JP5469441B2 - Locker equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a locker device including a plurality of locker boxes.

  For example, when searching for an empty locker box in a coin locker at a station, the user usually goes to the vicinity of the coin locker and confirms whether there is an empty locker box. When the coin locker is a locker device that does not use a mechanical key, the presence or absence of an empty locker box can be confirmed by turning on / off the door lamp. On the other hand, in the case of a locker device of a type that uses a mechanical key, the presence or absence of an empty locker box can be confirmed by the presence / absence of the key. In any case, the user cannot confirm whether there is an empty locker box unless he / she goes to the vicinity of the coin locker.

  If the user goes to the front of the locker device and all locker boxes are in use and there is no empty locker box, or if the locker box size does not match the size of the luggage The user cannot deposit his / her baggage in the locker device, and needs to search for another locker device, which is inconvenient.

  Therefore, various techniques for confirming the presence or absence of an empty locker box from a location away from the locker device without the user having to go to the vicinity of the locker device are conventionally known.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, the number of empty locker boxes is calculated, and this empty number information is transmitted to a locker guide plate away from the locker device and displayed.

  Further, in Patent Document 2, in a station premises where a plurality of locker devices are scattered, etc., the main entrance / exit of each premises and each locker device are installed at other locker devices and their usage status (full / empty). Is provided with an information transmitter for transmitting necessary information among a plurality of locker devices. Thereby, it is said that the availability information of a plurality of scattered locker devices can be notified to the user to improve the service and the utilization rate, that is, the profit can be improved.

  Furthermore, in patent document 3, the use state of each locker box is detected, this information is transmitted / received wirelessly, and the use state of each locker box is displayed. The usage status of a plurality of locker devices can be understood at a glance.

JP 62-26597 A Japanese Utility Model Publication 2-35281 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-29195

  In any of the above-described prior arts, the locker device and the display means for displaying the usage status are separated from each other, and therefore an information transmitter for transmitting and receiving usage information as needed between the two is essential. Furthermore, in the case of wired communication, it is necessary to install a cable that connects the two. Therefore, in introducing the locker device, a large amount of cost for constructing a communication network of the locker device and a burden such as wiring work increase.

  Further, since the locker device and the display means for displaying the usage status are installed apart from each other, it takes some time to transmit and receive data indicating the usage status. Therefore, a time lag corresponding to the communication time occurs between the actual usage information of the locker device and the usage status displayed on the display means.

  The present invention has been made in view of such conventional problems, and its purpose is to inform and introduce the number of available lockers in real time to users who are away from the locker device. It is providing the locker apparatus which suppresses the burden of time.

  A feature of the present invention is that a plurality of locker boxes each having a door, a plurality of lock devices that respectively lock the doors, and the number of empty locker boxes that can be used based on the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the locking device. A locker device comprising: a vacant number counting unit for counting, and a vacant number display unit for displaying the number of available vacant locker boxes counted by the vacant number counting unit, wherein the vacant number display unit includes a plurality of vacant number display units It is located at the top of the locker box.

  Here, the “locking operation and unlocking operation of the locking device” includes determination of whether the locking operation and unlocking operation of the locking device are normal as well as the locking operation and unlocking operation of the locking device themselves. Results are also included.

  According to the feature of the present invention, since the empty number display section for displaying the number of empty locker boxes that can be used is arranged at the upper part of the plurality of locker boxes, the user who is away from the locker device In contrast, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified. At the same time, a plurality of locker boxes and an empty number display section for displaying the usage status are close to each other. Therefore, the communication time required for transmitting and receiving the usage status between the two is shortened, and the number of empty locker boxes can be notified in real time. Moreover, an information transmitter and a connection cable for transmitting and receiving usage information between them are not necessary. Therefore, a large amount of cost for constructing a communication network for the locker device and a burden such as wiring work become unnecessary, and an increase in the cost of initial introduction can be suppressed.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that an available locker box that can be used stands by with the door unlocked, the user opens the door, deposits luggage in the available locker box, and the door When the door is closed, the lock device temporarily locks the door, and then, after the payment of the fee is completed, the lock device is in a formal locked state. In this case, the empty number counting unit subtracts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used based on the operation of the lock device temporarily locking the door. As a result, it is possible to confirm the user's intention to use and subtract the number of empty locker boxes at an earlier stage than when it becomes officially locked, so other uses away from the locker device The number of the latest free locker boxes can be notified to the applicant.

If the lock device does not complete the payment within a predetermined time after the door is locked, the lock device unlocks the door, and the empty number counting unit adds the number of empty locker boxes that can be used. May be. As described above, the number of empty locker boxes has already been subtracted before the official locked state is reached. Therefore, when the payment of the fee is not completed within a predetermined time, it is determined that the confirmed user's intention to use is cancelled, the door is unlocked, and the number of empty locker boxes that can be used is added. Thereby, the number of the newest empty locker boxes can be notified to other users who wish to be away from the locker device.

In the feature of the present invention, the plurality of locker boxes are composed of boxes of a plurality of sizes having different capacities, and the vacant number counting unit counts the number of available vacant locker boxes for each size, and displays the vacant number display. The unit may display the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size.

Conventionally, even if the user goes to the front of the locker device and finds an empty locker box, if the size of the locker box is smaller than the size of the load, the user naturally deposits the load in the locker device. It was not possible, and it was necessary to look for another locker device in which a large size locker box was empty. Therefore, when multiple locker boxes are composed of multiple size boxes with different capacities, count the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size, and the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size. Is displayed. As a result, it is possible to notify the user who is away from the locker device of the number of locker boxes of a size that matches the size of the luggage among the available empty locker boxes. improves.

  The empty number counting unit may subtract the number of empty locker boxes that can be used when an abnormality occurs in the lock device of the empty locker box. When an abnormality occurs in the lock device of the empty locker box, the lock device cannot lock the door correctly, and the user cannot use the locker box. Therefore, even in such a case, the empty number counting unit can correctly count the number of available empty locker boxes by subtracting the number of available locker boxes. it can. In addition, the abnormality which generate | occur | produces in a locking device includes the abnormality which generate | occur | produces in the door detection apparatus with which a locking device is provided in addition to the abnormality of locking operation and unlocking operation | movement of a locking device.

  The empty number counting unit may add the number of empty locker boxes that can be used when an abnormality that has occurred in the lock device of the empty locker box is restored. When an abnormality occurs in the lock device of the empty locker box, the number of available empty locker boxes is subtracted. Therefore, after that, when an abnormality that has occurred in the lock device of the empty locker box returns to a normal state, the locker box can be used, so the number of empty locker boxes that can be used is added. Thereby, the empty number counting unit can correctly count the number of empty locker boxes that can be used.

  The locker device may be able to select a management mode capable of forcibly controlling the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the lock device regardless of depositing the baggage in the locker box and taking out the baggage from the locker box. By making the management mode selectable, the administrator can control the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the locking device. Therefore, for example, when the baggage exceeding the custody period is stored separately, or when the user cannot unlock the baggage due to failure of authentication, the administrator forcibly unlocks the baggage and removes the baggage from the locker box. be able to. Moreover, when it is desired to stop using a specific locker box due to a failure of the locker box, the administrator can forcibly lock the locker box.

  In the management mode, when the lock device performs a locking operation and then the door is closed, the empty number counting unit may subtract the number of empty locker boxes that can be used. It is possible to correctly count the number of empty locker boxes that can be used.

  When all the locker boxes are stopped by locking all the doors, in the management mode, the empty number display section indicates that the locker boxes are closed instead of the number of available locker boxes. It may be displayed. For example, for security reasons, it may be desirable to lock all doors and temporarily stop using all locker boxes. In such a case, if zero is displayed as the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, the user who wishes to use may misunderstand that all locker boxes are in use. Therefore, by displaying that the locker is closed instead of the number of available locker boxes, it becomes clear that the use of the locker is stopped, and the convenience is further improved.

  The empty number display section may include a magnetic reversal display device. A magnetic reversal display device is a device that displays characters or images by creating two colors, front and back, by reversing an ultra-small rotating display element with a magnetic pulse. The rotation display surface is switched between display and non-display by the repulsion between magnets and the principle of attraction. The magnetic reversal display device requires a small amount of electricity only at the time of display switching. However, if switching is not necessary, energy is unnecessary, which contributes to power saving.

  The empty number display unit includes a display surface that displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, and the display surface is parallel to the surface on which the door is installed. The number of empty locker boxes can be notified to a user who wants to use the user away from the normal direction of the surface on which the door is installed.

  Alternatively, the empty number display unit may include a display surface that displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, and the display surface may be perpendicular to the surface on which the door is installed. The number of vacant locker boxes can be notified to a user who wishes to use in a direction parallel to the surface on which the door is installed. For example, when a locker device is installed along an elongated passage, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified to a user who desires to use the device in the longitudinal direction of the passage.

  Alternatively, the empty number display unit may include a display surface that displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, and the display surface may rotate about an axis parallel to the vertical direction. The number of empty locker boxes can be informed to users who wish to use in all directions. That is, as compared with the case where the display surface is fixed, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified to more users, and convenience is improved.

  According to the locker device of the present invention, since a plurality of locker boxes and a vacant number display section for displaying the usage status are close to each other, the number of vacant lockers for a user who desires to be away from the locker device. Can be notified in real time, and the burden at the time of introduction can be suppressed.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the locker apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. Fig.2 (a) is a front view which shows an example of the external appearance of the rocker apparatus of FIG. 1, FIG.2 (b) is a side view of the rocker apparatus of Fig.2 (a). It is a front view which expands and shows the center part of the rocker apparatus 1 of Fig.2 (a). It is a flowchart which shows an example of control operation | movement by the locker control unit 21 of FIG. 1, Comprising: A user shows the operation | movement at the time of depositing a package in locker box 28a-28y. It is another example of the control operation by the locker control unit 21 of FIG. 1, and is a flowchart showing an operation example when the user takes out the luggage from the locker boxes 28a to 28y. It is another example of the control operation by the rocker control unit 21 of FIG. 1, and is a flowchart showing an operation example in a case where an abnormality of the locking operation or an abnormality of the unlocking operation that has once occurred returns to a normal state. It is an example of control operation in management mode, Comprising: It is a flowchart which shows the operation example in the case of performing locking operation of a locking device compulsorily. It is another example of the control operation in the management mode, and is a flowchart illustrating an operation example when the unlocking operation of the locking device is forcibly performed. It is a flowchart which shows the unlocking operation example of the locking device at the time of separately storing the package | bag which the storage expiration date exceeded as a specific example which performs the unlocking operation | movement of a locking device compulsorily. 10A is a front view showing the appearance of a rocker device according to a modification, FIG. 10B is a side view thereof, and FIG. 10C is a magnetic reversal display device (42a, 42b, 42c). It is a side view which shows the state which displayed the character in closing in ().

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  With reference to FIG. 1, the structure of the rocker apparatus 1 concerning embodiment of this invention is demonstrated. The locker device 1 displays a locker body 2 including a plurality of locker boxes that allow a user to deposit and take out luggage, and the number of available locker boxes among the locker boxes included in the locker body 2. And an empty number display section 3 to be used.

  The locker body 2 exchanges information between the user and the locker device 1 with a plurality of locker boxes each having a door, a plurality of lock devices 27a to 27y that respectively lock the doors of each locker box, and the locker device 1. A liquid crystal display 22 with a touch panel that functions as a user interface unit, an IC card R / W 23 that receives radio waves from an IC card owned by a user, reads and writes data to the IC card, and wireless The data communication unit 24 that transmits and receives data to and from the outside of the device via the telephone line 41, the cash handling device 25 that handles cash such as banknotes and coins, the receipt issuing unit 26, and the locker device 1 as a whole are controlled. And a rocker control unit 21.

  The locker control unit 21 includes a lock control unit 43 that controls the locking and unlocking operations of the locking devices 27a to 27y, and an empty locker box that can be used based on the locking and unlocking operations of the locking devices 27a to 27y. A function as a vacant number counting unit 44 that counts the number of

  Specifically, the empty number counting unit 44 determines whether or not the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the locking devices 27a to 27y have been normally performed. Then, the empty number counting unit 44 is provided for an empty locker box that can be used when the locking operation of the locking devices 27a to 27y is normally performed and when an abnormality occurs in the locking operation of the locking devices 27a to 27y. Subtract number. The empty number counting unit 44 adds the number of empty locker boxes that can be used when the unlocking operation of the lock devices 27a to 27y is normally performed and when the abnormality once occurred is restored.

  The rocker control unit 21 may be realized as hardware having these functions, or may be realized by loading a computer program (software) having these functions into a microcomputer or the like.

  The empty number display unit 3 controls the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) and the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) for displaying the number of empty locker boxes that can be used. Unit 31 is provided. Here, the “magnetic reversal display device” is a device that displays a character or an image by inverting an ultra-small rotating display element with a magnetic pulse to create two colors, front and back. The rotation display surface is switched between display and non-display by the repulsion between magnets and the principle of attraction. The magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) require a small amount of electricity only at the time of display switching. However, if switching is not necessary, energy is unnecessary, which contributes to power saving.

  The rocker control unit 21 is equipped with a battery 45. When the external power supply is interrupted due to a power failure or the like, the locker device 1 is driven by the power supplied from the battery 45. However, in this battery-operated state, the luggage can be taken out from the locker box, but the luggage cannot be deposited in the empty locker box. Further, in the battery drive state, the locker control unit 21 causes the empty number display unit 3 to display “being out of power”. When the external power supply is resumed, the locker control unit 21 counts the number of empty lockers at the time of restart, and causes the empty number display unit 3 to display the number of empty locker boxes.

  The vacant number display control unit 31 is connected to the locker control unit 21 by the local area network LAN, and receives data on the number of usable vacant locker boxes counted by the vacant number counting unit 44. The empty number display control unit 31 controls the display contents of the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) based on the received data.

  As will be described later with reference to FIG. 2, in the embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of locker boxes provided in the locker body 2 are formed of boxes of a plurality of sizes (for example, large, medium, and small) having different capacities. . For this reason, the locker control unit 21 (empty number counting unit 44) counts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size. The empty number display unit 3 displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size.

  For example, when the plurality of locker boxes included in the locker body 2 are composed of three types of locker boxes of large size, medium size, and small size, the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) A first magnetic inversion display 32a for displaying the number of empty spaces, a second magnetic inversion indicator 32b for displaying the number of empty spaces in the medium size rocker box, and a third for displaying the number of empty spaces in the small size rocker box. And a magnetic reversal display 32c. Then, based on the data received from the locker control unit 21, the empty number display control unit 31 has the first magnetic inversion display 32a, the second magnetic inversion display 32b, and the third magnetic inversion display 32c. Control display content.

  An example of the external configuration of the rocker device 1 of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b). Fig.2 (a) shows the front surface of the rocker apparatus 1, FIG.2 (b) shows the side surface of the rocker apparatus 1 of Fig.2 (a). As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the locker body 2 includes 25 locker boxes 28a to 28y formed by partitioning one housing into a plurality of chambers. On the front face of the locker device 1 shown in FIG. 2A, doors provided in the respective locker boxes 28a to 28y are provided. The user opens and closes the door and deposits and removes the luggage from the locker boxes 28a to 28y.

  Of the 25 rocker boxes 28a-28y, 19 rocker boxes 28a-28s are small-sized rocker boxes, and the other three rocker boxes 28t-28v are medium-sized rocker boxes, and the rest The three locker boxes 28w to 28y are large-sized locker boxes. Since the size of the locker box corresponds to the size of the door, the user can easily find a locker box of a size suitable for the size of the luggage to be deposited.

  The other components of the locker body 2 including the locker control unit 21 are arranged in the central section of the locker body 2. Other components of the locker body 2 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The vacant number display part 3 is formed in a signboard arranged at the upper part of the plurality of locker boxes 28a to 28y. The display surfaces of the first magnetic reversal display 32a, the second magnetic reversal display 32b, and the third magnetic reversal display 32c face the front of the rocker device 1 shown in FIG. Yes. That is, the vacant number display unit 3 includes a display surface that displays the number of available locker boxes, and the display surface is parallel to the surface on which the doors of the locker boxes 28a to 28y are installed. doing. Thereby, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified to a user who wishes to use in the normal direction of the surface where the door is installed. On the other hand, as shown in FIG.2 (b), the empty number display part 3 does not have a display surface in the side surface of a locker apparatus.

  In addition, the signboard includes “large”, “medium”, and the display surfaces of the first magnetic reversal display 32a, the second magnetic reversal display 32b, and the third magnetic reversal display 32c. The characters “small” are described, and further, the characters “vacant information” are described. This indicates the number of empty locker boxes for which each number indicated by the first magnetic reversal display 32a, the second magnetic reversal display 32b, and the third magnetic reversal display 32c is available for each size. It becomes clear that there is. The empty number display control unit 31 in FIG. 1 is arranged inside the signboard, and thus does not appear in the appearances of FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b).

  With reference to FIG. 3, the structure of the center part of the rocker apparatus 1 of FIG. 2 (a) and the detailed structure of the rocker boxes 28a-28y are demonstrated. The locker device 1 is an example of a locker device of a type that does not use a mechanical key, and is a coin locker of an electronic money compatible machine that can use the locker boxes 28a to 28y with an IC card Cd. The use situation of each locker box 28a-28y can be confirmed by lighting / extinguishing of the lamp installed in the outer peripheral part of the door. For example, when it is lit, it is in use, and when it is off, it is empty. Or vice versa. A lock device 27q for locking the door 29q is installed inside the door 29q of the locker box 28q. Although illustration is omitted, the lockers 27a to 27y for locking the doors are similarly installed on the insides of the other locker boxes 28a to 28y. The empty locker box that can be used is in a state where the door is unlocked and the door is half-opened. Each of the lock devices 27a to 27y includes a door detection device. The door detection device detects a closed state by pushing a door in a half-open state.

  The locker control unit 21 is disposed in a central section of the locker device 1 and centrally controls the locking and unlocking operations of all the locking devices 27a to 27y. In addition, a liquid crystal display 22 with a touch panel, an IC card R / W 23 for reading and writing data to and from the IC card Cd, a receipt issuing unit 26, and cash A handling device 25 is arranged.

  The user of the locker device 1 holds the prepaid IC card Cd pre-charged with electronic money over the IC card R / W 23 or inserts cash such as banknotes and coins into the cash handling device 25, thereby You can pay the box usage fee. The receipt issuing unit 26 issues a receipt in which the name of the locker device 1, the number of the locker box, the ID number of the IC card Cd, the use start date and time, etc. are issued when the use of the locker box is started. When the locker device 1 limits the time during which one user can use one locker box, the use end date and time may be described on the receipt.

  The locker device 1 is capable of forcibly controlling the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the locking devices 27a to 27y regardless of the storage of the luggage into the locker boxes 28a to 28y and the removal of the luggage from the locker boxes 28a to 28y. The mode can be selected. By selecting this management mode, the administrator of the locker device 1 forcibly stops the use of all the locker boxes 28a to 28y that forcibly perform the locking and unlocking operations of the arbitrary lock devices 27a to 27y. Various controls of the locker device 1 can be implemented.

  With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4, as an example of the control operation by the locker control unit 21 of FIG. 1, an operation example when the user deposits the luggage into the locker boxes 28a to 28y will be described.

  (A) First, in step S01, the locker control unit 21 waits for an empty locker box that can be used in an unlocked state and with the door half open. When the user proceeds to step S03 and deposits the baggage in an available locker box and closes the door, the door detection device of the locker box indicates that the available locker box door is closed. The locker control unit 21 controls the lock device of the locker box to temporarily lock the door of the locker box. As a result, the locker box is temporarily locked. “Temporary locked state” means that the user can confirm the user's intention to use by closing the available locker box door, and before the payment is completed, The state where the door is locked is shown.

  (B) In step S05, the rocker control unit 21 determines whether or not the locking operation of the locking device in step S03 has been normally performed. If it has been performed normally (YES in step S05), the process proceeds to step S07. In step S07, the locker control unit 21 subtracts the number of available locker boxes and displays it on the empty number display unit 3. Specifically, the locker control unit 21 (empty number counting unit 44) subtracts the number of usable empty locker boxes based on the normal locking operation of the lock device, and subtracts the data of the number of empty locker boxes obtained by subtraction. Is transmitted to the empty number display control unit 31. The empty number display control unit 31 receives the subtracted empty locker box data and updates the display contents of the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c). In the embodiment of the present invention, in order to display the number of empty locker boxes for each of three sizes of large, medium and small, the locker control unit 21 subtracts and displays the number of empty locker boxes for each size.

  (C) On the other hand, if there is an abnormality in the locking operation (NO in step S05), the user cannot use the locker box including the lock device in which the locking operation is abnormal, so the process proceeds to step S13. The locker control unit 21 determines that a locking abnormality has occurred, and subtracts and displays the number of empty locker boxes as in step S07 (S15). Then, it returns to S01 stage.

  (D) After step S07, the process proceeds to step S09, and it is determined whether or not the payment of the usage fee by the IC card Cd or cash is completed within a predetermined time after the normal locking operation is performed. When payment of the usage fee is completed within a predetermined time (YES in step S09), the process proceeds to step S11, where the locker control unit 21 determines that the lock is in an officially locked state (mainly locked), and controls for depositing the luggage. The operation is terminated and the process returns to the S01 stage.

  (E) If payment of the fee is not completed within a predetermined time (NO in step S09), the process proceeds to step S17, and the locker control unit 21 controls the lock device of the locker box to unlock the locker box door. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S19, and the locker control unit 21 determines whether or not the unlocking operation of the lock device in step S17 has been normally performed. If the operation is normally performed (YES in step S19), the “temporary lock state” of the locker box is released, so the process proceeds to step S21, and the locker control unit 21 adds the number of available locker boxes. Then, it is displayed on the empty number display section 3. Then, it returns to S01 stage.

  (F) On the other hand, if there is an abnormality in the unlocking operation (NO in step S19), the user cannot use the locker box including the lock device in which the unlocking operation is abnormal. The locker control unit 21 determines that an unlocking abnormality has occurred, and displays the number of empty locker boxes subtracted in step S07 on the empty number display unit 3 as it is. Then, it returns to S01 stage.

  With reference to FIG. 5, as another example of the control operation by the locker control unit 21 of FIG. 1, an operation example when the user takes out the luggage from the locker boxes 28a to 28y will be described.

  (A) First, in step S31, the locker device 1 is in a standby state. In step S33, the user uses the liquid crystal display 22 with a touch panel to start a panel operation for taking out the package, such as inputting a locker box number and entering a personal identification number for authenticating the user. In step S35, it is determined whether the user authentication is completed within a predetermined time after the user authentication operation is started. If the personal authentication is not completed within the predetermined time (NO in step S35), the process proceeds to step S43, the process for removing the package is stopped, and the process returns to step S31.

  (B) When the personal authentication is completed within a predetermined time (YES in step S35), the process proceeds to step S37, where the lock device of the locker box is controlled to unlock the door of the locker box. In step S39, the locker control unit 21 determines whether or not the unlocking operation of the locking device in step S37 has been performed normally. If it is performed normally (YES in step S39), the door is unlocked and the user can take out the luggage in the locker box. Therefore, it progresses to S41 stage and the locker control unit 21 adds the number of the empty locker boxes which can be used, and displays it on the empty number display part 3. FIG. Thereafter, the process returns to step S31.

  (C) On the other hand, if there is an abnormality in the unlocking operation (NO in step S39), the process proceeds to step S45, where the locker control unit 21 determines that an unlocking abnormality has occurred and returns to step S31. At this time, the number of empty locker boxes to be displayed on the empty number display unit 3 is not adjusted.

  With reference to FIG. 6, as another example of the control operation by the rocker control unit 21 in FIG. 1, an operation example in a case where the abnormality of the lock device once occurred returns to a normal state will be described. First, in step S51, the locker device 1 is in a standby state. In this standby state, when the abnormality of the lock device once occurred automatically returns to the normal state (YES in step S53), the number of available locker boxes that can be used increases. The unit 21 adds the number of empty locker boxes that can be used and causes the empty number display unit 3 to display them. Thereafter, the process returns to step S51. The abnormality of the lock device includes an abnormality of the door detection device included in the lock device in addition to an abnormality of the locking operation or the unlocking operation by the lock device.

  An example of the control operation when the management mode is selected will be described with reference to FIGS. First, with reference to FIG. 7, the operation example in the case of forcibly performing the locking operation of the locking device will be described.

  (A) First, in step S61, the locker control unit 21 waits for an empty locker box that can be used in an unlocked state and with the door half open. In this standby state, when the administrator of the locker device 1 performs an operation for starting the management mode, such as a master key operation or an input of a password for the administrator (YES in step S63), the process proceeds to step S65. The management mode for forcibly performing the locking operation is started. When the number of the empty locker box to be forcibly locked is input by the administrator and a forced locking operation is instructed, the process proceeds to step S67, where the locker control unit 21 locks the locker box installed in the empty locker box. The device is locked. At this time, since the door of the empty locker box is still half open, the door is not locked.

  (B) Proceeding to step S69, the administrator closes the door in the half-open state, so that the door detection device detects the “close (push)” of the door, and the door is forcibly locked by the lock device. It becomes an official lock state. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S71, and if the end of the management mode is selected by the administrator (YES in step S71), the process proceeds to step S73, and if the end of the management mode is not selected by the administrator (NO in step S71), S65. Returning to the stage, other locker boxes can be forcibly locked.

  (C) In step S73, the locker control unit 21 subtracts the number of available locker boxes and displays it on the available number display unit 3. Thereafter, the process returns to step S61. In step S73, the locker control unit 21 subtracts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used as much as the number of locker boxes that are forcibly locked according to the number of repetitions of S65 to S71.

  With reference to FIG. 8, the operation example in the case of forcibly performing the unlocking operation of the locking device will be described.

  (Ii) First, in step S81, the locker device 1 is in a standby state. In this standby state, when the administrator of the locker device 1 performs an operation for starting the management mode, such as master key operation or input of a personal identification number for the administrator (YES in step S83), the process proceeds to step S85. The locker control unit 21 starts a management mode for forcibly performing the unlocking operation. When the administrator inputs the number of the locker box to be forcibly unlocked and instructs the forced unlocking operation, the process proceeds to step S87, where the locker control unit 21 locks the locker box installed in the locker box. The device is unlocked. Thereby, the door of the locker box is forcibly unlocked and is in a half-open state.

  (B) Proceed to step S89, and if the administrator of the locker device 1 performs an operation for ending the management mode (YES in step S89), proceed to step S91, and the administrator of the locker device 1 starts the management mode If no operation is performed (NO in step S89), the process returns to step S85, and the forced unlocking operation of another locker box can be performed.

  (Ha) In step S91, the locker control unit 21 adds the number of available locker boxes to be displayed on the empty number display unit 3. Thereafter, the process returns to step S81. In step S91, the locker control unit 21 adds the number of empty locker boxes that can be used as much as the number of forcibly unlocked locker boxes according to the number of repetitions of S85 to S89.

  With reference to FIG. 9, as a specific example of forcibly performing the unlocking operation of the locking device, an example of the unlocking operation when separately storing a package whose storage period has expired will be described.

  (A) Steps S101 and S103 are the same as steps S81 and S83 in FIG.

  (B) In step S105, the locker control unit 21 starts an operation for separately storing a package whose storage period has expired according to the operation of the liquid crystal display 22 by the administrator. When the administrator inputs the number of the locker box whose storage deadline has passed and the unlocking operation is instructed, the process proceeds to step S107, and the locker control unit 21 unlocks the lock device installed in the locker box. Perform the action. As a result, the door of the locker box is forcibly unlocked and is in a half-open state, so the administrator can take out the baggage whose storage period has expired from the locker box and store it separately at another location. it can.

  (C) In step S109, similarly to step S91 in FIG. 8, it is determined whether or not an operation for terminating the management mode has been performed, and steps S105 to S109 are repeated as many times as necessary. If an operation for ending the management mode is performed (YES in step S109), the process proceeds to step S111, and the locker control unit 21 adds the number of available locker boxes to the available number display unit 3. Display. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101. In step S111, the locker control unit 21 adds the number of empty locker boxes that can be used as much as the number of forcibly unlocked locker boxes according to the number of repetitions of S105 to S109.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  Since the empty number display section 3 for displaying the number of empty locker boxes that can be used is arranged above the plurality of locker boxes 28 a to 28 y, it is possible for users who want to use them away from the locker device 1. The number of empty locker boxes can be notified. At the same time, the plurality of locker boxes 28a to 28y and the vacant number display unit 3 for displaying the usage status are close to each other. Therefore, the communication time required for transmitting and receiving the usage status between the two is shortened, and the number of empty locker boxes can be notified in real time. Moreover, an information transmitter and a connection cable for transmitting and receiving usage information between them are not necessary. Therefore, a large amount of cost for constructing the communication network of the locker device 1 and a burden such as wiring work are not required, and an increase in the cost of initial introduction can be suppressed.

  In addition, for example, in a station premises, a plurality of locker devices that are spaced apart are connected via a network, and information on the number of empty locker boxes is shared with each other, so that other locker devices that are far away The locker system that guides information on the number of lockers is compared with the locker device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Both provide vacancy information of the locker device to those who wish to use it at a location away from the locker device. However, the locker device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention can be easily introduced because the introduction cost is lower than the locker system and the wiring work in the station is not required. .

  Conventionally, even if the user goes to the front of the locker device and finds an empty locker box, if the size of the locker box is smaller than the size of the load, the user naturally deposits the load in the locker device. It was not possible, and it was necessary to look for another locker device in which a large size locker box was empty. However, in the embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of locker boxes 28a to 28y are formed of a plurality of size boxes having different capacities, and the number of empty locker boxes that can be used is counted for each size, and for each size. Display the number of free locker boxes that are available. Thereby, it is possible to notify the number of locker boxes having a size suitable for the size of the available locker boxes out of the available locker boxes to the user who is away from the locker device 1, which is convenient. Further improvement.

  As shown in FIG. 4, in step S03, the vacant number counting unit 3 performs an operation in which the lock devices 27a to 27y lock the door, and this operation is normally performed (YES in S05). The number of empty locker boxes is subtracted (S07). Thereby, since the user's intention to use can be confirmed and the number of empty locker boxes can be subtracted at an earlier stage than when it becomes the official locked state (S11), it is away from the locker device 1. The number of the latest empty locker boxes can be notified to other users who wish to use.

  In addition, the number of empty locker boxes has already been subtracted before the official lock state (S11) (S07). Therefore, when the payment of the fee is not completed within a predetermined time (NO in S09), it is determined that the confirmed user's intention to use has been canceled, and the number of available free locker boxes is added (S21). ). Thereby, the number of the latest empty locker boxes can be notified to other users who wish to be away from the locker device 1.

  If an abnormality occurs in the locking operation of the lock device of the empty locker box (NO in S05), the lock device cannot lock the door correctly, and the user cannot use the locker box. Therefore, even in such a case, the empty number counting unit 3 subtracts the number of available locker boxes (S15), so that the empty number counting unit 3 determines the number of available locker boxes. Count correctly. In addition, not only when abnormality occurs in the locking operation of the lock device of the empty locker box (NO in S05), an abnormality has occurred in the unlocking operation of the lock device of the empty locker box and the door detection device included in the lock device. Even in this case, the user cannot use the locker box. Therefore, also in such a case, the empty number counting unit 3 may subtract the number of empty locker boxes that can be used.

  As described above, when an abnormality occurs in the locking operation of the lock device of the empty locker box (NO in S05), the number of available empty locker boxes is subtracted (S15). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, when the abnormality that has occurred in the locking operation of the locking device subsequently returns to a normal state (YES in S53), the locker box can be used. The number of available empty locker boxes is added (S55). Thereby, the vacant number counting unit 3 can correctly count the number of vacant locker boxes that can be used. Note that the user can use the locker box even when the unlocking operation of the lock device of the empty locker box or the abnormality occurring in the door detection device provided in the lock device is restored. Therefore, even in such a case, the free space counting unit 3 may add the number of free locker boxes that can be used.

  The locker device 1 can select a management mode capable of forcibly controlling the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the lock device regardless of depositing the baggage in the locker box and taking out the baggage from the locker box. By making this management mode selectable, the administrator can control the locking and unlocking operations of the locking device. Therefore, for example, when the baggage exceeding the custody period is stored separately (FIG. 9), or when the user cannot unlock due to authentication failure, the administrator is forced to follow the flowchart shown in FIG. It is possible to unlock the door and take out the luggage from the locker box. Moreover, when it is desired to stop using a specific locker box due to a failure of the locker box, the administrator can forcibly lock the locker box.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the management mode, first, the locking device performs a locking operation (S67), and then the door is closed (S69), thereby entering a formal locking state. Therefore, in this case, the available number counting unit 3 can correctly count the number of available empty locker boxes by subtracting the number of available empty locker boxes (S73).

  As shown in FIG. 2, the empty number display unit 3 includes a first magnetic reversal display 32a, a second magnetic reversal display 32b, and a third magnetic reversal display 32c, each of which includes a magnetic reversal display device. . The first magnetic reversal display 32a, the second magnetic reversal display 32b, and the third magnetic reversal display 32c require a small amount of electricity only when switching the display, but energy is not required if switching is not necessary. It contributes to power saving.

The empty number display unit 3 includes a display surface that displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, and the display surface is parallel to the surface on which the door is installed. The number of empty locker boxes can be notified to a user who wants to use the user away from the normal direction of the surface on which the door is installed.
(Modification)
Fig.10 (a) is a front view which shows the external appearance of the rocker apparatus concerning a modification, and FIG.10 (b) is the side view. An empty number display unit 4 is disposed on the locker body 2. The empty number display unit 4 includes a first magnetic inversion display 42a, a second magnetic inversion display 42b, and a third magnetic inversion display 42c. The display surfaces of the first magnetic reversal display 42a, the second magnetic reversal display 42b, and the third magnetic reversal display 42c face the side surface of the rocker device 1 shown in FIG. Yes. That is, the empty number display unit 4 includes a display surface that displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, and the display surface is perpendicular to the surface on which the doors of the locker boxes 28a to 28y are installed. doing. Thereby, the number of empty locker boxes can be informed to a user who wishes to use in a direction parallel to the surface on which the door is installed. For example, when a locker device is installed along an elongated passage, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified to a user who desires to use the device in the longitudinal direction of the passage. On the other hand, as shown to Fig.10 (a), the vacant number display part 3 does not have a display surface in the front of a locker apparatus.

  Moreover, when using all the locker boxes 28a-28y by locking all the doors, according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, the management mode is selected (S63), and all the locker boxes 28a-28 The 28y door is locked (S69). At this time, as shown in FIG. 10C, the available number display unit 4 may display that the closed number is closed instead of the number of available empty locker boxes. The first magnetic reversal display 32a, the second magnetic reversal display 32b, and the third magnetic reversal display 32c each have a display width of two half-width characters (one full-width character), and therefore, each of the “closed” "Kanji" "chain" "middle" can be displayed.

  For example, for security reasons, it may be desirable to lock all the doors and temporarily stop the use of all the locker boxes 28a to 28y. In such a case, if zero is displayed as the number of empty locker boxes that can be used, the user who wishes to use may misunderstand that all locker boxes are in use. Therefore, by displaying that the locker is closed instead of the number of available locker boxes, it becomes clear that the use of the locker is stopped, and the convenience is further improved.

FIG. 10 (c) shows a case where the fact that the locker device 1 is closed is displayed on the side surface of the locker device 1. Of course, the fact that the locker device 1 is closed is shown on the front side of the locker device 1 shown in FIG. Alternatively, it may be displayed on the front and side surfaces simultaneously.
(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although this invention was described by one embodiment and its modification, it should not be understood that the statement and drawing which form a part of this indication limit this invention. From this disclosure, various alternative embodiments, examples and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  In the embodiment of the present invention and the modification thereof, the case where the vacant number display units 3 and 4 are installed on the locker body 2 while being in contact with the locker body 2 is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the empty number display units 3 and 4 may be installed above the locker body 2 in a non-contact state.

  In the embodiment of the present invention and the modification thereof, the description has been given of the case where the empty number display portions 3 and 4 are formed in the signboard disposed on the locker body 2, but the present invention is limited to this. Not. You may arrange | position on the locker main body 2 as things other than a signboard. Moreover, although the direction of the display surface of the empty number display parts 3 and 4 arrange | positioned on the locker main body 2 showed the case where it is being fixed to the locker main body 2, this invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the display surface of the empty number display unit may be rotated about an axis parallel to the vertical direction. By rotating the display surface, it is possible to notify the number of empty locker boxes to the user who desires to move away in all directions. That is, as compared with the case where the display surface is fixed, the number of empty locker boxes can be notified to more users, and convenience is improved.

  The empty number display units 3 and 4 are not limited to the magnetic reversal display device, and may be other display means such as a light emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display, and a plasma display.

  Although the case where a plurality of magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) are prepared and the number of empty locker boxes is displayed for each size has been described, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the display may not be performed for each size. That is, even if the plurality of locker boxes are composed of multiple size boxes having different capacities, the empty number counting unit 44 counts the total number of available empty locker boxes, and only one magnetic reversal display device is prepared. Then, the total number of empty locker boxes that can be used may be displayed.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the case where the user's intention to use is confirmed and the number of empty locker boxes is subtracted (S07) at an earlier stage than when the formal locked state is reached (S11). However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the temporarily locked state, the number of empty locker boxes may be subtracted for the first time when the official locked state is reached (S11) without subtracting the number of empty locker boxes. Thereby, a user's intention to use can be confirmed more accurately. After that, if the payment of the fee is not completed within a predetermined time (NO in S09), it is necessary to cancel the user's intention to use once confirmed, that is, to add the number of available locker boxes (S21). Therefore, the switching operation of the magnetic reversal display devices (32a, 32b, 32c) becomes unnecessary, and the power consumption of the vacant number display units 3, 4 can be reduced.

  Regarding the compulsory locking operation and unlocking operation in the management mode of FIGS. 7 to 9, after the management mode is finished, the number of empty locker boxes is adjusted (S73, S91, S111). The present invention is not limited to this. Before the management mode ends, for example, in the example of FIG. 7, the number of empty locker boxes may be increased or decreased between S69 and S71.

  Thus, it should be understood that the present invention includes various embodiments and the like not described herein. Therefore, the present invention is limited only by the invention specifying matters according to the scope of claims reasonable from this disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Locker apparatus 2 Locker main body 3, 4 Empty number display part 21 Locker control unit 22 Liquid crystal display with a touch panel 23 IC card R / W
24 Data communication unit 25 Cash handling device 26 Receipt issuing unit 27a-27y Locking device 28a-28y Locker box 29q Door 31 Empty number display control unit 32a, 42a First magnetic reversal display (magnetic reversal display)
32b, 42b Second magnetic reversal display (magnetic reversal display)
32c, 42c Third magnetic reversal display (magnetic reversal display)
43 Lock control unit 44 Empty number counting unit 45 Battery

Claims (6)

A plurality of locker boxes each having a door;
A plurality of locking devices each locking the door;
Based on the locking operation and unlocking operation of the locking device, an empty number counting unit that counts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used,
An empty number display unit that displays the number of available empty locker boxes counted by the empty number counting unit;
The vacant number display part is arranged on the upper part of the plurality of locker boxes ,
An empty locker box that can be used stands by with the door unlocked, and when the user opens the door, deposits luggage in the empty locker box that can be used, and closes the door, The lock device is a locker device that temporarily locks the door, and then enters a formal locked state by completing payment of a fee,
The vacant number counting unit subtracts the number of vacant locker boxes that can be used, based on an operation in which the lock device temporarily locks the door.
A locker device characterized by that . Multiple locker boxes consist of multiple size boxes with different capacities,
The empty number counting unit counts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size, and
The locker device according to claim 1, wherein the empty number display unit displays the number of empty locker boxes that can be used for each size.   The locker device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the empty number counting unit subtracts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used when an abnormality occurs in the lock device of the empty locker box. Regardless of depositing the luggage in the locker box and taking out the luggage from the locker box, a management mode capable of forcibly controlling the locking operation and the unlocking operation of the locking device can be selected,
In the management mode, when the lock device performs a locking operation and then the door is closed, the empty number counting unit subtracts the number of empty locker boxes that can be used. The locker apparatus as described in any one of claim | item 1 -3.   When the use of all locker boxes is stopped by locking all the doors, in the management mode, the empty number display section is closed instead of the number of empty locker boxes that can be used. The locker device according to claim 4, which displays a message.   The rocker device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the empty number display unit includes a magnetic reversal display device.