Building, building method, movement control device, and storage control device

Abstract

[Problem] To resolve a lack of storage space in a residence and improve convenience for a resident by automatically storing and taking out cargo. [Solution] According to the present invention, an underfloor space of a residence is utilized as a storage space and a small elevator is installed between the underfloor space and a living space. A cargo carrying robot and a charging port are disposed inside the underfloor storage space. The cargo carrying robot automatically stores and takes out the cargo by using an autonomous traveling technology similar to that of a household robot cleaner. Furthermore, by providing an automatic delivery robot port, it is possible to handle an unmanned delivery performed by an automatic delivery robot or a drone.

Description

Buildings, construction methods, movement control devices, storage control devices

[0001] The present invention relates to a building, a construction method thereof, and a movement control device and a storage control device used in said building, and in particular to those used for storing items.

[0002] In buildings, there is a demand for effective use of the main space and securing storage space, but in conventional buildings, the main space and storage space are provided separately, making it difficult to effectively utilize the space.In addition, moving items between the main space and storage space requires manual labor, making it difficult to efficiently manage items.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an automated warehouse in which storage boxes are taken in and out via a dedicated loading and unloading floor.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-092053

[0005] The present invention provides a method that eliminates (or reduces the need for) dedicated storage space and makes storage and retrieval easier.

[0006] According to the present invention, a building is provided that includes a movement control means for controlling the movement of an object between a main space and an underfloor space.

[0007] According to the present invention, the movement of objects between the main space and the underfloor space can be automatically controlled, and the storage location of the objects in the underfloor space can be automatically controlled, thereby making it possible to effectively utilize the space in the building while achieving efficient item management.

[0008] In addition, by using elevators and robots to automate the movement and storage of objects, it is possible to reduce labor and time required for work.

[0009] Furthermore, by providing a loading entrance that allows items to be brought directly into the underfloor space from the outside, the work of bringing in items can be made easier, thereby improving the convenience and functionality of the building.

[0010] Fig. 7 is a conceptual diagram of a building of the present invention. Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram of a building of the present invention. Fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a building of the present invention. Fig. 10 is another partial cross-sectional view of a building of the present invention. Fig. 11 is a top perspective view of a building of the present invention. Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram of a robot moving in the underfloor space of a building of the present invention. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the operation of the luggage support mechanism of the robot of Fig. 6. Fig. 14 is a functional block diagram of a control unit of a building of the present invention. Fig. 15 is a perspective perspective view of a building of the present invention.

[0011] The details of the embodiments of the present invention will be listed and explained. The present invention has the following configuration. [Item 1] A building comprising a movement control means for controlling the movement of an object between a main space and an underfloor space. [Item 2] The building according to item 1, further comprising a storage control means for controlling a storage location of the object in the underfloor space. [Item 3] The building according to item 2, wherein the storage control means further comprises a receiving means for receiving the object moved from the main space by the movement control means. [Item 4] The building according to item 3, wherein the storage control means further comprises a moving means for moving the received object to a predetermined position in the underfloor space. [Item 5] The building according to item 1, further comprising a delivery entrance for bringing in the object by penetrating a wall of the underfloor space from the outside. [Item 6] A building comprising: an elevator that controls the movement of an object between a main space and a underfloor space; and a robot that receives the object moved by the elevator in the underfloor space and moves the object to a predetermined position under the floor. [Item 7] A building comprising: a main space and a underfloor space; a robot that moves an object stored in a predetermined position under the floor; and an elevator that moves the moved object from the underfloor space to the main space. [Item 8] A building method having a main space and a underfloor space, comprising installing a movement control means that controls the movement of an object between the main space and the underfloor space. [Item 9] A building having a main space and a underfloor space, comprising: a movement control device that controls the movement of an object between the main space and the underfloor space. [Item 10] A storage control device that controls the storage of an object in the underfloor space in a building having a main space and a underfloor space.

[0012] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0013] <Summary> The present invention relates to a building (such as a residence) equipped with a movement control means for controlling the movement of an object between a main space and an underfloor space of the building, and a storage control means for controlling a storage location of the object in the underfloor space. The movement control means is an elevator that moves the object between the main space and the underfloor space, and the storage control means is a robot that receives the object moved by the movement control means and moves it to a predetermined position in the underfloor space.

[0014] <Buildings> The present invention can increase storage space by effectively utilizing the underfloor space, particularly in detached houses. In particular, in homes in urban areas where storage space is limited, application of the present invention can achieve efficient storage while ensuring a spacious living space.

[0015] In order to effectively utilize the underfloor space in the building of the present invention, the foundation height must be higher than usual. While the foundation height of a typical building is about 300 mm, it is desirable to add an additional 200 mm or more to the foundation height of the building of the present invention, ensuring a foundation height of at least 500 mm.

[0016] By adding this foundation height, it is possible to ensure sufficient height for installing storage space or robots in the underfloor space. It also makes it easier to secure space for elevator unit hoistways, piping, wiring, etc. However, since increasing the foundation height increases the overall height of the building, it is necessary to consider the impact on the surrounding environment and increased construction costs. It is important to set an appropriate foundation height based on the building's use, size, location, etc.

[0017] <Hardware configuration> As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the building of the present invention comprises a building body having a main space, an underfloor space, and a floor separating them, a movement control means for controlling the movement of objects between these spaces, a storage control means for controlling the storage location of the objects in the underfloor space, and a control unit for overall control of the movement control means and the storage control means.

[0018] The main building is constructed using standard architectural structures such as reinforced concrete or steel frame construction, and the main space is the space used for the building's main purpose, such as living space or working space. The underfloor space is the space provided under the floor of the main building, and is used for storing and transporting objects.

[0019] As will be described later, the movement control means is configured as an elevator. The elevator is incorporated into the building body so as to connect the floor of the main space with an opening provided in the ceiling of the underfloor space. The elevator includes a hoistway, a car that moves up and down within the hoistway, and a drive device that raises and lowers the car.

[0020] As will be described later, the storage control means is an autonomous robot equipped with a moving means for moving an object. The robot is installed in the underfloor space and moves the object received from the elevator unit to a predetermined storage position. The robot may be, for example, a cart-type robot that moves autonomously in the underfloor space using image recognition or the like, but it may also be configured as a conveying device that moves back and forth on rails or is suspended from the ceiling.

[0021] As will be described later, the building of the present invention may also have a service entrance (not shown) provided in a wall of the underfloor space. The service entrance is an opening that allows direct access to the underfloor space from outside the building and can be used to carry in and out objects.

[0022] <Movement Control Means: Elevator> The movement control means in the present invention is an elevator unit that controls the movement of an object in the vertical direction between the main space and the underfloor space of a building.

[0023] This elevator is installed so as to connect the floor of the main space with an opening in the ceiling of the underfloor space. The elevator shaft is formed to penetrate the main space and the underfloor space, and the elevator car is configured to be able to move up and down within the shaft.

[0024] The elevator car has a space inside for storing objects and has a roughly cylindrical shape with a pair of opposing openings for loading and unloading luggage (see also Figure 5). Specifically, luggage can be deposited in the In direction in Figure 3 and removed in the Out direction. The opening faces the In / Out directions. A sensor for detecting the position of the elevator car is attached to the exterior wall, and the elevator's elevation control is based on the signal from this sensor.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, elevator lift control is performed based on commands from the control unit. Specifically, when the control unit receives a request to move (storage request) an object (baggage), it calls the elevator car and stops it at a predetermined position in the main compartment or underfloor space (see Figure 3). The object is then deposited in the elevator car. Once the object has been deposited, the elevator car begins to descend in direction Dn. When the elevator car arrives in the underfloor space, it is placed directly above the robot (see Figure 4). Then, as shown in Figure 5, for example, the robot moves along the route indicated by the arrow to a predetermined storage position E and stores the baggage together with the car.

[0026] <Storage Control Means: Robot> The autonomous traveling robot serving as the storage control means of the present invention is a device that receives luggage transported to the underfloor space by the elevator unit together with the car, and moves it to a predetermined storage position within the underfloor space.

[0027] As shown in Figure 6, the robot is designed to move autonomously through the underfloor space based on pre-stored information about the space, using image recognition with a camera positioned in front of the luggage. The robot is equipped with a drive mechanism, such as wheels and a motor, for movement. The robot supports the car by supporting side rails attached to both sides of the car, keeping it slightly above the floor (see Figure 7(A)). This allows the robot to move while supporting the car.

[0028] When the robot reaches the storage position, the support lowers, causing the bottom of the car to come into contact with the floor (see Figure 7 (B)). When the robot moves away from the car in this state, the car remains on the floor, allowing the robot to move alone. The support is made up of an air cylinder, an electric actuator, etc.

[0029] The robot is equipped with various sensors. Specifically, it uses a position sensor to detect its own position, a speed sensor to detect its own speed, an object sensor to detect the presence or absence of an object on the placement surface, a monitoring sensor to monitor the operation of the transport mechanism, etc. The signals from these sensors are sent to a control unit and used to control the operation of the robot.

[0030] The robot is also provided with a communication interface for linking with the elevator unit. The communication interface is configured using, for example, wireless or wired communication, and is used to receive signals related to the delivery of objects from the elevator unit and to notify the elevator unit of the robot's status.

[0031] <Control Unit> In the building of the present invention, the control unit that comprehensively manages the movement control means and storage control means and enables users to smoothly store and retrieve luggage has the following configuration.

[0032] The control unit has an operation panel installed in the main space, a control unit, and an interface unit that communicates with the elevator and the robot.

[0033] The control unit is a computer system that collects information from elevators and robots and comprehensively controls a series of operations related to the movement and storage of luggage. The control unit has a database that manages information such as luggage location, movement route, and storage location, and can perform optimal control in response to user requests.

[0034] An operation panel that can be directly operated by the user is installed in the main space. The operation panel is equipped with an input interface such as a touch screen and buttons, allowing the user to intuitively input requests regarding the storage and retrieval of luggage. The operation panel displays a screen for inputting information such as the type and quantity of luggage and the desired storage location, and by inputting this information, the user can send a request to the control unit. The operation panel may also be equipped with input means such as a camera and microphone so that operations can be performed using voice recognition or gestures.

[0035] The control unit may also have a function for linking with the user's smartphone. A dedicated application is installed on the smartphone, and the user can use the application to check the status of packages in the building and send requests for storage or retrieval. When the control device receives a request from the smartphone, it performs control according to the request and moves or stores the package.

[0036] When the control unit receives a request from the operation panel or smartphone, it sends appropriate instructions to the elevator or robot. Specifically, it sends signals to call the elevator to start moving the luggage, or to instruct the robot on where to store the luggage. The control unit also receives signals related to the luggage's location and operating status, and processes the information to display it on the operation panel or other device.

[0037] <Underfloor space camera and operation panel> In the building of the present invention, a camera is installed in the underfloor space and the camera image is displayed on the operation panel in the main space, allowing users to check the status of their luggage and perform storage and retrieval operations with confidence.

[0038] When a user requests the removal of a package via the operation panel, the control unit displays on the operation panel an image from a camera installed in the underfloor space. The user may identify the location where the desired package is stored while viewing the camera image and input the location information into the operation panel. Based on the input location information, the control unit moves the robot to the desired storage space and begins operation to remove the package. When the robot arrives at the desired storage space and removes the package, the camera image continues to be displayed on the operation panel. This allows the user to check the status of the package removal in real time, and if there is any problem with the package removal, it can be dealt with promptly.

[0039] The same procedure can be used to store luggage. Users can select the appropriate storage space based on the type and quantity of luggage they want to store while viewing the camera image displayed on the operation panel. They can also check the storage status of their luggage to ensure that it is completely stored.

[0040] <Service Entrance> The building of the present invention may be provided with a service entrance (not shown). The service entrance is an opening that allows direct access to the underfloor space from outside the building. The service entrance is provided on the wall of the underfloor space and is used to carry in and out objects. The service entrance is composed of an opening formed on the wall of the underfloor space and a door for opening and closing the opening. The opening is set to appropriate dimensions depending on the size and shape of the object, and has sufficient height and width to ensure that the robot in the underfloor space can transport the object without any problems.

[0041] Doors have a mechanism for opening and closing the opening, and can be opened and closed manually or automatically. Manually, doors are opened and closed by operating a handle or pull attached to the door. Automatically, doors are opened and closed using an actuator such as an electric motor or air cylinder.

[0042] The door is equipped with a sensor to detect whether it is open or closed. The sensor may be a limit switch or a photo sensor, and detects whether the door is fully open or fully closed. The signals from these sensors are sent to a control device and used for cooperative control with the robot.

[0043] The loading entrance is also equipped with mechanisms to ensure security. Specifically, a door locking device and a user authentication device are used. The locking device is made up of a key or an electric lock, and prevents the loading entrance from being opened by anyone other than authorized users. The authentication device is made up of an ID card or biometric authentication, and prevents unauthorized use by verifying the user's identity.

[0044] Around the entrance, facilities are provided to facilitate the loading and unloading of objects. For example, a space is provided in front of the entrance for vehicles such as trucks to park. Also, near the entrance, a cart storage area for temporary storage of objects and a work space for workers are provided.

[0045] <Operation> <Storing luggage from the main space to the underfloor space> When a user requests to store luggage in the main space, the control unit calls the elevator car and stops it at a specified position in the main space. When the user places the luggage in the elevator car and issues a command to store it, the elevator car automatically begins to descend into the underfloor space.

[0046] When the elevator car arrives in the space under the floor, a robot is waiting to receive the luggage along with the elevator car. The robot then moves forward and carries the luggage to a pre-designated storage location. Once it arrives at the storage location, it places the car in the storage space.

[0047] Once the storage is complete, the robot returns to its original position and prepares for the next storage request. Meanwhile, if a new storage request is received from the user, the elevator car will again travel back and forth between the main space and the underfloor space.

[0048] <Removing items from the underfloor space to the main space> When a user requests to remove an item stored in the underfloor space from the main space, the control unit sends instructions to the robot. The robot moves to the specified storage location and uses the transport mechanism to have the item and basket held by the robot.

[0049] The robot with the luggage moves to the elevator. When the luggage is placed in the elevator, the elevator car automatically begins to rise into the main space.

[0050] When the car arrives at the main space, the passenger can retrieve their luggage from the elevator car. Once the retrieval is complete, the elevator car waits for the next request. If the passenger repeatedly retrieves luggage, the elevator car will move back and forth between the main space and the underfloor space, and the robot will move back and forth between the storage space and the elevator unit.

[0051] <Position of elevator and underfloor space> As shown in Figure 9, in this embodiment, a heat insulating material is installed to cover the underfloor space. This allows luggage to be stored without worrying about temperature changes. The elevator is also located inside the heat insulating material.

[0052] In the building of the present invention, by providing multiple underfloor spaces and dividing them into sections, it is possible to store a larger amount of luggage. In this case, there may be multiple elevator units, or the elevator shaft may be structured to branch off to accommodate multiple underfloor spaces. Using the operation panel or smartphone, users can select the appropriate underfloor space depending on the type and quantity of luggage they want to store.

[0053] The above-described embodiment is merely an example for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A building equipped with a movement control means for controlling the movement of objects between the main space and the underfloor space.

2. A building according to claim 1, further comprising a storage control means for controlling the storage location of the object in the underfloor space.

3. A building according to claim 2, wherein the storage control means further comprises receiving means for receiving the object moved from the main space by the movement control means.

4. A building according to claim 3, wherein the storage control means further comprises a moving means for moving the received object to a predetermined position in the underfloor space.

5. A building according to claim 1, further comprising a delivery entrance through which the object is delivered from the outside by penetrating the wall of the underfloor space.

6. A building as claimed in claim 1, comprising: an elevator that controls the movement of an object between a main space and an underfloor space; and a robot that receives the object moved by the elevator in the underfloor space and moves the object to a predetermined position under the floor.

7. A building as claimed in claim 1, comprising a main space and an underfloor space, a robot that moves objects stored in a predetermined position under the floor, and an elevator that moves the moved objects from the underfloor space to the main space.

8. A construction method in a building having a main space and a crawl space, comprising installing a movement control means for controlling the movement of objects between the main space and the crawl space.

9. A movement control device for controlling the movement of an object between a main space and an underfloor space in a building having the main space and the underfloor space.

10. A storage control device that controls the storage of objects in the underfloor space in a building having a main space and an underfloor space.

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