JP4341370B2 - Locker system and locker device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a locker system including one or more locker devices and a locker management server that manages the locker devices.

  In recent years, a locker device is one of the means to efficiently deliver and receive laundry and delivery items due to changes in lifestyles, such as the fact that people who receive laundry and delivery items that are delivered to their homes are not always at home. Is being used. For example, in the case of laundry, the user can deposit the laundry using the locker device, and the laundry after washing by the laundry company can be received again by the locker device. For example, in the case of a delivery item, a product can be ordered by telephone or the Internet, and the product can be received using a locker device (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 62-138965

  However, the conventional locker device is efficient because there is no consideration for wrongly depositing the baggage by the contractor, deterioration of the rotation rate due to the fact that the recipient hardly receives the baggage of the locker device, and processing when the locker device is full. Operation was not possible.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems of the conventional locker system, and a main object of the present invention is a new and improved locker capable of efficiently operating the locker device. Is to provide a system.

To solve the above problems, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a locker system including one or more locker devices (100) and a locker management server (200) that manages the locker devices. . In the locker system of the present invention, the locker management server includes a locker database (800) that stores information related to a user of the locker device, and the locker device includes an input unit (110) that inputs information related to the user. management server, and information stored in the locker database collates the information input to the input means, if they match, you and permits the transfer of cargo through the rocker device.

  According to such a locker system, the user (customer and delivery company) can safely use the locker device at various use opportunities of the locker device, for example, depositing the baggage, collecting the baggage, delivering the baggage, and receiving the baggage. Can be used. In this way, efficient operation of the locker device can be achieved.

  The locker system of the present invention can be applied as follows.

The locker device is provided with a scheduled receipt date and time registration means for the user to register the scheduled receipt date and time of the package, and the locker management server is provided with a means for calculating the difference between the received date and time of the package received by the user. even if the good. According to such a system, for example, points can be given to a user who received early with respect to the scheduled reception date and time, and the usage fee can be discounted. More specifically, the locker management server generates points according to the difference between the date and time of receipt of the package by the user and the scheduled date and time of receiving (claim 1) , and calculates a predetermined amount corresponding to the points from the usage fee of the locker device. You may make it deduct (Claim 2). In this way, it is possible to effectively eliminate the deterioration of the rotation rate of the locker device due to the user not readily receiving the load of the locker device.

The locker device is provided with a receiving locker designating means for the user to designate a locker device as a package receiving destination, and the locker management server provides information on a substitute locker device as a substitute when the designated locker device cannot be used. , It may be provided to the user (claim 3 ). According to such a system, when the locker device cannot be used due to fullness or failure, information on the substitute locker device can be provided to the user.

Furthermore, in this case, the locker management server can provide the user with information on the substitute locker device by district or by location (claim 4 ). For example, by registering in advance information such as the same district as the locker device specified by the user, the adjacent district, or the user's work address, station, and convenience store to be used, it is possible for the user. It is possible to use an efficient locker device.

Rocker device comprises a card insertion slot, the information about the user, may also be obtained from the user card inserted in the card insertion slot (claim 5). According to such a system, it is possible to prevent other packages from being received by mistake by registering various types of user information in the user card.

Rocker device comprises a bar code reader, information about cargo may also be obtained from the bar code reader (claim 6). According to such a system, for example, when a locker device is used for delivery of a package, the package information can be stored in a barcode or the like, and an erroneous delivery of the package can be prevented.

  In the above description, the reference numerals in parentheses attached to the constituent elements are merely examples of corresponding constituent elements and signals in the embodiments and drawings to be described later for easy understanding. However, it is not limited to this.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to efficiently operate the locker device.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a locker system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a locker system according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the locker system according to the present embodiment includes a locker device 100, a locker management server 200, a mall 300, a delivery company terminal 400, a cleaning factory terminal 500, a user terminal 600, , Settlement support center 700, locker database (DB) 800, and mail order terminal 900 are included as system components. In FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, each system component is shown one by one. However, the number of system components in an actual system is not limited to the illustrated one. Also, among the connections between the components shown in FIG. 1, the solid line is a connection via a network such as the Internet or a dedicated line, and the broken line is a connection not via the network.

In the following, “users” are users of the locker system according to the present embodiment, and include customers who receive services and delivery companies that deliver packages. Here, the delivery trader includes a person who carries out delivery as a specialized work, and a person who carries out delivery accompanying other work, for example, when a laundry trader delivers laundry. “Package” is an object to be exchanged between a customer and a delivery company in the locker system according to the present embodiment, and includes concepts such as “delivery”, “delivery”, and “delivery”. It is.
Details of the system components of this system are described below.

(Locker device 100)
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the appearance of the locker device 100.
The locker device 100 includes an operation unit 110 and a plurality of lockers 120, as shown in FIG. The locker device 100 according to the present embodiment is used to exchange packages between a customer and a delivery company. Specifically, it is used for delivery of laundry such as clothes to be cleaned and delivery of home delivery. From this point of view, the locker device 100 may be distinguished from a laundry locker, a home delivery locker, a laundry / home delivery locker, and the like. In the locker device 100, information related to users (user information) and information related to packages (package information) are managed by a locker management server 200 described later.

(Operation unit 110)
The operation unit 110 functions as an input unit that inputs information about the user (user information) and information about the baggage exchanged via the locker device 100 (baggage information). FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the operation unit 110 of the locker device 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the operation unit 110 includes a display 111, a card insertion slot 112, a key input unit 113, a barcode reader 114, and a printer 115. The display 111 can employ, for example, a touch panel system that allows a user to input information by touching the screen. The card insertion slot 112 is used to insert a card (user card) distributed to the user. The card information may be input by inserting a card, or a card reading device capable of reading the card by optical means or the like may be used.

  The key input unit 113 is used to input user information and package information by the user inputting numbers and English characters. The barcode reader 114 is used to input user information and package information from a card or a barcode attached to the package. The barcode reader 114 will be further described in an embodiment described later. The printer 115 is used to print a slip such as a usage statement. In the following description, “operation on the operation unit 110 (key input unit 113) of the locker device 100” is also simply referred to as “operation on the locker device 100”, and “display on the display unit 111 of the locker device 100”. This is also simply referred to as “display of locker device 100”.

(Locker management server 200)
The locker management server 200 is a server for managing user information of the locker device 100, managing payment information, managing locker vacancy information / failure information, and the like. Connected with. The locker management server 200 has a locker database 800 that stores various data. The locker management server 200 collates the information stored in the locker database 800 with the information input to the operation unit 110 of the locker device 100, and permits the delivery of the package via the locker device 100 if they match. It has a function.

(Mall 300)
The mall 300 is a WEB server for controlling the screen of each locker device 100. The mall 300 is connected to each locker device 100, locker management server 200, delivery company terminal 400, cleaning factory terminal 500, user terminal 600, settlement support center 700, and mail order terminal 900, and these components. Send and receive data to and from. Further, the mall 300 has a web page for mail order and has a function of providing products to users, which will be described later.

(Distributor terminal 400)
The delivery company has a delivery company terminal 400 that transmits / receives data to / from the mall 300 (or via the mall 300). The delivery company collects delivery items from the locker device 100 based on the deposit information provided from the mall 300 to the delivery company terminal 400, and delivers the delivery items to a predetermined delivery destination. Here, the delivery includes, for example, laundry / delivery goods collected from the locker device 100, products purchased by customers through mail order, and the like. The predetermined delivery destination is the cleaning factory if the laundry is collected, the locker device 100 if the laundry has been cleaned, and the designated delivery destination (the locker device 100 if it is a home delivery). May be specified). Further, the delivery company searches the laundry information for which cleaning has been completed based on the information of the locker management server 200, receives the laundry from the cleaning factory, and stores it in the locker device 100.

(Cleaning factory terminal 500)
The cleaning factory has a cleaning factory terminal 500 that transmits / receives data to / from the mall 300 (or via the mall 300). The cleaning factory cleans the laundry delivered by the delivery company. In this embodiment, the case where the cleaning factory terminal 500 is included as a system component in this way will be described. However, when a system including no laundry company is assumed in the system, the cleaning factory terminal 500 is configured as a configuration. Not required.

(User terminal 600)
The user of the present embodiment is a user of a cleaning service or a delivery / delivery service using the locker device 100, and the user terminal 600 is used as a communication device that can be connected to a mobile phone mail or the Internet. Have. The user terminal 600 performs user registration (member registration) with the mall 300, receives an e-mail notifying arrival of the locker device 100, and connects to the mail order service of the mall 300. Used to place an order for goods. In addition, when receiving a delivery, the locker device 100 as a receiving destination can be registered with the locker management server 200 in advance using the user terminal 600 or the locker device 100.

(Settlement Support Center 700)
The payment support center 700 has a function of receiving payment information (user information, money amount information, product information, etc.) from the mall 300 and transmitting the payment information to a system related to payment, such as a bank.

(Locker database 800)
The locker database 800 is a database that the locker management server 200 has, and stores and holds at least information about the user (user information) and information about the baggage exchanged via the locker device 100 (baggage information). In addition to this, the locker database 800 includes information on traders (delivery traders, cleaning traders, mail order dealers, etc.), vacancy information on the locker device 100, locker information on delivery destinations (information identifying the locker device 100), failure information Such information can be stored and retained.

(Mail order terminal 900)
The mail orderer has a mail order terminal 900 that transmits / receives data to / from the mall 300 (or via the mall 300). The mail-order dealer arranges mail-order merchandise ordered from the customer at the mall 300 and delivers it to the delivery company.

The locker system according to the present embodiment is configured as described above.
Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

(1) User registration (member registration)
The user of the locker device 100 needs to perform user registration (member registration) in advance. This user registration may be a paid membership system. User registration is performed according to the following procedure.

(1-1) A person who wants to register as a user connects to the mall 300 using a communication device that can be connected to the Internet, such as a computer or a mobile phone, as a user terminal 600, and calls a user registration screen. The mall 300 provides the user with user registration information for user registration.
(1-2) Next, on the user registration screen, the name, address, locker device 100 to be used, mail address, telephone number, settlement method (credit, account transfer, etc.), etc. are entered.
(1-3) The entered user information is notified to the mall 300.
(1-4) The mall 300 that has received the user information notifies the locker management server 200, registers the user information in the locker database 800, and returns a notification that the registration is completed to the user terminal 600. Also, a registration completion message (user ID and password) is transmitted from the locker management server 200 to the mall 300 to the registered mail address, and is transmitted from the mall 300 to the specified mail address. It is also possible to issue a user card and send it to the user.

When the above user registration is completed, the system can be used.
In the following, as usage modes of the locker device 100 according to the present embodiment, (2) deposit, (3) collection, (4) product purchase by mail order, (5) product purchase by mail order using the locker device 100 , (6) Delivery, (7) Receipt, and (8) Settlement will be described in order.

(2) Depositing FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during the depositing operation.

(2-1) The case of cleaning will be described as an example. When a customer who brings laundry such as clothes for which cleaning is requested to the locker device 100 selects “deposit” from the menu screen (a) of the locker device 100, an ID input screen (b) is displayed. In order to indicate to the locker device 100 that the customer is a user, the customer inputs the user ID and password as user information. Before entering the user ID or the like, a user card may be inserted into the card insertion portion of the locker device 100.
Further, taking the deposit of delivery items as an example, when a customer who brings a delivery item to be delivered to the locker device selects “deposit” from the menu screen (a) of the locker device 100, an ID input screen is displayed. (B) is displayed. In order to indicate to the locker device 100 that the customer is a user, the customer inputs the user ID and password as user information. Before entering the user ID or the like, a user card may be inserted into the card insertion portion of the locker device 100.
(2-2) When the user information is input, the locker device 100 transmits the input user information to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(2-3) The locker management server 200 collates the received user information with the user information in the locker database 800, and returns a collation result (match / mismatch) to the locker device 100 via the mall 300. .
(2-4) The locker device that has received the verification result returns a message indicating that the locker device cannot be used if it does not match, rejects the deposit, and returns to the initial screen. If they match, the process proceeds to a depositing operation, and a depositing input screen (c) is displayed for selecting whether the item to be deposited is laundry or home delivery. When the user card is inserted, the deposit is refused or the operation is shifted to the deposit operation, and the user card is returned.
(2-5) When the user inputs on the deposit input screen, the locker position display screen (d) is displayed. The locker position display screen may display all the positions of vacant lockers, and if the items to be deposited are laundry (delivery items), the locker position is limited to the lockers dedicated to laundry (delivery items) You may display the position of the vacant locker. The locker is automatically unlocked and automatically locked when the customer puts the package and closes the lid.
The deposit is thus completed, and an end screen (e) is displayed.
It should be noted that a package tag indicating information identifying the customer who is the requester and information identifying the delivery destination is attached to the checked baggage. For example, in the case of laundry, dedicated bags are distributed to users in advance. The special bag is pasted with information identifying the customer and a tag indicating the locker information of the delivery destination.
(2-6) When the deposit is completed, the locker device 100 transmits a deposit completion notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(2-7) Receiving the deposit completion notification, the locker management server 200 updates the deposit information in the user information and updates information indicating that the locker is loaded.

(3) Recovery FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during the recovery operation.

(3-1) Before going to collection, the delivery company searches the locker information of the locker management server 200 from the delivery company terminal 400 via the mall 300, knows the storage status of the locker device 100, and collects the collection route. Is identified. Note that the locker management server 200 may notify the delivery company terminal 400 of a collection instruction.
(3-2) The delivery company goes to the locker device 100 based on the deposit status received by the delivery company terminal 400, and loads (laundry / delivery goods) to the initial screen (a) displayed on the locker device 100. A user card (for a trader) is inserted as delivery trader information to indicate that the delivery trader is permitted to collect the product. When the user card is recognized, “collection” or “delivery” is displayed on the menu screen (b) of the locker device 100, so “collection” is selected. Then, the trader ID and password are entered on the next trader ID input screen (c).
(3-3) When the delivery company information is input, the locker device 100 transmits the delivery company information to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(3-4) The locker management server 200 collates the received delivery company information with the information on the locker database 800, and returns a matching result (match / mismatch) to the corresponding locker device 100 via the mall 300. To do. The delivery company may be divided into a collection company (a company that collects the package from the locker device 100) and a delivery company (a company that delivers the package to the locker unit 100) for verification.
(3-5) The locker apparatus 100 that has received the reply of the collation result displays that it cannot be used if they do not match, rejects the collection, and moves to the collection operation if they match.
(3-6) The position of the deposited locker is displayed on the locker position display screen (d), and the locker is unlocked. The locker is locked when the delivery company extracts the package and closes the lid. This completes the collection of the luggage.
(3-7) When the collection operation is completed, the locker device 100 transmits the locker vacancy information as a collection completion notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300. Further, the locker device 100 displays an end screen (e) and prints out the collection certificate slip. Thereafter, the screen of the locker device 100 returns to the initial screen (a).
(3-8) The locker management server 200 that has received the collection completion notification writes the locker vacancy information in the locker database 800.
(3-9) Then, the delivery company delivers the collected luggage (laundry / delivery goods) to a predetermined delivery destination. In the case of laundry, the delivery destination is a cleaning factory, and in the case of home delivery, the delivery destination is a delivery destination designated by a tag. The delivery of the package from the delivery company to the delivery destination may be performed every time the package is collected, or is performed periodically or when a predetermined amount of packages is accumulated.

When the delivery destination is a cleaning factory, the following operations are further performed.
(3-10) Cleaning is performed at the cleaning factory which has received the delivery. In the cleaning factory, delivery locker device information is assigned to the cleaned laundry, and the locker device 100 serving as the delivery destination is sorted according to the supplier having jurisdiction. When sorting is not performed at the cleaning factory, a sorting center is provided and sorting is performed there.
(3-11) When cleaning is completed, the end of cleaning is input from the cleaning factory terminal 500 and notified to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(3-12) The locker management server 200 updates the cleaning end information. Note that when the cleaning end information is periodically received by the operation, it is not necessary to update the cleaning end information.

(4) Product purchase by mail order The customer can use the user terminal 600 to access the mail order homepage of the mall 300, purchase the product, and receive the purchased product with the locker device 100. .

(4-1) The user accesses the user terminal 600 by inputting an address of a mail order homepage of the mall 300, selects a product to be purchased according to predetermined guidance, and inputs a user ID and a password.
(4-2) The mall 300 transmits the user ID and password to the locker management server 200.
(4-3) The locker management server 200 collates the received information with the information on the locker database 800, and returns a collation result (match / mismatch) and a use locker No.
(4-4) The fact that the mall 300 can be used, the settlement method, and the receiving method are displayed on the user terminal 600 to allow the user to select. At this time, reception at the locker device 100 is displayed as an option as a reception method.
(4-5) The mall 300 transmits product information and delivery destination information to the mail order terminal 900. When the locker device 100 is selected as the receiving destination, information is transmitted to the locker management server 200, and the user ID of the customer who is the receiver is registered in the locker management information as the receiver information in the locker database 800. .
(4-6) The mail-order dealer obtains the merchandise, attaches at least a tag with the user ID of the recipient and the locker information of the delivery destination, and delivers the merchandise to the delivery merchant.

(5) Product purchase by mail order using the locker device 100 Further, the customer accesses the mail order homepage of the mall 300 using the operation screen of the locker device 100, purchases the product, and locks the purchased product into the locker. It can also be received by the device 100. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during a product purchase operation by mail order. The product purchase operation by mail order using the locker device 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

(5-1) The user goes to the locker device 100 and selects and inputs “mail order” from the menu screen (a) of the locker device 100. Next, since an ID input screen (b) is displayed, a user ID and a password are input to indicate to the locker device 100 that the user is a user. At this time, a user card may be used as in the depositing operation.
(5-2) When the user information is input, the locker device 100 transmits the input user information to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(5-3) The locker management server 200 collates the received user information with the user information on the locker database 800 and returns a collation result (match / mismatch).
(5-4) The locker apparatus 100 that has received the reply of the collation result rejects the use by indicating that the collation result is inconsistent on the display unit when the collation result is inconsistent. c) is displayed.
(5-5) When the user selects a product in accordance with the predetermined guidance on the mail order screen and instructs the purchase, the locker device 100 displays the settlement method and the receiving method on the receiving method selection screen (d). , The user is selected, and the selected information is transmitted to the mall 300. At this time, reception by the locker device is displayed as an option as a reception method.
As a result, the product purchase by mail order is completed and the end screen (e) is displayed.
(5-6) The mall 300 transmits product information and delivery destination information to the mail order terminal 900. When the locker device 100 is selected as the receiving destination, information is transmitted to the locker management server 200, and the user ID of the customer who is the receiver is registered in the locker management information as the receiver information in the locker database 800. .
(5-7) The mail-order dealer obtains the merchandise, and attaches at least a recipient ID of the recipient and locker information of the delivery destination to the merchandise as package information, and delivers it to the delivery merchant. The luggage information may be displayed as a barcode on the tag.

(6) Delivery FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during the delivery operation.

(6-1) When the object of delivery is laundry, the delivery company collects the laundry cleaned from the cleaning factory according to the cleaning end information from the cleaning factory terminal 500 via the mall 300 or periodically. , Delivered to the designated locker device 100. Further, when the delivery target is a mail-order merchandise, the delivery company receives the merchandise from the mail-order dealer and delivers the merchandise to the designated locker device 100.
(6-2) A delivery company that brings luggage (laundry / delivery) to the locker device 100 is permitted to deliver luggage (laundry / delivery) to the locker device 100 displaying the initial screen (a). A user card (for delivery company) is inserted as delivery company information in order to indicate that the delivery company is a delivery company. The locker device 100 recognizes that it is a user card and displays the menu screen (b). A message to select collection or delivery is displayed. Select delivery. Then, according to the supplier ID input screen (c), the supplier ID and password are input.
(6-3) When the delivery company information is input, the locker device 100 transmits the delivery company information to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(6-4) The locker management server 200 collates the received delivery company information with the information on the locker database 800 and returns a collation result (match / mismatch) to the locker device 100 via the mall 300. The delivery company may be divided into a collection company (a company that collects the package from the locker device 100) and a delivery company (a company that delivers the package to the locker unit 100) for verification.
(6-5) Receiving the reply, the locker device 100 displays that it cannot be used if the collation results do not match, and rejects the collection, and if they match, the locker device 100 proceeds to the delivery destination input operation.
(6-6) In the delivery destination input operation, the delivery destination input screen (d) is displayed. By inputting the delivery destination user ID, information is transmitted to the mall 300, and the information is transmitted to the locker management server 200.
The locker management server 200 confirms whether the customer is making a deposit or purchasing a product by mail order, and if it can be confirmed, returns a confirmation notification to the mall 300.
The mall 300 notifies the locker device 100 of the availability information of the locker. The locker device 100 displays locker empty information on the locker position display screen (e) and unlocks all empty lockers.
When the delivery company puts the package in a locker that matches the size of the package and closes it, the locker is automatically locked.
The delivery is completed as described above, and the end screen (f) is displayed. The locker device 100 prints out a delivery confirmation form.
(6-7) When the delivery destination input operation is completed, the locker device 100 notifies the locker management server 200 via the mall 300 of the user ID and delivery agent information as a delivery destination input notification.
(6-8) The locker management server 200 that has received the delivery destination input notification registers the delivered user information and the delivered locker information as recipient information, and the user's e-mail address from the user ID of the locker database 800. The mall 300 notifies the user terminal 600 of the corresponding user by e-mail or the like.

(7) Receipt FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during a receipt operation.

(7-1) A user who receives the delivered package (laundry / delivery) goes to the locker device 100 and selects and inputs “Receive” from the menu screen (a) of the locker device 100. Next, since an ID input screen (b) is displayed, a user ID and a password are input as recipient information to indicate to the locker device 100 that the recipient is a recipient. The user ID and password may be input using a user card as in the case of deposit.
(7-2) When the receiver information is input, the locker device 100 transmits the input receiver information to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300.
(7-3) The locker management server 200 collates the received recipient information with the recipient information on the locker database 800, and returns a collation result (match / mismatch) to the locker device 100 via the mall 300. To do.
(7-4) The locker device 100 that has received the reply of the collation result displays that it cannot be used if the collation result does not match, and rejects the use, and if it matches, shifts to a receiving operation. When the user card is used, the receipt is refused or the operation is shifted to the receipt operation, and the user card is returned to the user.
(7-5) When the collation result is coincident, the locker position containing the received parcel is displayed and unlocked on the locker device display screen (c). The locker is automatically locked when the customer removes the package and closes the lid.
Thus, the receipt of the luggage (laundry / delivery goods) is completed, and the end screen (d) is displayed.
(7-6) When the reception is completed, the locker device 100 transmits a removal notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300. The extraction notification includes information such as a user ID and a locker number.
(7-7) The locker management server 200 that has received the removal notification updates the information received by the user and updates the vacant information of the locker. Also, user information and take-out information are transmitted to the mall 300 as take-out notifications. The mall 300 notifies the locker device 100 of the initial screen and displays the initial screen (a) on the screen of the locker device 100.

(8) Settlement (8-1) Upon receipt of the take-out notification, the mall 300 grasps the completion of the transaction and stores the transaction completion information in the locker database 800.
(8-2) The mall 300 transmits user information, transaction details, and amount as payment information to the payment support center 700.
(8-3) The settlement support center 700 that has received the settlement information performs settlement according to the settlement method at the time of user registration (member registration).

(Effects of the first embodiment)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, the customer and the delivery company can lock the locker device 100 at various occasions of use, such as depositing a package, collecting a package, delivering a package, and receiving a package. The apparatus 100 can be used safely. In this way, efficient operation of the locker device can be achieved.

(Second Embodiment)
In the present embodiment, an application example that can prevent erroneous delivery of a package to a designated locker during delivery will be described. In the present embodiment, it is possible to input a package information code (numerals, alphabets, etc.) attached to the package using the key input unit 113 or the barcode reader 114 of the locker device 100.

  Hereinafter, as usage modes of the locker device 100 according to the present embodiment, the operations of (2) deposit, (4) product purchase by mail order, and (6) delivery are the same as those in the first embodiment. A description will be given in order focusing on the differences.

(2) Depositing The operations (2-1) to (2-5) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(2-6) When the deposit is completed, the locker device 100 transmits a deposit completion notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300. At this time, when “laundry” is selected on the deposit input screen (c), the locker device 100 transmits the baggage information including the fact that the baggage is laundry. In addition to the information for identifying the user and the locker information of the delivery destination, a tag attached to each dedicated bag and indicating information for identifying the dedicated bag is attached to the dedicated bag. The dedicated bag is distributed to the user after the user registration. At this time, information for identifying the dedicated bag is registered in the locker database 800 in association with the user ID.
(2-7) The locker management server 200 that has received the deposit completion notification updates the laundry deposit information in the user information, and updates the information on the luggage in the locker.

(4) Product purchase by mail order The customer can use the user terminal 600 to access the mail order homepage of the mall 300, purchase the product, and receive the purchased product with the locker device 100. .

  The operations (4-1) to (4-4) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(4-5) The mall 300 transmits product information and delivery destination information to the mail order terminal 900. When the locker device 100 is selected as the recipient, the information is transmitted to the locker management server 200, and the user ID of the customer who is the recipient in the locker management information as the recipient information, and the delivery Information for identifying a product, that is, information for identifying a product assigned to each product is registered.
(4-6) The mail-order dealer obtains the merchandise, attaches at least a user ID of the recipient, locker information of the delivery destination, and a tag clearly specifying the merchandise information to the merchandise and delivers it to the delivery merchant.

(5) Product purchase by mail order using the locker device 100 Further, the customer accesses the mail order homepage of the mall 300 using the operation screen of the locker device 100, purchases the product, and locks the purchased product into the locker. It can also be received by the device 100. A product purchase operation by mail order using the locker device 100 will be described.

  The operations (5-1) to (5-5) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(5-6) The mall 300 transmits product information and delivery destination information to the mail order terminal 900. When the locker device 100 is selected as the recipient, the information is transmitted to the locker management server 200, and the user ID of the customer who is the recipient in the locker management information as the recipient information, and the delivery Register information about the product to be sold.
(5-7) The mail-order dealer obtains the merchandise, attaches at least a user ID of the recipient, locker information of the delivery destination, and a tag clearly specifying the merchandise information to the merchandise and delivers it to the delivery merchant.

(6) Delivery The operations of (6-1) to (6-5) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(6-6) In the delivery destination input operation, information is transmitted to the mall 300 by inputting the delivery destination user ID and product information (in the case of laundry, information identifying the dedicated bag). In addition, the locker information is notified to the locker management server 200.

  The locker management server 200 confirms whether the customer is making a deposit or purchasing a product by mail order, and if it can be confirmed, the information on the product registered in the locker database 800 based on the user ID together with the locker information. Are matched, and if they match, a normal notification is returned to the mall. If there are multiple products, all are matched, and if all match, a normal notification is returned.

  The mall 300 notifies the locker device 100 of the locker vacancy information, and the locker device 100 displays the vacancy information and unlocks all the empty lockers.

The delivery company locks the locker that is automatically unlocked by putting the package in a locker that matches the size of the package and closing it. At that time, a delivery confirmation form is printed out by the locker device.
This completes the storage of luggage (laundry and home delivery).

(Effect of the second embodiment)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent erroneous delivery of a package to a designated locker during delivery by adding package information to the package. In particular, in the present embodiment, it is more effective if information on a delivery item such as a product is converted into a barcode and printed on a tag, and the barcode is read using the barcode reader of the locker device 100.

(Third embodiment)
In this embodiment, in order to shorten the storage period of the package and increase the turnover rate of the locker device, the user is allowed to specify the scheduled reception date and time, and substitutes it as cash at the time of payment according to the elapsed time from the specified time. A description will be given of an application example characterized by issuing points that can be issued (for example, can be deducted by cash conversion from the payment amount at the time of settlement).

  Hereinafter, as usage modes of the locker device 100 according to the present embodiment, the operations of (2) deposit, (4) product purchase by mail order, and (6) delivery are the same as those in the first embodiment. A description will be given in order focusing on the differences.

(2) Depositing FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a display screen of the locker device during the depositing operation.

  In the first embodiment, the operations of (2-1) to (2-4) described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C are substantially the same in this embodiment. .

(2-5) When the user inputs on the deposit input screen (c), a scheduled date registration availability selection screen (d) for selecting whether or not to set the scheduled reception date and time is displayed. When setting possibility is selected, a receiving schedule input screen (e) is displayed, and the user inputs the scheduled receiving date and time. The scheduled delivery date according to the date and time of deposit is determined in advance.
(2-6) When the deposit is completed, the locker device 100 transmits a deposit completion notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300. At this time, the scheduled reception date and time is also transmitted and registered in the locker database 800.
(2-7) The locker management server 200 that has received the deposit completion notification updates the deposit information in the user information and updates the information in the luggage in the locker.

(4) Product purchase by mail order The customer can use the user terminal 600 (or the locker device 100) to access the mail order homepage of the mall 300 and purchase the product. 100 can be received.

  The operations (4-1) to (4-4) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(4-5) When the locker device 100 is selected as the receiving destination, a scheduled date registration availability selection screen for selecting whether or not to set the scheduled receiving date and time on the user terminal 600 (or the locker device 100) is displayed. indicate. If settable is selected, a reception schedule input screen is displayed, and the user inputs the scheduled reception date and time. The scheduled delivery date according to the product is determined in advance. When information is transmitted to the locker management server 200, the scheduled reception date and time are also transmitted and registered in the locker database 800.
(4-6) The mail-order dealer obtains the merchandise, attaches at least a tag with the user ID of the recipient and the locker information of the delivery destination, and delivers the merchandise to the delivery merchant.

(6) Delivery The operations (6-1) to (6-7) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(6-8) When receiving the delivery destination input notification, the locker management server 200 registers the delivery completion date and time in the locker database 800 at the same time. Register to check the difference between the scheduled delivery date and the actual delivery date. When delivery is delayed from the scheduled date and time, the difference is added to the scheduled reception date or time, or a predetermined time is added to the difference and added to the scheduled reception date and time.

(7) Receipt FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during a receipt operation.

  In the first embodiment, the operations of (7-1) to (7-2) and (7-6) to (7-7) described with reference to FIGS. The same applies to the present embodiment.

(7-3) The locker management server 200 collates the received recipient information with the recipient information on the locker database 800, and returns a collation result (match / mismatch) to the locker device 100 via the mall 300. To do. When receiving the recipient information, the locker management server 200 obtains the difference between the reception time and the registered scheduled reception date and time, calculates the points, registers the points in the locker database 800, and stores them in the locker device. Point information is transmitted along with the verification result.

The point information is composed of at least the following information.
・ Occurrence points (points generated at the time of receipt)
・ Cumulative points (cumulative values of points including points generated)
・ Payment points (points where payment is selected)

  For example, if the difference is within 30 minutes, 10 points are calculated, and then 2 points are subtracted every 30 minutes. The difference is calculated as 0 points after 3 hours and registered in the “occurrence point”. In addition, the generated points are added to the accumulated points and registered. One point can be used as one yen at the time of payment, for example.

(7-4) The locker device 100 that has received the reply displays that it cannot be used if the collation result does not match, and rejects the use, and if it matches, the locker device 100 shifts to a receiving operation. When the card is used, the card is refused to be received or shifted to a receiving operation and the card is returned.
(7-5) When the collation result is coincident, the locker device 100 displays the received point information on the point display screen (c) before entering the receiving operation. On the point display screen, “Accumulate” for accumulating the accumulated points and “Use” for applying the accumulated points to the payment price are displayed as options for using the accumulated points, and the user is allowed to select them. When “Accumulate” is selected, this is notified to the locker management server, and the occurrence point is reset. When “use” is selected, the locker management server is notified of this, accumulated points are registered as payment points, and generated points and accumulated points are reset. When the settlement information is transmitted (8-2) to the settlement support center 700, an amount obtained by subtracting the payment point from the amount to be transmitted is transmitted, and the payment point is reset.

(Effect of the third embodiment)
As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to give a point to a user who has received the scheduled reception date and time, and to discount the usage fee. In this way, it is possible to effectively eliminate the deterioration of the rotation rate of the locker device 100 caused by the user not readily receiving the load of the locker device 100.

(Fourth embodiment)
This embodiment is a countermeasure when the lockers to be delivered are full. When delivering a package, if the designated locker is full, a substitute locker device that is a delivery destination is deposited (or locked at the time of mail order use). Registration) or user registration (member registration).

  The substitute locker device is not always convenient for the user if it is close to the designated locker device. Therefore, as a substitute locker device candidate, in addition to the locker device in the district adjacent to the district where the designated locker device is installed, the station near the installation location and the locker devices around the station are also registered. In addition, it is possible to register the stop address information of the user's work address, the use station, the convenience store to be used, etc. in advance and to register the stop point and the locker device around the stop point.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, the information on the locker device 100 registered in the locker database 800 includes district information (where the location is located) in addition to the information for identifying the locker device 100 and the information on the availability. Code for displaying the address, town name, district name, etc.) and location information (such as stations, convenience stores, condominiums, etc. so that the installation location can be understood) Etc.) and register.

  In the following, (1) user registration (member registration), (2) deposit, (4) merchandise purchase by mail order, and (6) delivery as usage modes of the locker device 100 according to the present embodiment Will be described in order focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

(1) User registration (member registration)
The operations (1-1) to (1-2) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(1-3) After inputting the user information, a substitute locker designation presence / absence screen for selecting whether or not to designate a substitute locker device is displayed. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a substitute locker selection screen. Substitute locker device candidates can be displayed by district and location, and the user designates one or more substitute locker devices. When specifying multiple items, specify the priority. If “selectable” is selected, candidates for substitute locker devices are displayed. Substitute locker device candidates can be displayed by district and location, and the user designates one or more substitute locker devices. When specifying multiple items, specify the priority.
(1-4) The input information is notified to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300 and registered as user information.

(2) Depositing FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a display screen of the locker device during the depositing operation.
In the first embodiment, the operations of (2-1) to (2-4) and (2-7) described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4E are the same as in the present embodiment. It is substantially the same.

(2-5) When the user inputs to the deposit input screen (c), a substitute locker designation presence / absence screen (d) for selecting whether or not to designate a substitute locker device is displayed.
If it is selected to register a substitute locker, a substitute locker device candidate is displayed on the substitute locker selection screen (e). FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a substitute locker selection screen. Substitute locker device candidates can be displayed by district and location, and the user designates one or more substitute locker devices. When specifying multiple items, specify the priority.
(2-6) When the deposit is completed, the locker device 100 transmits a deposit completion notification to the locker management server 200 via the mall 300. At this time, information regarding the substitute locker device is also transmitted and registered in the locker database 800.

(4) Product purchase by mail order The customer can use the user terminal 600 to access the mail order homepage of the mall 300, purchase the product, and receive the purchased product with the locker device 100. .

  The operations (4-1) to (4-4) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(4-5) When the locker device 100 is selected as the recipient, the substitute locker designation presence / absence screen (d) for selecting whether or not to designate the substitute locker device is displayed. If “selectable” is selected, candidates for substitute locker devices are displayed. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a substitute locker selection screen. Substitute locker device candidates can be displayed by district and location, and the user designates one or more substitute locker devices. When specifying multiple items, specify the priority.
(4-6) The mall 300 transmits product information and delivery destination information to the mail order terminal 900. At this time, information regarding the substitute locker device is also transmitted and registered in the locker database 800.

(6) Delivery The delivery company accesses the locker management server 200 from the delivery company terminal 400 before the delivery in (6-1) of the first embodiment, and determines the availability of the locker device 100 at the delivery destination. Check. If it is full, check whether a substitute locker device is specified. If it is specified, check the availability of the substitute locker device. If there is an empty locker device, deliver it there. If no substitute locker device is specified, or if all substitute locker devices are full, delay the delivery time and check again. The presence / absence of the substitute locker device and information on the substitute locker device are confirmed by the locker management server 800. You may record information on the tag.

  The operations (6-1) to (6-8) described in the first embodiment are substantially the same in this embodiment.

(Effect of the fourth embodiment)
As described above, according to this embodiment, when the locker device is not available due to fullness or failure, it is possible to provide information regarding the substitute locker device to the user. In addition, by registering in advance information such as the same area as the locker device specified by the user or an adjacent area, or the destination address of the user's work address or station, the convenience store to be used, etc. Therefore, it is possible to use an efficient locker device.

  The preferred embodiments of the locker system according to the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to such examples. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be conceived within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. It is understood that it belongs.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the laundry and the courier are described as examples of the baggage exchanged using the locker device, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can be applied even when a rental such as a video tape or a repaired product such as a watch or an electrical appliance is exchanged.

  Further, the above embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. For example, FIG. 14 shows a case where the third embodiment and the fourth embodiment are combined. FIGS. 14A to 14E are substantially the same as FIGS. 9A to 9E showing the third embodiment. 14 (f) to (i) are substantially the same as (d) to (g) of FIG. 13 showing the fourth embodiment.

  The present invention is applicable to a locker system including one or more locker devices and a locker management server that manages the locker devices.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the outline of a locker system. It is explanatory drawing which shows the external appearance of a locker apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the operation part of a rocker apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows deposit operation. It is explanatory drawing which shows collection | recovery operation | movement. It is explanatory drawing which shows the goods purchase operation | movement by mail order. It is explanatory drawing which shows delivery operation | movement. It is explanatory drawing which shows reception operation | movement. It is explanatory drawing which shows the deposit operation | movement of 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the receiving operation of 3rd Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows locker data. It is explanatory drawing which shows a substitute locker selection screen. It is explanatory drawing which shows the deposit operation | movement of 4th Embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the application example of 3rd, 4th embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Locker apparatus 110 Operation part 111 Display 112 Card insertion slot 113 Key input part 114 Bar code reader 115 Printer 120 Locker 200 Locker management server 300 Mall 400 Delivery terminal 500 Cleaning factory terminal 600 User terminal 700 Settlement support center 800 Locker database ( DB)
900 Mail order terminal

Claims (10)

A locker system including one or more locker devices and a locker management server for managing the locker devices,
The locker management server includes a locker database that stores information about a user of the locker device,
The locker device includes an input means for inputting information about the user,
The locker management server collates the information stored in the locker database with the information input to the input means, and if it matches, permits the delivery of luggage via the locker device;
The locker device is provided with a scheduled receipt date and time registration means for the user to register the scheduled receipt date and time of the package,
The locker management server is provided with means for calculating a difference between the receipt date and time of the package by the user and the scheduled receipt date and time ;
The locker management server generates points according to the difference between the date and time of receipt of a package by the user and the scheduled date and time of receipt . The locker management server,
Characterized in that the utilization rate of the previous SL rocker device subtracting a predetermined amount of said point corresponding locker system according to claim 1. The locker device is provided with a receiving locker designating means for the user to designate a locker device to receive the package,
3. The locker system according to claim 1, wherein the locker management server provides the user with information regarding a substitute locker device that substitutes when the designated locker device cannot be used. 4.   The locker system according to claim 3, wherein the locker management server provides the user with information on the substitute locker device by district or by location.   The locker system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locker device includes a card insertion slot, and information about the user is obtained from a user card inserted into the card insertion slot.   The locker system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the locker device includes a barcode reader, and information on the luggage is obtained from the barcode reader. One or more locker devices;
The locker database for storing information about the user of the locker device, the information stored in the locker database and the information input by the locker device are collated, and if they match, the package is exchanged via the locker device And means for calculating a difference between the date and time of receipt of the package by the user registered in the locker device by the user and the scheduled date and time of receipt of the package registered by the user in the locker device; A locker management server with
A locker device for use in a locker system comprising:
An input means for inputting information about the user;
A scheduled receipt date and time registration means for registering the scheduled receipt date and time of the package by the user ;
The locker management server
A locker device, characterized in that points are generated according to the difference between the date and time of receipt of a package by the user and the scheduled date and time of receipt . The locker management server,
Characterized in that the utilization rate of the previous SL rocker device subtracting a predetermined amount of said point corresponding locker system according to claim 7. The locker device is
A recipient locker designating means for the user to designate a locker device to receive the package;
The locker management server
The locker device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the user is provided with information on a substitute locker device that substitutes when the designated locker device cannot be used. The locker device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the locker device includes a barcode reader, and the information on the luggage is obtained from the barcode reader.

Images