JP2018019373A - Monitoring camera and package reading method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a monitoring camera and a package reading method that can detect and read a bar-code which is utilized to control a delivery time destination of a package.SOLUTION: A bar-code camera BCA as a monitoring camera comprises an image sensor 21 that images a predetermined area within a package conveyance area in which a belt conveyor to convey at least one package is arranged, a signal processing unit 30 that detect a bar-code ID attached on a package appearing in a predetermined area and reads the bar-code ID based on a peripheral image of the predetermined area imaged by the image sensor 21, and a communication unit 31 that outputs a read result of the bar-code ID read by the signal processing unit 30.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to a surveillance camera and a package reading method for reading a barcode attached to a package transported by a conveyor disposed in a package transport area.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, in the logistics business of luggage, a barcode obtained by attaching a barcode for identifying the luggage to a delivered package, for example, by reading the barcode on a transport line provided with a conveyor. Various operations such as luggage transportation are performed using information (for example, barcode ID).

  Baggage is often managed by barcode ID, but on the other hand, lost or damaged baggage may occur daily. For example, if there is a loss due to an incorrect delivery of a package or damage due to a fall of a package being transported, it is not easy to determine the cause, and it takes more than one day to investigate the cause. Sometimes it ends up.

  Here, as a prior art for accurately grasping the production performance status of each process in the production line, for example, a production system described in Patent Document 1 is known. In production lines where this production system is used, the image processing device tracks and identifies changes in the status of workpieces moving through the production line (for example, raw material status, processing status, and inspected status) through image analysis by a surveillance camera. The server notifies the server of the identification number. The server identifies and records various data with an identification number without attaching a barcode to the work.

JP 2010-055334 A

  Moreover, in patent document 1, since there is no sticking of the barcode to a workpiece | work, the thought that the surveillance camera detects and reads a barcode is not considered. In addition, the conventional technology including Patent Document 1 does not disclose a configuration of a monitoring camera having a function of detecting and reading a barcode used for controlling whereabouts at the time of delivery of a package in the recent physical distribution field. .

  The present invention provides a surveillance camera capable of detecting and reading a barcode that has been devised in view of the above-described conventional situation and is used for controlling whereabouts during delivery of a package, and a package reading method. With the goal.

  The present invention is based on an imaging unit that images a predetermined area in a baggage transport area in which a conveyor for transporting at least one baggage is disposed, and a peripheral image of the predetermined area captured by the imaging unit. A detection unit that detects package identification information attached to the package that appears in an area; a reading unit that reads the package identification information detected by the detection unit; and a reading result of the package identification information read by the reading unit And an output unit that outputs a peripheral image of the predetermined area captured by the imaging unit.

  Further, the present invention is a luggage reading method in a surveillance camera having an imaging unit for imaging a predetermined area in a luggage transport area in which a conveyor for transporting at least one package is disposed, and is captured by the imaging unit Based on the surrounding image of the predetermined area, the package identification information attached to the package appearing in the default area is detected, the detected package identification information is read, and the read result of the read package identification information and imaging And a package reading method for outputting a peripheral image of the predetermined area.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to detect and read a bar code used to control where the package is delivered.

The figure which shows an example of the system configuration | structure of a package tracking system of this embodiment, and an operation | movement outline | summary in detail. The figure which shows an example of the registration content of a barcode ID list table The block diagram which shows an example of an internal structure of a barcode camera and a terminal device in detail (A), (B) The figure explaining an example of the barcode reading operation | movement by a barcode camera Flowchart explaining in detail an example of the reading operation procedure of the barcode camera The figure which shows an example of the registration content of the reading time table of barcode ID The figure which shows the example of a display of the screen containing the picked-up image imaged with the barcode camera and the omnidirectional camera displayed on a display apparatus The figure which shows the example of a display of the screen containing the log | history list displayed on a display apparatus, and the captured image imaged with the barcode camera and the omnidirectional camera A flowchart for explaining in detail an example of the procedure for detecting a lost package in the package tracking system (A), (B) The figure explaining the size measurement of a load A flowchart for explaining in detail an example of a procedure for detecting damaged packages in the package tracking system (A) The figure which shows the example of a detection of the jamming which generate | occur | produced near the corner of a belt conveyor, The figure which shows the example of a detection of the jamming which occurred in the vicinity of the curve of a (B) belt conveyor.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment (hereinafter referred to as “the present embodiment”) that specifically discloses a package tracking system and a package tracking method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of already well-known matters and repeated descriptions for substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid the following description from becoming unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims. The present invention can also be expressed as a barcode camera as a surveillance camera for reading a barcode attached to a package and a package reading method in the barcode camera.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing in detail an example of the system configuration and operation outline of the package tracking system 1 of the present embodiment. The package tracking system 1 is installed in a distribution warehouse WA as a package transport area which is a facility for storing and delivering packages, for example, and tracks and monitors packages transported by a conveyor (for example, the belt conveyor 100). The distribution warehouse WA may be, for example, in a sales office of a distribution delivery company, or may be an airport or the like. Hereinafter, although the belt conveyor 100 is illustrated and demonstrated as a conveyor, it is not limited to the belt conveyor 100, You may use another type of conveyor (refer later).

  In the distribution warehouse WA, a three-dimensional warehouse (stocker) 150 that stores a large amount of packages to be delivered, a plurality of belt conveyors 100, 110, 120 that transport packages shipped from the stocker 150, and each belt conveyor 100, 110, A plurality of carriages 180, 181, 182 and the like for loading the packages conveyed at 120 are provided. In addition, trucks TR1, TR2, and TR3 are prepared for transferring the packages loaded on these carts 180, 181, and 182 and transporting them to the destination.

  In addition, a plurality of workers p1, p2, p3, p4, and p5 are manually disposed at each location of the distribution warehouse WA.

  The belt conveyor 100 is a mainstream line for physical distribution, and transports packages shipped from the stocker 150 from upstream to downstream (that is, from the left side to the right side in FIG. 1). A carriage 180 is prepared at the end of the belt conveyor 100. The worker p <b> 1 transfers the load that has arrived at the end of the belt conveyor 100 to the carriage 180. Furthermore, the worker p1 carries the carriage 180 loaded with the luggage gs to the truck TR1 and transfers the luggage gs onto the loading platform of the truck TR1. In addition, when the loading platform of the truck TR1 can approach to the end of the belt conveyor 100, the cargo gs can be directly loaded on the loading platform of the truck TR1 without being loaded on the carriage 180.

  The belt conveyors 110 and 120 are branch lines for physical distribution branched from the belt conveyor 100 at branch points TP1 and TP2, respectively. The goods delivered from the belt conveyor 100 are transferred to the end of the branch line (that is, below the plane of FIG. 1). To the side). Carriages 181 and 182 are prepared at the ends of the belt conveyors 110 and 120, respectively. The workers p4 and p5 transfer the luggage gs arriving at the terminal ends of the belt conveyors 110 and 120 to the carts 181 and 182, respectively. Even in the tributary line, when the loading platform of the trucks TR2 and TR3 can approach the end of the belt conveyors 110 and 120, the luggage gs is loaded on the loading platform of the trucks TR2 and TR3 without being loaded on the carriages 181 and 182. It is also possible to change.

  The workers p1, p4, and p5 disposed at the end of the belt conveyors 100, 110, and 120 have bar code readers BR1, BR2, and BR3, respectively, and carry various kinds of luggage gs on the carriages 180, 181, When re-loading to 182, the barcode BCL as the package identification information affixed to each package gs is read. In addition, in this embodiment, when it is not necessary to distinguish the belt conveyors 100, 110, and 120 in particular, the belt conveyor 100 will be described as a representative.

  In addition, workers p2 and p3 who change the load gs conveyed by the belt conveyor 100 at branch points TP1 and TP2 between the belt conveyor 100 of the mainstream line and the belt conveyors 110 and 120 of the tributary line are as follows. In particular, the baggage gs is replaced as it is without the barcode reader, but the barcode attached to the baggage gs may be read with the barcode reader. Further, as a case where the barcode BCL is attached to the package gs, it is assumed that a label on which the barcode is printed is attached to the package, but the barcode may be printed on the package itself. Further, the barcode is not limited to a two-dimensional barcode, and may be various barcodes such as a three-dimensional barcode and a color code.

  In the distribution warehouse WA, the loading of the load from the belt conveyor 100 on the main line to the belt conveyors 110 and 120 on the tributary line is performed manually by an operator, but automatically by a sorter (that is, an automatic sorting device). Sorting may be performed. In the case of manual operation, it may happen that an operator mistakenly loads the baggage or damages the baggage by hitting it elsewhere. On the other hand, when sorting is performed automatically by the sorter, it may happen that the package is transported to another belt conveyor due to an error in the barcode attached to the package. In any case, in the distribution warehouse WA, there are not a few lost or damaged items due to incorrect delivery of the packages.

  The package tracking system 1 of this embodiment includes an arrival information management device 2, a video recording device 3, a terminal device 4, a display device 5, an article management device 6, and a plurality of camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11. .

  The arrival information management device 2 acquires and stores the arrival information of the package. The arrival information is a list of bar code IDs which are package identification information attached to all packages to be carried. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of registered contents of the barcode ID list table TL0. In the barcode ID list table TL0, barcode IDs are recorded in the order of the packages that flow on the belt conveyor 100. In addition, in the barcode ID list, the exit information such as the exits DP1, DP2, DP3,... Where the baggage gs with the barcode corresponding to the barcode ID should be transported in the distribution warehouse WA is also registered. Is done. This carry-out port information corresponds to the transport destination information of the package described in the barcode ID or linked (in other words, the arrival place of the package to be delivered). In FIG. 2, barcode IDs are recorded in the order of No1, No2, No3, No4,. In addition, the arrival information management device 2 holds a table (not shown) in which a person who has deposited a package (that is, a package delivery requester) is associated with a barcode ID.

  The video recording apparatus 3 as a recorder has a timer (not shown), image data captured by a plurality of camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, and time measured by the timer (that is, imaging) Time). The video recording apparatus 3 also includes image data captured by a plurality of camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, and their imaging time, and barcode cameras BCA 1, BCA 2, BCA 3, BCA 4, BCA 5, or barcode. The barcode ID read by the readers BR1, BR2 and BR3 and the reading time thereof may be recorded in association with each other. Also, the video recording device 3 outputs image data and imaging time information corresponding to the instruction to the terminal device 4 and the article management device 6 in accordance with the instruction from the article management device 6.

  The plurality of camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 are respectively omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, CA5 as surveillance cameras and barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, as surveillance cameras and barcode detection cameras. BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 are provided in pairs. The camera pairs 7, 8, and 9 are arranged at monitoring points WP1, WP2, and WP3 that are located from the upstream side to the downstream side of the belt conveyor 100, which is the mainstream line. The camera pairs 7, 8, and 9 arranged at the monitoring points WP 1, WP 2, and WP 3 can respectively image different predetermined areas ARE 1, ARE 2, and ARE 3 in the baggage transport area where the baggage gs is transported by the belt conveyor 100.

  Further, the camera pairs 10 and 11 are arranged at the monitoring points WP4 and WP5 respectively located on the belt conveyors 110 and 120 which are branch lines branched from the belt conveyor 100 at the branch points TP1 and TP2, respectively. The monitoring points WP4 and WP5 can respectively image different predetermined areas ARE4 and ARE5 in the baggage transport area in which the baggage gs is transported by the belt conveyors 110 and 120, respectively. In the present embodiment, when it is not necessary to distinguish the predetermined areas ARE1, ARE2, ARE3, ARE4, and ARE5, they are simply collectively referred to as a predetermined area ARE.

  The omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, and CA5 are cameras equipped with a fish-eye lens having a 360-degree angle of view and capable of capturing 360-degree omnidirectional images (fish-eye images). 120 above (for example, the ceiling). The omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, and CA5 follow the instructions from the terminal device 4 or the article management device 6 and include a predetermined area ARE1 so as to include the passing positions of the packages conveyed by the belt conveyors 100, 110, and 120. , ARE2, ARE3, ARE4, and ARE5 are captured, and the captured images (also referred to as peripheral images) are output to the video recording device 3 together with the imaging time and recorded.

  The bar code cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 take an image of the baggage gs transported by the belt conveyors 100, 110, and 120, and output and record the taken image to the video recording device 3 together with the imaging time. Further, the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 as examples of readers detect the barcode BCL affixed to the baggage based on the captured images taken by themselves, and their contents The barcode ID (barcode information) as a result of the reading is output to the video recording device 3 along with the reading time, recorded, and further output to the terminal device 4 or the article management device 6. Details of the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 will be described later. Note that the barcode BCL reading operation can be performed by the terminal device 4 or the article management device 6 instead of the barcode camera.

  The terminal device 4 is configured using, for example, a personal computer device, accepts an input of a bar code ID via an operation unit 46 that accepts a user operation, searches for the input bar code ID, and represents a detection result. (In other words, the reading history list in which the barcode IDs of the barcodes read by the barcode camera or barcode reader in the luggage transport area are arranged in the order of the reading time, see FIG. 8) is displayed on the display device 5.

  Further, the terminal device 4 executes various image display processes for displaying the image data input from the video recording device 3 on the display device 5. In addition, the terminal device 4 controls the operation of the belt conveyor 100 and the like that carry various kinds of luggage. Further, when there is a trouble such as loss or damage of the luggage, the terminal device 4 performs a detection operation for investigating the cause. Details of these detection operations will be described later.

  The display device 5 as a monitor divides the screen, for example, and displays images captured by the plurality of camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, respectively. Further, the display device 5 displays a history list hst (see FIG. 8) representing the detection result of the barcode ID.

  The article management device 6 has an image database (DB), and barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4 for each of the packages gs1, gs2, gs3,. The barcode ID read by the BCA 5 and the reading time thereof, the images (peripheral images) taken by the omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, and CA5 and the imaging time thereof are acquired from the video recording device 3, and the time The information is stored and managed together with information (that is, image capturing time, barcode ID reading time). In the present embodiment, the packages gs1, gs2, and gs3 are collectively referred to as packages gs when it is not necessary to distinguish them. Further, the article management device 6 manages the delivery destination of the package gs with a barcode ID (see FIG. 2), and in particular, the package gs exits DP1 and DP2 that are shipped from the stocker 150 and conveyed by the belt conveyor 100. , DP3 is managed.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing in detail an example of the internal configuration of the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, BCA5 and the terminal device 4. Barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 have the same configuration. In the present embodiment, the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5 are collectively referred to as a barcode camera BCA when it is not necessary to distinguish them.

  The barcode camera BCA is a camera that can generate an image of a package (an image based on visible light) by entering and reflecting light reflected by the package, and the barcode attached to the package included in the captured image. Is read by an image sensing method of electronically scanning, and if the reading is successful, the barcode ID of the barcode is acquired. The barcode camera BCA includes an image sensor 21, a lens 22, a sensor driving unit 24, a laser diode (LD) 27, an LD driving unit 28, a diffusion plate (diffuser) 29, a temperature sensor 26, a signal processing unit 30, a communication unit 31, And a speaker 33.

  The image sensor 21 as an imaging unit acquires image data of an object by entering light reflected by the object and capturing the image. The image sensor 21 includes, for example, a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor. . A CCD (charge coupled device) sensor may be used instead of the CMOS sensor. Further, when the barcode camera BCA measures the distance to the outer shape of the luggage gs, the image sensor 21 reflects the reflected light from the pixel (or a predetermined number of pixels) when the laser light projected from the LD 27 is reflected by the luggage gs. Light is received in units of pixels.

  The lens 22 condenses incident light on the image sensor 21. The lens 22 includes a wide-angle lens capable of imaging a relatively wide area including the belt conveyor 100 on which the luggage gs is placed, and a narrow-angle lens capable of imaging a relatively narrow area surrounding the barcode BCL attached to the luggage gs. Can be switched. Switching between the wide-angle lens and the narrow-angle lens may be realized, for example, according to a control signal from the sensor driving unit 24. Further, switching between the wide-angle lens and the narrow-angle lens is realized by using, for example, a known liquid lens. By using the liquid lens, the angle of view captured by the image sensor 21 can be easily switched to a wide angle or a narrow angle, and the number of components can be reduced and the size can be reduced.

  The sensor driving unit 24 controls the exposure time and the like of the image sensor 21 in accordance with an instruction from the signal processing unit 30. In addition, the sensor driving unit 24 instructs the time division to switch between a wide-angle lens having a wide angle of view and a narrow-angle lens having a wide angle of view, for example, according to an instruction from the signal processing unit 30. Thereby, the lens 22 can switch a wide-angle lens and a narrow-angle lens to a time division.

  An LD (Laser Diode) 27 irradiates a laser beam (for example, near infrared light) used for measuring the distance to the outer shape of the luggage gs by a control signal from the LD driving unit 28. The LD 27 may be configured using an LED (Light Emission Diode) instead of the laser light source, and in this case, the LED 27 emits the LED light.

  The LD driving unit 28 outputs a control signal for driving the LD 27 in accordance with an instruction from the signal processing unit 30. The diffusion plate (diffuser) 29 diffuses the laser beam output from the LD 27 so that the entire package can be irradiated. The temperature sensor 26 detects a temperature for performing temperature control on the LD 27 that is easily affected by the temperature.

  The signal processing unit 30 performs various signal processing on the image signal output from the image sensor 21 and outputs the processed signal. The signal processing unit 30 outputs a driving signal to the sensor driving unit 24 when reading the barcode. Further, the signal processing unit 30 outputs a driving signal to the LD driving unit 28 when measuring the distance. The signal processing unit 30 outputs a control signal for switching the angle of view to the sensor driving unit 24 when the angle of view of the lens 22 is switched.

  The communication unit 31 performs data communication with the terminal device 4 and outputs the image data output from the signal processing unit 30 and the barcode ID output from the barcode camera BCA to the terminal device 4.

  The speaker 33 outputs different sound (sound information) depending on whether the reading of the barcode BCL is successful or not (see FIGS. 4A and 4B).

  In the barcode camera BCA having such a configuration, the two-dimensional image captured at a narrow angle by the barcode camera BCA is an image used for reading the barcode BCL attached to the package gs. When troubles such as misdelivery or breakage of gs occur, it is used for grasping the status of misdelivery depending on whether or not the barcode ID is read when the cause is investigated. In addition, the two-dimensional image is not as large as the distance image (three-dimensional image) of the luggage gs described later, but may be used for grasping the presence / absence of damage in plan view.

  On the other hand, the two-dimensional image captured at a wide angle by the barcode camera BCA is an image capturing a predetermined area including the luggage gs conveyed by the belt conveyor. For example, there is a problem such as erroneous delivery or damage of the luggage gs. It is used to understand the situation at the time of trouble occurrence in the default area when investigating the cause.

  The barcode camera BCA measures the distance to the object by irradiating laser light from the LD 27 and receiving the reflected light using a known TOF (Time of Flight) technique. That is, the barcode camera BCA obtains an image (distance image) representing the three-dimensional shape of the luggage gs by measuring the distance to the outer shape of the luggage gs. The terminal device 4 determines whether or not the luggage gs is damaged from the distance image (three-dimensional image) of the luggage gs acquired by the barcode camera BCA.

  The LD 27 in the barcode camera BCA is disposed in a tilted state so that laser light can be projected from an oblique direction with respect to the luggage gs conveyed by the belt conveyor 100.

  4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining a barcode reading operation by the barcode camera BCA.

  When the baggage gs conveyed by the belt conveyor 100 passes through a reading position (monitoring point) by the barcode camera BCA, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the barcode BCL is pasted on the baggage gs, The barcode camera BCA captures an image around the barcode BCL, performs image processing on the image, and reads the barcode ID. When the barcode BCL is successfully read, the barcode camera BCA outputs a short and high sound “beep!” From the speaker 33.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the barcode BCL is not affixed to the package gs, or when the package gs falls down and the barcode BCL cannot be read, the barcode camera BCA displays the speaker 33. To output a long and low sound called “boo”. Thereby, a user such as a worker in the vicinity of the barcode camera BCA can immediately know the success or failure of reading the barcode BCL.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining in detail an example of the reading operation procedure of the barcode camera BCA. The barcode camera BCA images the predetermined area ARE including the belt conveyor 100 on which the luggage gs is conveyed at a wide angle (S1). The barcode camera BCA determines whether or not the barcode BCL (entire barcode) is included in the image captured at the wide angle (S2). Until the barcode BCL is included (S2, NO), each process of step S1 and step S2 is repeated in the barcode camera BCA.

  On the other hand, when the barcode BCL is included (S2, YES), the barcode camera BCA images a region including the barcode BCL at a narrow angle. The barcode camera BCA cuts out an area including the barcode BCL from the image captured at a narrow angle (S3). Note that the barcode camera BCA may partially cut out the region including the barcode BCL from the captured image simply captured at a wide angle without imaging the region including the barcode BCL at a narrow angle.

  The barcode camera BCA performs image processing on the image of the clipped area and reads the barcode ID (S4). The barcode camera BCA outputs the barcode ID as a reading result to the terminal device 4 together with the reading time (S5). The terminal device 4 adds the barcode ID together with the reading time to the reading time table TL1 (see FIG. 6) stored in the memory 42. At this time, the image (peripheral image) of the predetermined area ARE imaged at a wide angle by the barcode camera BCA in step S1 and its imaging time are stored in the video recording apparatus 3 together with the barcode ID and the barcode ID reading time. To be recorded. Further, the omnidirectional camera CA always captures images when the power is turned on, captures an omnidirectional image (peripheral image) of the predetermined area ARE, and captures the omnidirectional image along with the imaging time on the video recording device 3. Output and record.

  Thereafter, the barcode camera BCA determines whether or not to end the imaging due to power-off, timeout, or the like (S6). When the imaging is finished, the barcode camera BCA finishes this operation. On the other hand, when the imaging is continued, the process returns to step S1.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of registered contents of the barcode ID reading time table TL1. The reading time table TL1 stores a list of barcode IDs read in time series by each barcode camera BCA for each of the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, and BCA5. For example, the barcode ID “AABBBB123” is registered at the reading time “10:10:30”, and the barcode ID “DDBBB123” is registered at the reading time “10:10:33”.

  Returning to the description of FIG.

  3, the terminal device 4 is a computer device that controls the overall operation of the package tracking system 1, and includes a processor 41, a memory 42, a communication unit 43, a hard disk 44, a display control unit 45, and the like. The processor 41 controls each unit of the terminal device 4.

  The memory 42 stores a package transport control program executed by the processor 41. The memory 42 temporarily stores data such as the reading time table TL1. The hard disk 44 is a storage memory that stores various data.

  The display control unit 45 controls the display of the display device 5 connected to the terminal device 4. The communication unit 43 is connected to a plurality of barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, BCA3, BCA4, BCA5, omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, CA3, CA4, CA5, article management device 6, video recording device 3, and the like. Perform data communication with.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a screen 5z that is displayed on the display device 5 and includes a captured image captured by the barcode camera BCA and the omnidirectional camera CA. In FIG. 7, the screen 5z of the display device 5 is divided into nine. Note that the number of screen divisions may be an arbitrary number such as six divisions or three divisions.

  The upper three divided screens constituting the screen 5z are referred to as divided screens 5z-1, 5z-2, and 5z-3 from the left side. Similarly, the middle three divided screens are referred to as divided screens 5z-4, 5z-5, and 5z-6 from the left side. Similarly, the lower three divided screens are referred to as divided screens 5z-7, 5z-8, and 5z-9 from the left side.

  On the lower three divided screens 5z-7, 5z-8, and 5z-9, the omnidirectional images (peripheral images iga) of each predetermined area ARE captured by the omnidirectional cameras CA1, CA2, and CA3 are displayed, respectively. . Further, the middle three divided screens 5z-4, 5z-5, and 5z-6 each include a predetermined area that includes a baggage gs that is captured by the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, and BCA3 at a wide angle and is conveyed by a belt conveyor. The image (peripheral image igb) which imaged is displayed. In the divided screens 5z-4 and 5z-5, when a load is conveyed by the belt conveyor 100, the barcode BCL attached to the load can be read. In the divided screen 5z-6, there is no barcode BCL affixed to the luggage conveyed by the belt conveyor 100.

  Further, in the upper three divided screens 5z-1, 5z-2, and 5z-3, images around the barcode BCL attached to the baggage gs, which are respectively captured by the barcode cameras BCA1, BCA2, and BCA3 at a narrow angle. Is displayed. However, since the barcode BCL is not pasted on the package gs, nothing is displayed on the divided screen 5z-3. Instead of displaying nothing, a substitute image indicating that there is no barcode, a message, a mark, or the like may be displayed.

  In the screen 5z of the display device 5, the three divided screens in the vertical (column) direction correspond to the respective camera pairs arranged at the respective monitoring points WP. For example, the divided screens 5z-1, 5z-4, and 5z-7 are captured images captured by the camera pair 7 arranged at the monitoring point WP1 on the upstream side of the belt conveyor 100, that is, the barcode camera BCA1 and the omnidirectional camera CA1. Is displayed. Similarly, the divided screens 5z-2, 5z-5, and 5z-8 are imaged by the camera pair 8, that is, the barcode camera BCA2 and the omnidirectional camera CA2 arranged at the monitoring point WP2 on the middle stream side of the belt conveyor 100. A captured image is displayed. Similarly, the divided screens 5z-3, 5z-6, and 5z-9 are imaged by the camera pair 9 arranged at the monitoring point WP3 on the downstream side of the belt conveyor 100, that is, the barcode camera BCA3 and the omnidirectional camera CA3. A captured image is displayed.

  Thus, since the three captured images in the vertical (column) direction arranged on the screen 5z of the display device are images captured by the camera pair at the same monitoring point WP, each monitoring point WP is for the user. This makes it easier to see the captured image and intuitively distinguish it.

  Further, for example, when a user designates a certain camera pair from among the camera pairs 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 at the monitoring points WP1, WP2, WP3, WP4, and WP5, a captured image by the designated camera pair is displayed on the screen. It is displayed on the divided screens 5z-2, 5z-5, and 5z-8 in the center column of 5z. In the divided screens 5z-1, 5z-4, and 5z-7 in the left column, captured images by the camera pair arranged one upstream from the designated camera pair are arranged. Similarly, on the divided screens 5z-3, 5z-6, and 5z-9 in the right column, captured images by camera pairs arranged one downstream from the designated camera pair are arranged.

  In this way, by associating the divided screens arranged in the vertical direction on the screen 5z of the display device 5 with the camera pairs arranged on the belt conveyor 100, the user is displayed on the divided screen and is captured by the camera pair. It becomes easy to discriminate intuitively and it becomes easy to visually recognize.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a screen 5y that is displayed on the display device 5 and includes a history list hst and captured images captured by the barcode camera BCA and the omnidirectional camera CA. The screen 5y of the display device 5 is divided into two parts, a left screen 5y1 and a right screen 5y2. The right screen 5y2 has nine divided screens 5y2-1, 5y2-2, 5y2-3, 5y2-4, 5y2-5, 5y2-6, 5y2-7, 5y2 as in the screen of FIG. 7 described above. −8, 5y2-9 is displayed.

  On the other hand, a history list hst in which the barcode ID is detected is displayed on the left screen 5y1. In the history list hst, the history of the barcode ID detection information input by the user's input operation is registered. As bar code ID detection information, time information, area identification ID (area identification information), camera position identification ID (location identification information), and responsible person identification ID (person identification information) are displayed. By displaying these pieces of detection information, a search for the baggage gs to which the barcode ID is pasted (for example, in which predetermined area the baggage gs exists or in which camera pair is installed the baggage gs exists). Is easier). In addition, it is possible to clarify the location of the person in charge who handles the package gs with the barcode ID attached.

  When the user selects a column (dotted line frame e in the figure) registered in the history list hst or the like, a captured image corresponding to the column is displayed on the right screen 5y2. On the right screen 5y2, an omnidirectional image (peripheral image iga) captured by the omnidirectional camera CA and an image (peripheral image igb) captured at a wide angle by the barcode camera BCA are respectively divided screens constituting the right screen 5y2. Is displayed. Various images can be displayed on other divided screens. For example, a captured image captured by a camera pair adjacent to the camera pair corresponding to the selected column may be displayed.

  The operation of the package tracking system 1 having the above configuration will be described in detail.

(Lost luggage)
First, the case where the package gs shipped from the distribution warehouse WA is lost due to misdelivery or the like will be described. For example, the luggage gs is transported in the order of the monitoring point WP1 → the monitoring point WP2 → the monitoring point WP3 in the main line of the belt conveyor 100, and is misdelivered out of the correct route in which the worker p1 is loaded on the truck TR1 and delivered. Explain the case.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating in detail an example of an operation procedure for detecting a lost package in the package tracking system 1. When a user such as a worker or an administrator inputs a barcode ID of a lost package, for example, using the operation unit 46, the terminal device 4 acquires the barcode ID and temporarily stores it in the memory 42 ( S11).

  The terminal device 4 stores various images associated with the input barcode ID (that is, a package with a barcode corresponding to the barcode ID pasted on the image database stored in the article management device 6). Each image taken by the omnidirectional camera or the barcode camera is searched (S12).

  As a result of the image search, the terminal device 4 correlates the corresponding barcode ID with the peripheral image stored in the article management device 6 and its time information (specifically, the barcode ID reading time, the peripheral image Acquisition time). Based on the acquired various data (peripheral image, barcode ID reading time, peripheral image imaging time) associated with the barcode ID, the terminal device 4 uses the barcode ID as a branch line at the branch point TP2. It is confirmed that this barcode ID has been detected by the barcode camera BCA2 at the monitoring point WP2 before being distributed (branched), that is, before cutting (S13).

  Further, the terminal device 4 uses the acquired various data (peripheral image, reading time of the barcode ID, imaging time of the peripheral image) associated with the barcode ID so that the barcode ID is a main line (route). It is confirmed that the barcode camera BCA3 has not detected it at the monitoring point WP3 (S14).

  Further, the terminal device 4 uses the acquired various data (peripheral image, barcode ID reading time, peripheral image imaging time) associated with the barcode ID, at the monitoring point WP5, the barcode ID. It is confirmed that it has been detected (S15).

  Based on the information confirmed in step S13 to step S15, the terminal device 4 actually uses the barcode ID managed by the article management device 6 as the delivery port DP1 to be audited at the monitoring point WP3. Is the delivery port DP2 to be audited at the monitoring point WP5, and as a result, it is determined that the package gs has been transported through an incorrect route.

  The terminal device 4 has an omnidirectional image by the omnidirectional camera CA5 arranged at the monitoring point WP5 and the omnidirectional cameras CA2 and CA3 arranged at the monitoring points WP2 and WP3 before and after the branch point TP2, that is, before and after the cut. An omnidirectional image is reproduced, and an image (peripheral image iga) in which an error has occurred during conveyance is acquired (S16). Note that the terminal device 4 may output and reproduce and display the image (peripheral image iga) acquired in step S16 to the display device 5.

  In this case, as an image in which an error has occurred at the time of conveyance, for example, an image showing a situation where the worker p3 mistakenly transfers the load placed on the belt conveyor 100 to the belt conveyor 120 can be cited. Note that this image may be a still image, or a moving image of a short time that can be understood by the worker.

  On the other hand, if the transportation route of the luggage shown in the images taken at the respective monitoring points WP1 to WP5 is correct, the carriage in which the luggage has been replaced from the carry-out port is erroneous as a cause of erroneous delivery of the luggage. It is also assumed that the truck to which the package is transferred is wrong. In addition, it is assumed that the loaded truck is wrong at the stage of loading directly onto the truck bed from the carry-out port.

  The terminal device 4 stores an image in which an error has occurred during conveyance in the hard disk 44 as an evidence image (S17). Thereafter, the terminal device 4 ends this operation.

  Thereby, a user such as an administrator can promptly investigate the cause of the erroneous delivery by checking the evidence image stored in the hard disk 44 of the terminal device 4. Here, the peripheral images are both an omnidirectional image (fisheye image) captured by the omnidirectional camera CA and an image captured at a wide angle so as to include a belt conveyor or the like by the barcode camera BCA. However, either one may be sufficient.

  Note that the above processing was executed when a user such as a worker or an administrator noticed that the package was lost, and input the barcode ID of the lost package to the operation unit 46 as a trigger (trigger). However, when the user is not aware of the loss of the package, the terminal device 4 may perform a display prompting that there is a possibility of loss.

  For example, if a bar code is not read by the next bar code camera BCA even after a predetermined time has passed since the bar code of the baggage conveyed by the belt conveyor is read, there is a high possibility that the baggage has been lost. In this case, the terminal device 4 causes the display device 5 to display the peripheral images iga and igb associated with the time information of the reading time when the barcode was read immediately before together with the warning information. The warning information may be a message or a specific mark.

  The user can quickly notice the loss of the package by looking at the warning information displayed together with the surrounding image. Thereafter, the user takes the same measures as described above, for example, by inputting the barcode ID of the package with the warning to the operation unit 46. As a result, it is possible to promptly respond to lost luggage.

  Further, in the above process, the process is executed when the user inputs, but without waiting for the user's input, for example, even after a predetermined time has passed since the barcode of the baggage conveyed by the belt conveyor is read. If the barcode is not read by the next barcode camera BCA, it may be automatically executed on the assumption that there is a high possibility that the package is lost. In this case, the user can grasp the fact of the loss and the investigation of the cause at the same time by looking at the image in which the error has occurred during transportation.

(Luggage damage)
Next, a case where the package gs shipped from the distribution warehouse WA is damaged will be described. Here, a case will be described in which the outer shape of the baggage changes during the process from the time of loading the baggage to the time of unloading and the baggage is damaged.

  FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are diagrams for explaining the size measurement of the luggage gs. As shown in FIG. 10A, the barcode camera BCA obtains a normal captured image (that is, a captured image based on visible light) obtained by imaging visible light reflected by the luggage gs and captured by the image sensor 21. To do.

  Further, the barcode camera BCA irradiates laser light (for example, near infrared light) from the LD 27 toward the luggage gs. In the barcode camera BCA, the reflected light of the laser beam reflected by the baggage gs is incident through the lens 22 and captured by the image sensor 21, and generates a distance image of the baggage gs based on the irradiation of the laser beam. Further, when the laser beam is emitted from the LD 27, the barcode camera BCA measures the distance to each part of the outer shape of the luggage gs using a well-known TOF (Time of Flight) technique.

  The barcode camera BCA switches the presence / absence of the irradiation of the LD 27 in a time-sharing manner, and controls the LD 27 not to be irradiated when taking a captured image based on visible light, while irradiating the LD 27 to the distance. A visible light cut filter (not shown) for controlling the reflected light component of visible light to be cut when an image is captured is arranged on the front side of the image sensor 21 (that is, the incident light incident direction side). It is preferable to control as described above. Thereby, the barcode camera BCA can improve both the image quality of the captured image and the distance image based on visible light.

  As shown in FIG. 10B, the barcode camera BCA acquires a three-dimensional image (distance image) representing the outer shape of the luggage gs based on the distance information. The distance image (three-dimensional image) acquired by the barcode camera BCA is stored in the image database of the article management device 6. Further, the barcode camera BCA captures a two-dimensional image (RGB image) of the luggage gs by the image sensor 21, associates it with the three-dimensional image, and stores it in the image database of the article management apparatus 6.

  The terminal device 4 reads the three-dimensional image stored in the image database of the article management device 6 and determines whether or not the package is damaged from the three-dimensional image acquired by the barcode camera BCA.

  The barcode camera BCA is disposed in an inclined state so that the LD 27 can project laser light from an oblique direction to the luggage gs conveyed by the belt conveyor 100. Thereby, it is easy to obtain distance information representing the outer shape of the luggage.

  In this manner, the barcode camera BCA captures a baggage by the image sensor 21 and acquires a baggage image, and measures distance to the outer shape of the baggage by the LD 27 to acquire distance information.

  When the terminal device 4 receives the baggage image and the distance information from the barcode camera BCA, the terminal device 4 displays a three-dimensional image (distance image) and the baggage image based on the distance information on the display device 5. Further, the terminal device 4 determines the size of the package based on the distance information. A graphical user interface (GUI) 200 is displayed on the screen 5z of the display device 5. In the GUI 200, a luggage image GZ1, a distance image GZ2, and a size measurement table TL2 are arranged.

  In the size measurement table TL2, various measurement values including the lengths of the three sides (long side, short side, height) of the luggage gs are registered. In FIG. 10, from the measured values of 603 mm in total for three sides, 272 mm in long side, 200 mm in short side, and 130 mm in height, and these errors, the size of the luggage gs is 600.00 mm in total for three sides, 270 mm in long side, and short in length. The side is 200 mm and the height is 130 mm, and it is determined that the baggage gs is not damaged. The processing time for determining the size of the luggage gs is 223.59 msec.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating in detail an example of an operation procedure for detecting a damaged package in the package tracking system 1. Here, a case where the luggage gs is damaged between the monitoring points WP1 and WP2 in the belt conveyor 100 which is a mainstream line will be described.

  When the worker reads the barcode BCL of the damaged luggage gs using the barcode reader BR, the terminal device 4 confirms the barcode ID of the damaged luggage gs and stores it in the memory 42 (S21). Here, reading of the barcode BCL of the damaged luggage gs is performed by a user such as an operator. However, the terminal device 4 causes the barcode camera BCA to read the distance information of the baggage gs, obtains the distance information, and compares it with the measurement value of the size of the baggage gs inputted in advance. If the baggage gs is determined to be damaged, it may be obtained by causing the barcode camera BCA to read the barcode BCL.

  The terminal device 4 searches the distance image of the baggage gs imaged by the barcode camera BCA stored in the image database of the article management device 6 based on the barcode ID (S22).

  The terminal device 4 compares the three-dimensional shape of the luggage gs obtained from the distance image captured by the barcode camera BCA1 and the three-dimensional shape of the luggage gs obtained from the distance images captured by the barcode cameras BCA2 and BCA4 ( S23). The terminal device 4 specifies the barcode camera in which the change in the appearance (three-dimensional shape) of the luggage gs is detected (S24). Here, it is assumed that a change is detected in the three-dimensional shape of the luggage gs obtained by the barcode camera BCA2.

  When the terminal device 4 detects the change in the three-dimensional shape by the barcode camera BCA2, the terminal device 4 captures omnidirectional images before and after the passage of the luggage gs, which are captured by the omnidirectional cameras CA1 and CA2 respectively disposed at the monitoring points WP1 and WP2. An omnidirectional image (damage cause image) that is confirmed and causes damage is acquired (S25). The damage cause image is an image in which some cause of damage is reflected, such as the luggage gs falling from the belt conveyor 100 or the worker hitting the luggage. Here, the damage cause image is confirmed by the omnidirectional image captured by the omnidirectional camera CA. However, the damage cause image may be confirmed by the image captured by the barcode camera BCA at a wide angle.

  The terminal device 4 uses the barcode ID read by the barcode camera BCA, the time information, the image representing the stereoscopic shape based on the distance information (distance image), and the damage cause image captured by the omnidirectional camera CA as an evidence image. Is stored in the hard disk 44 (S26). The damage cause image stored as the evidence video may be marked by adding a flag, which is effective when searching for the damage cause image. Further, a deeper cause investigation can be performed by comparing the distance image and the damage cause image. Thereafter, the terminal device 4 ends this operation.

  As a result, users such as workers and managers can quickly investigate the cause of damage to the luggage gs. Here, the terminal device 4 performs the process of searching for the damage cause image. However, the barcode camera BCA may be configured to make a determination by the camera itself using the captured image and the distance image. Yes, the processing load of the terminal device 4 can be reduced.

(Jamming detection)
FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating an example of jamming detection. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example of detection of jamming that has occurred near the corner of the belt conveyor 210. The belt conveyor 210 has a corner that bends at a substantially right angle. Assume that a large baggage gs11 is clogged at this corner.

  In this case, the conveyed baggage gs11 is detected by the barcode camera BCA11 that images the baggage loaded on the belt conveyor 210 over a long distance. When the baggage gs11 arrives at the corner, the bar code camera BCA12 images the baggage gs11 and detects the arrival of the baggage gs11.

  When the large baggage gs11 cannot stay around the corner and stays, that is, when jamming (jamming) has occurred, the barcode camera BCA12 continues to detect the same baggage gs11 even if time elapses. . Further, the bar code camera BCA13 arranged downstream thereof cannot detect the baggage gs even if the baggage gs11 stays at the corner and continues to wait.

  As described above, in the package tracking system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the barcode camera BCA12 continues to detect the package gs11, or when the barcode camera BCA13 does not detect the package gs even after waiting for a predetermined time, the stay of the package gs is detected. (Jamming detection) is possible. When jamming detection is performed, the barcode camera BCA captures a wide-angle captured image, or the omnidirectional camera CA captures an omnidirectional image as a jamming detection image. The terminal device 4 acquires these jamming detection images, and stores the barcode ID, time information, and jamming detection image in the image database of the article management device 6, which is useful for investigating the cause when jamming occurs. Can be made. In addition, when jamming detection is performed, the terminal device 4 includes position identification information indicating the position of the monitoring point WP where the camera pair is installed as a location where jamming (jamming) has occurred, along with the peripheral image at the reading time. Is displayed on the display device 5. Further, the terminal device 4 adds the warning information and displays the peripheral image. As a result, the user can quickly know where jamming (jamming) has occurred.

  FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating a detection example of jamming that has occurred near the curve of the belt conveyor 220. The belt conveyor 220 has a curve that bends at a predetermined curvature. It is assumed that a plurality of small loads gs are clogged with this curve.

  When a plurality of luggage gs is clogged with a curve, the barcode ID read by the barcode camera BCA15 is read many times. When the same barcode ID is read a predetermined number of times, the terminal device 4 determines that a jam has been detected. Further, when a plurality of packages are staying in the angle of view of the barcode camera BCA15, a plurality of barcodes are detected at the same reading time, and a plurality of items having the same reading time (time information) are detected. When the number of packages exceeds a predetermined number, the terminal device 4 determines that a jam has been detected. Thereby, jamming detection can be performed at an early stage.

  When jamming detection is performed on a curve, the barcode camera BCA captures an image at a wide angle, or the omnidirectional camera CA captures an omnidirectional image, as in the case of a corner. The terminal device 4 acquires these jamming detection images, and stores the barcode ID, time information, and jamming detection image in the image database of the article management device 6, which is useful for investigating the cause when jamming occurs. Can be made. In addition, when jamming detection is performed, the terminal device 4 includes position identification information indicating the position of the monitoring point WP where the camera pair is installed as a location where jamming (jamming) has occurred, along with the peripheral image at the reading time. Is displayed on the display device 5. Further, the terminal device 4 adds the warning information and displays the peripheral image. As a result, the user can quickly know where jamming (jamming) has occurred.

  As described above, in the package tracking system 1 of the present embodiment, the plurality of omnidirectional cameras CA have different predetermined areas ARE in the distribution warehouse WA in which the belt conveyors 100, 110, and 120 that convey at least one package gs are arranged. Respectively. The barcode camera BCA (reader) reads the barcode BCL affixed (attached) to the package gs, and acquires the barcode ID (read result of the package identification information) and the reading time. The video recording apparatus 3 records the peripheral image iga of the predetermined area ARE imaged by the omnidirectional camera CA and its imaging time, the barcode ID acquired by the barcode camera BCA, and the reading time in association with each other. For example, in response to the selection of the barcode ID based on the user's operation, the terminal device 4 is associated with the reading time of the selected barcode ID, and the predetermined area ARE captured by at least one omnidirectional camera CA. The peripheral image iga is displayed on the display device 5.

  As a result, the package tracking system 1 is able to provide a default associated with the barcode ID even if there is a problem such as loss or damage of the package gs to which the barcode ID is pasted. Since the display device 5 shows a list (history) of peripheral images captured by the omnidirectional camera in the area ARE, the imaging time, and the barcode ID reading time, the cause of the trouble by the user (for example, the person in charge of troubleshooting) Investigations can be made efficient and user convenience can be improved.

  If the barcode camera BCA cannot read the barcode BCL at a predetermined time, the terminal device 4 displays warning information together with the peripheral image iga corresponding to the reading time of the barcode BCL read immediately before.

  Thus, the user can quickly notice the loss of the baggage by viewing the warning information displayed together with the surrounding image.

  In addition, a plurality of omnidirectional cameras CA and a plurality of barcode cameras BCA are installed in a plurality of predetermined areas ARE as a camera pair. The terminal device 4 includes an area identification ID for identifying the predetermined area ARE, a location identification ID for identifying the installation location of the omnidirectional camera and the barcode camera constituting the pair, and handling of the luggage at the installation location (for example, check of transportation) And at least one of the person-in-charge identification ID for identifying the person in charge in charge of the transfer to the carriage, etc., is associated with the barcode ID and displayed on the display device 5 together with the peripheral image. The image is recorded in the video recording device 3 in association with the ID and the peripheral image.

  As a result, the package tracking system 1 searches for the package gs to which the barcode ID is attached (for example, in which predetermined area the package gs exists, and in which camera pair installation location the package gs exists). ) Becomes easier. Further, the package tracking system 1 can clarify the location of the responsibility of the person in charge who handles the package gs with the barcode ID attached.

  Further, when there are a predetermined number or more of luggage gs having the same barcode BCL reading time in the same default area ARE, the terminal device 4 displays the peripheral image iga at the reading time on the display device 5 together with the camera position identification ID. To do.

  As a result, the package tracking system 1 can detect at an early stage (so-called jamming detection) a situation in which a plurality of packages have accumulated (that is, occurrence of a jam) in a part of the predetermined area ARE.

  Further, the barcode camera BCA acquires distance information indicating the outer shape of the luggage gs. The terminal device 4 displays the distance image GZ2 (three-dimensional image) based on the distance information acquired by the barcode camera BCA on the display device 5 together with the damage cause image (peripheral image).

  Thereby, the package tracking system 1 can compare the degree of damage of the package gs with the cause of the damage, and can investigate the cause of the user more deeply.

  Further, the terminal device 4 determines whether or not the package is damaged based on the three-dimensional image of the package gs. When the baggage gs is damaged, the video recording device 3 assigns information indicating that the baggage is damaged in association with the peripheral image captured by the omnidirectional camera, and records the peripheral image as a damage cause image. To do.

  As a result, users such as workers and managers can quickly investigate the cause of damage to the luggage gs.

  In the barcode camera BCA, the image sensor 21 images a predetermined area ARE in the distribution warehouse WA in which the belt conveyor 100 that conveys at least one baggage gs is disposed. The signal processing unit 30 as the detection unit detects the barcode BCL attached (attached) to the package gs appearing in the default area ARE based on the peripheral image igb of the default area ARE imaged by the image sensor 21. To do. The signal processing unit 30 as a reading unit reads the detected barcode BCL. The communication unit 31 as an output unit outputs the barcode ID of the read barcode BCL (that is, the reading result of the package identification information) to various external devices connected to the barcode camera BCA.

  Conventionally, in logistics, a bar code reader that reads a bar code with a package and a surveillance camera are separate devices. That is, there was nothing for the barcode reader to capture the peripheral image. On the other hand, the barcode camera BCA of the present embodiment can capture a peripheral image of the predetermined area ARE at a wide angle. Thereby, it is possible to read the barcode BCL and capture the peripheral image with the barcode camera BCA alone without using the omnidirectional camera CA. Therefore, user convenience is improved. In addition, a package tracking system can be constructed at a low cost.

  In addition, the image sensor 21 can take an image by switching the lens 22 between a wide-angle lens and a narrow-angle lens. The image sensor 21 picks up an image around the baggage gs conveyed by the belt conveyor 100 with a wide-angle lens and is attached to the baggage gs. The bar code BCL is imaged with a narrow angle lens.

  In this manner, the angle of view of the image captured by the image sensor 21 can be switched to a wide angle or a narrow angle, and the number of parts of the barcode camera BCA can be reduced and the size can be reduced.

  Further, the communication unit 31 adds the time information at the time of reading and outputs a barcode ID.

  Thereby, it is possible to create a history list hst in which the barcode ID of the barcode BCL attached to the package gs is recorded in time series.

  Further, when the barcode camera BCA successfully reads the barcode BCL, the barcode camera BCA outputs, for example, a “beep!” Sound (sound information) indicating the successful reading of the barcode BCL from the speaker 33, and the barcode BCL is read. In the case of failure, for example, a “boo” sound (sound information) indicating failure in reading the barcode BCL is output.

  As a result, a user such as an operator can immediately know the success or failure of reading the barcode BCL.

  Further, when the peripheral image igb captured by the image sensor 21 includes a predetermined number or more of barcode IDs, the barcode camera BCA adds warning information and outputs the peripheral image igb.

  Accordingly, the user can quickly notice jamming detection by looking at the warning information displayed together with the peripheral image. Therefore, it is possible to quickly cope with jamming detection.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment was described referring drawings, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to this example. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the load is transported by the belt conveyor is shown. However, it is also possible to transport the load by a roller conveyor, a chain conveyor, and the like. It is not limited.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is useful as a surveillance camera and a package reading method that can detect and read a bar code used for controlling where the package is delivered.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Baggage tracking system 2 Arrival information management apparatus 3 Video recording apparatus 4 Terminal apparatus 5 Display apparatus 6 Article management apparatus 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Camera pair 21 Image sensor 22 Lens 24 Sensor drive part 26 Temperature sensor 27 Laser diode ( LD)
28 LD drive unit 29 Diffusion plate 30 Signal processing unit 31 Communication unit 33 Speaker 41 Processor 42 Memory 43 Communication unit 44 Hard disk 45 Display control unit 46 Operation units 100, 110, 120, 210, 220 Belt conveyor 150 Three-dimensional warehouse (stocker)
BCA, BCA1 to BCA5 Barcode camera BR1 to BR3 Barcode reader CA1 to CA5 Omnidirectional camera

Claims (6)

An imaging unit for imaging a predetermined area in a luggage transport area in which a conveyor for transporting at least one package is disposed;
A detection unit that detects package identification information attached to the package that appears in the default area based on a peripheral image of the default area captured by the imaging unit;
A reading unit that reads the package identification information detected by the detection unit;
An output unit that outputs a reading result of the package identification information read by the reading unit and a peripheral image of the predetermined area imaged by the imaging unit;
Surveillance camera. The surveillance camera according to claim 1,
The imaging unit is capable of imaging by switching between a wide angle of view and a narrow angle of view according to a control signal, and images the surroundings of the baggage conveyed by the conveyor with the wide angle of view. The baggage identification information attached to is imaged at the narrow angle of view.
Surveillance camera. The surveillance camera according to claim 1,
The output unit adds the reading time of the reading unit and outputs the reading result of the package identification information.
Surveillance camera. The surveillance camera according to claim 1,
The output unit outputs sound information indicating successful reading of the package identification information when the reading unit succeeds in reading the package identification information;
The output unit outputs sound information indicating a failure to read the package identification information when the reading unit fails to read the package identification information;
Surveillance camera. The surveillance camera according to claim 1,
When the surrounding image captured by the imaging unit includes a predetermined number or more of the package identification information, the output unit adds warning information and outputs the surrounding image;
Surveillance camera. A baggage reading method in a surveillance camera having an imaging unit that images a predetermined area in a baggage transport area in which a conveyor for transporting at least one baggage is disposed,
Based on the peripheral image of the predetermined area imaged by the imaging unit, to detect the package identification information attached to the package that appears in the default area,
Read the detected package identification information,
Outputting the read result of the package identification information read and the peripheral image of the imaged predetermined area;
Package reading method.

Images