JP4803958B2 - Article management apparatus, article management system, and article management method - Google Patents

Description

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

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

  In this type of article management system, mutual communication is performed between light and radio waves or the like between a predetermined management search device and each tag device. As a result, management of the state of storage and retrieval of each file is performed. In addition, when a file is taken out, the tag device to be searched is caused to emit light so that the storage location of a predetermined file can be specified easily and quickly.

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

JP 2000-306062 A JP 2000-272723 A

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

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

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

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is an article management in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus. Whether the article is stored in the storage means by communicating with the tag device through the transmission / reception means, and transmission / reception means for transmitting / receiving signals to / from the tag apparatus. A management control device that manages the management control device, and input means for inputting the specific information of the articles to be taken out and the scheduled return time to the management control device, the management control device corresponding to the scheduled return time time to, communicating with the tag device of the articles stored in said storage means through said transmitting and receiving means, as well as check for stock of the extraction target object, the visited to the desired article In the confirmation operation, when communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and there is no response from the desired tag device, the tag of each article in another area It communicates with the device .

The invention according to claim 2 is an article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus, Communication between the article identification information and the scheduled return time and the tag device of the article stored in the storage means at a time corresponding to the scheduled return time, and seen containing a step of confirming the presence or absence of stock, and in the step of confirming the presence or absence of inventory of the extraction target object, performs communication with the tag device of the respective article at a given optional areas in said storage means, When there is no response from a desired tag device, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in another area .

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a plurality of articles are stored in a storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each of the articles, and a unique identification code assigned to the tag device is used. An article management system for managing the article, wherein the transmission / reception means is provided corresponding to each storage section, and transmits and receives signals to and from each tag device in the corresponding storage section; Management control means for managing each article by communicating with the tag device through the means, wherein the management control means transmits and receives each transmission / reception at a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out. By communicating with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through the means, and searching for the inventory position of each article, each article and its inventory position are associated with each other. A first management processing operation for generating and updating a digit database and searching for the article to be taken out with reference to the database at the time of taking out the article; and at a plurality of storage compartments at the time of taking out the article And a second management processing operation for transmitting an identification code and an inventory inquiry command to be called from each transmission / reception means to each tag device at substantially the same time to search for the article to be taken out. In the first management processing operation, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and there is no response from the desired tag device. By communicating with the tag device of each article in another area, the inventory position of each article is searched, and each article and the inventory position are associated with each other. Generate the database, it is intended to update.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the first management processing operation includes a process of updating the database at a scheduled return time of the article, and a tag device for each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means Including at least one of processes for performing communication and searching with the tag device of each article in another area when there is no response from the desired tag device. It may be.

Furthermore, as according to claim 5, further comprising a communication relay device for relaying communication between a plurality of said receiving means and said management control means, wherein each receiving means, the tag device in the respective storage compartments A signal indicating the presence / absence of a response from the communication relay device is transmitted in time series to the communication relay device, and the communication relay device collects response signals from a plurality of the transmission / reception means and transmits them to the management control means. Also good.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of articles are stored in a storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each of the articles, and a unique identification code assigned to the tag device is used. An article management device for managing the article, wherein each of the articles stored in the storage means through each transmission / reception means provided corresponding to each storage section at a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out By communicating with the tag device of the article and searching for the inventory position of each article, a database that associates each article with its inventory position is generated and updated, and at the time of taking out the article A first management processing operation for searching for the article to be taken out with reference to the database; and each of the transmission / reception means in the plurality of storage sections when the article is taken out The second management processing operation for transmitting the identification code to be called and the inventory inquiry command to each tag device at the same time and searching for the article to be taken out can be selectively switched. Yes, in the first management processing operation, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and when there is no response from the desired tag device, in another area By communicating with the tag device of each article, the inventory position of each article is searched, and a database in which each article is associated with the inventory position is generated and updated.

As described above, according to the article management system according to claim 1 of the present invention, communication with each tag device is performed at the time corresponding to the scheduled return time, and the presence / absence of inventory of the articles to be taken out is confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of operations of each tag device and reduce its power consumption. In addition, when there is no response from a desired tag device in a predetermined candidate area, communication is performed with each tag device in another area, so that the number of operations of each tag device is reduced and its power consumption is reduced. Can be reduced.

In addition, according to the invention described in claim 2, the operation of each tag device is performed to communicate with each tag device at the time corresponding to the scheduled return time to check whether or not the articles to be taken out are in stock. The power consumption can be reduced by reducing the number of times. In addition, when there is no response from a desired tag device in a predetermined candidate area, communication is performed with each tag device in another area, so that the number of operations of each tag device is reduced and its power consumption is reduced. Can be reduced.

According to the invention described in claim 3 , in the first management processing operation, a database is generated and updated when an article is not taken out, and the article to be taken out is searched with reference to the database when the article is taken out. Therefore, even when many articles are stored, the articles can be searched in a short time. Further, in the second management processing operation, the retrieval of each article is performed at the time of taking out the article without using the database, so that the database update work becomes unnecessary, and therefore the operation opportunity of each tag device is reduced. The power consumption of the tag device can be reduced. Also, in a plurality of storage compartments, the identification code and the inventory inquiry command to be called are transmitted almost simultaneously from each transmission / reception means to each tag device, and the article search is performed. Can be done. Then, the first management processing operation suitable for a large-scale article management system storing a large number of articles as described above and the second management processing operation suitable for a relatively small article management system are selectively switched. It can be convenient. In the first management processing operation, when there is no response from a desired tag device in a predetermined candidate area, communication is performed with each tag device in another area. The power consumption can be reduced by reducing the number of times.

According to the invention of claim 4, processing for updating the database at the scheduled return time of the article, and communication with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, a desired In the case where there is no response from the tag device, since it includes at least one of processes for performing a search by communicating with the tag device of each article in another area, also regarding the first management processing operation, The number of operations of each tag device can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the communication relay device collects response signals from the plurality of transmission / reception means and transmits them to the management control means, so that it is possible to search for articles in a shorter time.

According to the invention described in claim 6 , in the first management processing operation, a database is generated and updated when an article is not taken out, and the article to be taken out is searched with reference to the database when the article is taken out. Therefore, even when many articles are stored, the articles can be searched in a short time. Further, in the second management processing operation, the retrieval of each article is performed at the time of taking out the article without using the database, so that the database update work becomes unnecessary, and therefore the operation opportunity of each tag device is reduced. The power consumption of the tag device can be reduced. In a plurality of storage compartments, the identification code and the inventory inquiry command to be called are transmitted almost simultaneously from each transmission / reception means to each tag device to search for the article, so that the article can be searched in a relatively short time. . Then, as described above, the first management processing operation suitable for a large-scale article management system storing a large number of articles and the second management processing operation suitable for a relatively small article management system are selectively switched. It can be convenient. In the first management processing operation, when there is no response from a desired tag device in a predetermined candidate area, communication is performed with each tag device in another area. The power consumption can be reduced by reducing the number of times.

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

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

  In this article management system, generally, a tag device 20 is attached to a file 10 stored in a storage shelf 30, and based on a unique identification code assigned to each tag device 20, It manages items related to inventory status, inventory location, etc.

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

  The storage shelf 30 has a plurality of shelf steps 31 in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, the storage means is constituted by a plurality of storage shelves 30. Each storage shelf 30 has a plurality of shelf steps 31 in the vertical direction. In the present embodiment, each shelf 31 of each storage shelf 30 is set as an extraction area serving as a management unit related to the inventory position of the file. The take-out area may be set in units of a predetermined width in each shelf 31 or in units of a plurality of shelves.

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

  The file 10 binds a sheet on which predetermined information is recorded, and is formed in a substantially square shape when viewed from the side. A tag device 20 is attached to one side of the file 10, and each file 10 is accommodated in parallel on each shelf 31 with the tag device 20 exposed to the outside.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The notification light emitting unit 28 is a light emitting element such as a visible light emitting diode, and performs a predetermined notification operation according to the control from the tag control unit 25. Here, the blinking operation is performed as the notification operation for a predetermined operation time set in advance. In addition, the structure which implement | achieves both functions of the light emission part 27 for communication and the light emission part 28 for alerting | reporting may be sufficient as light emitting elements, such as a single light emitting diode.

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

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

  Next, in step S2, the tag control unit 25 determines whether or not the calling code included in the received optical signal matches its own identification code. Here, when both codes | symbols do not correspond, operation | movement is complete | finished and it transfers to a sleep state. On the other hand, if the two codes match, the process proceeds to step S3, and a response light signal is transmitted through the communication light emitting unit 27.

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

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

  Each component on the article management apparatus side will be described.

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

  The storage unit 61a stores a management database that includes a management master that associates identification information with specific information such as a file name, and data that associates inventory information of each file, estimated return time, and the like. Has been.

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

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

  The management database generated in this way is referred to as data at the time of taking out the article.

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

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

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

  The light emitting display unit 84 is configured by a visible light emitting diode or the like, and is configured to be capable of numerical display by segment display or the like. Then, in accordance with a command from the management control device 60, it is possible to perform light emission display in a light emission display indicating stock and a mode indicating a predetermined numerical value. That is, the light emitting display unit 84 has a function of displaying the inventory of the file 10 in the storage shelf 30 and a function of displaying the number of inventory files in the storage shelf 30. But each of these functions may be implement | achieved by the separate display means, and may be implement | achieved by other alerting | reporting means, such as a voice alerting | reporting means.

  The rack control device 80 is installed in the upper part of each storage shelf 30 in a form accommodated in a substantially bowl-shaped case, for example.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  A substantially square plate-like substrate 57 is disposed in the inner part of the frame 55. On this board, an electric circuit constituting the shelf control section 52 is incorporated, and a plurality of light emitting / receiving sections 53 are mounted and arranged at appropriate intervals along the longitudinal direction of the board 57.

  Each light emitting / receiving unit 53 transmits and receives an optical signal to the tag device 20 of the file 10 stored in the shelf 31 and receives the optical signal transmitted from the tag device 20. Is set.

  Specifically, the substrate 57 is attached in a posture inclined with respect to the substrate portion 55a, and the light emitting / receiving portion 53 is oriented in a state inclined toward the side wall portion 55b on one side. A refraction member 58 is attached to the opening of the frame 55 so as to close the opening. The refracting member 58 is formed of a transparent resin or the like, and is formed in a plate shape that becomes thinner gradually from the side wall portion 55b on one side toward the side wall portion 55b on the other side. And the light irradiated from the said light emitting / receiving part 53 is refracted | refracted by the refracting member 58, and advances at the angle which inclines with respect to the side wall part 55b of one side. Of course, the light from the tag device 20 travels to the light emitting / receiving unit 53 through an optical path opposite to the optical path. Depending on the posture of each light emitting / receiving unit 53 and the relative positional relationship between each light emitting / receiving unit 53 and the tag device 20, a flat transparent member having a pair of parallel surfaces is used instead of the refractive member 58. May be.

  In addition, the light emitting / receiving area of each light emitting / receiving unit 53 is set to a range in which an optical signal can be transmitted / received to / from at least one tag device 20. Furthermore, the light receiving / emitting areas by the adjacent light emitting / receiving units 53 overlap each other. Then, the optical signals are sequentially or simultaneously transmitted from the respective light emitting / receiving units 53, and are arranged on the shelf control device 50 and the predetermined shelf 31 by causing the optical signal from each tag device 20 to wait for reception. Optical signals can be transmitted and received between the tag devices 20 of all the files 10.

  Further, the indication unit 54 is attached to a position of the frame 55 that can be operated from the outside, and a light emitting unit 51 is provided at a position of the frame 55 that is visible from the outside.

  8-10 is a figure which shows the attachment aspect of the shelf control apparatus 50. FIG.

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

  FIG. 9 shows another mode in which the shelf control device 50 is attached to the shelf plate 32 above the predetermined shelf 31. In this case, the board 55a is attached to the lower surface of the front end of the shelf board 32 with screws, adhesive, double-sided tape, etc. with the opening directed downward. Thereby, similarly to the above, optical communication is possible between each light emitting / receiving unit 53 and the tag device 20 of each file 10 stored in the predetermined shelf 31.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The operation of the article management system configured as described above will be described. Here, for convenience of explanation, from the viewpoint of the operator, the extraction work procedure of the file 10, the return work procedure, and the extraction work procedure using the portable search device 92 will be described, and then the management control during the work procedure will be described. The processing operation of the device 60 will be described.

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

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

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

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

  Next, in step S <b> 13, the instruction unit 54 of the lit management control device 60 among the shelf control devices 50 is operated.

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

  In step S15, while checking the blinking status of the tag device 20 of each file 10, the file 10 in which the tag device 20 is blinking is sequentially taken out.

  Next, in step S16, the operator confirmed whether or not all the files 10 could be taken out within a certain time (the blinking time of the tag device 20) in the storage shelf 30 that is the work target, and could not be taken out. In that case, the process returns to step S13 and the steps S13 to S15 are repeated. On the other hand, if all the files 10 can be taken out from the storage shelf 30 to be worked, the process proceeds to step S17, and it is confirmed whether or not the worker has taken out all the requested files 10. When it cannot be taken out, the process returns to step S11, and the procedure from step S11 onward is repeated for the other storage shelves 30. On the other hand, when all the requested files 10 have been extracted, the extraction operation is terminated.

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

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

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

  Next, an extraction work procedure using the portable search device 92 will be described with reference to FIG. The take-out operation using the portable search device 92 is performed, for example, when a trouble occurs on the management control device 60 side and the take-out operation shown in FIG. 11 cannot be executed.

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

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

  Next, in step S32, it moves to the stock position according to the display.

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

  Finally, in step S34, while visually checking the blinking state of each tag device 20, the file 10 in which the tag device 20 is blinking is taken out. Thereby, extraction of the desired file 10 is completed.

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

  FIG. 14 shows an operation in which the management control device 60 confirms whether or not the file 10 to be taken out is in stock after the specific information of the file 10 is input in step S11 of FIG. 11, that is, the desired tag device 20 This shows an inventory check operation performed in advance when calling.

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

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

  Thereafter, in step S42, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. That is, the management control device 60 determines whether a response signal has been received from the tag device 20 through the shelf control device 50. Here, if it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S 43, the rack control device 80 in the specific storage shelf 30 is caused to emit light, and the shelf control in the specific shelf 31 is performed. The apparatus 50 is caused to emit light, and the process ends.

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

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

  Next, in step S45, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. If it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S46 to update the inventory position information in the management database, and then proceeds to step S43 to control the rack in the storage shelf 30 that has responded. The apparatus 80 and the shelf control device 50 in the shelf 31 are caused to emit light, and the process ends.

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

  Next, in step S48, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the tag device 20. If it is determined that there is a response, the processing in steps S46 and S43 is performed.

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

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

  That is, after the predetermined rack control device 80 and the shelf control device 50 emit light, the presence / absence of an operation on the instruction unit 54 of the shelf 31 is detected, and in step S50, the instruction unit 54 of the shelf 31 that is requested to take out is detected. If it is determined that it has been operated, the process proceeds to step S51.

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

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

  If the said signal is transmitted, time-measurement of the extraction confirmation time will be started in step S53. The extraction confirmation time is set longer than the total time required for extracting each file 10.

  Next, when it is determined in step S54 that the take-out confirmation time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S55 to check the inventory of the tag device 20 that is the take-out object.

  If there is a response from the tag device 20 in step S56, the process proceeds to step S57, and forgetting to take out is displayed. On the other hand, if there is no response from the tag device 20 in step S56, the operation relating to extraction is completed as it is.

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

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

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

  Next, the process proceeds to step S62, and inventory confirmation is performed by specifying a specific storage shelf / shelf (search 1). This step S62 is the same processing as step S42 shown in FIG.

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

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

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

  Next, it progresses to step S66, the presence or absence of the response from the tag apparatus 20 is judged, and when there exists a response, it progresses to step S67.

  In step S67, the inventory position information in the management database is updated so that the inventory position of the file 10 that is the object of inventory confirmation becomes a new inventory position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S64.

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

  In step S69, inventory checking is performed by specifying storage shelves 30 and shelf steps 31 other than those specified in searches 1 and 2 (search 3). The process in step S69 is the same as step S47 in FIG.

  Next, in step S70, the presence / absence of a response from the tag device 20 is determined. Here, if it is determined that there is a response from the tag device 20, the processes of steps S67 and S64 are performed, and the process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no response from the tag device 20, the process proceeds to step S <b> 71, indicating that it has not been returned, and the process ends.

  Each process of the management control device 60 described above may be distributed and processed in the shelf control device 50 or the rack control device 80.

  According to the article management system configured as described above, communication with each tag device 20 is performed at a time corresponding to the scheduled return time input in advance, and the presence or absence of the stock of the extraction target file 10 is confirmed. It will be. For this reason, in order to manage the presence or absence of the stock of the predetermined file 10 after the predetermined file 10 is taken out until the scheduled return time, a signal is transmitted to each tag device 20 to each tag device 20. There is no need to wake up. Therefore, the number of operations of each tag device 20 can be reduced, and the power consumption can be reduced.

  Also, the inventory check is performed by designating the shelf 31 of the specific storage shelf 30, and when there is no response from each tag device 20, the storage shelf 30 and the shelf 31 of the specific group are designated and the inventory confirmation is performed. Is going. In other words, the inventory is confirmed by gradually expanding the area from the predetermined candidate area and communicating with each tag device 20. For this reason, when there is a response from the predetermined tag device 20 at the shelf 31 specified first or relatively early, a signal is sent to the tag device 20 in the other shelf 31 to wake up. There is no need. For this reason, the frequency | count of operation | movement of each tag apparatus 20 can be decreased and the power consumption can be decreased.

  In particular, by designating the area including the previous inventory position as the first shelf 31, there is a high possibility that the inventory can be confirmed in response to a response from the tag device 20 in the initial stage. Electric power can be reduced.

  In addition, the operation of checking the inventory by communicating with each tag device 20 by gradually expanding the area in this way is performed according to the inventory checking operation and the presence / absence of a response from each tag device 20. Since both the search and call operation for performing a search and a call are performed, the power consumption of each tag device 20 can be further reduced for both these operations.

  In addition, according to this article management system, when an operation is performed on the instruction unit 54 of a predetermined shelf control device 50, the take-out object existing in the shelf 31 (extraction area) corresponding to the shelf control device 50 is displayed. The tag device 20 of the file 10 emits light. For this reason, only the tag device 20 in the desired shelf 31 (extraction area) can be made to emit light according to the necessity of the progress status of the extraction work, etc., and the power consumption of the tag device 20 can be reduced. it can.

  In addition, since the tag device 20 emits light for notification for a predetermined time set in advance, the power consumption can be reduced even in this respect.

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

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

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

  The first management processing operation generates and updates a database in advance when the file 10 is not taken out, and searches the file 10 to be taken out by referring to the database when the actual file 10 is taken out. Even if the article is stored, the article can be searched in a short time. Therefore, this process is suitable for a relatively large-scale article management system in which a large number of articles are stored.

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

  In the description of the second embodiment, the description of the same constituent elements as those described in the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will focus on the added processing function that is the difference.

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

  In the present system, as the second management processing operation, the management control device 60, when taking out the file 10, in each of the plurality of shelf 31 (storage section) from each shelf control device 50 (transmission / reception means) to each tag device. The identification code to be called and the inventory inquiry command are transmitted almost simultaneously to 20, and the file 10 to be taken out is searched.

  This will be described more specifically with reference to FIG.

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

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

  Here, for example, when the desired tag device 20 is present on the third shelf 31 from the top in the predetermined storage shelf 30, the third shelf 31 is as shown in FIG. The response optical signal from the desired tag device 20 is received by the corresponding shelf control device 50. In other shelf stages 31 such as the first stage and the second stage, no response optical signal is received by each of the shelf control devices 50.

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

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 17, first, the first shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that the first shelf is absent. This response signal is transmitted from the rack control device 80 to the management control device 60 via the relay device 88. Next, the second shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that the second shelf is absent, and this response signal is transmitted to the management control device 60 in the same manner as described above. Then, the third shelf control device 50 transmits a response signal indicating that the stock is in the third step, and this response signal is similarly transmitted to the management control device 60. Thereafter, the shelf control devices 50 in the fourth and subsequent stages similarly transmit response signals indicating that they are absent sequentially.

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

  As described above, when the inventory position of the file 10 is searched, the inventory position is displayed on the management control apparatus 60, or the predetermined tag apparatus 20 is provided with the same as described in the first embodiment. The inventory position is notified.

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

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

  On the other hand, in the second management processing operation, the database including the inventory position information is unnecessary and frequent search is unnecessary, and the search is performed only when necessary (at the time of retrieval). Can be reduced.

  In addition, since the first management processing operation basically performs a return confirmation for the one requested to be taken out through the management control device 60, the one taken out without permission is regarded as not subject to management. turn into. If it is taken out without permission and returned to a different position, a discrepancy will occur between the stock position in the database and the actual stock position. On the other hand, in the second management processing operation, a search is performed only when necessary (when you want to retrieve), so even if it is retrieved without permission and returned to a different location, it is usually without special processing. The above search process may be performed.

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

  By the way, as a process for searching for all the shelves 31, the management control device 60 transmits a call code and an inquiry command to one shelf control device 50, and the shelf control device 50 that has received the call code and inquiry command An optical signal including a calling code and an inquiry command is transmitted to each tag device 20, and thereafter, the shelf control device 50 outputs a signal indicating the presence or absence of a response signal from the tag device 20, that is, absence or stock. It is also possible to assume a process of sequentially executing the procedure transmitted to the management control device 60 for each shelf 31. However, in this process, if the number of shelf 31 is increased, it takes a very long time.

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

  However, if the management control device 60, the rack control device 80 (refer to a modification example to be described later), etc. wait for responses from the plurality of shelf control devices 50, the search speed decreases if the number of files 10 is extremely large. Connected. In this respect, it can be said that the second management processing operation is suitable for a relatively small system.

  In the article management system, the first management processing operation and the second management processing operation can be selectively switched through the input unit 70 of the management control device 60, for example.

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

  Here, the example in which each shelf control device 50 and each tag device 20 perform optical communication has been described, but other than that, radio wave communication may be performed. However, the use of optical communication has an advantage that it is easier to limit the communication range, and therefore the position specificity is excellent.

  By the way, in the said Embodiment 2, since each shelf control apparatus 50 responds to the management control apparatus 60 one step at a time, when the number of the shelf 31 increases regarding response processing, according to this Search time is prolonged.

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

  That is, each rack control device 80 is provided with a function for storing received data from each shelf control device 50 and a predetermined determination processing function.

  Then, regarding the response processing, when a signal indicating the absence or stock of the tag device 20 in the rated shelf 31 is sequentially transmitted from each shelf control device 50 to the rack control device 80, the rack control device 80 receives the signal. The data contained in is stored. When the response signals from all the shelf control devices 50 in the predetermined storage shelf 30 are received, the response signals are collected and stocked in the predetermined shelf 31 (the third level in the example shown in FIG. 20). Send a signal to that effect.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the rack control device 80 has a function as a communication relay device that collects response signals from the plurality of shelf control devices 50 and transmits the response signals to the management control device 60. It is no longer necessary to transmit a response signal for each shelf 31 from the control device 80 to the management control device 60. Accordingly, it is possible to shorten the search time for response processing.

It is the schematic which shows the whole structure of an article | item management system. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of an article | item management system. It is a perspective view which shows the file to which the tag apparatus was attached. It is a side view which shows a tag apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a tag apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of a tag apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows a shelf control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows the attachment aspect of a shelf control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows the other attachment aspect of a shelf control apparatus. It is a principal part expansion perspective view which shows the other attachment aspect of a shelf control apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the extraction operation | movement procedure of a file. It is a flowchart which shows the return work procedure of a file. It is a flowchart which shows the extraction operation | movement procedure of the file using a portable search device. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus at the time of file extraction operation | work. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus at the time of file extraction operation | work. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the management control apparatus regarding stock confirmation. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a search processing procedure according to a second management processing operation of the second embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state in which an optical signal is transmitted toward each tag apparatus from a shelf control apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state from which an optical signal is transmitted toward a shelf control apparatus from a tag apparatus. It is a figure which shows the search process procedure which concerns on the 2nd management process operation | movement which concerns on a modification.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 File 20 Tag apparatus 25 Tag control part 27 Communication light emission part 28 Notification light emission part 30 Storage shelf 31 Shelf level 32 Shelf board 50 Shelf level control apparatus 51 Light emission part 52 Shelf level control part 53 Light emitting / receiving part 54 Instruction part 55 Frame 60 Management Control Device 61 Computer Main Unit 61a ID Storage Unit 70 Input Unit 80 Rack Control Device 82 Rack Control Unit 1 Light-Emitting Display Unit

Claims (6)

A tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage means, and the article management device performs management of an article based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag device,
Transmitting and receiving means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the tag device;
A management control device that communicates with the tag device through the transmission / reception means to manage whether the article is stored in the storage means;
Input means for inputting the specific information of the object to be taken out and the scheduled return time for the management control device;
With
The management control device communicates with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means through the transmission / reception means at a time corresponding to the scheduled return time, and determines whether the article to be taken out is in stock. In addition, in the inventory check operation for a desired article, when communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage unit, and there is no response from the desired tag device An article management apparatus that performs communication with the tag apparatus of each article in another area. An article management method in which a tag device is attached to an article stored in a storage means, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus,
A step of inputting the specific information of the articles to be taken out and the scheduled return time;
Performing communication with the tag device of the article stored in the storage means at a time corresponding to the scheduled return time, and confirming whether the article to be taken out is in stock,
Including
In the step of confirming whether or not the articles to be taken out are in stock, communication is performed with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and there is no response from the desired tag device. The article management method of communicating with the tag device of each article in the area.   An article management system in which a plurality of articles are stored in storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each article, and the article is managed based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus Because
  Transmission / reception means provided corresponding to each of the storage compartments, for transmitting and receiving signals to and from each of the tag devices in the corresponding storage compartment;
  Management control means for performing communication with the tag device through the transmission / reception means to manage each article;
  With
  The management control means includes
  By communicating with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through the transmission / reception means at a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out, and searching for the inventory position of each article. A first management processing operation for generating and updating a database in which each article is associated with its inventory position and searching for the article to be taken out with reference to the database at the time of taking out the article;
  At the time of taking out the article, in each of the plurality of storage compartments, the identification code and the inventory inquiry command to be called are transmitted almost simultaneously from the transmission / reception means to the tag devices to search for the article to be taken out. A second management processing operation for performing
  Can be selectively switched,
  In the first management processing operation,
  Communicate with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and when there is no response from the desired tag device, communicate with the tag device of each article in another area The article management system that searches for the inventory position of each article and generates and updates a database that associates each article with the inventory position.   The article management system according to claim 3,
  The first management processing operation is as follows:
  Processing for updating the database at the scheduled return time of the article, and communication with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, when there is no response from the desired tag device An article management system including at least one of processes for performing a search by communicating with the tag device of each article in another area.   The article management system according to claim 3 or 4,
  A communication relay device that relays communication between the plurality of transmission / reception means and the management control means;
  Each of the transmission / reception means transmits a signal indicating the presence / absence of a response from the tag device in each storage section to the communication relay device in time series, and the communication relay device receives response signals from a plurality of the transmission / reception means. An article management system that collects and transmits to the management control means.   A plurality of articles are stored in a storage means having a plurality of storage sections, a tag device is attached to each of the articles, and an article management apparatus that manages the articles based on a unique identification code assigned to the tag apparatus Because
  Communicating with the tag device of each article stored in the storage means through each transmission / reception means provided corresponding to each storage section at a predetermined timing when the article is not taken out, By searching the inventory position of each article, a database in which each article is associated with its inventory position is generated and updated, and the article to be taken out is retrieved by referring to the database when the article is taken out. A first management processing operation for performing
  At the time of taking out the article, in each of the plurality of storage compartments, the identification code and the inventory inquiry command to be called are transmitted almost simultaneously from the transmission / reception means to the tag devices to search for the article to be taken out. A second management processing operation for performing
  Can be selectively switched,
  In the first management processing operation,
  Communicate with the tag device of each article in a predetermined candidate area in the storage means, and when there is no response from the desired tag device, communicate with the tag device of each article in another area The article management device that searches for the inventory position of each article and generates and updates a database that associates each article with its inventory position.

Images