; and transmits the post-packaged dimensional data to the delivery terminal via the network, and the delivery terminal: acquires in-delivery package images generated by photographing the package during delivery; performs an in-delivery comparison process to compare the in-delivery package images and the post-packaged package images; acquires in-delivery dimensional data relating to the external dimensions of the package during delivery; and performs an in-delivery dimensional comparison process to compare the in-delivery dimensional data and the post-packaged dimensional data, If both the in-delivery collation process and the in-delivery dimension collation process are successful, a delivery notification indicating that the delivery of the package is proceeding normally is transmitted to the receiving terminal via a network.

12. The delivery system described in claim 11, wherein the shipping terminal acquires shipping time information and shipping location information of the package, and the delivery terminal acquires current location information and current time information of the package, respectively, calculates a delivery time based on the shipping time information and the current time information, calculates a delivery distance based on the shipping location information and the current location information, and determines whether the delivery of the package is being carried out normally based on the delivery time and delivery distance.

13. A delivery system as described in claim 12, wherein the delivery terminal transmits the result of the determination as to whether or not the delivery of the package is being carried out normally to the shipping terminal via a network.

14. A delivery system as described in claim 11, wherein the delivery terminal acquires at least one of the temperature of the package and the ambient temperature of the package as the package temperature, and determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package by comparing the package temperature with a preset temperature tolerance range.

15. A delivery system as described in any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the receiving terminal includes a consignee terminal which is a terminal used by a consignee to receive the package, and the delivery terminal, if it determines that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package, transmits an abnormality notification indicating that an abnormality has occurred in the delivery of the package to the consignee terminal via a network.

16. A delivery method by a delivery system for delivering packaged luggage, the delivery system comprising: a delivery terminal which executes processes related to the dispatch of the luggage; and a receiving terminal which executes processes related to the receipt of the luggage, the delivery terminal: acquires pre-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is packed, acquires post-packing luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is packed, and transmits the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images to the receiving terminal via a network, the receiving terminal: receives the pre-packing luggage images and the post-packing luggage images, acquires pre-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage before it is unpacked, performs a pre-unpacking comparison process to compare the pre-unpacking luggage image with the post-packing luggage image, acquires post-unpacking luggage images generated by photographing the luggage after it is unpacked, and performs a post-unpacking comparison process to compare the post-unpacking luggage image with the pre-packing luggage image, and if both the pre-unpacking comparison process and the post-unpacking comparison process are successful, it is determined that the delivery of the luggage has been completed successfully.

Images