Product shipping management system, product order reception device, shipping support device, and product management program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a product shipping management system with which it is possible to improve the convenience of shipping by reducing the volume required in a packaging box. [Solution] A product shipping management system 50 comprises: an e-commerce-site-service-provision server 1000 which manages customer attribute information and product attribute information, and registers ordered products from customers; and a distribution control server 3000 which receives product attribute information and ordered product information from a product order reception device and aids product packaging. When ordered products are being packed into a given packaging box and packing in a plurality of levels is required, the distribution control server 3000 determines, on the basis of the product attribute information corresponding to product codes of the ordered products, packing positions for each level such that heavier and harder-to-break products are preferentially placed in lower levels, the number of packing levels is minimized, and the volume required inside the packaging box is reduced.

Description

Product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device and product management program

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for managing product shipping that supports the delivery of products purchased on an electronic commerce (EC) site to customers.

[0002] (E-commerce and product shipping)

[0003] With the spread of electronic commerce using the Internet, so-called EC site services are provided on the Internet where products can be purchased. In particular, there are cases where product manufacturers operate direct sales sites.

[0004] In this case, based on the order information from the EC site, the logistics warehouse carries out the work of picking the ordered products and the work of sorting and packing the collected products according to their delivery destination (customer).

[0005] Among the tasks performed in a logistics warehouse, "assortment work" refers to sorting products stored in storage locations according to the designated shipping destinations at the time of shipment, or packing multiple products of various types together. For example, if one customer purchases three items, "Product A," "Product B," and "Product C," assortment would involve picking the three items and packing them together in one box (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0006] "Picking" refers to the task of gathering stored goods and products in accordance with shipping instructions. "Assortment picking" refers to picking for accurate assortment, and there are two types: the "single picking" method, in which items are picked from the storage location for each order, and the "total picking" method, in which items for multiple orders are picked together and then sorted by destination at the sorting area.

[0007] To improve the accuracy and productivity of this "picking work," digital systems called "picking systems" are used. Examples of such systems in practical use include "picking using barcodes with handheld terminals," "picking using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)," "digital picking systems," and "tablet picking systems."

[0008] The task of packing sorted products into packing boxes in this way is called "packing work," and in order to improve the efficiency of packing the products without damaging them, a technology exists in which a server device displays products included in the order data in order from least fragile to most fragile on a packing slip that instructs a worker on packing (for example, Patent Document 1). Another technology exists in which a server device determines the packing order so that heavier products and products that are less likely to be crushed are packed first, thereby preventing damage to the boxed products (for example, Patent Document 2).

[0009] On the other hand, technology has also been disclosed for an assembly device for height-adjustable boxes that can measure the height of items of various heights and then package them at a height that corresponds to that height (for example, Patent Document 3).

[0010] JP 2016-57679 A, ​​Japanese Patent No. 6943662 B, International Publication No. 2013 / 108829

[0011] https: / / www.fujielectric.co.jp / products / logistics / solution_detail / basic_picking.html

[0012] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 only indicates the priority of product display in instructions to workers, and does not take into account the condition of the products after boxing. Furthermore, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 2 assumes that multiple sizes of cardboard boxes are prepared in advance, selects a cardboard box based on the total volume of the products to be packed, and determines the boxing position based on the product's weight and crushability. The rule is that "products are packed in a predetermined tier based on their attributes," and "if there is a gap in a tier, it is filled with cushioning material." However, the technology does not anticipate minimizing the volume of the cardboard boxes (packaging boxes) required for packaging. Furthermore, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 3 merely measures the height of the products and adjusts the height of the boxes during the boxing process.

[0013] Furthermore, in Patent Document 2, for example, after the ordering party transmits information about the ordered products to the packing party in the form of a shipping slip, the packing party packs the products faithfully based on the shipping slip information. Therefore, the products and promotional materials to be included in the packaging box cannot be flexibly changed depending on the status of the customer's order. In other words, the product order information is assumed as a given, and the only consideration is how to pack and ship the products in a box so as to minimize damage during delivery. There is no consideration of collaboration with the operator of the e-commerce site for sales promotion in product sales, collecting marketing information, finding potential customers, etc.

[0014] In addition, in order to prevent customers who make regular purchases from canceling their subscriptions, it is also necessary to carefully include appropriate promotional materials in the shipping boxes according to each customer's attributes and purchase history.

[0015] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device and product management program that can reduce the volume required for a packing box and improve shipping convenience by taking into account the product's weight, size, crushability and breakability when deciding how to pack products in multiple layers in a packing box.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device and product management program that can cooperate with the operator of an online shopping site for the purpose of sales promotion in product sales and the collection of marketing information.

[0017] (Item 1)

[0018] According to one aspect (Item 1) of the present invention, a product shipping management system includes: a product order receiving device that manages customer attribute information and product attribute information and receives ordered products from customers; and a shipping support device that receives information on the ordered products and the product attribute information from the product order receiving device and supports the process of packaging the products, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance; order acquisition means that acquires the product codes and ordered quantity of the ordered products; packing position determination means that, when the ordered products are to be packed into a predetermined packaging box based on the product attribute information corresponding to the product code of the ordered products and when multiple tiers are required, determine the packing positions for each tier so as to prioritize placing heavier, less fragile products in lower tiers and minimize the number of tiers to reduce the required volume of the packaging box; and output means that transmits packaging data including the product codes, packing tiers, and packing positions of the products determined by the packing position determination means as packing support information (Item 2).

[0019] In the configuration of item 1, preferably, the height of the packaging box is adjustable by folding along a predetermined crease on the side while keeping the bottom surface fixed, and the packing position determining means minimizes the height of the packaging box by reducing the required volume of the packaging box (item 3).

[0020] In the configuration of item 1 or 2, preferably, the shipping support device and the product order receiving device transmit and receive information related to the presence or absence of free space in the top boxing position of the ordered products, and the product order receiving device further comprises a delivery management means that, if free space is available, prompts the customer to select additional products to be boxed in the free space, and, when additional products are specified, instructs the shipping support device to box the additional products (item 4).

[0021] In the configuration of item 3, the product order receiving device sets the price of the additional product lower than the regular price and presents it to the customer (item 5).

[0022] In the configuration of item 3 or 4, preferably, the customer attribute information includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting additional products to propose to the customer according to the analysis results (item 6).

[0023] In any one of the configurations of items 3 to 5, the product order receiving device preferably further includes a purchase order management means for receiving an order for a product and a request for simple packaging, and a customer attribute management means for adding predetermined points to the customer attribute information in the case of simple packaging (item 7).

[0024] In the configuration of item 6, preferably, the purchase application management means accepts a request for special packaging along with the acceptance of the ordered product, and in the case of special packaging, accepts payment from points according to the customer's request (item 8).

[0025] In any one of the configurations of items 3 to 7, preferably, the customer attribute information includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting sample products to offer to the customer according to the analysis results, and purchase order management means for accepting requests for sample provision at a predetermined price along with accepting ordered products (item 9).

[0026] In any one of the configurations of items 3 to 8, the product order receiving device preferably further comprises a purchase application management means for, in addition to accepting the ordered products, encouraging customers to participate in a campaign, adding information about customers who have participated in the campaign to the customer attribute information, and selecting items to include when the ordered products are delivered to the customer according to the results of a lottery for the campaign (item 10).

[0027] In any one of the configurations of items 3 to 9, preferably, the customer attribute information includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information, and bundled item determination means for selecting bundled items to be included in delivery of the ordered product to the customer according to the analysis results (item 11).

[0028] In any one of the configurations of items 3 to 10, the product order receiving device preferably further includes a bundled item determining means for, after the customer inputs the ordered products, presenting a lottery for a gift of additional products, obtaining information on the products the customer desires to add, and adding the information to the purchase history information (item 12).

[0029] According to another aspect (item 12) of the present invention, a product order receiving device for receiving product orders in cooperation with a shipping support device that supports packaging for shipping ordered products to a customer includes a storage device that stores customer attribute information and product attribute information, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance, product order receiving means for receiving ordered products from a customer, transmission means for transmitting the ordered product information and product attribute information to the shipping support device, and delivery management means that, when a result of determining a packing position for the ordered products in a predetermined packaging box based on the ordered product information and product attribute information indicates that there is free space in the top packing position for the ordered products, prompts the customer to select additional products to be packed in the free space, and, when additional products are specified, instructs the shipping support device to pack the additional products (item 13).

[0030] In the configuration of item 12, preferably, the height of the packaging box is adjustable by folding along a predetermined crease on the side while keeping the bottom fixed, and the shipping assistance device minimizes the height of the packaging box by reducing the required volume of the packaging box (item 14).

[0031] In the configuration of item 12 or 13, the product order receiving device preferably sets the price of the additional product lower than the regular price and presents it to the customer (item 15).

[0032] In any one of items 12 to 14, the customer attribute information preferably includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting additional products to propose to the customer according to the analysis results (item 16).

[0033] In any one of the configurations of items 12 to 15, the product order receiving device preferably further includes a purchase order management means for receiving an order for a product and a request for simple packaging, and a customer attribute management means for adding predetermined points to the customer attribute information in the case of simple packaging (item 17).

[0034] In the configuration of item 16, preferably, the purchase application management means accepts a request for special packaging along with the acceptance of the ordered product, and in the case of special packaging, accepts payment from points according to the customer's request (item 18).

[0035] In any one of the configurations of items 12 to 17, preferably, the customer attribute information includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting sample products to offer to the customer according to the analysis results, and purchase order management means for accepting requests for sample provision at a predetermined price along with accepting ordered products (item 19).

[0036] In any one of the configurations of items 12 to 18, the product order receiving device preferably further comprises a purchase application management means for, in addition to accepting the ordered products, encouraging customers to participate in a campaign, adding information about customers who have participated in the campaign to the customer attribute information, and selecting items to include when the ordered products are delivered to the customer depending on the results of a lottery for the campaign (item 20).

[0037] In any one of the configurations of items 12 to 19, preferably, the customer attribute information includes purchase history information of each customer, and the product order receiving device further includes customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information, and bundled item determination means for selecting bundled items to be included in delivery of the ordered product to the customer according to the analysis results (item 21).

[0038] In any one of the configurations of items 12 to 20, the product order receiving device preferably further includes a bundled item determining means for, after the customer inputs the ordered products, presenting a lottery for a gift of additional products, obtaining information on the products the customer desires to add, and adding the information to the purchase history information (item 22).

[0039] According to yet another aspect (Item 22) of the present invention, there is provided a shipping support device that cooperates with a product order receiving device for receiving product orders and supports packing processing for shipping ordered products to customers, the shipping support device comprising: order obtaining means for obtaining the product codes and order quantities of the ordered products; a storage device for storing product attribute information for the products, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance; and, when packing the ordered products into a predetermined packaging box based on the product attribute information corresponding to the product code of the ordered products, a packing position determining means for determining, when packing in multiple tiers is required, the packing positions for each tier so as to prioritize placing heavier, less fragile products in lower tiers and minimize the number of tiers to reduce the required volume of the packaging box; and output means for transmitting packing data including the product codes, packing tiers, and packing positions of the products determined by the packing position determining means as packing support information (Item 23).

[0040] According to yet another aspect (item 23) of the present invention, there is provided a product management program for controlling a product order receiving device that processes product orders in cooperation with a shipping support device that supports packaging processing for shipping ordered products to a customer, the product order receiving device having a computing device and a storage device that stores product attribute information, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance, the computer program executing the following steps: the computing device receives the ordered products from the customer; the computing device synchronizes the product attribute information with the shipping support device; the computing device transmits information about the ordered products to the shipping support device; and the computing device, in accordance with the determination of the packing position of the ordered products in a specified packaging box based on the information about the ordered products and the product attribute information, if it determines that there is available space in the topmost packing position of the ordered products, prompts the customer to select additional products to be packed in the available space, and if additional products are specified, instructs the shipping support device to pack the additional products.

[0041] According to the product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device and product management program of the present invention, when determining how to pack products in a packing box in multiple layers, the weight, size and fragility of the products are taken into consideration, thereby reducing the volume required for the packing box and improving the convenience of shipping.

[0042] Furthermore, the product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device and product management program of the present invention enable sales promotion and the collection of marketing information in product sales in cooperation with the operator of the online shopping site.

[0043] 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the configuration of logistics from product order receipt to delivery at an online shopping site including the product shipping management system 50 of embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the flow of processing performed on the logistics warehouse 4000 side based on information on ordered products from the EC site service providing server 1000. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the configuration of a height-adjustable packaging box. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of "packing rules." FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the EC site service providing server 1000 and the database server 2000. FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of "promotional item bundling rules" used when the promotional item bundling determination module 1150 determines a bundling item. FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a customer attribute information DB 2320. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a customer purchase history information DB 2330. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of data stored in a product attribute DB 2340. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the EC site service providing server 1000. FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a logistics control server 3000. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing performed by the logistics control server 3000 to determine the boxing position of products, etc. 1 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a process for determining bundled items according to customer attributes and purchase history. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a "bundled item selection process based on customer attributes and purchase history". FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of a questionnaire survey conducted on customers who make regular purchases. FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the EC site service providing server 1000.

[0044] The configuration of a product delivery management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0045] In the following description, the product management program that controls the product order receiving device in the product delivery management system is installed in a stand-alone computer device and is a computer program that executes product management.

[0046] However, the processing of the product management program may be distributed among multiple computer devices, and the computer processing may be performed by a single or multiple arithmetic units. Furthermore, the processing of the product management program is not limited to being installed in such a computer device, and may generally be implemented as an arithmetic processing unit such as a microcomputer that combines an arithmetic unit and a storage device, or may be implemented in a dedicated IC circuit, FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or other electronic circuit. [Embodiment 1] (Product Shipping Management System)

[0047] Hereinafter, a product delivery management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0048] In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will not be repeated as a rule.

[0049] Furthermore, the drawings referred to are used to explain the technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The configurations of the devices and flowcharts of various processes described therein are merely illustrative examples, and are not intended to limit the present invention to those alone.

[0050] In this specification, the term "ordered item" refers to an item that a customer has ordered to be shipped to them via an online shopping site, and "additional item" refers to an item that a customer orders in addition to the "ordered item" in response to a notification such as a recommendation from the online shopping site. Furthermore, "bundling" refers to packing the ordered item, an "additional item" added depending on the situation, and a "promotional item" sent to the customer when certain conditions, as described below, are met in the same packaging box for shipping the item to the customer. [Embodiment 1]

[0051] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a logistics configuration 100 from product order receipt to delivery at an online shopping site including a product delivery management system 50 according to the first embodiment.

[0052] In the following description of the product shipping management system 50 of the embodiment, the EC site service providing server 1000 is responsible for direct sales of a single company, and the logistics warehouse 4000 is responsible for receiving and shipping multiple products and merchandise from this company, and performs packaging and shipping processes for shipping products to direct sales customers. However, for example, the system may also be a logistics platform that can be used to jointly pack and ship products and merchandise sold directly by multiple companies or across multiple industries.

[0053] In the product shipping management system 50, the EC site service providing server 1000 receives an order for a product or item based on a customer's order or selection operation from the customer computer 10 or the customer smartphone 20, and the logistics warehouse 4000 executes a shipping process for the ordered item based on a shipping instruction from the EC site service providing server 1000. The customer computer 10 has a display screen 12, and the customer smartphone 20 has a display screen 22, which provide a customer interface for customer operation. In addition, when the customer computer 10 or the customer smartphone 20 is collectively referred to as a terminal 10 in this specification, they are simply referred to as a terminal 10.

[0054] The "terminal" operated by the customer may be, for example, a portable information processing terminal such as a smartphone or tablet terminal, or may be a personal computer or other information processing terminal. It also includes a "multi-function terminal" in the sense that various functions can be realized depending on the application program installed. In the following explanation, the display screen 22 of a smartphone 20 will be used as an example.

[0055] Therefore, the smartphone 20 has a hardware and software configuration as described below, which includes a communication interface for communicating via a network, a computing device that accepts instructions such as product orders from customers and executes information processing for the product order by associating it with customer identification information through communication via the network 2 via the communication interface, and a display device 22 (for example, an LCD screen or an organic EL screen) for presenting information to the customer.

[0056] The product shipping management system 50 further includes an EC site service providing server 1000 that receives product orders from customers via the network 2. The EC site service providing server 1000 transmits an interface screen for receiving product orders and instructions from customers to the smartphone 20, and manages the ordered products in association with customer identification information. Furthermore, the EC site service providing server 1000 stores customer purchase history information data indicating the history of customer ordered products in a customer purchase history information database (hereinafter referred to as "customer purchase history information DB") in the database server 2000.

[0057] Furthermore, the EC site service providing server 1000 determines promotional items to be included with the product when it is shipped, based on the registered information on areas of interest and purchase history of the customer who has ordered the product, and notifies the logistics control server 3000 of information on the determined bundled items via the network 2. The logistics control server 3000 packs the ordered product, and bundled items such as additional products and promotional items (described below if certain conditions are met), into a packaging box to be shipped to the customer who placed the order, and hands it over to a delivery company to entrust delivery to the customer.

[0058] The database server 2000 also stores attribute information for each customer (such as age, sex, and areas of interest) and information on the history of ordered products.

[0059] Here, the EC site service providing server 1000 authenticates that the request is from a customer who is a registered member on, for example, a smartphone 20, and then sends a product order screen page to be displayed on the screen of the smartphone 20.

[0060] 1 is described as being composed of three servers: an EC site service providing server 1000, a database server 2000, and a logistics control server 3000. However, these servers may be individual servers, or some or all of them may be integrated into a single server. For example, the functions of the EC site service providing server 1000 and the functions of the logistics control server 3000 may be realized by the same server.

[0061] However, for example, if a logistics warehouse is a base that consolidates products and merchandise from multiple companies and performs sorting and delivery, and the product shipping management system 50 functions as a logistics platform, the logistics control server 3000 may be configured to be shared by multiple different EC site service providing servers 1000.

[0062] The online services provided by the EC site may be web applications, hybrid applications, native applications, or PWAs (Progressive Web Applications). In the following, a web application will be described as an example.

[0063] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the flow of processing carried out on the logistics warehouse 4000 side based on information on ordered products from the EC site service providing server 1000. As shown in FIG.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 2 , when product order information is received by the logistics control server 3000 at the logistics warehouse, the ordered items are picked up within the logistics warehouse. Pickup may be a semi-automated process performed manually using digital devices such as handheld terminals, or an automated process using a picking system using robots. Furthermore, for example, when total picking is performed, "sorting" is performed for each order as a post-process. Such "sorting" is not particularly limited, but may utilize, for example, a gate assortment system (GAS), which provides gates at each entrance, scans the barcode of a product, and opens only the gate at the corresponding entrance, allowing the product to be manually inserted, thereby reducing the occurrence of errors.

[0065] After picking up the ordered items and sorting them according to the order, the logistics control server 3000 determines the position of the items when they are packed in a box based on "packing rules" based on the weight of the items and other factors. Here, "item position" refers to "which tier" a particular item should be packed in when the items are packed in multiple tiers. Note that "item position" may also include "information about placement within a specific tier," such as "from the center or periphery of the box within a certain tier." The "packing rules" are not particularly limited, but may refer to, for example, rules such as ranking items by weight, assigning heavier items to the bottom tier and lighter items to the top tier. "Packing rules" will be described later.

[0066] Next, "the position of each product in the box is determined so as to minimize the volume of the package," and the package is packed manually or by a robot, etc. Here, "minimizing the volume of the package" may first mean, in the process of determining the position of the ordered products in the box, selecting the smallest size package from among a plurality of sizes of package boxes (for example, cardboard boxes) prepared in advance.

[0067] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the configuration of a height-adjustable packing box.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 3, creases that will become folds are formed in advance on the side of the packing box at a predetermined height, and the height of the packing box is changed depending on the volume of the products to be packed before finally sealing it. Fig. 3 shows an example in which the height of the packing box can be changed in three levels. However, the level of change of the packing box height may be two levels, or four or more levels.

[0069] Therefore, when a packing box such as that shown in FIG. 3 is used, "minimum volume of the package" means one of the following possibilities as second and third examples.

[0070] 1) If the bottom of the packing box is of one type and the height can be changed at multiple levels, the height level of the packing box is set so that the height is the lowest when the ordered products are packed into this specified packing box. In this case, if the ordered products are packed in multiple layers in the packing box, this means that the number of layers of the products is set to the minimum.

[0071] 2) If multiple sizes of packing boxes are prepared with bottoms and the height of each packing box can be changed at multiple levels, when packing the ordered items, a packing box that can accommodate the total volume of the items is selected, and the height level of the packing box is set so that the height is the lowest when packing into this selected specified packing box.In this case, too, if the ordered items are to be packed in multiple layers within this specified packing box, this means that the number of layers for the items is set to the minimum.

[0072] The size of the bottom is set in advance to a size that can accommodate a product of maximum dimensions. Also, in Fig. 3, the side of the packaging box is configured to have lines that will become folds at a predetermined height, but depending on the configuration of the system that automatically packs, the height of the box at the time of packing may be adjusted at multiple levels without lines being pre-made on the side of the packaging box.

[0073] In addition, if items other than the ordered product have been selected in advance in the EC site service providing server 1000, a packing box is selected and / or the height level of the packing box is set so that the ordered product and the included items are combined to result in the "smallest package volume."

[0074] Furthermore, when setting a height-adjustable packing box to a specified height, the box former may make the packing box so that it is at the maximum height level, and the box sealing machine may adjust the height, or the box former may make the packing box so that it is at the specified height level, and the box sealing machine may seal the box as is. Alternatively, the height level adjustment may be performed manually or automatically at a predetermined stage in the process from the box former to the box sealing machine, and is not particularly limited.

[0075] 2 again, after the packing of the ordered items has been completed, the promotional materials, sample items, or additional items selected by the EC site service providing server 1000 to be bundled based on the customer attributes and purchase history are automatically selected and bundled in the logistics warehouse 4000 under the control of the logistics control server 3000. Note that instructions as to whether the promotional materials, sample items, or additional items should be bundled are issued by the logistics control server 3000, and the bundling work itself may be performed manually, or the bundling work may be automated using automatic equipment, robots, or the like.

[0076] Next, a shipping slip is automatically printed based on the order data and automatically affixed to the packaging box containing the ordered products, etc. After that, a sealing machine closes (seals) the packaging box with adhesive, tape, etc. Note that the printing, affixing, and sealing of the shipping slip may be performed in a different order depending on the packaging process of the products, etc., the configuration of the sealing machine, etc. For example, if the products to be boxed are picked into containers according to an order and then packed into each container, the printed shipping slip may be inserted into a predetermined area of ​​the picked container, and the shipping slip may be removed during the packaging process. After the packaging and sealing are completed, the shipping slip may be affixed to the packaging box.

[0077] The sealed packaging boxes are transported on a conveyor or the like, and during transport, the sizes are scanned with a camera or the like so that they are automatically sorted by size and handed over to a delivery company.

[0078] Although not particularly limited, as described above, when packaging is performed using a height-adjustable packing box, the size of the bottom of the packing box is specified to a predetermined type. For example, if the bottom of the height-adjustable packing box is set to a bottom size specified by the delivery company, the delivery company has the advantage of improving the convenience of loading the goods onto a delivery truck, etc.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the "packing rule" described in FIG.

[0080] In Figure 4, products are classified mainly according to two characteristics: "weight" and "fragility." "Weight" is divided into two ranks, for example, "heavy" and "light," and fragility is divided into three ranks, for example, "hard," "fragile," and "soft" (the three ranks are least fragile, medium fragile, and most fragile).

[0081] In addition, within the "light" rank, size is further divided into ranks as an attribute that should be placed in a higher row, and products in the "small" rank are placed in the top row.

[0082] Therefore, products classified as "hard / heavy" (drink supplements, cosmetics, etc.) are allocated to the bottom shelf, products classified as "fragile / heavy" (3-pack or 5-pack of instant noodles in pouches, etc.) are allocated to the second shelf, products classified as "soft / light" (cup-type instant noodles, etc.) are allocated to the third shelf, and products classified as "small / light" (tablet-type supplements, powdered drinks, etc.) are allocated to the top shelf.

[0083] As will be described later, the "number of layers" assigned in Figure 4 is merely the "recommended number of layers" for each product, and although priority is given to packing into this number of layers, the number of layers when actually packed can be flexibly changed depending on the packing situation of the product.

[0084] For example, when products that have been assigned the bottom, second, and top layers as their recommended layer numbers are packed into a box, the top layer is physically the third layer.

[0085] Furthermore, if products are packed in the bottom tier and there is space in the bottom tier, products whose recommended number of tiers is the next tier, for example, the "second tier," will be packed in the bottom tier until the space is filled. Note that when products with such "different recommended tiers" are packed in the "same tier," products with different "fragility" will be packed next to each other, so cushioning material may be placed between the products with "different recommended tiers."

[0086] Furthermore, when products to be packed are picked into containers according to an order and then packed into each container, the products may be picked into predetermined areas within the container according to the "recommended number of layers," and then packed manually according to the procedure described below. Alternatively, when packing is performed semi-automatically or fully automatically under the guidance of a digital device, information regarding the recommended number of layers may be recorded along with the product identification information in identification information such as marks attached to the products for product management, and a terminal or other device that instructs the packing order, held by the worker for packing, may give instructions to the worker according to this information, or an automatic packing robot may perform the packing work according to this information, according to the procedure described below.

[0087] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the EC site service providing server 1000 and the database server 2000. As shown in FIG.

[0088] Referring to Figure 5, the EC site service providing server 1000 includes a communication interface 1002 for exchanging data with the database server 2000, the logistics control server 3000, the customer terminal 10, and the smartphone 20 via the network 2, an arithmetic processing unit (e.g., a central processing unit: CPU (Central Processing Unit)) 1100, a memory 1200 for temporarily storing data, and a storage unit 1300 for non-volatilely storing data.

[0089] The storage unit 1300 stores programs for operating the EC site service providing server 1000 as well as data used temporarily or continuously in the service providing server as service server operation data 1310 .

[0090] The database server 2000 also includes a communication interface 2310 for communicating with the EC site service providing server 1000, and a database 2002.1. For example, the database 2002.1 includes a customer attribute information database 2320.1, a customer purchase history information database 2330.1, and a product attribute database 2340.1. In the following description, the term "database" will be abbreviated as DB.

[0091] In addition, when the logistics warehouse 4000 is used as a logistics platform and the EC site service providing server 1000 is shared by a plurality of shippers (shippers 1 to M: M is a natural number of 2 or more), the database server 2000 may be configured to store and manage databases 2002.1 to 2002.M for each shipper so that they cannot access each other.

[0092] Generally speaking, a "database" can be a database with a well-defined schema and capable of using transactions, such as a relational database or an object-relational database, or an object database or column-oriented database management system, in which data in the same column is aggregated and stored in a physically close area.

[0093] The programs stored as service server operation data 1310 and loaded into memory 1200 cause the modules described below to operate in processing unit 1100 .

[0094] That is, the customer attribute management module 1110 receives customer attribute information in response to the customer's input information on the member registration screen from the customer's terminal 10, and stores and manages the information in the customer attribute information DB 2320.1.

[0095] The purchase application management module 1120 transmits a product order screen to the terminal 10 and accepts the product order from the customer in accordance with the information input on this product order screen.

[0096] The purchase history registration module 1130 associates the ordered products received from the purchase application management module 1120 with the customer's identification information and registers them in the customer purchase history information DB 2330.1.

[0097] The customer attribute analysis module 1140 analyzes information for sales promotion based on the information in the customer attribute information DB 2320.1 and the customer purchase history information DB 2330.1.

[0098] For example, RFM analysis classifies customers based on three indicators: last purchase date (Recency), purchase frequency (Frequency), and cumulative purchase amount over a certain period (Monetary), and determines sales promotion measures for each segment. In other words, customers are first identified as a "mass," and target segments are extracted from that mass. In the next stage, customers belonging to each segment are identified as "individuals," and sales promotion approaches are implemented individually for each individual customer.

[0099] As described below, the promotional item determination module 1150 determines the promotional items to be included in the packaging box of the ordered products delivered to the customer by referring to the customer segment analyzed by the customer attribute analysis module 1140 and the customer's past purchase history.

[0100] The delivery management module 1160 accepts information on additional products requested by a customer when certain conditions described below are met, and sends information on the products ordered by the customer, the promotional items to be included as determined by the promotional item determination module 1150, and the additional products, along with the attribute information of the customer who placed the order (including name and address) and the order number, to the logistics control server 3000 as shipping slip information.

[0101] The product attribute registration module 1170 registers, in the product attribute DB 2340.1, attribute information about the products handled by the EC site service providing server 1000. Note that the product attribute data is updated as appropriate when a new product is released or when product attributes are changed.

[0102] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the "promotional item bundling rules" used by the promotional item determination module 1150 to determine a bundled item.

[0103] Referring to Figure 6, if the customer ordering the product is a first-time user of the online store, the promotional item determination module 1150 determines the promotional items to be included in the package, such as a "greeting" message for first-time users, a "general catalog" for providing information about the online store, and a "welcome coupon" that can be used to purchase products on the EC site, for example.

[0104] Furthermore, when the customer ordering the product is determined to be a purchaser of a specific brand based on the purchase history information, the promotional packing item determination module 1150 determines that the packing item will be a "brand book (product description)" of the specific brand for customers who are purchasing a single product for the first time, and determines that the packing item will be an "offer of increased service for regular purchases" for customers who are continuously (repeatly) purchasing a single product.

[0105] Furthermore, if the customer ordering the product is determined to be a first-time regular purchaser based on the purchase history information, the promotional package determination module 1150 determines that a "brand book (product description)" of a specific brand will be included as a package, and if the customer is continuing to make regular purchases (repeat purchases), it determines that a "notice of advance notice of a specified promotional gift" will be included as a package.

[0106] On the other hand, for a customer who has currently ordered a product and is about to have the ordered product of a specific brand shipped, the promotional packing item determination module 1150 determines that the bundled item will be "an introduction to another brand and a first-time trial coupon for that brand" if certain conditions are met. The "certain conditions" here are not particularly limited, but may refer to the purchase histories of other customers similar to the purchase history of the customer, and introduce products of other brands that are determined to be likely to be purchased by the customer, other than the brand the customer is currently purchasing. Alternatively, the customer attribute analysis module 1140 may classify customers into multiple clusters in advance based on customer attribute information and customer purchase history information, and the promotional packing item determination module 1150 may introduce products of other brands that the customer has not yet purchased, which are brands that are purchased with a comparative advantage by customers in that cluster, depending on which cluster the customer for whom the bundled item is being determined to belong to.

[0107] Note that "deciding to include in the package" does not only mean a) including "a brand book, brand introduction, or coupons as printed paper material," but also means, for example, b) including "a two-dimensional code or the like that directs customers to a web page at a specific URL as printed paper material, and providing a brand book as information from that web page." Alternatively, "deciding to include in the package" may also include c) "providing product coupons via a web application or the like through which customers order products" or "providing brand information via a web application or the like through which customers order products."

[0108] The method of providing the bundled items a) to c) described above may be selected by the promotional bundled item determination module 1150 based on the customer's age, information about the device being used, etc.

[0109] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of data stored in the customer attribute information DB 2320. As shown in FIG.

[0110] 7, for example, the customer attribute information stores a customer ID assigned at the time of registration, the customer name, the year of customer registration, age, date of birth (date is optional), gender, address, area of ​​interest information, purchaser attributes, and awarded service points in association with each other. Note that other information about the customer, such as occupation, may also be stored.

[0111] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the customer purchase history information DB 2330. As shown in FIG.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 8, as an example, customer purchase history information is recorded in association with a customer ID, purchase mode attribute, product category, product code, product name, purchase application date, delivery ID, delivery completion date, and package information.

[0113] "Purchase type attribute" is information that indicates whether the purchase of the product is "first time single item purchase," "repeat single item purchase," "first time regular purchase," or "repeat regular purchase," and is information used in the process of determining what to include in the package.

[0114] The "product category", "product code" and "product name" are information for identifying the type of product purchased.

[0115] The "purchase application date" is the date on which the customer placed an order for the product using the e-commerce site service's web application or the like. The delivery ID is an identifier used to indicate the type of delivery. Products identified with the same delivery ID are shipped together in the same packaging box. Conversely, products with different delivery IDs are shipped separately. In this case, additional information can be added to the delivery ID to distinguish whether the individual delivery is due to a product order selection (e.g., ordering only one single item) or whether the customer has requested individual or separate delivery. This information can also be used to obtain information on the range of products the customer is willing to have bundled together, or conversely, the range of products they prefer to have delivered separately. Alternatively, it can be used to obtain information on customer attributes, such as whether the customer tends to prefer simple packaging.

[0116] The "delivery completion date" field stores the date notified by the delivery company that the delivery of the product was completed.

[0117] The "bundled item" records items determined as bundled items by the promotional bundled item determination module 1150. Examples of "guide information" intended to provide specific information to customers include brand books and "offers to increase subscription purchases." Also, items offered as benefits to customers include "gifts" and "coupons," including the "preview of a gift" mentioned above.

[0118] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the product attribute DB 2340. As shown in FIG.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 9 , for example, the product attribute data stores the product category, product code, product name, whether or not the product is packaged with simple packaging, weight, size, hardness rank, impact resistance (ease of breaking, crushing) rank, recommended number of layers for packaging, and temperature range during delivery, all of which are associated with each other. In this specification, "impact resistance" refers to the susceptibility of a product to damage ("fragility") due to external forces or impacts on the packaging box or contact between products within the packaging box when the product is packed and delivered. Here, "impact resistance" may be a qualitative ranking based on empirical data, or may be a characteristic ranked based on information such as prior actual measurements. Here, "impact resistance" in FIG. 9 serves as a ranking indicating the degree of fragility of a product during delivery and used to determine the "initial value" of the "recommended number of layers" for preferentially arranging the product within the packaging box. Note that FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which a "soft (easily crushed)" product is recommended to have a higher number of layers than a "fragile" product. However, the method of determining rankings and the recommended number of tiers can be changed as appropriate depending on the circumstances of each individual product. Such changes may be made at the discretion of the system administrator by collecting information on damage to products after actual delivery, or may be determined using machine learning to reduce "product damage."

[0120] "Presence or absence of simple packaging" is information indicating whether or not the customer has requested simple packaging for the products in the packaging box. For example, "no simple packaging" may be set as the default setting. Here, "simple packaging" refers to, for example, the above-mentioned "3-pack or 5-pack of pouch-type instant noodles" simply bundled together with a cable tie or the like. In this case, for customers who do not request "simple packaging," this means that multiple packets of instant noodles are temporarily placed in a separate box called a shipping box and then packed into the packaging box. In this sense, depending on the type of product packed in the packaging box, some products may be suitable for "simple packaging" and some may not.

[0121] "Weight" refers to the weight of a single product or the weight of the set if it is sold as a set. Weight is classified into two ranks, for example, "heavy" and "light," based on a separately determined threshold value.

[0122] "Size" refers to the volume of the rectangular parallelepiped circumscribing the product. For example, it may be expressed in a predetermined unit as (longer side of base) x (shorter side of base) x (height). Note that this includes cases where the dimensions of the shorter and longer sides are the same. If a shipping box is used other than simple packaging, the size refers to the size of that shipping box.

[0123] For example, "hardness" is classified into three ranks: "hard," "medium," and "soft."

[0124] Impact resistance is classified into three ranks, for example, "hard to break," "medium," and "easy to break." Note that a classification of "easy to crush" may be set at a predetermined rank position.

[0125] The "recommended number of layers when packing" is information indicating the recommended number of layers from the bottom when packing into a packing box, as explained with reference to FIG. 4, for example.

[0126] As described above, depending on the internal size of the packing box to be packed and the type and number of products to be packed, the products are not necessarily packed in the "recommended number of layers." Therefore, the "recommended number of layers when packing" has the meaning of an "initial value" when the logistics control server 3000 determines the position of the products to be packed in the box depending on the ordered products and their attributes.

[0127] The temperature range is information that indicates the rank of the temperature range in which the product must be managed when it is delivered. For example, "frozen" means that the product must be managed at a temperature range of -15°C or below from storage management in the logistics warehouse to delivery. "Chilled" means that the product must be managed at a temperature range of 0 to 10°C from storage management in the logistics warehouse to delivery. "Room temperature" means that the product can be managed at room temperature.

[0128] Depending on the product, for example, it may be possible to deliver "frozen" products and "room temperature" products in the same packing box, and such types may be recorded here.

[0129] Furthermore, while the "recommended number of tiers" has been described as being set in advance according to the size, weight, and impact resistance of the product, a configuration may be provided in which the recommended number of tiers is dynamically updated. For example, based on information provided by customers who have actually received delivery of their ordered products, the initially estimated impact resistance may be reset, and for products determined to be fragile during the actual delivery process, the recommended number of tiers may be changed to a higher tier.

[0130] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the EC site service providing server 1000 .

[0131] Referring to Figure 10, the customer attribute management module 1110 of the EC site service providing server 1000 starts the display process of the customer login screen on the terminal 10 (S100), prompts the customer for input, and executes the login process to obtain the customer ID (S102).

[0132] Next, the purchase application management module 1120 acquires product order information (product name, product code, quantity) from the customer's operation on the product order screen displayed on the terminal 10 (S104).

[0133] Next, the purchase application management module 1120 accepts input of simple packaging / special packaging, campaign, and sample application through operation of the customer's terminal 10 (S106).

[0134] Here, "simple packaging" refers to an instruction from a customer requesting simplified packaging, such as not using a shipping box, when packing the product into a packaging box, as described above. Conversely, "special packaging" refers to an instruction from a customer to pack the product into a packaging box in a special gift-like packaging or to include a message inside the packaging. In this case, the purchase order management module 1120 may request a separate fee for special packaging, or may be configured to accept the special packaging process by using a predetermined portion of the points granted to the customer, as described in FIG. 7.

[0135] Furthermore, accepting a "campaign" here refers to applying for a service such as a special price for a limited time or limited quantity of a specific product. The right to receive such a campaign service may be granted on a first-come, first-served basis or through an electronic lottery process. As will be described later, a "campaign" may also include a service such as the provision of additional products at a price lower than the regular price, and this service may be provided on a first-come, first-served basis or through a lottery.

[0136] Accepting a sample request means, for example, receiving a customer's request to receive a sample of a specific product when ordering a product. The sample may be notified, for example, on the product order screen. The sample may be provided free of charge, or may be offered at a discount of a specified percentage or amount from the regular price. When notifying the sample, the customer attribute analysis module 1140 may be configured to select the sample to display based on the analysis results.

[0137] Next, the customer attribute management module 1110 determines whether the customer has requested simple packaging (S108), and if simple packaging has been requested (Yes in S108), adds a predetermined number of points to the customer's service points registered in the customer attribute information DB 2320.1 (S110). On the other hand, if simple packaging has not been requested (No in S108), the customer attribute management module 1110 proceeds to step S112 without adding any points.

[0138] Next, if the customer has applied for a campaign and the campaign is handled by lottery, the purchase application management module 1120 executes a lottery for the campaign, or if the customer has applied for a sample product, executes a sample product selection process (S112). As described above, when shipping to a customer who has ordered a product, information on the product (including the sample product) to be shipped and its price is temporarily specified.

[0139] Next, the promotional packing item determination module 1150 determines a packing item such as a promotional item according to the customer attributes and purchase history (S114). The packing item determination process will be described later.

[0140] As a result of the above, the EC site service providing server 1000 identifies the products ordered by the customer, the quantity of each product, and any promotional materials to be included, and the delivery management module 1160 then sends the order information to the logistics control server 3000 (S116).

[0141] The order information includes the order number, the name and address of the customer who placed the order, information specifying the product to be shipped (including sample products), and information specifying the enclosed items.

[0142] Upon receiving the order information, the logistics control server 3000 calculates and transmits location information for packing the product (including information on whether there is space on the top shelf of the product in the packing box, and, if there is space, information indicating its size) using the process described below, and the delivery management module 1160 receives the location information for packing the product (S118).

[0143] Next, when the delivery management module 1160 receives the top row of vacant items (Yes in S120), it displays a screen to confirm the customer's intention to add items to the vacant items and accepts the customer's selection of additional items (S122).

[0144] If the customer selects additional items (Yes in S124), the delivery management module 1160 sends the additional order information and contents to the logistics control server 3000 (S126), and the logistics management server 3000 calculates and determines the location information of the items to be boxed, including the additional items.

[0145] On the other hand, if information is received that there is no available space on the top shelf (No in S120), the delivery management module 1160 then receives the results of the packing instructions from the logistics management server 3000 (notification that the position of the products to be packed has been determined and packing has been completed) (S130).

[0146] Furthermore, when the delivery management module 1160 receives information about an empty space on the top shelf (Yes in S120), if the customer does not want any additional items (No in S124), it returns a confirmation message indicating that it will allow the packing process to be carried out with the received location information of the items to be packed as is (S128).

[0147] In either processing step S126 or S128, the delivery management module 1160 receives the results of the packing instructions (notification that the product positions to be packed have been determined and packing has been completed) from the logistics management server 3000 (S130).

[0148] In addition, on the screen (the screen displayed in step S122) that prompts the customer to select additional products, product candidates whose sizes can be bundled within the range of the available space may be presented based on the information indicating the available space. In this case, the customer attribute analysis module 1140 may be configured to select and prioritize the presented additional product candidates according to the analysis results.

[0149] For example, the screen that prompts the customer to select additional products may display a message such as, "Once the products you ordered are packed, space will be freed up in the box. The following products can be placed in this free space. If you would like to add any of the products, please select the product (and the quantity)." Alternatively, in order to more actively encourage the customer to pack additional products, the message may be, for example, "Once the products you ordered are packed, space will be freed up in the box. The following products can be placed in this free space. If you add any of the products, you can order at a discount of XX% off the list price. If you would like to add any of the products, please select the product (and the quantity)." In this way, the screen may be configured to offer a discount below the regular price for the additional products.

[0150] 10, in step S106, "input of campaign sample application" is performed, in step S112, "campaign lottery processing / sample selection processing" is executed, and in step S116, "transmission of order information to logistics control server" processing is executed. However, the "input of campaign sample application" in S106 and the "campaign lottery processing / sample selection processing" in step S112 do not necessarily have to be executed at this timing. For example, in step S122, "input of campaign sample application" is executed at the stage of "displaying a screen to confirm the customer's intention to add products to the vacant space," and the "campaign lottery processing / sample selection processing" is executed immediately before step S126, and in step S126, at the stage of "transmission of additional order information and contents to logistics control server," an instruction to pack the campaign products and sample products, including the products in the vacant space, is sent to logistics control server 3000.

[0151] Alternatively, the order of the processes shown in FIG. 10 can be changed as appropriate as long as it is in line with the purpose of the processes of this embodiment.

[0152] In other words, as in this embodiment, if a configuration is used in which the presence or absence of free space in a specific packing box when packing ordered items is first calculated, and if free space is found to exist, additional items or other bundled items can be packed into this free space in accordance with the customer's selection or request, the processing order is not limited to that shown in Figure 10.

[0153] Generally, if the number or volume of products to be packed increases and a packaging box of one size larger is selected, it may become necessary to select a packaging box with an excessively large capacity relative to the volume of the products to be packed. This situation is not necessarily desirable in terms of delivery costs and convenience. While not particularly limited, for example, as described above, if the packaging box has a single type of bottom and the height can be changed in multiple levels, or if multiple sizes of bottoms of the packaging boxes are prepared and the height of each packaging box can be changed in multiple levels, it is possible to flexibly change the size of the packaging box to fit the contents to be packed, even if the number or volume of products to be packed increases. Furthermore, for example, if the shape of the bottom of the packaging box is constant, it is preferable from the perspective of delivery convenience.

[0154] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the logistics control server 3000.

[0155] Referring to Figure 11, the logistics control server 3000 includes a communication interface 3002 for exchanging data with the EC site service providing server 1000 via the network 2, and for exchanging information (data and instructions) to support the packing process in picking, packing, sealing, etc. of products with digital devices such as handheld terminals and automatic packing systems (including boxes making machines and sealing machines for packing boxes, and devices for automatically printing and applying delivery labels), etc., via the network 2, an arithmetic processing unit (e.g., a central processing unit) 3100, a memory 3200 for temporarily storing data, and a storage unit 3300 for non-volatilely storing data.

[0156] The storage unit 3300 stores, as logistics control server operation data 3310, data used temporarily or continuously by the logistics control server 3000 as well as programs for operating the logistics control server 3000. The storage unit 3300 also stores, as order / product attribute data 3320, i) ordered product information (including information about the ordered product, the name, address, customer ID, order number, etc. of the customer who placed the order) and ii) product attribute information received from the EC site service providing server 1000. The product attribute information may be transmitted each time the EC site service providing server 1000 transmits the ordered product information to the logistics control server 3000. Alternatively, the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 may synchronize the product attribute data stored in association with product identification information at a predetermined frequency, and the product attribute data may be read from the order / product attribute data 3320 when the ordered product information is transmitted.

[0157] The programs stored as the logistics control server operation data 3310 and loaded into the memory 1200 cause the modules described below to operate in the arithmetic processing unit 3100 .

[0158] That is, the order information acquisition module 3110 receives "information on ordered products" from the EC site service providing server 1000, and stores and manages the information in the order / product attribute data 3320.

[0159] The product attribute acquisition module 3120 acquires product attribute data corresponding to the ordered product through the process described above.

[0160] The bundled sales promotion item management module 3130 associates the bundled item information received from the EC site service providing server 1000 with the order number and registers it in the order / product attribute data 3320 .

[0161] The product boxing calculation module 3140 determines the number of layers and positions of the products when packing the ordered products into a predetermined packing box in accordance with predetermined "packing rules" and the information on the ordered products received from the order information acquisition module 3110. Here, the "predetermined packing box" can have one of the following configurations depending on the system and the products being handled.

[0162] i) A packing box may be selected from a plurality of sizes of packing boxes based on the total volume and maximum dimensions of the ordered items so that the packing box can accommodate the ordered items. In this case, although not particularly limited, the packing box may be selected from a plurality of packing boxes that have the same bottom size (for example, the size of the long side x the short side) and differ only in height.

[0163] ii) The size of the bottom surface may be determined in advance based on the maximum dimensions of the products to be handled, and the size of the bottom surface may be fixed but the height may be variable.

[0164] iii) It may be a packing box selected from among a plurality of types of packing boxes each having a fixed bottom size but variable height, which have a plurality of types of bottom sizes determined in advance based on the maximum dimensions of the products to be handled, as one that can accommodate the ordered products based on the total volume of the ordered products.

[0165] The product packing calculation module 3140 transmits the calculated product packing information (including information on whether there is space on the top shelf, and if there is space, information on the size of the space) to the EC site service providing server 1000.

[0166] The additional product determination module 3160 determines the additional product to be packed in the packing box depending on whether or not the EC site service providing server 1000 has notified the information of the additional product designated by the customer for the empty space on the top shelf.

[0167] The packing position determination module 3150 ultimately determines the packing position of the items to be packed in the packaging box based on the product packing information calculated by the product packing calculation module 3140, the information on additional products determined by the additional product determination module 3160, and the information on the included items managed by the included promotional item management module 3130.

[0168] The packing information instruction module 3170 outputs the packing information determined by the packing position determination module 3150 as information to support the process of picking ordered items and packing them into designated packaging boxes within the logistics warehouse 4000. For example, in product picking, the support information is used for processes such as data used by handheld terminals that assist the total picking process and for lighting LEDs on product shelves to support human processing. Furthermore, when sorting picked items for each order, the support information is used for processes such as a DAS (Digital Assort System), which uses colors and numbers to digitally display information on sorting locations and quantities, and the GAS described above. Furthermore, when packing is performed semi-automatically, the output of the information instruction module 3170 is used to support the packing process, for example, as information to identify the recommended number of layers for each item, as described above. Furthermore, when packing is performed automatically, the output of the packing information instruction module 3170 is used to support the packing process by a packing robot.

[0169] Note that some of the functions of the logistics control server 3000 may be configured to be executed on the EC site service providing server 1000 side.

[0170] That is, other possible forms of "cooperation" between the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 include the following.

[0171] i) For example, the processing of the product packing calculation module 3140 may be executed on the EC site service providing server 1000 side, and the EC site service providing server 1000 may send the calculated "product packing information" to the logistics control server 3000, which may then return a result confirming that such packing is possible (this returned "result" is also included in the "information related to the availability of available space"), thereby allowing the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 to work together.

[0172] ii) Assuming that the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 cooperate to synchronize the data on product attributes stored in association with information that mutually identifies the products at a predetermined timing (this synchronized "information" is also included in "information related to the existence of available space"), the EC site service providing server 1000 may confirm that such synchronization has been performed for the products to be packed, and then execute the processing of the product packing calculation module 3140.

[0173] In either case, however, since it is the logistics control server 3000 that controls the boxing process, it is necessary for the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 to share information with each other to check whether or not free space will be generated when boxing is performed. Furthermore, although not limited thereto, when the EC site service providing server 1000 executes the processing of the product boxing calculation module 3140, the processing result may be transmitted to the logistics control server 3000, so that the boxing position determination module 3150 uses this processing result.

[0174] FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing executed by the logistics control server 3000 to determine the packing positions of products and the like.

[0175] In the following, an example will be described in which a packing box having a predetermined bottom size and a constant bottom size but variable height is specified.

[0176] 12, when the packing position determination process is started, the product packing calculation module 3140 sets the box height to the minimum value (h=1) (S200). Note that the box height of h=1 means that it is the minimum height among the box heights that can be changed at multiple levels.

[0177] Next, the product boxing calculation module 3140 acquires order information (product code, quantity, simple packaging information) from the order / product attribute data 3320 (S202), and acquires product attributes (size, recommended number of layers) (S204).

[0178] Furthermore, the product boxing calculation module 3140 acquires information on the included items (S206), and sets a variable j indicating the current number of layers when boxing, and a variable k indicating the recommended number of layers of order items to be boxed in sequence, both to their initial values ​​(j, k = 1) (S208).

[0179] The product boxing calculation module 3140 first determines the position and order in which the product to be placed in the jth tier in the box will be packed into the available space within the range of the recommended number of tiers for that product being k tiers (S210).

[0180] If the product boxing calculation module 3140 determines that the box needs to be taller (Yes in S212), it increments the variable h indicating the box height by 1, and if the box height does not exceed the maximum value (No in S232), it determines whether the arrangement of products with the recommended number of layers of k has been completed (S214). Alternatively, if no change in the box height is required in S212 (No in S212), the process also proceeds to S214.

[0181] If it is determined in step S214 that the arrangement of the products with the recommended number of tiers k has not been completed (No in S214), the product boxing calculation module 3140 increments the variable j indicating the number of tiers of boxing by 1 (S216) and proceeds to step S210.

[0182] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S214 that the arrangement of the products in the recommended number of k tiers has been completed (Yes in S214), the product packing calculation module 3140 determines whether the packing position determination of the ordered products has been completed (S220).

[0183] If it is determined in step S220 that the packing position of the ordered items has not been determined (No in S220), the item packing calculation module 3140 increments the variable k indicating the recommended number of layers by 1 (S222) and proceeds to step S210.

[0184] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S220 that the packing position of the ordered items has been determined (Yes in S220), the item packing calculation module 3140 sends information on the item packing position to the EC site service providing server 1000, and receives instructions for additional items or confirmation of the packing position from the EC site service providing server 1000 (S240).

[0185] If there is space on the top jth shelf (S240), the additional product determination module 3160 acquires information indicating the customer's intention regarding the space (S244), and if the customer desires an additional product (product added in S246), the additional product is added to the space on the Jth shelf to be packed in a box (S248); if the customer does not desire an additional product (cushioning material in S246), cushioning material is placed in the space on the Jth shelf to be packed in a box (S250).

[0186] The packing position determination module 3150 determines the products, included items, and cushioning materials that will ultimately be packed in a box, and the packing information instruction module 3170 outputs information to assist in the process of picking the ordered products and packing them into the specified packaging box, and also sends the determined packing information to the EC site service providing server 1000 (S252).

[0187] In step S232, if the box height exceeds the maximum value (Yes in S232), the product boxing calculation module 3140 executes a process to change the product packing range (S234). Here, "process to change the packing range" means, for example, selecting a larger packing box and reprocessing from S200, or dividing the packing box into two. The content of the process in this case is assumed to be set in advance depending on the system configuration. (Process to determine packing items according to customer attributes and purchase history)

[0188] FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the process of determining bundled items according to the customer attributes and purchase history in step S114 of FIG.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 13, the promotional packing item determination module 1150 refers to the customer purchase history information DB 2330.1, and if the customer placing the order is using the online store for the first time (Yes in S300), determines that the packing items will be a "greeting note," a "general catalog," and a "welcome coupon" (S302).

[0190] On the other hand, if the customer placing the order is not using the online store for the first time (No in S300), the promotional item determination module 1150 determines whether the customer's order is a single item purchase or a subscription purchase (S304).

[0191] In the case of a single item purchase, if the single item purchase is the first time (Yes in S306), the promotional packing item determination module 1150 determines the packing item to be a "brand book" (S308).

[0192] On the other hand, if the purchase of the single item is not the first time (No in S306), the bundled promotional item determination module 1150 then determines whether the number of purchases is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (S310).

[0193] If the number of purchases of the single item is less than the predetermined number (No in S310), the promotional bundle determination module 1150 determines the bundle to be a "survey" and / or "an introduction to another brand" (S312). On the other hand, if the number of purchases of the single item is more than the predetermined number (Yes in S310), the promotional bundle determination module 1150 determines the bundle to be a "regular increase offer" (S314), and executes a bundled item selection process based on customer attributes and purchase history (S316).

[0194] In addition, in S304, if the purchase is a regular purchase and the purchase is the first time (Yes in S320), the promotional bundled item determination module 1150 determines the bundled item to be a "brand book" (S322).

[0195] On the other hand, if the regular purchase is not the first time (No in S320), the bundled promotional item determination module 1150 then determines whether the number of purchases is equal to or greater than a predetermined number (S324).

[0196] If the number of regular purchases is less than the predetermined number (No in S324), the promotional bundled item determination module 1150 determines the bundled items to be a "survey questionnaire" and / or "an introduction to another brand" (S326). On the other hand, if the number of regular purchases is more than the predetermined number (Yes in S324), the promotional bundled item determination module 1150 determines the bundled items to be a "gift announcement" and a "survey questionnaire" (S328), and executes a bundled item selection process based on customer attributes and purchase history (S330).

[0197] 13, the contents of the bundle determined by the promotional bundle determination module 1150 are merely examples and are not limited to the above contents. The bundle may be changed to another bundle depending on the contents of the product, etc.

[0198] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the "processing for selecting bundled items based on customer attributes and purchase history" in step S316 or step S330 of FIG.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 14, in the process of selecting bundled items based on customer attributes and purchase history, the promotional bundled item determination module 1150 refers to the results of customer analysis such as RFM analysis performed by the customer attribute analysis module 1140 (S400), and if the customer is classified as a good customer, selects a bundled item for the good customer (S404), and if the customer is a stable customer, selects a bundled item for the stable customer (S406).

[0200] Next, the promotional packing item determination module 1150 determines the contents to be recommended based on the history of similar customers through the analysis of customer attributes and purchase history (S408).

[0201] Here, although not limited to, a "good customer" is a customer who is determined in the RFM analysis to be a "customer who frequently purchases a large number of products from the company" based on predetermined criteria. A "stable customer" is a customer who is determined to have average purchase frequency, purchase price, etc.

[0202] "Items included with valued customers" could be, for example, announcements such as "Receive △% off with purchases of XX yen or more" as part of a gratitude campaign, or announcements such as "New product giveaways."

[0203] Examples of "enclosed items for stable customers" could include announcements of "point redemption sales" or "establishment of a 'x points day' once every x months."

[0204] On the other hand, examples of "recommendations based on the history of similar customers through customer attribute and purchase history analysis" include "recommending product △△ to customers aged XX or older," "giving promotional materials (flyers, catalogs, etc.) for category A to people who have not yet purchased a product from category A in the past," and "giving promotional materials (flyers, catalogs, etc.) for category B N days after purchasing a product from category B." Also, based on data analysis, recommendations based on predictions from the customer's own attributes and the purchase history of similar customers could include announcements such as "recommending □□ to customers who have purchased △△." (Example of a questionnaire survey)

[0205] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of a questionnaire survey conducted on regular purchase customers.

[0206] FIG. 15A shows an example of a confirmation screen for a customer's ordered items.

[0207] Here, it is assumed that a customer has applied for a regular purchase of multiple items each.

[0208] When the customer selects "answer the questionnaire" on this confirmation screen, the display screen transitions to that shown in FIG. 15(b).

[0209] In FIG. 15(b), customers are notified that "Among those who answer the questionnaire, we will give a gift to XX people drawn by lottery!", and asked, "If we said, 'We will give you XX items for free!' which of the following would you choose? (You can check multiple items)," to survey customer awareness.

[0210] That is, while FIG. 15(a) specifies the ordered items that the customer has voluntarily decided to purchase for a fee, FIG. 15(b) prompts the customer to select "items that can be obtained free of charge" depending on the conditions. As a result, the items selected in FIG. 15(b) make it possible to ascertain the customer's potential needs. For example, it is possible to prioritize advertising for products with potential needs in the future or use this information as a reference for setting prices. That is, after the customer enters the ordered items, the promotional item determination module 1150 presents a lottery for additional items to be given as gifts, obtains information on the products the customer wishes to add, and adds this information to the purchase history information, thereby recording information on the customer's potential needs.

[0211] 10 and 12, the EC site service providing server 1000 and the logistics control server 3000 of this embodiment can flexibly respond to changes in the contents of the products to be packed. Therefore, in step S414 of FIG. 10, a lottery process for "a gift to XX people by lottery" as described in FIG. 15 is immediately performed, and even if additional products are added, this can be flexibly handled. Furthermore, even if the lottery process is performed after a predetermined period has passed since the survey results were obtained and after the survey results for multiple regular purchasers have been collected, it is still possible to flexibly handle an additional product that is normally delivered to only a specific regular purchaser.

[0212] FIG. 16 is a block diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of the EC site service providing server 1000 shown in FIG.

[0213] In the following description, the EC site service providing server 1000 and the database server 2000 are assumed to operate on a server running on the cloud. However, the EC site service providing server 1000 and the database server 2000 may also operate on an on-premise server, for example.

[0214] Although the following description will be given using the configuration of the EC site service providing server 1000 as an example, the hardware configurations of the database server 2000 and the logistics control server 3000 are basically the same.

[0215] The server 1000 may be configured such that a computing device (CPU: Central Processing Unit) within its own housing executes the arithmetic processing, or such that part of the program processing is executed on another server. In the following description, it is assumed that the arithmetic device within its own housing executes the arithmetic processing.

[0216] Referring to FIG. 16, server 1000 includes a computer device 1010 having a communication interface 1002 for communicating with network 2 and a drive device for receiving data from an external storage medium (for example, a memory card) 1210.

[0217] For example, a USB memory, a memory card, or an external storage device can be used as the recording medium 1210. The communication interface 1002 can utilize, for example, a wired LAN or wireless LAN communication function as a network communication function. The communication interface 1002 has a network communication function and a function as an input / output interface for data and commands.

[0218] As shown in FIG. 16 , the computer main body constituting this computer device 1010 includes, in addition to a disk drive 1030 and a memory drive 1020, a CPU 1100 connected to a bus 1050, a memory 1200 including a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1200.1 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 1200.2, a nonvolatile rewritable storage device 1300, and a communication interface 1002 for communicating via a network and exchanging data with external devices. The nonvolatile storage device 1300 may be, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD). The following description will be given assuming that the nonvolatile storage device is an SSD. An optical disk can be inserted into the disk drive 1030. A memory card 1210 can be inserted into the memory drive 1020.

[0219] When the programs of the computer device 1010 operate, the data and programs that store the information that is the basis for the operation of the computer are stored in the SSD 1300 in the following description.

[0220] 16, the medium capable of recording information such as a program to be installed in the computer main body may be, for example, a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc), a memory card, a USB memory, etc. In such cases, the computer main body is provided with a drive device (memory drive 1020, disk drive 1030) capable of reading these media.

[0221] The main components of the computer device 1010 are computer hardware and software executed by the CPU 1100. Generally, such software is stored on a storage medium and distributed or distributed via a network, and is obtained via the disk drive 1030 or the communication interface 1002 and temporarily stored in the SSD 1300. The software is then read from the SSD 1300 into the RAM 1200.2 in the memory and executed by the CPU 1100.

[0222] When distributing a program for functioning as the computer device 1010, the program does not necessarily need to include an operating system (OS) that causes the computer device main body 1010 to execute functions such as an information processing device. The program only needs to include instructions that call appropriate functions (modules) in a controlled manner and achieve the desired results. How the computer device 1010 operates is well known, and a detailed description will be omitted.

[0223] Furthermore, the CPU 1100 may be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor, and the server 1000 may be configured to include multiple servers and perform distributed processing.

[0224] Therefore, according to the product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device, and product management program of the embodiments, when determining how to pack products in a packing box in multiple layers, the weight, size, and fragility of the products are taken into consideration, thereby reducing the volume required for the packing box and improving convenience of shipping. Furthermore, according to the product shipping management system, product order receiving device, shipping support device, and product management program of the embodiments, it is possible to cooperate with the operator of an online mail order site for sales promotion in product sales, collection of marketing information, etc.

[0225] As a result, in e-commerce, it becomes possible to carry out sales promotions customized for each customer, making it easier to achieve upselling and cross-selling in product sales.

[0226] The embodiments disclosed herein are merely examples of configurations for specifically implementing the present invention, and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the description of the embodiments, and is intended to include modifications within the literal scope of the claims and within the scope of equivalent meanings.

[0227] 2 Network, 10 Terminal, 12 Display screen, 20 Smartphone, 22 Display screen, 50 Product shipping management system, 1000 EC site service providing server, 1100 Central processing unit, 1110 Customer attribute management module, 1120 Purchase application management module, 1130 Purchase history registration module, 1140 Customer attribute analysis module, 1150 Promotional packing item determination module, 1160 Delivery management module, 1200 Memory, 1300 Storage unit, 1310 Service server operation data, 2000 Data server, 2310 Communication interface, 2002.1 Database, 2320.1 Customer attribute information database, 2330.1 Customer purchase history information database, 2340.1 Product attribute database, 3000 Logistics control server, 4000 Logistics warehouse.

Claims

1. A product shipping management system comprising: a product order receiving device that manages customer attribute information and product attribute information, and accepts ordered products from the customer; a shipping support device that receives information on the ordered products and the product attribute information from the product order receiving device and supports the process of packing the products, wherein the product attribute information includes indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance, and the shipping support device comprises: order obtaining means that obtains the product codes and ordered quantity of the ordered products; packing position determining means that, when packing the ordered products into a predetermined packaging box based on the product attribute information corresponding to the product code of the ordered products and when packing in multiple tiers is required, determines the packing position for each tier so as to prioritize placing heavier and less fragile products in lower tiers and minimize the number of tiers to reduce the required volume of the packaging box; and output means that sends out packaging data including the product code, packing tier, and packing position of the product determined by the packing position determining means as packing process support information.

2. A product shipping management system as described in claim 1, wherein the height of the packing box is adjustable by folding it along a predetermined line on the side while keeping the bottom fixed, and the packing position determination means minimizes the height of the packing box by reducing the required volume of the packing box.

3. A product shipping management system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the shipping support device and the product order receiving device transmit and receive information related to the presence or absence of free space in the topmost boxing position of the ordered products, and the product order receiving device, if free space exists, prompts the customer to select additional products to be boxed in the free space, and when the additional products are specified, further comprises a delivery management means for instructing the shipping support device to box the additional products.

4. The product delivery management system according to claim 3, wherein said product order receiving device sets the price of said additional product lower than the normal price and presents it to said customer.

5. A product shipping management system as described in claim 3, wherein the customer attribute information includes purchase history information for each of the customers, and the product order receiving device further includes a customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting additional products to be proposed to the customer based on the analysis results.

6. The product shipping management system of claim 3, wherein the product order receiving device further includes a purchase order management means for accepting the ordered product and a request for simple packaging, and a customer attribute management means for adding a predetermined number of points to the customer attribute information in the case of simple packaging.

7. A product shipping management system as described in claim 6, wherein said purchase application management means accepts requests for special packaging along with the acceptance of said ordered products, and in the case of special packaging, accepts payment from said points according to said customer's request.

8. A product shipping management system as described in claim 3, wherein the customer attribute information includes purchase history information for each of the customers, and the product order receiving device further includes: a customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information and selecting sample products to propose to the customers according to the analysis results; and a purchase application management means for accepting requests for sample provision at a predetermined price along with accepting the ordered products.

9. The product shipping management system of claim 3, wherein the product order receiving device further comprises a purchase application management means for, in addition to accepting the ordered products, encouraging participation in a campaign, adding information about customers who have participated in the campaign to the customer attribute information, and selecting items to include when the ordered products are delivered to the customer depending on the results of the lottery for the campaign.

10. A product shipping management system as described in claim 3, wherein the customer attribute information includes purchase history information for each of the customers, and the product order receiving device further includes a customer attribute analysis means for analyzing the purchase history information, and a package item determination means for selecting package items to be included when the ordered product is delivered to the customer based on the analysis results.

11. The product shipping management system of claim 3, wherein the product order receiving device further includes a means for determining bundled items to be added to the purchase history information by offering a lottery for a gift of additional products after the customer inputs the ordered products, and obtaining information on the products the customer wishes to add.

12. A product order receiving device for processing product orders in cooperation with a shipping support device that supports packaging processing for shipping ordered products to customers, comprising: a storage device that stores customer attribute information and product attribute information, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance; product order receiving means for accepting the ordered products from the customer; transmission means for transmitting the ordered product information and product attribute information to the shipping support device; and delivery management means for, when empty space is present in the topmost packing position of the ordered products as a result of processing to determine the packing position of the ordered products in a specified packaging box based on the ordered product information and the product attribute information, prompting the customer to select additional products to be packed in the empty space, and, when the additional products are selected, instructing the shipping support device to pack the additional products.

13. The product order receiving device according to claim 12, wherein the height of the packing box can be changed by folding it along a predetermined line on the side while keeping the bottom fixed, and the shipping support device minimizes the height of the packing box by reducing the required volume of the packing box.

14. A shipping support device that cooperates with a product order receiving device for processing product orders and supports packing processing for shipping ordered products to customers, comprising: order obtaining means for obtaining the product code and order quantity of the ordered product that has been ordered; a memory device for storing product attribute information of the product, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance; packing position determination means for determining, when packing the ordered products into a specified packaging box based on the product attribute information corresponding to the product code of the ordered product, and when packing in multiple tiers is required, determining the packing position for each tier so as to prioritize heavier and less fragile products in lower tiers and minimize the number of tiers to reduce the required volume of the packaging box; and output means for sending packing data including the product code, packing tier, and packing position of the product determined by the packing position determination means as packing process support information.

15. A product management program for controlling a product order receiving device that processes product orders in cooperation with a shipping support device that supports packaging processes for shipping ordered products to customers, the product order receiving device having a calculation device and a storage device that stores product attribute information, the product attribute information including indicators of product size, weight, and impact resistance, the product management program executing the following steps: the calculation device receives the ordered products from the customer; the calculation device synchronizes the product attribute information with the shipping support device; the calculation device transmits information about the ordered products to the shipping support device; and the calculation device, when it determines, in accordance with the packing position of the ordered products in a specified packaging box based on the information about the ordered products and the product attribute information, that there is available space in the topmost packing position of the ordered products, prompts the customer to select additional products to be packed in the available space, and when the additional products are selected, instructs the shipping support device to pack the additional products.

Images