JP2023082850A - Key management device, key management system, and key management method - Google Patents

Abstract

To enable more holders than the number of holders that can be stored in a storage part of a key management device to be managed by the key management device.SOLUTION: The key management device comprises: a plurality of storage parts, each of which can store the holder holding a key; a registration part that registers the holder to be managed by the own device; and a setting part that sets storage target information indicating at least either of the following with respect to the holder to be managed registered by the registration part: the holder is a first holder to be stored by the storage part, or the holder is a second holder which is not stored by the storage part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

The present invention relates to a key management device, a key management system, and a key management method.

Patent Document 1 discloses a key management machine comprising a key management unit for managing keys, a key holder having identification information and linked to the key, an acquisition unit for acquiring the identification information of the key holder, and an acquisition unit for acquiring the identification information. and a registration unit for registering a key holder having the identified identification information as a key holder to be managed.

JP 2020-122312 A

There is a demand for a key management apparatus to manage more holders than can be stored in the storage section of the key management apparatus.
An object of the present invention is to allow a key management apparatus to manage more holders than holders that can be stored in a storage section of the key management apparatus.

Based on this object, the present invention provides a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding a key, a registration unit for registering the holders to be managed by the device itself, and the management objects registered by the registration unit. storage object information indicating at least one of the following: that the holder is the first holder that is to be stored by the storage unit; and that the holder is the second holder that is not to be stored by the storage unit. and a setting unit for setting.
The key management device may further include an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the holder, and the registration unit may register the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit as identification information of the holder to be managed.
The registration unit may be able to register more holders than the number of storage units as holders to be managed.
The setting unit can set storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder for a first number of holders that is equal to or less than the number of storage units among the holders to be managed registered by the registration unit. can be In that case, the key management device comprises a communication unit that communicates with the other device, the communication unit transmits the first number to the other device, and the setting unit responds to information received by the communication unit from the other device. Based on this, for holders equal to or smaller than the first number, storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder may be set.
The setting unit selects a second number of holders equal to or greater than the number of holders to be managed minus the number of storage units among the holders to be managed registered by the registration unit. It may be possible to set storage target information indicating that the
The setting unit may set storage target information for each of the management target holders registered by the registration unit at predetermined intervals.
In that case, the key management device includes a communication unit that communicates with other devices, and the setting unit, based on the information received by the communication unit from the other device, for the holder to be managed registered by the registration unit: The storage target information may be set for each predetermined period.
Further, at a predetermined time point within the first predetermined period, the key management device stores the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. may further include a notification unit for notifying difference information indicating a difference from the holder to be stored in the storage unit. In this case, the difference information is information to the effect that none of the holders that should be stored in the storage section during the second predetermined period exist among the holders stored in the storage section during the first predetermined period. you can Further, the difference information is information to the effect that none of the holders stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period exists among the holders that should be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period. good.
Furthermore, the key management device changes the storage target information set for the first predetermined period in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period to the storage target information set for the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. It may further include an update unit that updates the storage target information. In this case, the updating unit, in the predetermined process, stores holders that are not included in the holders stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period, among the holders that should be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. It may be a thing that performs processing for making it. In addition, the update unit collects, in the predetermined process, holders that are not included in the holders that should be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period, among the holders stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period. It may be something that performs processing for. Further, the key management device, within the predetermined processing, generates difference information indicating the difference between the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. It may further include a reporting unit that reports.

Further, the present invention provides a key management device having a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding a key, a storage unit for storing information on a holder to be managed by the key management device, and a key stored in the storage unit. With respect to the information about the holder to be managed, the holder is at least one of the first holder to be stored by the storage unit and the second holder not to be stored by the storage unit. and a setting unit for setting storage target information indicating the key management system.

Further, the present invention includes a registration step in which a computer registers holders to be managed by a key management apparatus having a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding a key, and a computer registered in the registration step. Storage indicating at least one of the following: for a holder to be managed, the holder is the first holder to be stored by the storage unit; or the holder is the second holder to be excluded from storage by the storage unit. and a setting step of setting target information.

According to the present invention, more holders than holders that can be stored in the storage section of the key management device can be managed by the key management device.

1 shows an example of the overall configuration of a key management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; It is a figure which shows the external appearance structural example of the key management apparatus in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the external appearance structural example of the holder and key which are used by embodiment of this invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of a key management device according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. It is the figure which showed an example of the storage information in embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of a server device in the embodiment of the present invention. It is the figure which showed an example of the key information in embodiment of this invention. It is the figure which showed an example of the reservation information in embodiment of this invention. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example at the time of key registration in the key management system according to the embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a flow chart showing an operation example at the time of key reservation of the server device in the key management system according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when loading a key reserved for the next day in the key management system according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when lending out a key reserved on the same day in the key management system according to the embodiment of the present invention;

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[Overall configuration of key management system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a key management system 1 according to this embodiment. As illustrated, the key management system 1 includes a key management device 10 , a server device 40 and a terminal device 50 . The key management device 10 , server device 40 and terminal device 50 are connected via a network 80 .

The key management device 10 is a device that detachably stores a holder holding a key. This key management device 10 is operated by an administrator or a user. The administrator is a user who manages keys, and performs operations such as loading keys reserved for the next day into the key management device 10 and recovering keys not reserved for the next day from the key management device 10.例文帳に追加A user is a user who borrows a key and uses it, and receives from the key management device 10 a key reserved for the day by himself/herself, or returns a key after use to the key management device 10. perform operations such as
The server device 40 is a device that manages keys and holders. The server device 40 also performs processing for accepting key reservations and managing the reservation status.
The terminal device 50 is a terminal device used by a user, and examples thereof include a PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, a smart phone, and the like. A user may be a key administrator or a key user.
The network 80 is communication means used for information communication between the key management device 10, the server device 40, and the terminal device 50, and is, for example, the Internet, a public line, a LAN (Local Area Network), or the like.

[External configuration of key management device]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an external configuration example of the key management device 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the key management device 10 is provided with a first door 21 and a second door 22 that can be opened and closed on the front surface of the device. A storage 23 and a printer 25 and a key exchange section 26 that are opened and closed by a second door 22 are provided. The key management device 10 also has a display operation section 27 and a card reader 28 on the front of the device.

A plurality of storage units 24 are provided in the key storage 23 . The storage unit 24 detachably stores a holder 31 holding a key.
Each storage section 24 is provided with a lock mechanism 241 that permits or prohibits removal of the holder 31 . The key management device 10 controls permission or prohibition of removal of each holder 31 by controlling the lock mechanism 241 for each storage section 24 .
Further, each storage section 24 is provided with a light emitting section 242 for notifying the user of the holders 31 that can be rented and the holders 31 that should be collected. The light emitting unit 242 is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode).
Further, each storage section 24 is provided with a reading section 243 for reading information from a wireless tag 34 (described later) of the holder 31 . The reading unit 243 is provided in the vicinity of the storage unit 24 or within the storage unit 24 . The reading unit 243 is, for example, an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentifier) reader. In addition, in order to prevent the reading unit 243 of a certain storage unit 24 from erroneously acquiring radio waves from the wireless tag 34 of the holder 31 inserted into the adjacent storage unit 24, A shielding plate or the like for shielding radio waves may be provided at the end.

The printer 25 prints the history of the key management device 10 including key exchange, insertion, removal, etc. on paper such as roll paper. The paper printed by the printer 25 is discharged to the front of the device, for example.
The key exchange unit 26 releases the link between the holder 31 and the key, and can be used only by an authorized person who has the authority to exchange keys, such as an administrator. The key exchange section 26 has an insertion opening 261 into which the holder 31 is inserted and a cover 262 that opens and closes the insertion opening 261 . Further, the key exchange unit 26 can release the ring 32 (described later) by releasing the lock of the holder 31 main body and the ring locking body with respect to the holder 31 inserted up to a predetermined unlocking position in the insertion opening 261 . and a key exchange restricting section that permits an administrator to unlock the holder 31 and prohibits anyone other than the administrator to unlock the holder 31 . As the key exchange restricting section, for example, a stopper mechanism that advances and retracts the stopper to and from the insertion opening 261 by an electric driving section such as a solenoid may be used. In this case, the key exchange restricting portion normally restricts the stopper from advancing into the insertion opening 261 and inserting the holder 31 into the insertion opening 261 to a predetermined unlocking position. On the other hand, the key exchange restricting section allows the stopper to retract from the insertion slot 261 only when operated by the administrator, and allows the holder 31 to be inserted to the predetermined unlocking position of the insertion slot 261 .
Furthermore, the key exchange section 26 is provided with a reading section 263 that reads information from the wireless tag 34 of the holder 31 . The reading unit 263 is provided in the vicinity of the key exchange unit 26 or within the key exchange unit 26 . The reading unit 263 is, for example, an RFID reader.

The display/operation unit 27 is, for example, a touch panel display, receives user operations, and displays various information.
The card reader 28 is a reading device that reads information from a card carried by the user. Examples of cards include magnetic cards, IC (Integrated Circuit) cards, and the like. When the user passes the card through the card reader 28, the card reader 28 reads the user ID from the card and performs user authentication based on the read user ID. As a result of this authentication, if the user has the authority to pull out the holder 31, the first door 21 of the key storage 23 is unlocked so that the first door 21 can be opened. The holder 31 becomes removable.

[Configuration of holder and key]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of external configuration of the holder 31 and the key 33 used in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, a key 33 is connected to the holder 31 with a ring 32 .
A wireless tag 34 is provided in the holder 31 . The wireless tag 34 is, for example, an RFID tag. The wireless tag 34 has identification information for identifying the holder 31 . To provide the wireless tag 34 in the holder 31 , for example, a sticker type wireless tag 34 may be attached to the holder 31 or the wireless tag 34 may be embedded in the holder 31 .
A seal 35 is attached to the key 33 . A key number, which is a number for identifying the key 33, is written on the seal 35 by, for example, an administrator.

[Background of Embodiment]
Some businesses that introduce such a key management device 10 desire to manage more keys 33 than the number of storage units 24 of the key management device 10 . In that case, it is common to increase the number of keys 33 that can be managed by introducing a plurality of key management apparatuses 10, but there is a cost disadvantage. In addition, there is also a space demerit due to the installation of a plurality of key management devices 10 . In addition, although such a business operator has a large number of keys to be managed, not all keys are used every day, and different keys are used depending on the day. Sometimes there are circumstances that should be changed.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, for a holder to be managed by the key management apparatus 10, it is determined whether the holder should be stored in the key management apparatus 10 or not. At least one of them can be set. This allows the key management device 10 to manage holders greater than the number of storage units of the key management device 10 .

[Functional Configuration of Key Management Device]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the key management device 10 according to this embodiment. As illustrated, the key management device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a communication unit 13, a door locking mechanism 14, a lock mechanism 241, a light emitting unit 242, a reading unit 243, and a printer 25. , a reading unit 263 , a display operation unit 27 and a card reader 28 .
The control unit 11 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and operates each unit of the key management device 10 (the communication unit 13, the door locking mechanism 14, the lock mechanism 241, the light emitting unit 242, reading unit 243, printer 25, reading unit 263, display operation unit 27, card reader 28, etc.).
The storage unit 12 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., stores an operation program of the control unit 11, and is used as a work area when the control processing of the control unit 11 is performed. The operating program includes a program for the control unit 11 to execute processing described later.
The communication unit 13 performs information communication with the server device 40 through a communication line.
The door locking mechanism 14 is a mechanism for locking the first door 21 and the second door 22 . The door locking mechanism 14 may lock and unlock the first door 21 and lock and unlock the second door 22 using different conditions.
Since the lock mechanism 241, the light emitting section 242, the reading section 243, the printer 25, the reading section 263, the display operation section 27, and the card reader 28 have already been described with reference to FIG. 2, the description thereof will be omitted here.

Here, the configuration of the control unit 11 will be specifically described. The control unit 11 includes an RFID acquisition unit 111, a key number acquisition unit 112, a user ID acquisition unit 113, a storage control unit 114, a communication control unit 115, a difference information determination unit 116, a display control unit 117, A light emission control unit 118 and a detailed examination processing unit 119 are provided.
When the reading unit 243 or the reading unit 263 obtains the RFID from the wireless tag 34 of the holder 31 , the RFID obtaining unit 111 obtains the RFID from the reading unit 243 or the reading unit 263 . In this case, information other than the RFID may be used as long as it is information for identifying the holder 31, but the description below assumes that the RFID is used. In this embodiment, the RFID acquisition unit 111 is provided as an example of an acquisition unit that acquires the identification information of the holder.
The key number acquisition unit 112 acquires the key number from the display operation unit 27 when the display operation unit 27 receives an operation to input the key number.

The user ID acquisition unit 113 acquires the user ID from the card reader 28 when the card reader 28 reads the user ID from the user's card. Also, the user ID acquisition unit 113 may perform user authentication using this user ID. Alternatively, means for performing user authentication such as the following may be provided. The first is user authentication by reading a QR code (registered trademark) with a reader. In that case, the QR code may be given to the user without a time limit, or may be given in a one-time format with a time limit. The second is biometric user authentication such as finger vein or face authentication, or user authentication based on personal identification such as a driver's license, in order to prevent spoofing during user authentication when receiving the key 33 .
The storage control unit 114 controls writing data to the storage unit 12 and reading data from the storage unit 12 .
Specifically, the storage control unit 114 stores storage information indicating which holder 31 is loaded in which storage unit 24 in the storage unit 12 , and reads the storage information from the storage unit 12 .

Communication control unit 115 receives information from server device 40 via communication unit 13 and transmits information to server device 40 via communication unit 13 .
Specifically, at the time of key registration, the communication control unit 115 transmits the key number obtained by the key number obtaining unit 112 from the display operation unit 27 and the RFID obtained by the RFID obtaining unit 111 from the reading unit 263 to the server device 40. Send to Here, the RFID acquired from the reading unit 263 is the RFID of the holder 31 whose key has been exchanged by the key exchange unit 26, and is sent to the server device 40 as identification information of the holder 31 holding the key 33 managed by the key management device 10. sent. In this embodiment, the number of sets of key numbers and RFIDs to be transmitted to the server device 40 may be greater than the number of storage units 24 . In the present embodiment, this function of the communication control unit 115 is provided as an example of a registration unit that registers folders to be managed by the own device. Further, RFID is used as an example of the identification information, and this function of the communication control unit 115 is provided as an example of a registration unit that registers the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit as the identification information of the holder to be managed. there is Furthermore, in the present embodiment, this function of the communication control unit 115 is provided as an example of a registration unit capable of registering more holders than the number of storage units as holders to be managed.

Further, at the time of key reservation, the communication control unit 115 transmits in advance to the server device 40 the upper limit number of storage units 24 in which the key management device 10 can store the holders 31 for lending the key 33 . Here, the upper limit number may be any number equal to or less than the number of storage units 24 . In the present embodiment, the upper limit number is used as an example of the first number equal to or less than the number of storage units, and the server device 40 is used as another device, which is an example of a communication unit that communicates with another device. As such, a communication control unit 115 is provided.

Furthermore, the communication control unit 115 can be set to the holder at an arbitrary timing, such as when loading the key 33 reserved for the next day, collecting the key 33 not reserved for the next day, or performing the examination process at the end of work on a certain day. The RFID acquired by the RFID acquiring unit 111 from the reading unit 243 of the storage unit 24 in which the RFID tag 31 is stored is transmitted to the server device 40 . Further, the communication control unit 115 transmits difference information between the RFID transmitted to the server device 40 and the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is managed by the server device 40 to be reserved for the next day. receive from In the following explanation, it is assumed that the key 33 is reserved on a daily basis, but if it is reserved on a certain period basis, the period may be hours, weeks, or months.
Then, the communication control unit 115 determines that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day at an arbitrary timing such as execution of the examination process at the end of work on a certain day. If it is determined that the difference information indicates that, information to the effect that the key 33 not loaded in the storage section 24 should be additionally loaded may be transmitted to the terminal device 50, for example. In the present embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, the scrutinization process is used as an example of the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, and one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period. is used, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the difference indicating the difference between the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. This function of the communication control unit 115 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies information.
On the other hand, the communication control unit 115 determines that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24 at an arbitrary timing such as execution of the examination process at the end of work on a certain day. If it is determined that the difference information indicates that, information to the effect that the key 33 not reserved for the next day should be additionally collected may be sent to the terminal device 50, for example. In the present embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, the scrutinization process is used as an example of the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, and one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period. is used, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the difference indicating the difference between the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. This function of the communication control unit 115 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies information.

Furthermore, at the time of lending the key 33 reserved for the day, the communication control unit 115 sends the user ID of the user who wants to borrow the key 33 acquired by the user ID acquisition unit 113 from the card reader 28 to the server device 40. Send. Then, the communication control unit 115 receives from the server device 40 the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 for which the server device 40 manages that the user has made a reservation for that day.

The difference information determination unit 116 determines whether the difference information received by the communication control unit 115 from the server device 40 via the communication unit 13 satisfies a predetermined condition.
Specifically, when the key 33 reserved for the next day is loaded, the difference information determination unit 116 stores the difference information received by the communication control unit 115 from the server device 40 in the key 33 reserved for the next day. A determination is made as to whether the unit 24 indicates that there is an unloaded key 33 .
When collecting the key 33 that is not reserved for the next day, the difference information determination unit 116 adds the difference information received by the communication control unit 115 from the server device 40 to the key 33 loaded in the storage unit 24 for the next day. Determine if it indicates that there are keys 33 that are not reserved.
In the following explanation, the difference information determination unit 116 performs the loading operation when the key 33 reserved for the next day is loaded, and performs the collection operation when the key 33 not reserved for the next day is collected. However, both operations may be performed at a predetermined timing.

The display control unit 117 controls display of information on the display operation unit 27 .
Specifically, the display control unit 117 controls display of information on the display operation unit 27 when the key 33 reserved for the next day is loaded at a predetermined time on a certain day. At this time, if the display control unit 117 determines that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day, the display control unit 117 The key number of the key 33 that is not loaded in the is controlled to be displayed on the display operation unit 27.例文帳に追加In this embodiment, one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, at a predetermined time point within the first predetermined period, the holder stored in the storage section during the first predetermined period and the holder stored in the storage section during the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. This function of the display control unit 117 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies the difference information indicating the difference from the holder to be displayed. Further, in the present embodiment, the information to the effect that none of the holders that should be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period exists among the holders stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period. This function of the display control unit 117 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies certain difference information.

Further, the display control unit 117 may control the display of information on the display operation unit 27 at an arbitrary timing such as execution of detailed examination processing at the end of work on a certain day. At this time, if the display control unit 117 determines that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day, the display control unit 117 The key number of the key 33 that is not loaded in the is controlled to be displayed on the display operation unit 27.例文帳に追加In the present embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, the scrutinization process is used as an example of the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, and one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period. is used, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the difference indicating the difference between the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. This function of the display control unit 117 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies information.

The light emission control section 118 controls light emission of the light emission section 242 of the storage section 24 .
Specifically, the light emission control unit 118 controls the light emission of the light emission unit 242 of the storage unit 24 when the key 33 that is not reserved for the next day is collected at a predetermined time on a certain day. At that time, if it is determined that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24, the light emission control unit 118 reserves the key for the next day. The light-emitting portion 242 of the storage portion 24 in which the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is not in use is stored is controlled to emit light. In this embodiment, one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, at a predetermined time point within the first predetermined period, the holder stored in the storage section during the first predetermined period and the holder stored in the storage section during the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. This function of the light emission control unit 118 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies the difference information indicating the difference from the holder to be processed. Further, in the present embodiment, the information to the effect that none of the holders stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period exists among the holders to be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period. This function of the light emission control unit 118 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies certain difference information.

Further, the light emission control unit 118 may control the light emission of the light emission unit 242 of the storage unit 24 at an arbitrary timing such as execution of detailed examination processing at the end of work on a certain day. At that time, if it is determined that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24, the light emission control unit 118 reserves the key for the next day. The light-emitting portion 242 of the storage portion 24 in which the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is not in use is stored is controlled to emit light. In the present embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, the scrutinization process is used as an example of the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, and one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period. is used, and the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period. Then, in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the difference indicating the difference between the holder stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. This function of the light emission control unit 118 is provided as an example of a notification unit that notifies information.

The scrutinization processing unit 119 performs scrutiny processing at the end of work for the day. The examination process includes, for example, a process of checking the usage history of the key management device 10 for one day. In this scrutinization processing, the scrutinization processing unit 119 obtains information on the holders 31 that should or should not be loaded into the storage unit 24 on a certain day, and which should or should not be loaded into the storage unit 24 on the next day. Update to the information of the holder 31 . In the present embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, the scrutinization process is used as an example of the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, and one day is used as an example of the first predetermined period. , the next day is used as an example of the second predetermined period, and information on the holder 31 that should or should not be loaded in the storage unit 24 is used as an example of the storage target information. Then, in the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the storage target information set for the first predetermined period is updated to the storage target information set for the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. This function of the scrutinization processing unit 119 is provided as an example of an updating unit that performs the processing.

Further, the scrutinization processing unit 119 instructs the communication control unit 115 to acquire difference information between the storage unit 24 in which the holder 31 is loaded on that day and the storage unit 24 in which the holder 31 is to be loaded the next day. The difference information determination unit 116 is instructed to determine the difference information.
Then, the scrutinization processing unit 119 determines that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day, by the difference information determination unit 116 . If so, the communication control unit 115 is instructed to transmit the information to the terminal device 50, for example. Here, the terminal device 50 may be used by an administrator at the headquarters, or may be used by an on-site administrator where the key management device 10 is installed. The information to be transmitted is information to the effect that it is necessary to additionally load the key 33, and may include the key number of the key 33 to be loaded. If the information does not include the key number, the administrator can confirm the key number using the display operation unit 27 of the key management device 10 . In the present embodiment, among the holders to be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period, the holders that are not included in the holders stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period are stored in the predetermined process. As an example of an updating unit that performs processing for the purpose, a detailed examination processing unit 119 is provided.
On the other hand, the scrutinization processing unit 119 determines that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24 by the difference information determination unit 116 . If so, the communication control unit 115 is instructed to transmit the information to the terminal device 50, for example. Here, the terminal device 50 may be used by an administrator at the headquarters, or may be used by an on-site administrator where the key management device 10 is installed. The information to be transmitted is information to the effect that it is necessary to additionally collect the key 33, and may include the storage section number of the storage section 24 in which the key 33 to be collected is stored. If the information does not contain the storage unit number, the administrator can confirm the storage unit number with the light emitting unit 242 of the storage unit 24 . In this embodiment, among the holders stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period, the holders that are not included in the holders to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period are collected in the predetermined process. This function of the scrutinization processing unit 119 is provided as an example of an update unit that performs processing for the purpose.

Further, information stored in the storage unit 12 will be specifically described. The storage unit 12 stores storage information 121 .
The storage information 121 is information for managing the RFID of the holder 31 stored in each storage section 24 of the key storage 23 . Specific contents of the storage information 121 will be described later.

[Specific contents of storage information]
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the storage information 121. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, the storage information 121 associates storage unit numbers with RFIDs.
The storage section number is a number that identifies the storage section 24 . Here, the number of storage units 24 is set to 10, and 1 to 10 are stored as storage unit numbers. The RFID is read from the holder 31 housed in the corresponding housing 24 .
The figure shows that the holder 31 with the RFID "01234927" is stored in the storage unit 24 with the storage unit number "1", for example. It should be noted that the case where the holder 31 is not stored in the storage section 24 with the storage section number "2" is taken as an example, and the RFID column for the storage section number "2" is left blank.

[Functional Configuration of Server Device]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the server device 40 in this embodiment. As illustrated, the server device 40 includes a control section 41 , a storage section 42 and a communication section 43 .
The control unit 41 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU, and controls each unit (the communication unit 43 and the like) of the server device 40 according to the operation program stored in the storage unit 42 .
The storage unit 42 includes ROM, RAM, etc., stores an operation program of the control unit 41, and is used as a work area when the control processing of the control unit 41 is performed. The operating program includes a program for the control unit 41 to execute processing described later.
The communication unit 43 performs information communication between the key management device 10 and the terminal device 50 through a communication line.

Here, the configuration of the control unit 41 will be specifically described. The control unit 41 includes a storage control unit 411 , a communication control unit 412 , a reservation availability determination unit 413 , and a difference information generation unit 414 .
The storage control unit 411 controls writing of data to the storage unit 42 and reading of data from the storage unit 42 .
Specifically, the storage control unit 411 stores key information for managing the key 33 in the storage unit 42 and reads out the key information from the storage unit 42 .

The storage control unit 411 also stores the reservation information of the holder 31 holding the key 33 in the storage unit 42 and reads out the reservation information from the storage unit 42 .
Here, the reservation information may be information in which the reserved key 33 is set for the day. As will be described later, the holder 31 holding the key 33 is associated with the key 33 in the key information, so the reservation information is information that sets the holder 31 holding the reserved key 33 for each day. can be said. In this case, in this embodiment, the holder 31 holding the reserved key 33 is used as an example of the first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and the holder is the first holder. Reservation information is used as an example of storage target information. A storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for a folder to be managed. Further, in this embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, and the storage control unit 411 is used as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for each predetermined period for a folder to be managed. are provided.
At that time, the number of holders 31 holding the reserved keys 33 may be equal to or less than the upper limit received from the key management apparatus 10 . In this case, in this embodiment, the upper limit number is used as an example of the first number equal to or less than the number of storage units, and reservation information is used as an example of storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder. is used. A storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit capable of setting storage target information for the first number of folders among the folders to be managed.

Further, the reservation information may be information in which a key 33 that is not reserved for a day is set. As will be described later, the holder 31 holding the key 33 is associated with the key 33 in the key information, so the reservation information is information that sets the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is not reserved for the day. can be said. In this case, in this embodiment, the holder 31 holding the unreserved key 33 is used as an example of the second holder that is not to be stored by the storage unit, and the holder is the second holder. Reservation information is used as an example of storage target information to be shown. A storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for a folder to be managed. Further, in this embodiment, one day is used as an example of the predetermined period, and the storage control unit 411 is used as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for each predetermined period for a folder to be managed. are provided.
At this time, the number of holders 31 holding keys 33 that are not reserved may be equal to or greater than the number of holders 31 to be managed minus the upper limit number received from the key management apparatus 10 . In this case, in the present embodiment, as an example of a second number equal to or greater than the number obtained by subtracting the number of storage units from the number of holders to be managed, the A number obtained by subtracting the upper limit number is used, and reservation information is used as an example of storage target information indicating that the holder is the second holder. A storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for the second number of folders among the folders to be managed.

Further, the reservation information may be information in which the reserved key 33 and the unreserved key 33 are set for each day. As will be described later, in the key information, the holder 31 holding the key 33 is associated with the key 33, so the reservation information includes the holder 31 holding the reserved key 33 and the reserved key 33 for each day. It can be said that the information sets the holder 31 holding the key 33 that does not exist. In this case, in this embodiment, reservation information is used as an example of storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder and that the holder is the second holder. A storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information. In addition, in this embodiment, the storage control unit 411 is provided as an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for a folder to be managed every predetermined period.

The communication control unit 412 receives information from the key management device 10 via the communication unit 43 and transmits information to the key management device 10 via the communication unit 43 .
Specifically, during key registration, the communication control unit 412 receives the key number input to the display operation unit 27 and the RFID read by the reading unit 263 of the key exchange unit 26 from the key management device 10 .
Further, at the time of key reservation, the communication control unit 412 receives from the key management device 10 in advance the upper limit number of storage units 24 in which the holders 31 can be stored for lending the key 33 from the key management device 10 .
Furthermore, when the key 33 reserved for the next day is loaded or the key 33 not reserved for the next day is recovered, the communication control unit 412 reads the RFID read by the reading unit 243 of the storage unit 24 in which the holder 31 is stored, and reads the key. It is received from the management device 10 . Then, the communication control unit 412 stores the difference information between the RFID received from the key management device 10 and the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is managed by the server device 40 to be reserved for the next day. Send to device 10 .
Furthermore, when lending the key 33 reserved for the day, the communication control unit 412 receives the user ID of the user who wants to lend the key 33 read by the card reader 28 from the key management device 10 . Then, the communication control unit 412 transmits to the key management device 10 the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 that is managed by the server device 40 to be reserved by the user on that day.

The reservation permission/inhibition determination unit 413 determines whether or not reservation is possible in response to a request for reservation of the specified key 33 during a specified period from the user. Specifically, the reservation availability determination unit 413 determines whether the number of keys 33 already reserved is less than the upper limit number received from the key management device 10 for each day within the designated period.
The difference information generation unit 414 generates difference information between the RFID of the holder 31 loaded in the storage unit 24 and the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 reserved for the next day.

Further, information stored in the storage unit 42 will be specifically described. The storage unit 42 stores key information 421 and reservation information 422 .
The key information 421 is information that associates the key number of the key 33 with the RFID possessed by the wireless tag 34 provided in the holder 31 holding the key 33 . Specific contents of the key information 421 will be described later. In this embodiment, the key information 421 is used as an example of the information of the holder to be managed by the key management apparatus.
The reservation information 422 is information indicating the reservation status of the key 33 by the user. Specific contents of the reservation information 422 will also be described later.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the key information 421. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, the key information 421 associates key numbers, key names, and RFIDs.
The key number is a number that identifies the key 33 . Here, the number of keys 33 to be managed is set to 30, which is greater than 10, which is the number of storage units 24, and 1 to 30 are stored as key numbers. The key name is a name given to facilitate human identification of the key 33 . Here, the identification information of the object to be locked and unlocked with the key 33 is stored as the key name. Objects to be locked and unlocked are, for example, cars and rooms. The RFID is the RFID possessed by the wireless tag 34 attached to the holder 31 holding the key 33 .
For example, the figure shows that the key name of the key 33 with the key number "1" is "target 1" and the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 is "12345426".

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the reservation information 422. As shown in FIG. As illustrated, the reservation information 422 associates dates, user IDs, and key numbers.
The date is the date for which the key 33 is reserved. The user ID is identification information that identifies the user who reserved the key 33 on the corresponding date. The key number is the number of the key 33 reserved by the corresponding user on the corresponding day.
The figure shows that, for example, on "October 1, 2021" and "October 3, 2021", the user with the user ID "A" has reserved the key 33 with the key number "1". ing. It also shows that the user with the user ID “B” has reserved the key 33 with the key number “3” from “October 1, 2021” to “October 3, 2021”. there is

[Operation of key management system]
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example at the time of key registration in the key management system 1 of this embodiment. Prior to this operation example, the administrator associates the key number with the key name and registers them in the key information 421 . Then, when the administrator selects an item for key registration on the administrator menu displayed on the display operation unit 27, this operation example is started.
First, the administrator exchanges keys in the key exchange unit 26 . That is, an operation to newly connect the holder 31 and the key 33 is performed. Then, in the key management device 10, the reader 263 of the key exchange section 26 reads the RFID from the holder 31, and the RFID acquisition section 111 acquires the RFID from the reader 263 (step 131).
Next, the administrator performs an operation of inputting the key number of the key 33 linked to the holder 31 by the key exchange section 26 on the administrator menu displayed on the display operation section 27 . Note that the administrator may affix a seal with a key number on the key 33 in advance, and input the key number described on the seal here. Then, in the key management device 10, the display operation section 27 accepts the operation of inputting the key number, and the key number acquisition section 112 acquires the key number from the display operation section 27 (step 132).
After that, in the key management device 10, the communication control unit 115 controls the communication unit 13 to transmit the RFID acquired in step 131 and the key number acquired in step 132 to the server device 40 (step 133). .

Accordingly, in the server device 40, the communication control section 412 controls the communication section 43 to receive the key number and the RFID from the key management device 10 (step 431).
After that, in the server device 40, the storage control unit 411 associates the key number received in step 431 with the RFID and stores it in the key information 421 (step 432). At this time, if the key number is not registered in the key information 421 or if another RFID is already associated with the key number in the key information 421, the server device 40 makes an error.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the key reservation of the server device 40 in the key management system 1 of the present embodiment. It is assumed that prior to this operation example, the key management device 10 has transmitted to the server device 40 the upper limit number of storage units 24 that can store the holders 31 for lending the key 33 .
First, a user who wants to reserve the key 33 operates, for example, the terminal device 50 to send a reservation request including the user ID of the user, the key number of the key 33 to be reserved, and the period for which the key 33 is to be reserved to the server. Send to device 40 . In the reservation request, the key 33 to be reserved may be specified by the key name instead of the key number, but in this operation example, the key 33 to be reserved is specified by the key number. Accordingly, in the server device 40, the communication control section 412 controls the communication section 43 to receive the reservation request including the user ID, key number, and period (step 441).

Next, in the server device 40, the reservation availability determination unit 413 focuses on the days within the period included in the reservation request received in step 441 (step 442).
Then, in the reservation information 422 stored in the storage unit 42, the reservation availability determination unit 413 determines that the number of pairs of user IDs and key numbers already stored for the date focused on in step 442 is from the key management device 10. A determination is made as to whether the number is less than the received upper limit (step 443).
As a result, if it is determined that the number of pairs of user IDs and key numbers that have already been stored is less than the upper limit, the reservation availability determination unit 413 stores that reservations can be made on the day of interest in step 442. (Step 444).
On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of pairs of user IDs and key numbers that have already been stored is not less than the upper limit number, that is, the number has reached the upper limit number, the reservation availability determination unit 413 determines that the date focused on in step 442 The fact that reservation is impossible is stored (step 445).
After that, the reservation propriety determination unit 413 determines whether or not there are still days within the period included in the reservation request received in step 441 (step 446).
As a result, if it is determined that there are still days within the period included in the reservation request, the reservation availability determination unit 413 returns the process to step 442 .
On the other hand, if it is determined that there are no more days within the period included in the reservation request, the reservation propriety determination unit 413 determines whether or not there has been even one day in which the fact that the reservation is impossible has been stored (step 447).

Here, it is assumed that it is determined that there is not even one day in which the fact that the reservation is impossible has been stored. Then, the storage control unit 411 stores the user ID and key included in the reservation request in the reservation information 422 stored in the storage unit 42 for all days within the period included in the reservation request received in step 441. Store the number (step 448).
On the other hand, it is assumed that it is determined that there is at least one day when the fact that the reservation is impossible is stored. Then, the communication control unit 412 controls the communication unit 43 to notify, for example, the terminal device 50 of an error indicating that the key 33 cannot be reserved (step 449). In this case, the user checks the period during which the key 33 to be reserved can be reserved, and retransmits the reservation request.

FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when the key 33 reserved for the next day is loaded in the key management system 1 of the present embodiment. Prior to this operation example, the administrator selects an item for loading the key 33 reserved for the next day on the administrator menu displayed on the display operation unit 27, and selects the key 33 reserved for the next day. is taken out from the backyard and loaded into the storage section 24.例文帳に追加In this case, for example, a time limit for loading the key 33 reserved for the next day may be set in advance, and when this time limit has passed, an alarm may be sounded to prompt the administrator to load the key 33.例文帳に追加When the key 33 is loaded into the storage unit 24, the key management device 10 associates the storage unit number of the storage unit 24 with the RFID of the holder 31 holding the key 33 in the storage information 121, and stores this information. Start the working example.

First, in the key management device 10, the reading units 243 of all storage units 24 loaded with holders 31 read RFIDs from the holders 31, and the RFID acquisition unit 111 acquires a set of RFIDs from the reading unit 243 ( step 151).
Next, the communication control unit 115 controls the communication unit 13 to transmit the set of RFIDs acquired in step 151 to the server device 40 (step 152).

Accordingly, in the server device 40, the communication control unit 412 controls the communication unit 43 to receive the RFID set from the key management device 10 (step 451).
Next, in the server device 40, the storage control unit 411 acquires a set of key numbers stored for the next day in the reservation information 422 stored in the storage unit 42 (step 452). Then, the storage control unit 411 acquires a set of RFIDs respectively associated with this set of key numbers in the key information 421 stored in the storage unit 42 (step 453).
Next, in the server device 40, the difference information generation unit 414 generates difference information between the RFID set received in step 451 and the RFID set acquired in step 452 (step 454).
Thereafter, in the server device 40, the communication control section 412 controls the communication section 43 to transmit the difference information generated in step 453 to the key management device 10 (step 455).

Accordingly, in the key management device 10, the communication control section 115 controls the communication section 13 to receive the difference information from the server device 40 (step 153).
Next, in the key management apparatus 10, the difference information determination unit 116 determines that the difference information received in step 153 indicates that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day. It is determined whether it does (step 154).
As a result, if it is determined that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day, the display control unit 117 causes the storage unit 24 to The key number of the key 33 that has not been loaded is displayed on the display operation section 27 (step 155). As a result, the administrator can take out the key 33 that has been reserved for the next day but has not been loaded in the storage section 24 from the backyard and additionally loads it in the storage section 24 .
Assume that the storage unit 24 is additionally loaded with the key 33 reserved for the next day. Then, in the key management device 10, the storage control unit 114 associates the storage unit number with the RFID of the holder 31 holding the loaded key 33 and stores the storage information 121 (step 156).
On the other hand, if it is determined that the difference information does not indicate that there is a key 33 that is not loaded in the storage unit 24 among the keys 33 reserved for the next day, the display control unit 117 displays the key number. It is not displayed in section 27. Moreover, since the key 33 reserved for the next day is not additionally loaded into the storage unit 24 , the storage control unit 114 does not store the RFID in the storage information 121 either.

In the above description, when the administrator takes out the key 33 from the backyard and loads it into the storage unit 24, it is checked whether all the keys 33 reserved for the next day are loaded into the storage unit 24. is not limited to For example, such processing may be performed at an arbitrary timing, such as when performing the detailed examination processing at the end of work for the day. In that case, the administrator may not be near the key management device 10, so in step 155, the communication control unit 115 sets the key number of the key 33 that is not loaded in the storage unit 24 to, for example, the administrator's key number. It is preferable to transmit to the terminal device 50 .

FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when lending the key 33 reserved on the day in the key management system 1 of the present embodiment. This operation example starts when the user selects an item for receiving the rental of the key 33 reserved for the day on the standby menu displayed on the display operation unit 27 .
First, when the user passes the card through the card reader 28, the user ID acquisition unit 113 of the key management device 10 acquires the user ID from the card reader 28 (step 161) and performs user authentication (step 162). ).
When the user authentication is successful, in the key management device 10, the communication control section 115 controls the communication section 13 to transmit the user ID obtained in step 161 to the server device 40 (step 163).

Accordingly, in the server device 40, the communication control section 412 controls the communication section 43 to receive the user ID from the key management device 10 (step 461).
Next, in the server device 40, the storage control unit 411 acquires the key number stored together with the user ID received in step 461 for today in the reservation information 422 stored in the storage unit 42 (step 462). Then, the storage control unit 411 acquires the RFID associated with the key number acquired in step 462 in the key information 421 stored in the storage unit 42 (step 463).
After that, in the server device 40, the communication control unit 412 controls the communication unit 43 to transmit the RFID acquired in step 463 to the key management device 10 (step 464).

Accordingly, in the key management device 10, the communication control section 115 controls the communication section 13 to receive the RFID from the server device 40 (step 164).
Next, in the key management device 10, the storage control unit 114 acquires the storage unit number associated with the RFID received in step 164 from the storage information 121 stored in the storage unit 12 (step 165).
Next, in the key management device 10, the light emission control section 118 causes the light emission section 242 of the storage section 24 corresponding to the storage section number obtained in step 165 to emit light (step 166). At this time, the lock mechanism 241 is released so that the holder 31 can be pulled out.
As a result, the user finds the storing section 24 in which the holder 31 holding the key 33 reserved on the day is stored, and extracts the key 33 from the storing section 24 in order to receive the loan. Then, in the key management device 10, the storage control unit 114 deletes the RFID linked to the storage unit number of the storage unit 24 in the storage information 121 (step 167).

Although not mentioned above, if the key number stored together with the user ID does not exist in step 462, the server device 40 should notify the key management device 10 of an error.
Further, when it is found in the above operation that there is a key 33 whose reserved period has expired, the key management device 10 may display a message to that effect on the display/operation unit 27 .

Next, an operation example when returning the key 33 reserved on the same day in the key management system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. This operation example starts when the user selects an item for returning the key 33 reserved for the day on the standby menu displayed on the display operation unit 27 .
In this operation example, steps 161, 162, and 167 of the flowchart of FIG. 12 are extracted and partially modified.
That is, when the user passes the card through the card reader 28, the user ID acquisition unit 113 in the key management device 10 acquires the user ID from the card reader 28 and performs user authentication. When the user authentication is successful, the user inserts the key 33 into the empty storage section 24 to return it. Then, in the key management device 10 , the storage control unit 114 associates the storage unit number of the storage unit 24 with the RFID of the holder 31 holding the returned key 33 and stores the storage information 121 .
Although not mentioned above, the key management device 10 has a door locking mechanism so that the user who finally returns the key 33 reserved on the day can open and close the first door 21 even outside the reservation period. 14 may be controlled.

Next, an operation example when collecting the key 33 that is not reserved for the next day in the key management system 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The manager selects an item for collecting the key 33 not reserved for the next day on the manager menu displayed on the display operation unit 27, and collects the key 33 not reserved for the next day in the backyard. , this operational example begins.
This operation example is obtained by partially modifying the operation of the flowchart of FIG.
That is, steps 151 to 153 are the same as in FIG.
In step 154, the difference information determination unit 116 determines whether the difference information received in step 153 indicates that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24. judge.
In step 155, if it is determined that the difference information indicates that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24, the light emission control unit 118 causes the next day reservation. The light emitting portion 242 of the storage portion 24 in which the holder 31 holding the unlocked key 33 is stored is caused to emit light. As a result, the administrator can collect the key 33 loaded in the storage unit 24 in the backyard even though it is not reserved for the next day.
After that, it is assumed that the key 33 not reserved for the next day is additionally collected from the storage section 24 . Then, in step 156 , the storage control unit 114 deletes from the storage information 121 the RFID linked to the storage unit number in which the holder 31 holding the recovered key 33 was stored.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the difference information does not indicate that there is a key 33 that is not reserved for the next day among the keys 33 loaded in the storage unit 24, the light emission control unit 118 causes the light emission unit 242 to turn on. Do not emit light. Further, since the keys 33 not reserved for the next day are not additionally collected from the storage unit 24 , the storage control unit 114 does not delete the RFID from the storage information 121 either.

In the above description, when the administrator collects the keys 33 in the backyard, it is checked whether all the keys 33 that are not reserved for the next day have been removed from the storage unit 24, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, such processing may be performed at an arbitrary timing, such as when performing the detailed examination processing at the end of work for the day. In that case, the administrator may not be near the key management device 10, so in step 155, the communication control unit 115 selects the storage unit number of the storage unit 24 that stores the key 33 that has not been reserved for the next day. , for example, to the terminal device 50 of the administrator.

[Modification]
Although not mentioned above, the key exchange in the key exchange section 26 can be performed only for the holders 31 that should be stored in the storage section 24, and the holders 31 that do not need to be stored in the storage section 24 can be exchanged. You may make it unexecutable.

In the above description, it is assumed that the key 33 reserved for the next day is stored in the storage unit 24 at the end of the day's work. This means that even if the key 33 is lent out for several days in a row, the key 33 must be returned to the key management apparatus 10 at the end of each day's work. However, the key 33 that has been lent for a long period of time may not need to be returned to the key management device 10 at the end of each day's work. In this case, at the end of the day's work, it is advisable to check whether the key 33 reserved for the next day is stored in the storage unit 24, excluding the key 33 that is rented for a long period of time.
On the other hand, suppose that there is a key 33 that has been lent out for a long period of time and is stored in the key management apparatus 10 even though it should not have been stored in the check at the end of the day's work. This may be the key 33 that was lent out for a long period of time but was returned early. In such a case, it may be notified that there is a key 33 returned early. Such notification may be made in a manner different from the manner in which other information is notified. Alternatively, the use of the key 33 may be terminated when it is returned. In the case of such a configuration, the user can obtain the merit of being able to keep the rental cost low by shortening the usage period, and the merit of being released from the management responsibility of the key 33, which is an important item. .

In the above, only the server device 40 holds the reservation information 422. 10 may also hold reservation information 422 . In other words, the server device 40 transmits the reservation information 422 to the key management device 10, and in the key management device 10, the communication control unit 115 receives the reservation information 422 using the communication unit 13, and the storage control unit 114 A mode in which the reservation information 422 is stored in the storage unit 12 may be adopted. Also in this aspect, the server device 40 may generate the reservation information 422 by accepting reservation requests for the key 33 within the maximum number received from the key management device 10 on a daily basis.
In this case, the server device 40 is an example of another device, the upper limit number is an example of a first number, and the holder 31 reserved for the next day is an example of a first holder to be stored by the storage unit. , and the reservation information 422 is an example of storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder. Then, the storage control unit 114 is an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder for the holders of the first number or less based on the information received from the other device. is.
A day is an example of a predetermined period, and the reservation information 422 indicates that the holder is the first holder to be stored by the storage unit and that the holder is the second holder to be excluded from storage by the storage unit. It is an example of storage object information indicating at least one of them. The storage control unit 114 is an example of a setting unit that sets storage target information for each predetermined period for a folder to be managed based on information received from another device.

In the above description, the storage portion 24 is described as being of a type in which the holder 31 is inserted into the storage portion 24. However, the storage portion 24 is not limited to this type. The housing portion 24 may be of a type that houses the holder 31 by housing it in a housing, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-75852, for example.
In the above description, the key 33 is assumed to be a physical key, but it is not limited to a physical key, and may be a card key or a digital key.

Although the key management device 10 that manages the key 33 has been described above, the present invention is also applicable to an article management device that manages articles such as seals and USB memories. In that case, "key" in all documents should be read as "article" and the invention should be understood.
In other words, the present invention provides "a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding an article, a registration unit for registering the holders to be managed by the device itself, and the holders to be managed registered by the registration unit. , at least one of that the holder is a first holder to be stored by the storage unit and that the holder is a second holder not to be stored by the storage unit and a setting unit for setting target information".
Further, the present invention provides an article management apparatus having a plurality of storage units each capable of accommodating a holder for holding an article, a storage unit for storing information on the holders to be managed by the article management apparatus, and the storage unit. with respect to the information of the managed folder stored in the storage unit, that the holder is a first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and that the holder is a second holder not to be stored by the storage unit and a setting unit that sets storage object information indicating at least one of the following: "goods management system".
Further, the present invention provides a "registration step in which a computer registers a holder to be managed by an article management apparatus having a plurality of storage units each capable of accommodating a holder holding an article, and a computer registers in the registration step. for the managed holder that has been stored, that the holder is a first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and that the holder is a second holder that is not to be stored by the storage unit. and a setting step of setting storage target information indicating at least one of them.

[Effects of Embodiment]
In this embodiment, a holder to be managed by the key management apparatus 10 is at least either a holder that should be stored in the key management apparatus 10 or a holder that should not be stored in the key management apparatus 10. Either one can be set. This makes it possible for the key management device 10 to manage holders greater than the number of storage units of the key management device 10 .

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 key management system 10 key management device 11 control unit 111 RFID acquisition unit 112 key number acquisition unit 113 user ID acquisition unit 114 storage control unit 115 communication control unit 116 ... difference information determination unit 117 ... display control unit 118 ... light emission control unit 119 ... scrutinization processing unit 12 ... storage unit 121 ... storage information 13 ... communication unit 14 ... door locking mechanism 24 ... storage unit, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 241... Lock mechanism, 242... Light-emitting part, 243... Reading part, 25... Printer, 26... Key exchange part, 263... Reading part, 27... Display operation part, 28... Card reader, 40... Server apparatus, 41... Control part , 411... Storage control unit, 412... Communication control unit, 413... Reservation availability determination unit, 414... Difference information generation unit, 42... Storage unit, 421... Key information, 422... Reservation information, 43... Communication unit, 50... Terminal Device

Claims (17)

a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder for holding a key;
a registration unit for registering a holder to be managed by the own device;
For the holder to be managed registered by the registration unit, the holder is a first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and the holder is a second holder not to be stored by the storage unit. a setting unit for setting storage target information indicating at least one of being a holder;
A key management device. Further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires identification information of the holder,
The key management device according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers the identification information acquired by the acquisition unit as identification information of the holder to be managed. 2. The key management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said registration unit can register more holders than said storage units as said holders to be managed. The setting unit indicates, among the holders to be managed registered by the registration unit, that the holder is the first holder with respect to a first number of holders equal to or less than the number of storage units. 2. The key management device according to claim 1, wherein said storage target information can be set. A communication unit that communicates with other devices,
The communication unit transmits the first number to the other device,
The setting unit, based on the information received by the communication unit from the other device, provides the storage target information indicating that the holder is the first holder for the holders of the first number or less. 5. The key management device according to claim 4, wherein the key management device is set. The setting unit registers a second number of holders, among the managed holders registered by the registration unit, that is equal to or greater than the number of managed holders minus the number of storage units. 2. The key management device according to claim 1, wherein said storage target information indicating that said holder is said second holder can be set. 2. The key management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said setting unit sets said storage target information for said management target holder registered by said registration unit at predetermined intervals. A communication unit that communicates with other devices,
wherein the setting unit sets the storage target information for each of the management target folders registered by the registration unit based on the information received by the communication unit from the other device, every predetermined period of time. Item 8. The key management device according to item 7. At a predetermined time point within a first predetermined period, the holder stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period, and the storage portion during the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. 8. The key management device according to claim 7, further comprising a notification unit that notifies difference information indicating a difference from the holder to be stored in the key management device. The difference information is information to the effect that none of the holders to be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period exists among the holders stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period. 10. The key management device according to claim 9, wherein: The difference information is information to the effect that none of the holders stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period exists among the holders that should be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period. 10. The key management device according to claim 9, wherein: In the predetermined process executed every predetermined period, the storage target information set for the first predetermined period is changed to the storage target information set for the second predetermined period following the first predetermined period. 8. The key management device according to claim 7, further comprising an updating unit that updates to . In the predetermined process, the update section is not included in the holders that are to be stored in the storage section during the second predetermined period and that are not included in the holders that are stored in the storage section during the first predetermined period. 13. The key management device according to claim 12, which performs processing for housing the holder. In the predetermined process, the updating unit is not included in the holders to be stored in the storage unit during the second predetermined period, among the holders stored in the storage unit during the first predetermined period. 13. The key management device according to claim 12, which performs processing for recovering the holder. In the predetermined process, difference information indicating a difference between the holder stored in the storage portion during the first predetermined period and the holder to be stored in the storage portion during the second predetermined period is reported. 13. The key management device according to claim 12, further comprising a notification unit. a key management device having a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding a key;
a storage unit that stores information about holders to be managed by the key management device;
With respect to the information of the managed folder stored in the storage unit, the holder is the first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and the holder is the first folder to be stored by the storage unit. a setting unit that sets storage target information indicating at least one of the two holders;
A key management system comprising: a registration step in which the computer registers holders to be managed by a key management device having a plurality of storage units each capable of storing a holder holding a key;
The computer determines that the folder to be managed registered in the registration step is the first holder to be stored by the storage unit, and that the holder is not to be stored by the storage unit. a setting step of setting storage target information indicating at least one of being the second holder;
Key management methods, including

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