JP2004359459A - Article management device, article management system, article management method, and light emitting/receiving device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide technology for managing the presence or absence of stock and a stock position concerning each article such as a file stored on a storage shelf to reduce power consumption of a tag device. <P>SOLUTION: The tag device 20 to which inherent distinguishing code is allocated is attached to each file stored on the storage shelf 30. The management of the presence or absence of stock of the file and a stock position is performed based on each distinguishing code. When taking out the file, specific information and return scheduled time of the file to be taken out are inputted. Stock of the file to be taken out after taking out the file is confirmed at the return scheduled time to reduce response opportunity of the tag device 20. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for managing the presence / absence of stock, stock position, and the like of each article such as a file stored in a storage shelf.

  For example, there is an article management system in which a tag device assigned with a unique identification code is attached to each file stored on a storage shelf.

  In this kind of article management system, mutual communication is performed between a predetermined management search device and each tag device via light or radio waves. In this way, management of the status of taking out and returning each file, the storage position, and the like are performed. In addition, when a file is taken out, the tag device to be searched emits light so that the storage position of a predetermined file can be easily and quickly specified.

  This type of article management system is disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, for example.

JP 2000-306062 A JP 2000-272723 A

  However, in the article management system as described above, when communication is performed between the management search device and each tag device or when each tag device emits light, power is consumed by the tag device.

  On the other hand, since the tag device is required to be downsized, it is difficult to mount a large-capacity battery.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a technology capable of reducing the power consumption of a tag device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is an article management system in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. A device for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the tag device, and communicating with the tag device through the transmitting and receiving device to determine whether the article is stored in the storage device. And an input means for inputting the specific information of the article to be taken out and the expected return time to the management control device, wherein the management control device corresponds to the expected return time. At this time, communication is performed with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means through the transmission / reception means to check whether the article to be taken out is in stock.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. Inputting the specific information of the article and the expected return time, and communicating with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means at a time corresponding to the expected return time to obtain the article to be taken out. Confirming the presence or absence of stock.

  The invention according to claim 3, wherein the tag device is attached to the article stored in the storage means, and manages the article based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag device, wherein the tag management device, Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the device; and a management control device for communicating with the tag device through the transmitting and receiving means to perform an inventory check operation. At the time of the inventory check operation for the article, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit, and when there is no response from the desired tag apparatus, the communication is performed in another area. Communication is performed with the tag device of each article.

  In this case, as described in claim 4, the management control device may update stock information on the desired tag device according to a result of the stock checking operation.

  Further, as set forth in claim 5, the management control device may call the desired tag device in accordance with a result of the inventory check operation.

  Furthermore, the predetermined candidate area may be an area including a previous stock position for the desired article.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage unit, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. Communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit, and when there is no response from a desired tag device, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in another area. May be performed.

  The invention according to claim 8 is an article management system in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus, A storage means having a plurality of extraction areas, a unique identification code is assigned, and a response signal is transmitted when a received signal includes a call code matching the own identification code, and the received signal is transmitted. A tag device that performs a position notification operation when a call code that matches a unique identification code of the device itself and a position notification command are included; a transmission and reception unit that transmits and receives signals to and from the tag device; Means for transmitting a call signal including a unique identification code assigned to the tag device of the article to be taken out, and removing the tag area of the tag apparatus of the article to be taken out according to whether or not the response signal has been received. An article management control device that specifies the position, and a position notification instruction unit that is provided in correspondence with each of the take-out areas and that receives a notification instruction, wherein the item management control device determines a position through a predetermined position notification hand instruction unit. When the notification command is received, a call sign and a position notification command are sent to the tag device of the article to be taken out located in the take-out area corresponding to the position notification means that has received the position notification command through the transmitting / receiving means. This is to transmit the signal including.

  In this case, the tag device may perform the position notification operation for a predetermined operation time set in advance.

  Further, as set forth in claim 10, after the related operation based on the position notification command, after the elapse of a preset removal confirmation time, the article management control device has a unique device assigned to the tag device of the article to be called. A call signal including an identification code may be transmitted to check whether the article to be called is in stock.

  An invention according to claim 11 is an article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus, A plurality of take-out areas are assigned to the storage means, and the tag device performs a position notification operation for each of the take-out areas.

  Further, the invention according to claim 12 is a light emitting and receiving device for performing optical communication with a tag device attached to each article stored in each shelf of the storage means, wherein the width of the shelf is equal to the width of the shelf. An elongated frame having a corresponding longitudinal dimension is provided, and a light emitting / receiving section arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of articles are stored in storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each of the articles, and based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. An article management system for managing the articles by means of transmitting and receiving signals provided between the respective tag sections in the corresponding storage sections, the transmission / reception means comprising: Management control means for communicating with the tag device through means to manage each of the articles, wherein the management control means transmits and receives each of the transmission and reception at a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out. By communicating with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through the means and searching the stock position of each article, each article and its stock position are matched. A first management processing operation of generating and updating the attached database and searching for the article to be taken out with reference to the database at the time of taking out the article, and a plurality of the storage sections at the time of taking out the article. A second management processing operation of transmitting an identification code and a stock inquiry command to be called from the respective transmitting / receiving units to the respective tag devices substantially simultaneously to search for the article to be taken out. It can be selectively switched.

  As described in claim 14, the first management processing operation includes a process of updating the database at the scheduled return time of the article, and a tag device for each of the articles in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit. And at least one of a process of performing a search by communicating with the tag device of each of the articles in another area when there is no response from the desired tag device when there is no response from the desired tag device. It may be.

  Further, as set forth in claim 15, further comprising a communication relay device for relaying communication between a plurality of said transmission / reception means and said management control means, wherein each said transmission / reception means is said tag device in each of said storage sections. A signal indicating the presence or absence of a response is transmitted to the communication relay device in chronological order, and the communication relay device collects response signals from the plurality of transmission / reception units and transmits the response signals to the management control unit, Is also good.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of articles are stored in storage means having a plurality of storage sections, and a tag device is attached to each of the articles, and based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. An article management device that manages the articles by using a predetermined timing when the articles are not taken out, wherein each of the pieces of information stored in the storage means through each transmission / reception means provided corresponding to each of the storage sections. By communicating with the tag device of the article, by searching the inventory position of each article, a database that associates each article with its inventory position is generated and updated, and when the article is taken out, A first management processing operation of searching for the article to be taken out with reference to the database; and And the second management processing operation of transmitting the identification code and the inventory inquiry command to be called at substantially the same time to each of the tag devices and searching for the article to be taken out can be selectively switched. There is something.

  As described above, according to the article management system according to the first aspect of the present invention, at the time corresponding to the scheduled return time, communication is performed with each tag device to check whether the article to be taken out is in stock. Therefore, the number of operations of each tag device can be reduced, and the power consumption thereof can be reduced.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, at the time corresponding to the scheduled return time, communication is performed with each tag device to check whether or not there is stock of the article to be taken out. The power consumption can be reduced by reducing the number of times.

  According to the article management device of the third aspect, when there is no response from a desired tag device in a predetermined candidate area, communication is performed with each tag device in another area, so that the operation of each tag device is performed. By reducing the number of times, the power consumption can be reduced.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when it is confirmed that the tag device is in stock relatively early, there is no need to communicate with other peripheral tag devices. The number of operations of the device is reduced, and the power consumption thereof can be reduced.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, if tag devices are searched for and called up relatively early, there is no need to communicate with other peripheral tag devices. The number of operations of the device is reduced, and the power consumption thereof can be reduced.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, since the area including the previous inventory position is set as a candidate area, communication is first performed with the tag device, so that the inventory is confirmed by receiving a response from the tag device at an initial stage. It is more likely that power consumption can be reduced.

  According to the article management method according to the seventh aspect, since communication is performed with each tag device while gradually expanding the area from the candidate area, it is possible to reduce the number of operations of each tag device and reduce its power consumption. it can.

  According to the article management system of the eighth aspect, when a position notification command is issued to the predetermined position notifying means, the tag device of the article to be taken out which is present in the pick-up area corresponding to the position notifying means performs the position notifying operation. Therefore, only the tag device in the desired take-out area can perform the position notification operation as needed, and the power consumption of the tag device can be reduced.

  10. The article management system according to claim 9, wherein the position notification operation is performed for a predetermined operation time set in advance, so that power consumption can be reduced.

  According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, after the related operation based on the position notification command, the presence / absence of the stock is checked after the elapse of the preset take-out confirmation time. Electric power can be reduced.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, since the position notification operation is performed by the tag device for each takeout area, the position notification operation of each tag device can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced.

  13. The light emitting and receiving device according to claim 12, wherein by attaching a frame to each shelf, optical communication can be performed with the tag device of each article stored in each shelf. For this reason, addition to existing storage means is easy.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the first management processing operation, a database is generated and updated when an article is not taken out, and at the time of taking out an article, the article to be taken out is searched by referring to the database. Therefore, even when many articles are stored, it is possible to search for articles in a short time. Further, in the second management processing operation, since each article is searched at the time of taking out the article without using the database, the update work of the database becomes unnecessary, so that the operation opportunity of each tag device is reduced. In addition, the power consumption of the tag device can be reduced. Further, in a plurality of storage sections, the identification code to be called and the inventory inquiry command are transmitted from each transmitting / receiving means to each tag device almost simultaneously to search for an article, so that the article is searched in a relatively short time. Can be performed. Then, the first management processing operation suitable for a large-scale article management system storing a large number of articles as described above and the second management processing operation suitable for a relatively small-scale article management system are selectively switched. It can be convenient.

  According to the invention described in claim 14, processing for updating the database at the scheduled return time of the article, and communication with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, In the case where there is no response from the tag device, in order to include at least one of a process of performing a search by communicating with the tag device of each of the articles in another area, the first management processing operation also includes The power consumption can be reduced by reducing the number of operations of each tag device.

  According to the invention of claim 15, the communication relay device collects the response signals from the plurality of transmission / reception units and transmits the response signals to the management control unit, so that it is possible to search for the article in a shorter time.

  According to the sixteenth aspect, in the first management processing operation, a database is generated and updated when an article is not taken out, and at the time of taking out an article, the article to be taken out is searched by referring to the database. Therefore, even when many articles are stored, it is possible to search for articles in a short time. Further, in the second management processing operation, since each article is searched at the time of taking out the article without using the database, the update work of the database becomes unnecessary, so that the operation opportunity of each tag device is reduced. In addition, the power consumption of the tag device can be reduced. In each of the plurality of storage sections, the identification code to be called and the inventory inquiry command are transmitted from each transmitting / receiving means to each tag device almost simultaneously, and the article is searched, so that the article can be searched in a relatively short time. . Then, the first management processing operation suitable for a large-scale article management system storing a large number of articles as described above and the second management processing operation suitable for a relatively small-scale article management system are selectively switched. It can be convenient.

<Embodiment 1>
Hereinafter, an article management system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, a system for managing files stored in a storage shelf will be described. However, the present invention is applied to a system for managing articles such as books, video tapes, and DVD disks stored in predetermined storage means. it can.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the entire configuration of the article management system, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the article management system.

  In this article management system, a tag device 20 is generally attached to a file 10 stored in a storage shelf 30, and based on a unique identification code assigned to each tag device 20, It manages articles related to the presence or absence of stock, stock position, and the like.

  The article management system includes a tag device 20 attached to each file 10 stored in the storage shelf 30, a shelf level control device 50, a rack control device 80, a management control device 60, and the management control device 60. An input unit 70 for receiving an input. Among these, the shelf management device 50, the rack control device 80, the management control device 60, the input unit 70, and the like constitute an article management device. Then, generally, the management control device 60 communicates with each tag device 20 through each shelf control device 50 to manage each file 10.

  The storage shelf 30 has a plurality of shelves 31 in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, a plurality of storage shelves 30 constitute storage means. Each storage shelf 30 has a plurality of shelves 31 in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, each shelf 31 of each storage shelf 30 is set as a take-out area which is a management unit relating to the stock position of a file and the like. Note that the take-out area may be set in units of a predetermined width in each shelf 31 or in units of a plurality of shelves.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the file 10 to which the tag device 20 is attached, FIG. 4 is a side view showing the tag device 20, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the tag device 20.

  The file 10 is for binding a sheet on which predetermined information is recorded, and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape in side view. A tag device 20 is attached to one side of the file 10, and each file 10 is accommodated in a parallel state in each shelf 31 with the tag device 20 exposed outside.

  The tag device 20 is configured such that three sides of a pair of film pieces 21 formed of a resin or the like are joined in a bag shape, and a substrate 22 or a battery 23 incorporating a predetermined electric circuit is housed therein. I have. Then, in a state where the pair of film pieces 21 and one side of the file are overlapped, the tag device 20 is attached to the file 10 by driving a stapler such as a stapler (trademark) H into the overlapped portion. Can be done. Such a configuration has an advantage that the tag device 20 can be easily added to the existing file 10. However, the tag device 20 may be integrated into the spine of the file 10 or the like.

  The electrical configuration of the tag device 20 will be described. The tag device 20 includes a light receiving unit 24, a tag control unit 25, an ID storage unit 26, a communication light emitting unit 27, and a notification light emitting unit 28. I have.

  The tag control unit 25 is a general microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and performs an operation described below according to a predetermined software program stored in advance.

  Further, the ID storage unit 26 stores and holds a unique identification code assigned to each tag device 20. The tag control section 25 reads a unique identification code stored in the ID storage section 26 and performs a predetermined operation. The ID storage unit 26 may store the unique identification code written at the time of initial setting in a non-rewritable manner, or may store the unique identification code in a rewritable manner. Further, the tag control unit 25 and the ID storage unit 26 may be integrated into one chip.

  The light receiving unit 24 is a light receiving element such as a photodiode, converts an optical signal into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the tag control unit 25.

  The communication light emitting unit 27 is a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode, and emits a predetermined response light signal according to the control from the tag control unit 25.

  Note that, for example, a semiconductor element having a PN junction, which is generally called a light emitting diode, emits light when a forward bias voltage is applied, and converts light into an electric signal when light is received. By switching the voltage applied to such an optical element between a forward bias voltage and a reverse bias voltage, a single optical element may function as the light receiving unit 24 and the communication light emitting unit 27.

  The notification light-emitting unit 28 is a light-emitting element such as a visible light-emitting diode, and performs a predetermined notification operation according to the control from the tag control unit 25. Here, a blinking operation is performed as a notification operation for a predetermined operation time set in advance. Note that a single light emitting element such as a light emitting diode may be configured to realize both functions of the communication light emitting unit 27 and the notification light emitting unit 28.

  The operation of the tag device 20 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, when an optical signal from the shelf control device 50 or a portable search device 92 to be described later is received through the light receiving unit 24, in step S1, the tag control unit 25 wakes up, and a sleep mode with relatively low power consumption is performed. Transition from the state to the active state with relatively large power consumption.

  Next, in step S2, the tag control unit 25 determines whether or not the call code included in the received optical signal matches its own identification code. Here, if the two codes do not match, the operation is terminated and a transition is made to the sleep state. On the other hand, if the two codes match, the process proceeds to step S3, where a response light signal is transmitted through the communication light emitting unit 27.

  Thereafter, proceeding to step S4, the tag control unit 25 determines a command included in the received optical signal. Here, there are two types of commands, an inquiry command for simply searching for the presence / absence of stock and a display instruction command for notifying the stock position of the file 10 (details will be described later). If it is determined in step S4 that the command is an inquiry command, the operation ends and the apparatus shifts to the sleep state. On the other hand, if it is determined that the command is a display instruction command, the process proceeds to step S5, in which the notification light emitting unit 28 is caused to blink for a certain time (for example, 15 seconds), and the operation is ended.

  In short, when the tag device 20 receives an optical signal through the light receiving unit 24, the tag device 20 shifts from the sleep state, which is a state where power consumption is relatively low, to the active state, which is a state where power consumption is relatively large, and performs a predetermined response operation. Alternatively, a notification operation is performed, and after these operations, a transition is made to the sleep state. The article management system relates to a technique for reducing the chance that the tag device 20 shifts to the active state and reducing the power consumption of the tag device.

  Each component of the article management device will be described.

  1 and 2, the management control device 60 includes a management control unit 61 such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, a computer main unit including a storage unit 61a such as a hard disk device, and a display unit such as a display device. The computer performs operations described below in accordance with a program stored in the computer main unit 61 in advance. The input of the file identification information and the expected return time to the management control device 60 is performed through an input unit 70 such as a keyboard.

  The storage unit 61a stores a management database that includes a management master that associates identification codes with specific information such as file names, and data that associates this with inventory position information of each file, a scheduled return time, and the like. Have been.

  For example, when attaching the tag device 20 to the predetermined file 10, the management master reads the identification code of the tag device 20 by the tag reader device 90 described later and inputs the specific information of the file via the input unit 70. Created with

  The inventory position information associated with the identification code is appropriately updated by communicating with each tag device 20 through each shelf control device 50 at a predetermined timing, as will be described in detail later. The expected return time associated with the identification code is appropriately updated by the operator inputting the desired file 10 via the input unit 70 when extracting the desired file 10.

  The management database generated in this manner is referred to as data or the like when the article is taken out.

  The management control device 60 transmits a signal including a predetermined call code and an inquiry command to each tag device 20 through each shelf control device 50, and receives a response signal from each tag device 20. Then, the presence or absence and the stock position of the file 10 to which each tag device 20 is attached are searched. Further, the management control device 60 transmits a signal including an identification code and a display instruction command to each tag device 20 through each shelf control device 50, thereby causing each tag device 20 to perform a predetermined light emitting operation.

  The rack control device 80 is provided in each storage shelf 30 and includes a rack control unit 82 and a light-emitting display unit 84.

  The rack control unit 82 is a general microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and performs a predetermined operation according to a predetermined software program stored in advance. That is, the rack control unit 82 is connected to each shelf control device 50 in the predetermined storage shelf 30 in which the rack control unit 82 is installed, and is connected to the management control device 60 via the relay device 88. The communication is relayed between the storage control unit 60 and each of the shelf control devices 50 in the predetermined storage shelf 30. Further, the rack control unit 82 installed on the predetermined storage shelf 30 is also connected to the rack control unit 82 of another storage shelf 30, and relays communication between the other rack control unit 82 and the management control device 60. Have also gone.

  Further, the light emitting display section 84 is configured by a visible light emitting diode or the like, and is configured to be capable of displaying numerical values by segment display or the like. Then, in response to a command from the management control device 60, a light-emitting display indicating inventory and a light-emitting display in a mode indicating a predetermined numerical value are possible. That is, the light emitting display unit 84 has a function of displaying the stock of the file 10 in the storage shelf 30 and a function of displaying the number of stock files in the storage shelf 30. Of course, each of these functions may be realized by separate display means, or may be realized by another notification means such as a voice notification means.

  The rack control device 80 is installed above each of the storage shelves 30, for example, in a form housed in a substantially housing-like case.

  The shelf control device 50 includes a shelf control unit 52, a light receiving / emitting unit 53, an instruction unit 54, and a light emitting unit 51 for notification.

  The shelf control unit 52 is a general microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and performs a predetermined operation according to a predetermined software program stored in advance.

  The light emitting and receiving unit 53 is configured by, for example, a combination of a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode and a light receiving element such as a photodiode. Of course, as described in the description of the tag device 20, the configuration may be such that a single optical element functions as a light emitting element and a light receiving element.

  In FIG. 2, a single light receiving / emitting unit 53 is shown for one shelf control unit 52, but optical transmission and reception between the tag devices 20 of a plurality of files 10 arranged in the shelf 31 are performed. In order to perform communication, a plurality of light receiving / emitting units 53 are arranged along the width direction of the shelf 31 (see FIG. 7).

  The shelf control unit 52 performs bidirectional communication with the management control device 60 via the rack control device 80 and the relay device 88, and is stored in the corresponding shelf 31 via the light emitting / receiving unit 53. An optical signal is transmitted / received to / from the tag device 20 of each file 10. When an electric signal including a predetermined call code and an inquiry command is received from the management control device 60, a predetermined optical signal corresponding thereto is directed to the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the corresponding shelf 31. To send. When receiving a response light signal from the tag device 20, it transmits a predetermined electric signal corresponding to the response light signal to the management control device 60. Further, when an electric signal including a predetermined call code and a display instruction command is received from the management control device 60, a predetermined optical signal is transmitted to the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the corresponding shelf 31. That is, the shelf control device 50 functions as a transmission / reception unit that transmits and receives signals to and from each tag device 20.

  The instruction unit 54 is configured by a push button switch or the like, and functions as a position notification instruction unit that receives a notification instruction. When an operator in the present system inputs a notification command through the instruction unit 54, the input command is transmitted from the shelf control device 50 to the management control device 60 via the rack control device 80 and the like.

  The light emitting unit 51 is configured by a visible light emitting diode or the like. Then, in response to a command from the management control device 60, the shelf control unit 52 causes the light emitting unit 51 to emit light.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a specific configuration of the shelf control device 50. The shelf control device 50 is incorporated in a long frame 55. The frame 55 has a substantially U-shaped cross section in which a pair of side wall portions 55b are erected on both long sides of a substantially rectangular plate-like substrate portion 55a in a substantially vertical posture. The frame 55 has a longitudinal dimension corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the shelf 31.

  A substantially rectangular plate-shaped substrate 57 is provided in the inner part of the frame 55. An electric circuit constituting the shelf control unit 52 is incorporated in this board, and a plurality of light emitting / receiving units 53 are mounted and arranged at appropriate intervals along the longitudinal direction of the board 57.

  Each light emitting / receiving section 53 transmits an optical signal to the tag device 20 of the file 10 stored in the shelf 31 and receives each light emitting / receiving area so that the optical signal transmitted from the tag device 20 can be received. Is set.

  Specifically, the substrate 57 is mounted in a posture inclined with respect to the substrate portion 55a, and the light emitting / receiving section 53 is oriented in a state inclined to the one side wall portion 55b. A bending member 58 is attached to the opening of the frame 55 so as to close the opening. The refraction member 58 is formed of a transparent resin or the like, and is formed in a plate shape that becomes thinner sequentially from one side wall portion 55b to the other side wall portion 55b. The light emitted from the light emitting / receiving unit 53 is refracted by the refraction member 58, and travels at an angle that is inclined with respect to the one side wall 55b. Of course, the light from the tag device 20 travels to the light receiving / emitting section 53 through an optical path opposite to the above optical path. Note that, depending on the attitude of each light emitting / receiving unit 53 and the relative positional relationship between each light emitting / receiving unit 53 and the tag device 20, a flat transparent member having a pair of parallel surfaces may be used instead of the bending member 58. You may.

  The light receiving / emitting area of each light receiving / emitting section 53 is set to a range in which an optical signal can be transmitted / received to / from at least one tag device 20. Further, the light receiving / emitting areas of the adjacent light receiving / emitting sections 53 overlap each other. Then, the optical signal is sequentially or simultaneously transmitted from each of the light receiving / emitting units 53 and the reception of the optical signal from each tag device 20 is performed, so that the signal is arranged on the shelf controller 50 and the predetermined shelf 31. Optical signals can be transmitted and received between the tag devices 20 of all the files 10.

  Further, the indicator 54 is attached to a position in the frame 55 that can be operated from the outside, and the light emitting unit 51 is provided in a position in the frame 55 that can be viewed from the outside.

  8 to 10 are views showing the manner of mounting the shelf control device 50. FIG.

  FIG. 8 shows a mode in which a shelf control device 50 is attached to a shelf plate 32 above a predetermined shelf 31. In this case, one side wall 55b is attached to the front end surface of the shelf 32 with a screw, an adhesive, a double-sided tape, or the like, with the opening directed downward. As a result, light from each light emitting and receiving unit 53 is irradiated toward each tag device 20 of the file 10 in the shelf 31, and light from each tag device 20 is irradiated toward each light receiving and emitting unit 53. The Rukoto.

  FIG. 9 shows another embodiment in which a shelf control device 50 is attached to a shelf plate 32 above a predetermined shelf 31. In this case, the board portion 55a is attached to the lower surface of the front end portion of the shelf 32 with a screw, an adhesive, a double-sided tape or the like with the opening directed downward. As a result, optical communication can be performed between each light receiving / emitting unit 53 and the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the predetermined shelf 31 as described above.

  FIG. 10 shows a mode in which a shelf control device 50 is attached to a shelf plate 32 below a predetermined shelf 31. In this case, the side wall 55b on the other side is attached to the front end surface of the shelf 32 with a screw, an adhesive, a double-sided tape, or the like with the opening directed upward. As a result, optical communication can be performed between each light receiving / emitting unit 53 and the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the predetermined shelf 31 as described above.

  Which one of the mounting modes shown in FIGS. 8 to 10 is selected is appropriately selected in consideration of the shape and size of the storage shelf 30 and the file 10, the surrounding space, and the like.

  In the article management device, a tag reader device 90 and a portable search device 92 are connected to the management control device 60.

  The tag reader device 90 is configured to communicate with a predetermined tag device 20 set in the reader 90 and to be able to read an identification code assigned to the predetermined tag device 20. The read identification code is given to the management control device 60. Thus, the identification code and the specific information such as the file name can be registered in association with each other.

  The portable search device 92 stores a management database maintained substantially the same as the management database of the management control device 60 by communicating with the management control device 60. When the identification code or the specific information of the file 10 is input through input means such as input keys provided on the portable search device 92 itself, the stock position is searched based on the management database, and the stock position is determined. The information is displayed on display means such as a liquid crystal display panel provided in the portable search device 92 itself. Further, after inputting the identification code or the specific information of the file 10 via input means such as input keys, the portable search device 92 is provided in the portable search device 92 itself in a state where the portable search device 92 is directed to the storage shelf 30. When a predetermined extraction button is operated, an optical signal including a desired identification code is transmitted.

  The procedure for extracting the file 10 using the portable search device 92 will be described later in detail.

  The operation of the article management system configured as described above will be described. Here, for the sake of convenience, from the viewpoint of the worker, from the viewpoint of the worker, the procedure for taking out the file 10, the procedure for returning the file 10, and the procedure for taking out the file using the portable search device 92 will be described. The processing operation of the device 60 will be described.

  First, a procedure for extracting the file 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in step S <b> 10, an operator inputs specific information on the file 10 to be extracted to the management control device 60 via the input unit 70. Here, when there are a plurality of desired files 10, specific information corresponding to each of the files 10 is input separately. The input format may be a format for inputting character information such as a file name, or a format for selecting and inputting from a list displayed on the display means.

  Then, since the rack control device 80 of the storage shelf 30 storing the desired file 10 is turned on, the worker moves to the front of the storage shelf 30 including the lighted rack control device 80 in step S11.

  At this time, since the shelf control device 50 of the shelf 31 storing the desired file 10 is also lit, the lit shelf 31 is confirmed in step S12.

  Next, in step S13, the instruction unit 54 of the lit management control device 60 of the shelf control device 50 is operated.

  Subsequently, in step S14, the numerical information displayed on the rack control device 80 is confirmed. This numerical information indicates the number of files 10 to be extracted in the shelf 31 to be worked.

  Then, in step S15, while checking the blinking state of the tag device 20 of each file 10, the files 10 in which the tag device 20 is blinking are sequentially extracted.

  Next, in step S16, the worker confirmed whether all the files 10 could be taken out of the storage shelf 30 to be worked within a fixed time (the blinking time of the tag device 20), and could not take out the files. In this case, the procedure returns to step S13, and the procedure of steps S13 to S15 is repeated. On the other hand, if all the files 10 have been extracted from the storage shelf 30 to be worked, the process proceeds to step S17, and it is confirmed whether or not the operator has successfully extracted all the requested files 10. If it cannot be taken out, the process returns to step S11, and the procedure from step S11 is repeated for another storage shelf 30. On the other hand, when all the requested files 10 can be taken out, the taking out operation is ended.

  Next, the procedure for returning the file 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  That is, when returning the file 10, the file 10 is stored in the storage shelf 30 as shown in step S20.

  At this time, it is preferable that the file 10 be stored in an area including the previous stock position, that is, in the shelf 31 stored previously.

  Next, a removal work procedure using the portable search device 92 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the removal operation using the portable search device 92 is performed, for example, when the management control device 60 cannot perform the extraction operation illustrated in FIG.

  First, the portable search device 92 is taken out, and in step S30, specific information or an identification code of the file 10 desired to be taken out is input to the portable search device 92.

  As a result, the stock position of the desired file 10 is displayed on the display means side of the portable search device 92, and this stock position is confirmed in step S31.

  Next, in step S32, the display is moved to the position before the stock position according to the display.

  Then, in step S32, with the portable search device 92 facing the storage shelf 30, the takeout button is pressed. As a result, an optical signal including a calling code is transmitted from the portable search device 92 to each tag device 20, and the tag device 20 attached to the desired file 10 blinks.

  Finally, in step S34, while visually checking the blinking state of each tag device 20, the file 10 in which the tag device 20 is blinking is extracted. Thus, the retrieval of the desired file 10 ends.

  The operation of the management control device 60 in the above operation will be described.

  FIG. 14 shows an operation in which the management control device 60 checks whether there is a stock of the file 10 to be taken out after the specific information of the file 10 is inputted in step S11 of FIG. 9 shows an inventory check operation that is performed in advance when calling up.

  That is, when the specific information of the desired file 10 is input through the input unit 70 of the management control device 60, in step S40, the corresponding identification code and the stock position are extracted from the management database based on the specific information. You.

  Next, in step S41, inventory confirmation is performed by specifying a specific storage shelf 30 and shelf 31 (search 1). Specifically, the management control device 60 sends a specific identification code to the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the specific shelf 31 through the shelf control device 50 corresponding to the specific shelf 31. And a signal including an inquiry command. Here, the specific storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 are storages including a stock position extracted from the management database (this stock position is a stock position specified at the time of the previous stock search). A shelf 30 and a shelf 31;

  Thereafter, in step S42, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. That is, the management control device 60 determines whether a response signal has been received from the tag device 20 through the shelf control device 50. Here, if it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S43, in which the rack control device 80 in the specific storage shelf 30 emits light and the shelf control in the specific shelf 31 is performed. The device 50 emits light, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S42 that there is no response from the tag device 20, communication is performed with the tag device 20 in another shelf 31 to search for inventory.

  That is, the process proceeds to step S44, where the storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 of the specific group are designated, and the inventory is confirmed in the same manner as described in step S41 (search 2). Here, the storage shelves 30 and the shelves 31 of the specific group are groups including the storage shelves 30 and the shelves 31 near the specific storage shelves 30 and the shelves 31 in step S41. In short, even when there is no stock in the specific storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31, there is a high possibility that the file 11 to be extracted is stored in the vicinity thereof, Check inventory.

  Next, in step S45, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. Here, when it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S46 to update the stock position information in the management database, and then proceeds to step S43, where the rack control in the storage shelf 30 to which the response has been made is performed. The apparatus 80 and the shelf controller 50 in the shelf 31 emit light, and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S45 that there is no response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S47, where the storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 other than those specified in the search 1 and 2 are specified, and The inventory is confirmed in the same manner as described in step S41 (search 3).

  Next, in step S48, the presence or absence of a response from the tag device 20 is determined. If it is determined that there is a response, the processes of steps S46 and S43 are performed.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S48 that there is no response from the tag device 20, the fact that the file 10 to be extracted is absent is displayed on the display means of the management control device 60 in step S49, and the processing is performed. Ends.

  FIG. 15 shows the processing after the rack controller 80 in the storage shelf 30 and the shelf controller 50 in the shelf 31 that responded in FIG. 14 emit light, that is, the predetermined shelf 31 in step S13 in FIG. 3 shows the operation of the management control device 60 after the stage of operating the instruction unit 54 of FIG.

  That is, after the predetermined rack controller 80 and the shelf controller 50 emit light, the presence or absence of an operation on the indicator 54 of the shelf 31 is detected. If it is determined that the operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S51.

  In step S51, the number of target files 10 requested to be taken out on the corresponding shelf 31 operated by the instruction unit 54 is displayed. That is, the management control device 60 gives an instruction to the rack control device 80 to display the number of the extraction request files 10 in the corresponding shelf 31.

  Next, in step S52, the tag device 20 in the corresponding shelf 31 is blinked. That is, the management control device 60 transmits a signal including a calling identification code and a display instruction command to each tag device 20 in the corresponding shelf through the shelf controller 50. As a result, the tag device 20 that has received the signal and has the identification code that matches the calling identification code will blink for a certain period of time.

  When the above signal is transmitted, in step S53, counting of the removal confirmation time is started. The extraction confirmation time is set longer than the total time required to extract each file 10.

  Next, if it is determined in step S54 that the removal confirmation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S55, and the inventory of the tag device 20 to be removed is checked.

  Then, in step S56, when there is a response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S57, and a message indicating that the user has forgotten to take out is displayed. On the other hand, if there is no response from the tag device 20 in step S56, the operation related to removal is completed as it is.

  FIG. 16 shows the operation of the management control device 60 relating to the inventory check after the file 10 is taken out.

  First, in step S60, it is determined whether or not the current time is the scheduled return date and time or the work end time. The scheduled return date and time is the date and time input together with the specific information of the file 10 or the date and time determined based on the input date and time in step S11 of FIG. 14 (for example, a predetermined time before or a predetermined time before the input date and time). Etc.). The work end time is a date and time arbitrarily set in advance according to the usage mode of the present system. Here, if it is determined that the return date and time or the work end time is reached, the process proceeds to the next step S61.

  In step S61, the identification code and the previous stock position of the extracted file 10 are extracted from the management database.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S62, in which a specific storage shelf / shelf is designated and inventory check is performed (search 1). This step S62 is a process similar to step S42 shown in FIG.

  Thereafter, in step S63, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20, and if there is a response, the process proceeds to step S64.

  In step S64, the inventory information in the management database is updated to the content indicating that the file 10 of the inventory check target is in stock, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that there is no response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S65, where the storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 of the specific group are designated and inventory check is performed (search 2). This step S65 is a process similar to step S44 shown in FIG.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S66, where it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20, and if there is a response, the process proceeds to step S67.

  In step S67, the stock position information of the management database is updated in order to set the stock position of the file 10 to be checked for stock as a new stock position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S64.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S66 that there is no response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S68, and it is determined whether the current time is the business end time. Here, when it is determined that it is not the work end time, the process proceeds to step S71 to display on the display means of the management control device 60 that the file 10 has not been returned, and ends the processing. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is the work end time, the process proceeds to step S69.

  In step S69, inventory confirmation is performed by specifying storage shelves 30 and shelf 31 other than those specified in searches 1 and 2 (search 3). The processing in step S69 is similar to the processing in step S47 in FIG.

  Next, in step S70, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. Here, when it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the processes of steps S67 and S64 are performed, and the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S71, where it is displayed that the device has not been returned, and the process ends.

  Note that the processes of the management control device 60 described above may be performed in a distributed manner in the shelf control device 50 and the rack control device 80.

  According to the article management system configured as described above, communication is performed with each tag device 20 at a time corresponding to the expected return time input in advance, and the presence or absence of stock of the file 10 to be taken out is confirmed. Will be. For this reason, a signal is transmitted to each tag device 20 to manage whether or not the predetermined file 10 is in stock between the time when the predetermined file 10 is taken out and the time when the predetermined file 10 is to be returned. There is no need to wake up. Therefore, the number of operations of each tag device 20 can be reduced, and the power consumption thereof can be reduced.

  In addition, the inventory check is performed by specifying the shelf 31 of the specific storage shelf 30, and if there is no response from each tag device 20, the inventory check is performed by specifying the storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 of the specific group. Is going. In other words, the area is gradually expanded from the predetermined candidate area, and communication is performed with each tag device 20 to check inventory. For this reason, when there is a response from the predetermined tag device 20 in the shelf 31 specified first or relatively early, a signal is transmitted to the tag device 20 in another shelf 31 to wake up. No need. Therefore, the number of operations of each tag device 20 can be reduced, and the power consumption thereof can be reduced.

  In particular, by specifying the area including the previous inventory position as the first shelf 31, it is highly possible that the inventory can be confirmed in response to the response from the tag device 20 at the initial stage. The power can be reduced.

  In addition, the operation of checking the inventory by communicating with each tag device 20 by gradually expanding the area as described above depends on the inventory check operation and the presence or absence of a response from each tag device 20 to determine whether the desired tag device 20 Since both search and call operations for searching and calling are performed, the power consumption of each tag device 20 can be further reduced for both of these operations.

  Further, according to this article management system, when an operation is performed on the instruction unit 54 of the predetermined shelf control device 50, the extraction target existing in the shelf 31 (extraction area) corresponding to the shelf control device 50 is obtained. The tag device 20 of the file 10 emits light. For this reason, it is possible to cause only the tag device 20 in the desired shelf 31 (removal area) to perform the light emission operation according to the necessity such as the progress of the removal operation, and to reduce the power consumption of the tag device 20. it can.

  In addition, since the tag device 20 emits light for notification for a predetermined time, power consumption can be reduced from this point as well.

  Further, according to this article management system, after performing an operation on the instructing unit 54, after the removal confirmation time, the presence or absence of the stock of the file 10 to be removed is confirmed. Therefore, for example, the number of operations of the tag device 20 can be reduced and the power consumption thereof can be reduced as compared with a case where the inventory is checked immediately after the operation on the instruction unit 54 is performed.

  In addition, since the shelf control device 50 is configured to include the long frame 55 and the light emitting and receiving units 53 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame 55, the frame 55 By attaching to the shelf 31, optical communication can be performed with the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the shelf 31. Therefore, addition to the existing storage shelf 30 is easy.

<Embodiment 2>
In the article management system according to the first embodiment, basically, communication is performed with each tag device 20 at a predetermined timing other than when the file 10 is taken out, and the inventory position of each file 10 is searched. Then, a database in which each file 10 is associated with its stock position is generated and updated, and at the time of freely taking out the file 10, the file 10 to be taken out is searched by referring to the database (first). The system for performing the management processing operation) has been described.

  Such a first management processing operation involves generating and updating a database in advance when the file 10 is not taken out, and searching for the file 10 to be taken out by referring to the database when actually taking out the file 10. Even if items are stored, it is possible to search for items in a short time. Therefore, the processing is suitable for a relatively large-scale article management system in which many articles are stored.

  In the second embodiment, a system in which a function of performing the following second processing operation of searching the file 10 without using a database is added to the article management system having the function of performing the first management processing operation. Will be described.

  In the description of the second embodiment, the description of the same components as those described in the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will be focused on the added processing function which is a difference.

  That is, in the present system, the first management processing operation and the second management processing operation can be selectively switched.

  In the present system, as a second management processing operation, when the file 10 is taken out, the management control device 60 transmits the plurality of shelf stages 31 (storage sections) from the respective shelf stage control devices 50 (transmission / reception means) to the respective tag devices. At the same time, the identification code to be called and the inventory inquiry command are transmitted to the file 20 to search the file 10 to be taken out.

  This will be described more specifically with reference to FIG.

  First, when the specific information of the file 10 to be extracted is input to the management control device 60, a database (this database is a database in which the specific information of the file 10 is associated with the identification code, and the stock position information ) Is extracted from the corresponding identification code.

  Thereafter, the management control device 60 transmits a signal including a predetermined call code and an inquiry command substantially simultaneously from the relay device 88 to each shelf control device 50 of each storage shelf 30 via the rack control device 80. . In response to this signal, all the shelf control devices 50 transmit optical signals including a predetermined call code and an inquiry command substantially simultaneously to each tag device 20 in each shelf 31 as shown in FIG. I do. The optical signals may be transmitted from all the shelf controllers 50 in all the storage shelves 30 substantially simultaneously, or the optical signals may be transmitted from a plurality of shelf controllers 30 for each of the storage shelves 30. You may make it transmit substantially simultaneously.

  Here, for example, when the desired tag device 20 is present in the third shelf 31 from the top of the predetermined storage shelf 30, in the third shelf 31 as shown in FIG. The response light signal from the desired tag device 20 is received by the corresponding shelf control device 50. In other shelf stages 31 such as the first stage and the second stage, the response light signal is not received in each shelf stage controller 50.

  Then, in each of the storage shelves 30, the plurality of shelf tier control devices 50 sequentially return responses at preset time intervals. For example, after transmitting the optical signal, a response is returned after a lapse of a time obtained by multiplying the set stage address (the number of stages) by 0.1 sec.

  In the example shown in FIG. 17, first, the first shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that the first shelf is absent. This response signal is transmitted from the rack control device 80 to the management control device 60 via the relay device 88. Next, the second shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that the user is not present at the second stage, and this response signal is transmitted to the management control device 60 in the same manner as described above. Then, the third shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that there is stock at the third stage, and this response signal is similarly transmitted to the management control device 60. Similarly, the shelf control devices 50 in the fourth and subsequent stages similarly send response signals indicating that they are not present.

  Then, the same processing as described above is performed in each storage shelf 30, and a response signal is transmitted only from the storage shelf 30 where the desired tag device 20 is present, or the presence or absence of a response is sequentially indicated from each storage shelf 30. When the signal is returned, the management control device 60 specifies which shelf 31 has the tag device 20 to be called, that is, the file 10.

  As described above, when the stock position of the file 10 is searched, the stock position is displayed on the management control device 60, or in the same manner as described in the first embodiment, the predetermined tag device 20 Notify the stock position.

  The second management processing operation has the following advantages over the first management processing operation.

  That is, in the first management processing operation, if the real-time property of the database in which the specific information of the file 10 is associated with the stock position is to be improved, it is necessary to frequently search, for example, by shortening the interval of the return confirmation. There is. However, frequent searches increase the chances that each tag device 20 wakes up, thus shortening the battery life.

  On the other hand, in the second management processing operation, the database including the stock position information is unnecessary and the frequent search is unnecessary. Since the search is performed only when necessary (at the time of removal), the power consumption of the tag device 20 is reduced. Can be reduced.

  Further, in the first management processing operation, basically, the return check is performed for the one requested to be taken out through the management control device 60, so that the one taken out without permission is regarded as out of the management target. turn into. If they are taken out without permission and returned to a different position, a mismatch occurs between the stock position in the database and the actual stock position. On the other hand, in the second management processing operation, the search is performed only when necessary (when the user wants to take out). Therefore, even if it is taken out without permission and returned to a different place, no special processing is performed, That is, the above-described search processing may be performed.

  Further, in the second management processing operation, since it is not necessary to frequently update the database, frequent writing to a storage device such as a hard disk device is eliminated, and the life of the storage device is extended.

  By the way, as a process of performing a search for all the shelves 31, the management control device 60 transmits a call code and an inquiry command to one shelve control device 50, and the An optical signal including a call code and an inquiry command is transmitted to each tag device 20. After that, the shelf controller 50 sends a signal indicating the presence or absence of a response signal from the tag device 20, that is, a signal indicating absence or inventory. It is also possible to envisage a process of sequentially transmitting the procedure to be transmitted to the management control device 60 for each shelf 31. However, in this process, it takes much time when the number of shelf stages 31 increases.

  On the other hand, in the second management processing operation, the plurality of shelf control devices 50 transmit the optical signals including the predetermined call code and the inquiry command substantially simultaneously to each tag device 20 in each shelf 31. Since transmission is performed, the search time can be reduced.

  However, when the management control device 60 or the rack control device 80 (see a modified example described later) waits for a response from the plurality of shelf control devices 50, if the number of files 10 becomes extremely large, the search speed may decrease. Connect. From this point, it can be said that the second management processing operation is suitable for a relatively small-scale system.

  The present article management system is capable of executing the first management processing operation and the second management processing operation by selectively switching, for example, through the input unit 70 of the management control device 60.

  According to the article management system configured as described above, the first management processing operation suitable for a large-scale article management system storing a large number of files 10 as described above, and suitable for a relatively small-scale article management system. The second management processing operation can be selectively switched according to the scale of construction, which is convenient.

  Note that, here, the example has been described in which each shelf control device 50 and each tag device 20 perform optical communication, but may also perform radio communication. However, the use of optical communication has an advantage that the communication range is easily limited, and therefore, the specificity of the position is excellent.

  By the way, in the second embodiment, since each shelf control device 50 sequentially responds to the management control device 60 one by one, regarding the response processing, when the number of the shelf 31 increases, the response accordingly Search time becomes longer.

  Therefore, as in the modification shown in FIG. 20, the following operation may be performed as the second management processing operation.

  That is, each rack controller 80 has a function of storing data received from each shelf controller 50 and a predetermined judgment processing function.

  In response to the response processing, when a signal indicating the absence or stock of the tag device 20 in the shelf 31 from each shelf controller 50 is sequentially transmitted to the rack controller 80, the rack controller 80 receives the signal. Is stored. When the response signals from all the shelf control devices 50 in the predetermined storage shelf 30 are received, the response signals are collected and stored in the predetermined shelf 31 (the third stage in the example shown in FIG. 20). Send a signal to the effect.

  By providing the rack control device 80 with a function as a communication relay device for collecting response signals from the plurality of shelf control devices 50 and transmitting the response signals to the management control device 60, as shown in FIG. There is no need to transmit a response signal from the control device 80 to the management control device 60 for each shelf 31. Accordingly, the search time can be shortened in response processing.

It is the schematic which shows the whole structure of an article management system. It is a block diagram showing the electric composition of an article management system. It is a perspective view showing the file to which the tag device was attached. It is a side view which shows a tag apparatus. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the tag device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the tag device. It is a perspective view which shows a shelf stage control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows the mounting aspect of a shelf level control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows the other attachment modes of a shelf stage control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows another attachment mode of a shelf stage control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the extraction operation | work procedure of a file. It is a flowchart which shows a file return work procedure. It is a flowchart which shows the extraction operation | work procedure of a file using a portable search device. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus at the time of a file extraction operation | work. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus at the time of a file extraction operation | work. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus regarding stock confirmation. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a search processing procedure according to a second management processing operation according to the second embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state in which an optical signal is transmitted toward each tag apparatus from a shelf control device. It is an explanatory view showing a state where an optical signal is transmitted from a tag device to a shelf control device. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a search processing procedure according to a second management processing operation according to a modification.

Explanation of reference numerals

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 file 20 tag device 25 tag control unit 27 communication light emitting unit 28 notification light emitting unit 30 storage shelf 31 shelf 32 shelf board 50 shelf stage control device 51 light emitting unit 52 shelf control unit 53 light emitting / receiving unit 54 indicating unit 55 frame Reference Signs List 60 management control device 61 computer main unit 61a ID storage unit 70 input unit 80 rack control device 82 rack control unit 1 light emitting display unit

Claims (16)

An article management apparatus, wherein a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage unit, and manages the article based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the tag device,
A management control device that communicates with the tag device through the transmission / reception unit and manages whether the article is stored in the storage unit,
Input means for inputting the specific information of the article to be taken out and the expected return time to the management control device,
With
The management control device communicates with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means through the transmission / reception means at a time corresponding to the expected return time to determine whether the stock of the article to be taken out is in stock. Check the goods management system. An article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Inputting the specific information of the article to be taken out and the expected return time;
At the time corresponding to the expected return time, performing communication with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means, to confirm whether there is stock of the article to be taken out,
Article management method including. An article management apparatus, wherein a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage unit, and manages the article based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the tag device,
A management control device that communicates with the tag device through the transmission / reception means and performs an inventory check operation;
With
The management control device communicates with the tag device of each of the articles in the predetermined candidate area in the storage unit during the inventory check operation for the desired article, and there is no response from the desired tag apparatus. In another case, the article management apparatus communicates with the tag apparatus of each article in another area. The article management device according to claim 3, wherein
The management control device includes:
An article management device that updates stock information on the desired tag device according to a result of the stock confirmation operation. The article management device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein:
The management control device includes:
An article management device for calling the desired tag device in accordance with the result of the inventory check operation. An article management device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein
The predetermined candidate area is
An article management device, which is an area including a previous stock position for the desired article. An article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit, and when there is no response from a desired tag device, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in another area. Do, goods management method. An article management system in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means and manages the article based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Storage means having a plurality of take-out areas;
When a unique identification code is assigned and the received signal includes a calling code that matches the unique identification code of the user, a response signal is transmitted and the received signal matches the unique identification code of the received signal. A tag device that performs a position notification operation when a call code and a position notification command are included;
Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the tag device,
Through the transmitting / receiving means, a call signal including a unique identification code assigned to the tag device of the article to be taken out is transmitted, and an area for taking out the tag apparatus of the article to be taken out is specified depending on whether or not the response signal has been received. An article management control device,
A position notification instruction means provided corresponding to each of the take-out areas and receiving a notification instruction;
With
The article management control device, when receiving a position notification command through a predetermined position notification hand instructing means, through the transmission / reception means, the removal target present in the removal area corresponding to the position notification means that has received the position notification command. An article management system for transmitting a signal including a call code and a position notification command to an article tag device. The article management system according to claim 8, wherein
The article management system, wherein the tag device performs the position notification operation for a predetermined operation time set in advance. An article management system according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein
The article management control device transmits a call signal including a unique identification code assigned to the tag device of the call target article after a predetermined removal confirmation time has elapsed after the related operation based on the position notification command. An article management system for confirming whether or not the call target article is in stock; An article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
Assigning a plurality of extraction areas to the storage means,
An article management method for causing the tag device to perform a position notification operation for each of the takeout areas. A light emitting and receiving device for performing optical communication with a tag device attached to each article stored in each shelf of the storage means,
An elongated frame having a longitudinal dimension corresponding to the shelf width of the shelf,
Light receiving and emitting portions arranged along the longitudinal direction of the frame,
A light emitting and receiving device comprising: A plurality of articles are stored in storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each article, and the article management system manages the articles based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. And
Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from each of the tag devices in the corresponding storage section, provided corresponding to each of the storage sections;
Communication between the tag device through the transmitting and receiving means, management control means for managing each of the articles,
With
The management control means includes:
At a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out, by communicating with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through each of the transmitting and receiving means, by searching the stock position of each article. A first management processing operation of generating and updating a database in which the articles and their stock positions are associated with each other, and searching for the articles to be taken out by referring to the database when the articles are taken out;
At the time of taking out the article, in each of the plurality of storage sections, the transmitting / receiving means transmits an identification code and a stock inquiry command to be called at substantially the same time toward the tag devices to search for the article to be taken out. A second management processing operation for performing
An article management system, which can be selectively switched. The article management system according to claim 13,
The first management processing operation includes:
The process of updating the database at the scheduled return time of the article, and performing communication with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit, and when there is no response from the desired tag device And a process of performing a search by communicating with the tag device of each of the articles in another area. An article management system according to claim 13 or claim 14,
Further comprising a communication relay device that relays communication between the plurality of transmitting and receiving means and the management control means,
Each of the transmitting / receiving units transmits a signal indicating the presence or absence of a response from the tag device to each of the communication relay devices in a time-series manner in each of the storage sections. An article management system that collects and sends the information to the management control means. A plurality of articles are stored in storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each article, and the article management apparatus manages the articles based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. And
At a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out, communication is performed with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through each transmission / reception means provided corresponding to each storage section, By searching the stock position of each article, a database in which each article is associated with its stock position is generated and updated, and when the article is taken out, the database is referred to and the article to be taken out is searched. A first management processing operation for performing
At the time of taking out the article, in each of the plurality of storage sections, the transmitting / receiving means transmits an identification code and a stock inquiry command to be called at substantially the same time toward the tag devices to search for the article to be taken out. A second management processing operation for performing
An article management device, which can be selectively switched.

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