JP7340308B1 - A method of placing and arranging baggage, and systems and management devices for this method - Google Patents

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a method for realizing secure placement at low cost, and a system and a management device for realizing this method. [Solution] In this method, a management device placed in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of the parcel is ensured, and which is communicatively connected to a management server, is attached to the parcel to be delivered. sending baggage information from the management server; placing the baggage in the security space; acquiring an image of the security space with the management device and sending it to the management server; This includes recognizing the package with a management device, and transmitting the image from the management server to a communication terminal designated by the recipient of the package. [Selection diagram] Figure 1B

Description

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of placing and arranging luggage, and a system and management device for implementing this method.

When delivering a package to a recipient, the recipient may not be present. At this time, a delivery method called "delivery" is sometimes adopted as a way to avoid redelivery of the package. This means that the package to be delivered is not placed in a lockable locker, but rather in a location that is freely accessible to a third party, including the person delivering the package (e.g., at the front door, in a garage, in an unlocked storage room, etc.). In this method, the recipient specifies a delivery box, etc., and the package is delivered to that location. This not only relieves the recipient from the stress of being required to be at home, but also reduces the burden on the deliverer of re-delivering the package (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-133219

One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a new method for distributing packages to recipients, and a system and management device for implementing this method. Alternatively, one of the objects of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a method for realizing secure placement at low cost, and a system and a management device for realizing this method. do.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method of placing and arranging luggage. This method sends package information attached to packages to be delivered to a management device that is placed in a secure space that ensures security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of packages, and that is communicatively connected to a management server. sending the baggage from the management server, placing the baggage in the secure space, acquiring an image of the security space with the management device and sending it to the management server, and transmitting the placed baggage to the management device based on the above image and baggage information. and transmitting the image from the management server to a communication terminal specified by the receiver of the package.

One embodiment of the present invention is a system for delivering packages. This system includes a management server and a management device. The management device is placed in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of luggage is ensured, and is communicatively connected to the management server. The management device receives baggage information attached to the baggage from the management server, acquires an image of the inside of the security space, sends it to the management server, and identifies the baggage placed in the security space based on the image and the baggage information. configured to recognize. The management server is configured to transmit the image to a communication terminal designated by the recipient of the package.

One embodiment of the present invention is a management device. This management device ensures security against intrusion by unknown persons and the safety of the luggage, and is placed in a secure space where the luggage is placed. The management device includes an imaging unit configured to acquire an image within the security space, a transmitting/receiving unit configured to receive luggage information attached to the luggage, and an image pickup unit configured to receive the luggage information attached to the luggage. and a control configured to recognize the loaded baggage.

FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a security space used in a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a security space used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of accommodation equipment that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic diagram of a delivery system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a container that can be used in the delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a flowchart illustrating a delivery method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings and the like. However, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the scope thereof, and should not be construed as being limited to the contents described in the embodiments exemplified below.

In order to make the explanation more clear, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual aspect, but these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention. It's not something you do. In this specification and each figure, the same reference numerals may be given to elements having the same functions as those explained in relation to the previous figures, and redundant explanation may be omitted.

<First embodiment>
In this embodiment, a method for placing and distributing packages according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter also simply referred to as the present delivery method) and a system for realizing the present delivery method (hereinafter also referred to as the delivery system) are described. and management device will be explained.

1. Overview of this delivery method In this delivery method, the package to be delivered is placed and then received by the recipient. However, the package is not placed in a place with no security at all, but rather a certain level of security and safety of the package against access by unspecified third parties is ensured, and the delivery system described below Only a specific person (hereinafter referred to as a specific user) who has been registered as a user in advance is placed in a secure space that is permitted to be used. Delivery of a package to a secure space is designated by the sender of the package or the recipient, who is a specific user.

The security space is provided with a security mechanism to ensure a certain security level. Security mechanisms include locking mechanisms and monitoring mechanisms. By providing a security mechanism, a space that is not previously expected to be used as a facility for storing and arranging luggage can be constructed as a space for storing and arranging luggage. Therefore, a delivery system can be constructed at low cost.

When a locking mechanism is used as a security mechanism, for example, as shown in the schematic plan view of FIG. 1A and the schematic side view of FIG. 1B, the security space 100 is provided with a lockable door 102 as the locking mechanism. A specific user can access the security space 100 using a specific code such as a PIN number, a key, a magnetic card, an ID card such as an ID card equipped with an integrated circuit (IC) chip, etc. unlock the door. Alternatively, the security space 100 may be configured to lock and unlock the locking mechanism using biometric information such as a specific user's face, fingerprint, and palm print.

Alternatively, if an entry restriction is imposed on the site or building itself where the security space 100 is located, the entry restriction may be used as a locking mechanism for the security space 100. For example, when entry is restricted at a gate of a site or building based on information about a specific user stored in a magnetic card or an IC chip, the gate may be used as a locking mechanism. Therefore, an open space within a site or a building can be used as the security space 100.

Therefore, when the locking mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the security space 100 is provided in a facility where users are restricted. For example, the security space 100 may be the site or building of an apartment complex such as a condominium, a company, an educational facility, a medical institution, a nursing care facility, or the site or building of various facilities such as a sports facility, commercial facility, or entertainment facility where users are restricted. Installed in buildings, etc. In this case, the specific user is a person who belongs to a group related to the various facilities in which the security space 100 is provided and whose identity has been verified. For example, when the security space 100 is provided in an apartment complex, the specific user is a resident of the apartment complex. When the security space 100 is provided on the premises or in a building of a company, an educational facility, a medical institution, a nursing care facility, etc., the specific user is a servant or employee of the security space 100. When the security space 100 is established on the grounds or buildings of various facilities such as sports facilities, commercial facilities, and entertainment facilities, the specified user must give permission in advance to the employees and employees of the facility and to use the facility. This includes users who have been

On the other hand, when the monitoring mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the management device 130 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is used. Although details of the management device 130 will be described later, the management device 130 is equipped with an imaging device, and images acquired by the imaging device function as a monitoring mechanism. In this case, a locking mechanism may or may not be further provided in the security space 100. In the latter case, the door 102 is not provided or the door 102 is permanently unlocked.

Therefore, when the monitoring mechanism is used as a security mechanism, the security space 100 can be installed at any location, and is not limited to the locations mentioned above. For example, the security space 100 may be provided at a station where users are not specified, a parking lot, a roadside, a commercial facility such as a convenience store or a supermarket, an entertainment facility such as a pachinko parlor, a government office such as a city hall, or the like. In this case, the specific user can use this delivery method by registering as a user in this delivery system. On the other hand, an unspecified third party who is not registered as a user can access the security space 100 and the luggage placed there. However, since the monitoring mechanism is always in operation, it can create a deterrent against unspecified third parties accessing the luggage.

Furthermore, the luggage placed in the security space 100 is placed in a place that can be accessed by specific users without restriction. That is, the security space 100 is configured such that once a specific user enters the security space 100, he or she can access the luggage placed in the security space 100 without any restrictions. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, for example, the luggage is placed and arranged in a storage facility 104 such as a shelf, flat platform, or desk that does not have partitions, walls, doors, or the like. When using a storage facility 104 such as a shelf, flat platform, or desk that does not have compartments, walls, partitions, etc. for arranging baggage, as shown in FIG. A marker 106 may also be attached. The marker 106 may be attached using, for example, ink, tape, or a sticker, or may be formed with unevenness formed by embossing. Although not shown, the luggage may be placed on the floor of the security space 100 or in boxes placed on the floor or shelves. In this case, markers 106 may also be attached to the floor.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2, a delivery box having one or more lockers each having a door 108 is provided in the security space 100 as a storage facility 104, and one or more packages are placed and arranged in each locker. Good too. In this case, the locker will not be locked. That is, each locker does not have or use a locking mechanism. If a locker with a door 108 is used, a cooling device may be connected to the locker to allow the locker to function as a refrigerator or freezer. Alternatively, an existing refrigerator or freezer may be used as the accommodation facility 104.

As described above, those who can access each security space 100 are limited to specific users. Therefore, even in an environment where all specified users can access packages placed in the secure space 100 without any restrictions, unspecified third parties cannot access the secure space 100, so there is no need to Security can be ensured. In addition, since the identity of the specific user is known, it is possible to create an environment in which malicious acts such as intentionally receiving packages from other specific users are difficult. Furthermore, since there is no need for large-scale storage facilities such as lockers that can store and lock each package or delivery boxes with communication functions, it is possible to reduce costs by using existing space and simple storage facilities 104 as appropriate. A security space 100 and accommodation equipment 104 installed therein can be configured.

In the conventional delivery method that uses delivery boxes with lockable lockers, if all the lockers are in use, the package cannot be delivered and the package must be redelivered. However, in this delivery method, since the storage facility 104 without partitions can be used, there is no restriction on the arrangement of cargo due to partitions, and therefore, the cargo can be efficiently arranged, resulting in improved storage efficiency. Improve each level. This greatly reduces the possibility of being forced to re-deliver, making it possible to reduce delivery costs and save the human resources required for delivery.

2. Delivery System FIG. 3 schematically shows the configuration of a delivery system 110 for implementing the present delivery method. As shown in this figure, the delivery system 110 includes a management server 120 and a management device 130 communicatively connected to the management server 120. The management device 130 is placed in each security space 100, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. For example, the management device 130 may be installed in the accommodation facility 104. Preferably, the management device 130 is attached to the ceiling or wall that constitutes the security space 100. As will be described later, the management device 130 can be provided with a light source, and the light from the light source can be irradiated onto the placed luggage and accommodation equipment. Therefore, by hanging the management device 130 from the ceiling or hanging it on a wall, light irradiation can be performed effectively.

Communication between the management server 120 and the management device 130 is performed via the network 112. As the network 112, a wide area network such as the Internet is exemplified. The management server 120 and the management device 130 are further connected via the network 112 to a delivery management server 150 managed by a delivery company that provides a package delivery service, and a smartphone or tablet designated by a package recipient who is a specific user. , a communication terminal 170 such as a portable watch, glasses, or a head-mounted portable communication terminal equipped with a communication function. The communication terminal 170 can also be configured to be communicatively connected to the management server 120 and the management device 130 via the network 112. Additionally, the management device 130 may be connected to the communication terminal 170 by short-range wireless communication via WiFi or other local area network. Note that the management server 120 and the delivery management server may be integrated, and these functions may be realized by one server.

The delivery system 110 may further include a store server 160 provided in a store that provides products. Store server 160 is communicatively connected to delivery management server 150 via network 112 . The store may be a physical store such as a general retail store such as a supermarket or department store, a liquor store, a dry cleaner, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a fast food restaurant, a bookstore, a stationery store, or a drugstore that sells cosmetics or medicine. In addition, a store is a store that conducts e-commerce on an e-commerce platform that it has built itself, or an e-commerce platform provided by a business that provides the platform for a fee or free of charge (hereinafter referred to as a "platform provider"). But that's fine. Therefore, the store does not necessarily have to be a physical store. There are no restrictions on products, and products belonging to all industries are included. Further, the products may be rental items (rental shoes, rental costumes, rental bags, etc.) or free samples (sample cosmetics, sample food, etc.).

These configurations will be described below, but the recipient's communication terminal 170, delivery management server 150, and store server 160 may be constructed using existing servers, computing devices such as computers, or mobile communication terminals such as smartphones and tablets. Since this can be done, the explanation is omitted.

2-1. Management Server The management server 120 is a device having a calculation function and a communication function, and receives a series of information (package information) associated with each package by a delivery company from the delivery management server 150. Package information includes, for example, information about the recipient (address, name, contact information such as phone number or email address, age, gender, occupation, identifier for identifying the recipient, etc.), information about the package ( Contents included in the package, weight, size, and shape of the package, identifier for identifying the package, desired delivery date and time, designated security space, location of the package specified by the recipient within the secure space, and loading. Information on the sender (address, name, contact information such as phone number or email address, attributes, etc.), information on the delivery company (such as an identifier that identifies the delivery company), etc. An arbitrarily selected part of the package information, such as an identifier for identifying the recipient or the package, is an identifier attached to the package (specifically, a two-dimensional tag attached to the package or the package or the package). information including a package identifier, such as a code or barcode). The management server 120 is further configured to transmit all or part of the package information (eg, information regarding the package, etc.) to the management device 130. The management server 120 is further configured to receive images in the security space 100 and updated images (described later) from the management device 130.

In this delivery method, when the package is placed, a notification (placement delivery notification) informing that the delivery has been completed can be sent from the management device 130 to the management server 120 through the operation of the delivery person. . Alternatively, instead of sending the placement notification from the management device 130 to the management server 120, or in addition to this, the delivery assistance terminal 180 carried by the delivery person who placed the package sends the placement notification to the delivery management server 150. You may. In the latter case, the management server 120 is configured to receive a notification (delivery completion notification) from the delivery management server 150 to notify that the delivery has been completed.

The management server 120 is further configured to transmit information regarding the delivery of the package (delivery information) to the receiver's communication terminal 170 after receiving the delivery completion notification. The delivery information includes a notification that the placement of the package has been completed, as well as an image of the inside of the security space 100, which will be described later, and an updated image thereof. The delivery information may include an authentication code (password, authentication image such as a barcode, two-dimensional code, etc.) for authenticating the recipient. When the recipient receives the image captured in the secure space 100 on the communication terminal 170, the recipient can easily find the package within the secure space 100 and receive it.

2-2. Management Device (1) Configuration As shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 4, the management device 130 includes, in addition to a control section 132, an imaging section 134, a storage section 136, a transmitting/receiving section 138, and an input section 140. The management device 130 may further include a display section 142, an audio output section 144, a reader 146, and a light source 148.

The control unit 132 has a central processing unit and controls the entire management device 130. The storage unit 136 stores basic application software for operating the management device 130 and applications that define the operation of the control unit 132, and also stores the calculation results of the control unit 132 as well as images acquired by the imaging unit 134 and updated images. , a device configured to store package information transmitted from the management server 120. The storage unit 136 includes, for example, a main storage device such as a random access memory (RAM) or a read-only memory (ROM), and an external storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or flash memory.

The imaging unit 134 is configured to acquire images, and includes, for example, a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) device. The imaging unit 134 periodically captures an image of the inside of the security space 100 in accordance with the command from the control unit 132 so that at least one of the items to be placed or the storage equipment 106 such as a shelf or locker where the item is placed is reflected. is configured to be retrieved. The image acquisition interval can be appropriately selected from a range of, for example, 1/120 seconds or more and 1 second or less, thereby making it possible to acquire still images and moving images within the security space 100. Further, the imaging unit 134 may be configured to acquire biometric information of a delivery person or a specific user who enters the security space.

The transmitting/receiving unit 138 is configured to communicate with at least the management server 120 via the network 112, and can be configured by appropriately combining known transmitting modules and receiving modules.

The input unit 140 is configured to input information to the management device 130, and can be configured with, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a pointer, a numeric keypad, or the like. Alternatively, the input section 140 may be configured with a touch sensor module mounted on the display section 142, which will be described later. By providing the input section 140, inputs from the delivery person and the recipient can be accepted.

The display unit 142 functions as an auxiliary device when inputting information to the management device 130 or as an information providing device that provides various information to the deliverer and recipient. For example, a liquid crystal display module, an organic electroluminescent display module, or the like can be used as the display section 142. As described above, the display section 142 and the input section 140 may be integrated by mounting a touch sensor module on the display section 142. The display section 142 displays various warnings, etc. in addition to cargo information, the location of the package, and the location of the package in response to the input via the input section 140 in accordance with commands from the control section 132. can be configured to display.

The audio output unit 144 is a speaker, and can be configured to output various warning sounds and audio messages stored in the storage unit 136 according to commands from the control unit 132. Thereby, it is possible to assist the delivery person with the delivery work and the receiver with the receiving work. For example, the audio output unit 144 may be configured to emit a warning sound or message when the recipient mistakenly picks up the package or when the delivery person places the package in the wrong place.

The reader 146 is a structure used to read an identifier attached to a package, an authentication code presented by a recipient, and the like. As the reader, a known barcode reader or two-dimensional code reader may be used.

The light source 148 is configured to irradiate the entire security space 100 with light in accordance with a command from the control unit 132, and selectively irradiates light onto the placed baggage or the location of the placed baggage. configured to irradiate. An example of the light source is a combination of an inorganic electroluminescent element and a lens. By appropriately adjusting the focal length of the lens, the irradiation range of light can be arbitrarily controlled.

(2) Functions In the management device 130, the control unit 132 controls the imaging unit 134, the storage unit 136, the transmitter/receiver 138, the input unit 140, the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, the reader 146, the light source 148, etc. , the management device 130 can perform various functions described below.

A. Selection and Presentation of Locations for Arranging Baggage As described above, the management server 120 transmits all or part of the baggage information to the management device 130. Therefore, in accordance with the command from the control unit 132, the management device 130 causes the storage unit 136 to store the baggage information received by the transmitting/receiving unit 138, and further determines the available space of the storage facility 104 and the size of the baggage based on the baggage information. It is possible to select a placement location in the storage facility 104 for the luggage to be placed in consideration of the weight of the sheath. For example, a location where the newly placed baggage can be placed is selected based on the size and weight of the newly placed baggage and the arrangement of the baggage already placed in the storage facility 104 acquired by the imaging unit 134. do. Alternatively, the placement location of the luggage may be selected depending on the weight of the luggage. For example, the upper part of the storage facility may be selected as a place for placing light loads, and the lower part of the storage facility may be selected as a place for placing heavy loads. If the storage facility is a shelf, it is sufficient to select a shelf located relatively above and a shelf relatively below the shelf for light loads and heavy loads, respectively. If the recipient specifies the placement location of the package within the security space 100, the placement location included in the package information received from the management server 120 may be selected. Furthermore, when a plurality of parcels with the same recipient are placed, the placement locations may be selected so that these parcels are placed close to each other. In this case, the placement location may be selected so that a plurality of items can be loaded.

If there is no room in the accommodation facility 104, the weight, size, and shape included in the luggage information of the newly placed luggage, and the weight, contents, and shape included in the luggage information of the already placed luggage. The management device 130 may be configured to select a placement location for an already placed package as a placement location for a newly placed package, taking into consideration the loadability and loadability. For example, a location where a large and heavy package that can be loaded may be selected as the placement location for the new package. Thereby, newly placed baggage can be stacked on top of already placed baggage, and the storage facility 104 can be used effectively.

The location of the package can be presented to the delivery person by the management device 130. The placement location may be presented by displaying the placement location on the display unit 142. In this case, the sections divided by the markers 106 and the designated coordinates may be displayed on the display unit 142 using characters or diagrams (for example, a map within the security space 100). Alternatively, the placement location may be presented by irradiating light onto the placement location using the light source 148. Furthermore, the placement location may be presented using the audio output unit 144. When using light, for example, if the accommodation equipment 104 is a shelf, it is sufficient to irradiate a part of the shelf with light, and if the accommodation equipment 104 is a box including a plurality of lockers, it is sufficient to irradiate the corresponding locker with light. When a newly placed baggage is to be loaded, the voice output unit 144, the display unit 142, and/or the light source 148 are used to indicate which baggage to load on according to the command from the control unit 132. All you have to do is present it.

Note that the location of the package to be placed is presented in response to an input operation by the delivery person on the input unit 140 or a reading operation by the reader 146. For example, a delivery person inputs package information using the input unit 140 of the management device 130, and in response to this input, the control unit 132 selects a placement location corresponding to the input package information. The delivery person may input the package information by having the reader 146 read an identifier attached to the package. Alternatively, the delivery person may read the identifier using the delivery auxiliary terminal 180, and the delivery auxiliary terminal 180 may notify the management server 120 via the delivery management server 150 that the package will be placed. In this case, the management server 120 transmits all or part of the package information to the management device 130. The management device 130 may present the placement location of the package based on the received package information. The placement location is stored in the storage unit 136.

In this way, by presenting the locations of the packages to be placed, the delivery person can place the packages in the storage facility in an orderly manner. Furthermore, since the images acquired by the imaging unit 134 are stored in the storage unit 136, it is possible to encourage the delivery staff to orderly place the packages at the selected locations instead of placing them in a disorderly manner. Therefore, the beauty and safety within the security space 100 can be ensured and maintained.

However, the management device 130 does not select or present the placement location of the package, and after the delivery person places the package appropriately, the location (category, coordinates, etc.) where the package is placed is input to the management device via the input unit 140. 130 may be entered.

B. Recognition and Verification of Arranged Baggage The management device 130 can further be configured to recognize the cargo placed in the accommodation facility 104. In this case, specifically, the control unit 132 controls the imaging unit 134 to acquire an image of the security space 100 including the placed luggage. At this time, the control unit 132 may further send a command to the light source 148 to irradiate the package and its surroundings with light. Alternatively, the light irradiation range may be set using the placement position of the package input by the delivery person. By having the imaging unit 134 acquire an image while the light source 148 is emitting light, a clear image of the luggage can be acquired even if the inside of the security space 100 is dark. The acquired images are stored in the storage unit 136 according to instructions from the control unit 132, and are also transmitted to the management server 120 via the transmission/reception unit 138.

Thereafter, the management device 130 compares the acquired image with the size and shape of the package included in the package information, and recognizes the package included in the image. For example, an image (blank image) of the storage facility 104 on which no baggage is placed is previously acquired by the imaging unit 134 and stored in the storage unit 136. When recognizing a baggage, a blank image may be subtracted from the image acquired by the imaging unit 134, and the difference may be treated as an image of the baggage. By comparing the size and shape of this baggage image with the size and shape of the placed baggage, it is possible to recognize and identify the baggage placed in the accommodation facility 104. It is possible to verify whether each baggage is correctly placed at a location designated by the management device 130 or a location selected by the management device 130. Note that when recognizing a baggage, an identifier attached to the baggage included in an image acquired by the imaging unit 134 may be used. As a result, even if a plurality of packages having the same or similar size and shape are arranged, they can be distinguished and recognized. If the package is not placed correctly, the control unit 132 may control the audio output unit 144 and the display unit 142 to output or display a warning sound or a warning message to notify the delivery person of this fact. . Conversely, even when the package is placed correctly, the control unit 132 may output or display a voice message or the like to notify the delivery person of this fact.

By utilizing such a recognition function, for example, even if a delivery person decides where to place a package based on his/her own judgment and places the package, the package and its location can be identified. Therefore, it is possible to know the location where the package has been placed without the delivery person inputting the location where the package has been placed.

C. Monitoring of Security Space As described above, the management device 130 is configured to periodically acquire images of the security space 100 using the imaging unit 134. As a result, it is possible to constantly record the entry and exit status of people in the secure space 100, contributing to crime prevention measures. For example, the management device 130 may be configured to transmit the acquired video to the management server 120 in real time. Furthermore, this video may be transmitted from the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170 in response to a request from the communication terminal 170. Thereby, the state within the security space 100 can be checked on the communication terminal 170 at any time. This mechanism is the monitoring mechanism of the security space 100 described above, and the monitoring mechanism can provide a deterrent against malicious intent by an unspecified third party.

Furthermore, the management device 130 is configured to recognize the placed luggage and determine whether the luggage has moved based on the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 and the size and shape of the luggage included in the luggage information. It's okay. This determination can also be made by comparing regularly acquired images. Thereby, even if the placed baggage is moved from its initial placement location, its position can be accurately monitored. When the control unit 132 determines that the package has moved, it instructs the imaging unit 134 and the transmitting/receiving unit 138 to acquire an image (updated image) of the package again and send it to the management server 120. At this time, the control unit 132 may control the light source 148 to irradiate the cargo with light. The location of the luggage after the move is also stored in the storage unit 136. As described above, the delivery information that the management server 120 transmits to the communication terminal 170 specified by the recipient includes images of the package and updated images. Therefore, even if the package moves within the security space 100 after being left behind, the recipient can easily find the package.

D. Presentation of the placement location at the time of receiving the package As described above, since the management device 130 can constantly monitor the inside of the security space 100, the management device 130 can display the placement location of the package when the recipient receives the package. It can be configured as follows. Therefore, the control unit 132 controls the storage unit 136, the imaging unit 134, the reader 146, etc. in order to authenticate and identify the recipient. For example, the recipient uses the input unit 140 to input an authentication code that is set in advance or is sent from the management server 120, or causes the reader 146 to read the authentication code. The control unit 132 is configured to verify the receipt by comparing the input or read authentication code with the authentication code stored in the storage unit 136 in advance. Alternatively, the management device stores biometric information of a specific user obtained in advance using the imaging unit 134 in the storage unit 136, and performs authentication by comparing the recipient's biometric information obtained by the imaging unit 134. 130 may be configured.

If the recipient is not correctly authenticated, the control unit 132 controls the audio output unit 144 or the display unit 142 and notifies the recipient to that effect. Conversely, if the recipient is correctly authenticated, the control unit 132 uses the display unit 142 or the audio output unit to specify the package that the recipient should receive based on the package information and to show the location of the package. 144, light source 148, etc. Specifically, the display unit 142 may display the placement location, the audio output unit 144 may output the placement location, or the light source 148 may irradiate the placement location with light. The recipient receives the package placed at the presented placement location. This completes the receiving operation.

E. Baggage Reception Process As described above, the imaging unit 134 periodically acquires images within the security space 100. For this reason, the management device 130 may be configured to be able to use the acquired image to determine whether or not the recipient has correctly received the package. For example, by using an image after the recipient has been authenticated, it can be determined whether the recipient received a package that the recipient was supposed to receive, or whether a different package was received by the recipient. can be quickly determined. If it is determined that the recipient has received the package correctly, the management device 130 is configured to output an audio message and/or image to notify the recipient using the audio output section 144 and/or the display section 142. may be configured. Conversely, if it is determined that the recipient has received the wrong package, the audio output unit 144 and/or display unit 142 may be used to display a warning sound, a warning message, and/or a warning image to notify the recipient of this fact. The management device 130 may be configured to output the information.

After the receiver receives the package, the management device 130 can receive an input of a receipt notification operation to notify the receiver that the receiver has completed receiving the package. The recipient may perform the receipt notification operation using the input unit 140 or may use the reader 146. Specifically, the input screen stored in the storage section 136 is displayed on the display section 142, and the user is prompted to input through the input section 140 that the package has been received. Alternatively, the recipient may be prompted to read the identifier attached to the package using the reader 146. The management device 130 is configured to transmit a signal (acceptance signal) to the management server 120 to prove that the receipt of the package has been completed after the recipient completes the receipt notification operation.

If the recipient does not perform the receipt notification operation, the management device 130 may use the package recognition function described above to confirm receipt. That is, the management device 130 may be configured to send a reception signal to the management server 120 after confirming that the package has been received by the recipient using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134.

Conversely, if the package is not received in a timely manner, the management device 130 can be configured to prompt the recipient to pick up the package. Specifically, by monitoring the baggage in the security space 100 using images acquired by the imaging unit 134, the baggage is constantly recognized and tracked. Thereby, the status of each package can be grasped on the management device 130. If it is determined that the package remains within the security space 100 even after a certain period of time (for example, 3 days, 1 week, etc.) has passed since the package was placed, or if the recipient's desired delivery date and time has passed. The management device 130 is configured to create a reminder notice and send it to the management server 120 if it is determined that the luggage remains in the security space 100. The management server 120 that received the reminder notification transmits this notification to the communication terminal 170, thereby reminding the recipient to receive the notification.

3. Delivery Method The details of this delivery method will be explained below. In the following detailed description, as an example, we will deal with a case where a specific user orders a product from a store, and a delivery company places a package containing the product in the security space 100.

(1) Ordering products and requesting delivery As shown in the scheme of FIG. 5, the recipient first orders products from a store and requests delivery of the package containing the products (S100). Product orders and delivery requests may be made verbally or by fax to the store, or may be made by accessing the store server 160 via the communication terminal 170 or another communication terminal. In the latter case, the recipient uses the communication terminal 170 or another communication terminal to access a platform built by the store or platform provider, and requests the store to order and deliver the product on the platform. The recipient may also notify the store directly or on the platform of the desired delivery date and time of the product. When the store confirms the product order and accepts the order, the product order is finalized.

Furthermore, at this time, the recipient specifies to select this delivery method. The security space 100 to which the package containing the product is delivered may be designated in advance by the recipient, or may be designated by the recipient when ordering the product. Further, the recipient may specify a location for placing the package within the security space 100, and may prioritize the placement locations. For example, if the storage facility 104 is a shelf or a box, a specific position (or height) on the shelf or box may be specified. This information is transmitted from the communication terminal 170 to the store server 160 or input to the store server 160.

Thereafter, the store uses the store server 160 to request the delivery company to deliver the package directly or via the platform provider (S102). That is, a delivery request notification for requesting delivery is sent from the store server 160 to the delivery management server 150. The delivery request notification includes at least information about the recipient and information about the package among the package information.

Note that the product may be delivered packed or packaged with appropriate materials, or may be delivered unpacked or unwrapped. When goods are packaged, all or part of the package may be packaged in containers having the same shape and size. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, a container 200 having a main body 202, a lid 204, and a handle 208 may be used to store one or more products, and the container 200 may be placed in the storage facility 104 of the security space 100. Container 200 may further include a lock 206 for locking lid 204. The shape of the container 200 can be determined arbitrarily; for example, the shape of the container 200 may be a hexahedron as a whole when the lid 204 is closed. The size of the container 200 is also arbitrary, but the internal length in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 150 mm or more and 600 mm or less, 200 mm or more and 500 mm or less, or 200 mm or more and 400 mm or less, and typically has a length corresponding to A4 size. (297mm). The length of the inner dimension in the lateral direction is, for example, 100 mm or more and 500 mm or less, 150 mm or more and 400 mm or less, or 200 mm or more and 300 mm or less, and typically has a width (210 mm) corresponding to A4 size. The height of the inner dimension is, for example, 50 mm or more and 250 mm or less, 75 mm or more and 150 mm or less, or 90 mm or more and 125 mm or less, and is typically 100 mm. Since the size of most products to be delivered falls within the above-mentioned range, by configuring the container 200 to satisfy the above parameters, most of the products to be delivered can be delivered using the container 200. can.

By arranging the containers 200 containing packages using containers 200 of the same shape and size, the packages can be handled easily and the delivery staff's work efficiency can be increased. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6B, by stacking a plurality of containers 200, a large number of containers 200 can be neatly and orderly arranged in the accommodation facility 104. This contributes to highly efficient use of the security space 100. Note that in order to prevent cargo from collapsing when a plurality of containers 200 are loaded, a structure for preventing cargo from collapsing may be formed on the container 200. There are no restrictions on the load collapse prevention structure, but for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, one or more linear grooves 212 are provided on the bottom surface, and a linear protrusion 214 that engages with the grooves 212 is formed on the top surface (lid 204). You may.

Alternatively, the product may be transported using multiple types of containers 200 having different sizes or shapes. For example, as shown in FIG. 7A, two types of containers 200-1 and 200-2 may be used whose main bodies 202 have the same length and width but different heights. In the example shown in FIG. 7A, the length L ₁ and the width W ₁ of the main body 202 of the container 200-1 are the same or substantially the same as the length L ₃ and the width W ₂ of the main body 202 of the container 200-2, respectively. However, the height _H2 is greater than the height _H1 . The height _H2 may be twice the height _H1 .

Alternatively, a plurality of types of containers 200 may be configured so that the occupied area of two containers 200 when arranged side by side is the same or substantially the same as that of one container 200. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A, containers 200-3 and 200-4 whose main bodies 202 have different bottom areas may be used. Here, the length L ₃ of the container 200-3 having a large bottom area is twice or substantially twice the width W 4 of the container 200-4 having a small bottom area, and the width W ₃ of the container 200-3 is twice the width W 4 of the container 200-4 having a small bottom area. ₃ and the length L ₄ of container 200-4 are the same or substantially the same. The heights H ₃ and H ₄ of the bodies 202 of containers 200-3 and 200-4, respectively, may be the same or different.

Even when using multiple types of containers 200, by setting the height, width, and length of the main body 202 as described above, even when shipping various products with different heights, the container 200 shown in FIGS. 7B and 8B can be delivered. As a result, a plurality of containers 200 can be arranged in the storage facility 104 in an orderly manner, so that the security space 100 can be used efficiently.

Note that the recipient of the package is required to register as a user prior to ordering the product or when specifying this delivery method. Specifically, information necessary for user registration (recipient's name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, one or more security spaces 100 desired to be placed, payment method, etc.) is transmitted to the management server 120. This information may include biometric information (biometric information such as face, palm, fingerprint, etc.) necessary to biometrically authenticate the recipient. After receiving the necessary information, the management server 120 registers the recipient as a user. At this time, an authentication code for authenticating the recipient in the management device 130 may be transmitted to the recipient's communication terminal 170.

(2) Delivery of the package The delivery company requested for delivery transmits package information to the management server 120 via the delivery management server 150 (S104). Thereby, the delivery status of the package can be grasped on the management server 120. Thereafter, the package is delivered to the security space 100 by a delivery company. Note that the package information may be directly transmitted from the delivery assistance terminal 180 to the management device 130.

The package is delivered by a delivery person (S106), but if the security mechanism of the security space 100 is a locking mechanism, the delivery person obtains permission to access the security space 100 at the time of delivery. For example, access permission may be obtained from the administrator of the security space 100 each time delivery is made. Alternatively, access permission for a certain period of time may be obtained from the administrator of the security space 100 in advance. In this case, the delivery person only needs to be issued with a key, magnetic card, ID card, authentication code, etc. for unlocking the secure space 100 in advance. Furthermore, as described above, when the delivery person enters the security space 100, the imaging unit 134 may be used to acquire the delivery person's biometric information. Thereby, it is possible to encourage delivery personnel to make accurate deliveries, and it is also possible to obtain a deterrent force against intrusion into the security space 100 by unspecified persons who have not obtained access permission.

(3) Selection of location for luggage and placement of luggage Continuously, a location for the luggage is selected (S108). Specifically, first, the delivery person causes the management device 130 to recognize the package to be delivered within the security space 100. For example, part of the package information (for example, an identifier attached to the package) is input using the input unit 140. Alternatively, the identifier is read into the management device 130 using the reader 146. Alternatively, the identifier is read by the delivery auxiliary terminal 180 and the information included in the identifier is sent to the delivery management server 150. This information is transmitted from the delivery management server 150 to the management server 120, and as a result, the management server 120 specifies the package to be placed and arranged. The management server 120 further transmits all or part of the information regarding the package to the management device 130. Such a process allows the management device 130 to grasp the parcel to be delivered, and also allows the management device 130 to select the placement position of the parcel.

In this way, the management device 130 acquires the package information of the package to be delivered from the management server 120. Further, as described above, the management device 130 can constantly grasp the arrangement of luggage by periodically capturing images of the inside of the security space 100. Therefore, the management device 130 can select a placement location suitable for the package to be placed, based on the size, shape, and weight of the package included in the package information and the arrangement of the packages that have already been placed. At this time, if the recipient has specified a placement position, that placement position may be selected preferentially.

If there is not enough room in the security space 100 or in the storage facility 160, search for a baggage that has already been placed and that allows loading of other baggage from the information stored in the storage unit 136, and remove the baggage already placed. Verify the shape, size, and weight of the placed baggage and the shape, size, and weight of the newly placed baggage. As a result, if it is determined that there is no problem in placing the new baggage on top of the baggage that has already been placed, it is possible to select the location where the baggage that has already been placed as the placement location. good. Criteria for determining whether or not to carry out loading can be set arbitrarily; for example, if at least one of the shape, size, and weight of the baggage that has already been placed is different from the shape, size, and weight of the baggage that is to be newly placed, It may be determined that loading is possible if the weight is smaller than the weight.

Thereafter, the display unit 142, audio output unit 144, and/or light source 148 of the management device 130 present the delivery location to the delivery person. For example, the display unit 142 may display the placement location, or the audio output unit 144 may output a message informing the placement location. Alternatively, the light source 148 may be used to irradiate the placement location with light. This allows the delivery person to easily know where the package is to be placed and arrange the package.

After placing the luggage, a delivery notification is sent to notify that the delivery has been completed (S110). For example, the delivery person may use the input unit 140 to input that the delivery has been completed. At this time, the light source 148 may be used to irradiate the placed luggage with light. If there are a plurality of parcels to be placed, the placed parcels may be irradiated with light in any order or in the order in which they are placed. After accepting this input operation, the management device 130 transmits a placement notification to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting it to the management device 130, the delivery notification may be sent to the delivery management server 150 via the delivery assistance terminal 180. Upon receiving this delivery notice, the delivery management server 150 transmits a delivery completion notice to the management server 120. Alternatively, instead of inputting information to the management device 130 or using the delivery assistance terminal 180, the package recognition function of the management device 130 may be used. That is, the management device 130 recognizes the newly placed baggage using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134, and determines whether the shape and size of the baggage match the baggage information. If they match, a delivery notice may be generated and sent to the management server 120 via the transmitter/receiver 138. If they do not match, a warning sound or a warning message may be output or displayed via the audio output unit 144 or display unit 142 to notify the delivery person of this fact. Through the above process, it is possible to know on the management server 120 that the luggage has been reliably placed.

When using the container 200, information about the container 200 (container information such as serial number) and/or information about the cargo stored in the container 200 is displayed on one or more surfaces (side, top, front, etc.) of the container 200. An authentication code (two-dimensional code, bar code, number, other figure, etc.) 210 containing baggage information may be attached. By reading the authentication code 210 containing baggage information with the imaging unit 134 of the management device 130 and comparing it with the baggage information transmitted from the management server 120, the placed baggage can be recognized. When the authentication code 210 includes container information, the container information may be transmitted to the delivery management server 150 and package information associated with the container information may be obtained from the delivery management server 150.

Although not shown in FIG. 5, during the placement work of the delivery staff, the image capturing unit 134 is used to obtain an image of the inside of the security space 100, and based on the obtained image, the package is placed correctly at the selected placement location. It is also possible to determine whether the When the package is correctly placed, a warning sound or a warning message may be output or displayed via the audio output section 144 or the display section 142 to notify the delivery person of this fact. Conversely, even when the package has been placed correctly, a voice message may be output or displayed to notify the delivery person of this fact.

Note that if the delivery person determines that the placement location selected by the management device 130 is inappropriate, or if the delivery person decides the placement location based on his/her own judgment, the above-mentioned placement location selection is performed. You don't have to. In this case, the management device 130 first obtains baggage information from the management server 120. Thereafter, the package recognition function can be used to recognize and identify the package placed by the delivery person, and to identify the location where the package has been placed.

(4) Transmission of Delivery Information As described above, the management device 130 is configured to use the imaging unit 134 to periodically acquire and store images of the entire security space 100 and the accommodation facility 104. Therefore, after the luggage is placed, the management device 130 acquires an image of the luggage, and this image is transmitted to the management server 120 (S112).

The management server 120 that has received this image transmits the above-mentioned delivery information to the communication terminal 170 specified by the recipient after receiving the above-mentioned delivery notification or delivery completion notification (S114). This delivery information includes a notification that the placement of the package has been completed, as well as an image of the package after it has been placed. Therefore, the recipient can easily grasp the fact that the package has been placed and where in the security space 100 it has been placed. Note that at this time, the date and time when the delivery information was sent may be recorded in the management server 120. Further, the distribution information may include an authentication code for the management device 130 to authenticate the recipient, as described above. The recipient can use this authentication code to receive the package, which will be described later.

(5) Monitoring of Baggage As described above, in this delivery method, images of the inside of the security space 100 are regularly acquired and the inside of the security space 100 is monitored not only after the baggage is placed. Therefore, the placed luggage can be constantly monitored by the management device 130 (S116). Specifically, by comparing images acquired at regular intervals using the imaging unit 134, a placed package can be moved while the delivery person is placing it, or the package can be moved by another recipient. Even if the baggage is moved during an emergency, it is possible to understand the movement of the baggage and track the location of each baggage.

When the management device 130 recognizes that the luggage has moved, the image of the luggage is acquired again and the obtained updated image is transmitted to the management server 120 (S118). Management server 120 transmits this updated image to communication terminal 170 designated by the recipient. As a result, the receiver can always know where the package is placed and can easily receive the package. The determination as to whether the baggage has moved may be made based on, for example, whether the baggage has moved by a distance greater than the width or length of the baggage. Note that the scheme shown in Figure 5 is created to stop monitoring the package once the package receiving operation starts, but this scheme is only a scheme when focusing on the delivery and receipt of a single package. The security space 100 is monitored on a regular basis.

(6) Receiving the package When the recipient receives the package, the management device 130 authenticates the recipient using an authentication code set in advance or included in the delivery information (S120). For example, the recipient inputs the password included in the authentication code via the input unit 140. Alternatively, the reader 146 may read the authentication image included in the authentication code. Alternatively, the recipient may be authenticated by reading the recipient's biometric information using the management device 130 and comparing it with biological information registered in advance in the management server 120. Through this operation, the management device 130 can authenticate the recipient and specify the package that the recipient should receive.

After that, the management device 130 uses the display unit 142, the audio output unit 144, and/or the light source 148 to present the location of the luggage (S122). For example, a map of the security space 100 may be displayed on the display unit 142, and the location of the luggage may be displayed therein. Instead of displaying the placement location, or in addition to displaying the placement location, the recipient may be notified of the placement location using the audio output unit 144. Alternatively, the placement location may be irradiated with light from the light source 148. By presenting the location by the management device 130, the receiver can quickly find the package and receive it.

Note that the imaging unit 134 continues to periodically take images of the inside of the security space 100, so by comparing consecutive images, it is possible to identify the package taken out by the recipient. Therefore, if the recipient receives the package correctly, the display unit 142 or the audio output unit 144 may be used to notify the recipient, and vice versa. Alternatively, a warning display or a warning sound may be displayed or generated using the display unit 142 or the audio output unit 144.

When the receiver receives the package, the receiver performs the receipt notification operation described above (S124). Through this operation, the management device 130 can understand that the receipt of the package has been completed, and then the management device 130 transmits a reception signal to the management server 120 (S126). By receiving the receipt signal, the management server 120 can recognize that the package has been received by a predetermined recipient. However, if the recipient does not perform the receipt notification operation, the recognition function of the management device 130 may be used. For example, the image acquired by the imaging unit 134 is used to track the package that the recipient should receive. Then, if the package is no longer recognized in the security space 100, it may be determined that the package has been received, and a reception signal may be generated and transmitted to the management server 120. In this case, the management server 120 may send a notification to the recipient's communication terminal 170 to confirm that the recipient has actually received the package. By receiving this notification, the recipient can operate the communication terminal 170 to notify the management server 120 that the recipient has received the package.

Note that the management server 120 may be configured to record the reception date and time of the reception signal. By recording the date and time of receipt of the receipt signal and the date and time of transmission of the delivery information, it is possible to grasp the time that the package stayed within the security space 100. Since the shorter the stay time, the more effectively the security space 100 can be utilized, some benefits (incentives) may be provided to the recipient depending on the stay time. Incentives include, for example, discounts on delivery costs by the company operating the management server 120, preferential allocation of locations for packages, and products (for example, consumables such as water, various free samples, tickets for events such as movies, etc.) Examples include the provision of services such as the provision of services, and the provision of various other services. By providing incentives to the recipient, the recipient is motivated to shorten the residence time of the package, and as a result, the security space 100 can be used more efficiently and effectively.

In the package delivery method according to the embodiment of the present invention, the package is placed in a secure space 100 where a certain level of security is ensured. Therefore, the deliverer is not forced to redeliver the package due to the recipient's absence. This contributes to a significant reduction in the cost required for delivery, and also contributes to saving human resources in delivery operations. At the same time, since the recipient is not required to be at home to receive the package, a less stressful delivery method can be provided.

Additionally, facilities such as boxes with lockable lockers are not required in the security space 100; for example, existing general-purpose storage devices such as shelves, simple lockers, and desks can be placed in the security space 100 to provide security. It is possible to realize this delivery method that ensures the following. This allows for lower cost delivery.

Note that in the above example, a case was explained in which a specific user orders a product from a store and a delivery company places a package containing the product in the security space 100, but the embodiment of the present invention is applicable to such a case. The present invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied when an individual uses multiple communication terminals 170 to ship packages to a specific user.

<Second embodiment>
In this embodiment, a delivery method different from the delivery method described in the first embodiment will be described. Descriptions of configurations that are the same as or similar to those described in the first embodiment may be omitted.

The total number of parcels to be delivered is not necessarily constant and changes depending on various factors. For this reason, if the total number of packages to be delivered exceeds the capacity of the security space 100, delivery delays may occur, and redelivery may even be forced. For this reason, in this embodiment, the management server 120 predicts the demand for the security space 100 based on the past performance of delivered packages, thereby leveling out the delivery burden.

As described in the first embodiment, the package information of the package to be delivered is transmitted from the delivery management server 150 to the management server 120. Therefore, the delivery results and the total number of packages to be delivered to each security space 100 can be grasped on the management server 120. For demand prediction in the management server 120, a supervised learning model is used. Specifically, past usage records of each security space 100 are used as training data. Past usage records refer to, for example, for each security space 100, data that was actually delivered at regular intervals (for example, one day, half a day), going back to a certain period in the past (for example, one year, half a year, three months, etc.) This is the total number of luggage. Teacher data is collected for each security space 100 and stored in the storage section of the management server 120.

In constructing a supervised learning model, various parameters can be used as input data (feature data). The feature data includes a store identifier (store ID) that specifies the store where the product included in the package was ordered, an identifier (product ID) and category that specifies the product, the size and number of the package, and the location of the package in the security space 100. Examples include the length of stay, an identifier that identifies the delivery company (delivery company ID), and the date and time and day of the week when the product was ordered. In addition, information such as whether or not a specific user used a benefit provided by a store or a platform provider when ordering a product may also be used as feature amount data. In addition, other features include the calendar (whether it is a holiday or not, the day of the week, whether there are consecutive holidays, the number of holidays during consecutive holidays, etc.), the presence or absence of large-scale events (Olympics, World Cup, etc.), the campaign period planned by the store, the weather, etc. It may also be used as quantitative data. Feature amount data is also collected for each security space 100.

The algorithm used in the supervised learning model can be arbitrarily selected; for example, a machine learning algorithm can be used. Examples of machine learning algorithms include linear regression models, random forests, decision trees, gradient boosting, and deep learning, with deep learning being particularly preferred. When using deep learning, algorithms such as neural networks, deep neural networks, and convolutional neural networks may be used as appropriate. By predicting the demand for each security space 100 using a machine learning algorithm, it is possible to predict the total number of packages to be delivered to the security space 100 in a certain period of time. The difference between the predicted total number of packages and the training data representing past usage results is the objective function, and the learning model can be learned and updated by minimizing this objective function.

According to the demand forecast, if the total number of packages does not exceed the capacity of the security space 100, the packages can be delivered according to the procedure described in the first embodiment. However, if a busy period is expected to arrive in which the total number of packages based on the demand forecast exceeds the capacity of the security space 100, the total number of packages will actually increase to There is a possibility that the capacity of the space 100 will be exceeded.

Therefore, in the delivery method according to the present embodiment, when a busy period is expected to arrive, a notification for adjusting the delivery date and time may be sent from the management server 120 to the delivery management server 150. This notification includes at least the predicted busy period. Therefore, the delivery management business can make delivery adjustments to avoid delivery of packages during busy periods, and can avoid unintended delivery delays and re-delivery.

Alternatively, the management server 120 may perform a promotion for delivery adjustment to some recipients to whom packages are delivered during a busy period. Specifically, some recipients are selected and a request is made to the selected recipients to adjust the delivery date and time and/or delivery destination. The adjustment request may be made by appropriately transmitting a message from the management server 120 to the communication terminal 170. Incentives as described in the first embodiment may be provided to recipients who have accepted the adjustment request. Note that it is preferable that the adjustment request be made to a cooperative recipient. Therefore, it is preferable to select the recipient to whom the adjustment request is made based on, for example, the length of stay of packages received so far in the security space 100 and the usage history of this delivery method. This is because specific users who have a short stay time or who have a long history of using this delivery method are more likely to use this delivery method for a long time and are more likely to be cooperative. .

<Third embodiment>
In this embodiment, a delivery method and delivery system different from the delivery method and delivery system 110 described in the first and second embodiments will be described. Descriptions of configurations that are the same as or similar to those described in the first and second embodiments may be omitted.

In the delivery system 110 described in the first and second embodiments, the management server 120 and the delivery management server 150 are connected via the network 112, and parcel information is exchanged (see FIGS. 3 and 5). On the other hand, although both the management server 120 and the delivery management server 150 are connected to the network 112 in the delivery system according to this embodiment, they are independent from each other, and no parcel information is exchanged between them. . Therefore, since the management device 130 also does not receive package information from the management server 120 or the delivery management server 150, packages are placed and received in a flow different from that in the first and second embodiments.

Hereinafter, as in the first embodiment, a case will be described as an example in which a specific user orders a product from a store and a delivery company places a package containing the product in the security space 100. FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of the package delivery method according to this embodiment. Steps with the same step number as the step number described in the first embodiment (capital letter S followed by a three-digit number) correspond to the steps described in the first embodiment, so detailed explanations are not provided. There are some things I will omit.

After a specific user orders a product (S100) and a shipping request is sent to the delivery management server 150 (S102), a delivery company performs delivery (S106). The delivery location at this time is the security space 100 designated by the specific user who is the recipient. Further, the package information associated with the package is managed by the delivery management server 150.

The delivery person uses the reader 146 or the imaging unit 134 to read at least part of the package information into the management device 130 in the security space 100 (S130). The package information read into the management device 130 includes at least information for identifying the recipient, such as the recipient's name, contact information such as a telephone number or email address, and an identifier for identifying the recipient. One or more of these may be included. The package information to be read may include the size, shape, and weight of the package. This package information may be included on the package or a tag attached to the package or package, or may be included on an invoice attached to the package or package. In the former case, the information is read into the management device 130 by reading the two-dimensional code or barcode on the tag with the reader 146. In the latter case, the reader 146 or the imaging unit 134 reads the invoice, and the control unit 132 recognizes the text portion of the read data and converts it into character information to extract information for identifying the recipient.

After that, the delivery person places the package (S110). The location where the package is placed may be arbitrarily determined by the delivery person, but if the package information read by the management device 130 includes the size, shape, weight, etc. of the package, the first embodiment As described above, the placement location may be selected and presented using the image acquired by the imaging unit 134.

Since the subsequent flow is similar to that of the first embodiment, detailed explanation will be omitted. Note that, after reading at least part of the package information, the management device 130 may transmit a signal to the management server 120 to notify the fact. The management server 120 that has received this signal may further transmit this signal or the information included in this signal to the communication terminal 170. This allows the recipient to quickly understand that the package has been delivered.

As described above, in this embodiment, the management server 120 can manage the placement of packages in the security space 100 designated by the recipient without receiving various information from the delivery management server 150. Therefore, the burden on the delivery company and the load on the management server 120 is reduced, and more secure placement can be achieved at low cost.

The embodiments described above as embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in appropriate combinations as long as they do not contradict each other. Furthermore, the present invention also applies to display devices in which the business operator appropriately adds, deletes, or changes the design of components based on the display device of each embodiment, or in which steps are added, omitted, or conditions are changed. As long as it has the gist of the above, it is included in the scope of the present invention.

Even if the effects are different from those brought about by the aspects of each of the embodiments described above, those that are obvious from the description of this specification or that can be easily predicted by those skilled in the art will, of course, be included. is understood to be brought about by the present invention.

100: Security space, 102: Door, 104: Accommodation equipment 104: Marker, 108: Door, 110: Delivery system, 112: Network, 120: Management server, 130: Management device, 132: Control unit, 134: Imaging unit, 136: Storage unit, 138: Transmission/reception unit, 140: Input unit, 142: Display unit, 144: Audio output unit, 146: Reader, 148: Light source, 150: Delivery management server, 160: Store server, 170: Communication terminal, 180: delivery auxiliary terminal, 200: container, 202-1: container, 202-2: container, 202-3: container, 202-4: container, 202: main body, 204: lid, 206: lock, 208: handle, 210: Authentication code, 212: Groove, 214: Convex part

Claims (12)

It is a method of placing and arranging luggage,
The management server transmits the package information attached to the package to be delivered to a management device that is placed in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of the package is ensured, and is communicatively connected to the management server. to send ,
the management device acquiring an image within the security space and transmitting it to the management server;
The management device selects a location within the security space to place the baggage based on at least one of the weight, size, and shape of the baggage included in the baggage information;
The method includes: the management device recognizing the placed baggage based on the image and the baggage information; and the management server transmitting the image to a communication terminal designated by the recipient of the baggage. . 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the package is located in the secure space at a location that is accessible without restriction by all persons authorized to access the secure space. The management device periodically acquires the image, and if the management device determines that the placed baggage has moved within the security space based on the image,
2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: the management device acquiring an updated image in the security space and transmitting it to the management server; and the management server transmitting the updated image to the communication terminal. the method of. inputting an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package into the management device or reading the authentication code into the management device via the communication terminal; and authenticating the recipient with the authentication code. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising, after determining, the management device indicates a location where the package is located. It is a system for delivering packages,
a management server, and a management device placed in a secure space where security against intrusion by unspecified persons and safety of the luggage is ensured, and communicatively connected to the management server,
The management device includes:
receiving baggage information attached to the baggage from the management server;
selecting a location within the security space to place the luggage based on at least one of the weight, size, and shape of the luggage included in the luggage information;
acquiring an image within the security space and transmitting it to the management server;
configured to recognize the baggage placed in the security space based on the image and the baggage information,
The management server is
A system configured to transmit the image to a communication terminal designated by the recipient of the package. 6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the secure space includes a location where the baggage can be placed and is accessible without restriction by anyone authorized to access the secure space. The management device includes:
acquiring the image regularly;
determining whether the placed baggage has moved within the security space based on the image;
If it is determined that the baggage has moved within the secure space, the system is further configured to obtain an updated image of the secure space and send it to the management server;
6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the management server is further configured to send the updated image to the communication terminal. The management device includes:
authenticating the recipient with an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package;
6. The system of claim 5 , further configured to provide a location where the package is located after the authentication. A management device that ensures security against intrusion by unspecified persons and the safety of luggage, and is placed in a secure space where the luggage is placed,
an imaging unit configured to capture images within the security space;
a transmitter/receiver configured to receive baggage information attached to the baggage; and
The location where the luggage is placed is selected based on at least one of the weight, size, and shape of the luggage included in the luggage information, and the location where the luggage is placed is selected based on the image and the luggage information. A management device comprising a control configured to recognize a package. 10. The management device according to claim 9 , wherein the security space includes a place where the baggage can be placed and which is accessible without restriction by all persons permitted to access the security space. The imaging unit is further configured to periodically acquire the images,
The control unit is further configured to determine whether the baggage has moved within the security space based on the image,
The imaging unit is further configured to obtain an updated image of the security space when it is determined that the baggage has moved;
The management device according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit is further configured to generate a command to transmit the updated image when it is determined that the luggage has moved. The control unit includes:
authenticating the recipient of the package with an authentication code for authenticating the recipient of the package;
10. The management device according to claim 9 , further comprising, after the authentication, generating a signal for presenting a location where the package is located.

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