JP7244082B2 - Remote management system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a remote management system for managing equipment from a remote location.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a device that inserts a coin, identifies the type of the coin, and operates according to the amount of money inserted. For example, there is known a laundry machine that performs operations such as washing and drying clothes. In addition, there is known such a device that uses an IC card that stores money data corresponding to money as a depositing means other than coins. Equipped with a card reader/writer for reading and writing monetary data on an IC card, subtracting the monetary data corresponding to the amount set according to the operation of the device used from the monetary data recorded in the IC card and updating the data, It operates the device assuming that money has been deposited instead of money. For example, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2005-33415 discloses a laundry system in which a plurality of laundry machines, a management device for managing the laundry machines, and an IC card issuing machine for issuing IC cards are connected to a network. Then, a system is disclosed in which valuable values are stored in both the server and the IC card.

JP-A-2005-334150

Although it is convenient to use an IC card, there is a problem that if the IC card is damaged, it cannot be read or written with a card reader/writer. In some cases, the IC card may contain monetary data or data such as points that allow the device to be used. There was a need for a device that would solve this problem and ensure proper service. In addition, unmanned stores cannot respond immediately, and in order to replace the IC card, for example, contact the support center, have a new IC card issued, and receive the new IC card by mail. A method of purchasing a cheap IC card and paying separately for a damaged IC card has been considered.

To provide a remote management system for easily reissuing a new IC card containing information stored in the damaged IC card so that proper service can be received immediately when the IC card for using equipment is damaged. I will provide a. To provide a laundry system that specifically manages laundry equipment.

A remote management system of the present invention is an automatic operation device having money identification means for outputting a money signal corresponding to the amount of money inserted, and first control means for controlling execution of a predetermined action based on the money signal. a management device connected to the automatic operation equipment via communication to manage the automatic operation equipment; and a management device connected to the automatic operation equipment to connect the automatic operation equipment and the management device via the communication. In a remote management system having a terminal device for managing the automatic operation device by the management device via the terminal device, the terminal device is connected to a local area network and performs the communication with the management device. 1 communication means, a card reader/writer for reading/writing an IC card, reading/writing the IC card set in the card reader/writer, and updating money data stored in the IC card by reducing a predetermined amount, second control means for generating the money signal corresponding to the predetermined amount of the money data and outputting the generated money signal to the first control means; and history data of the operation status of the terminal device. and a history database that stores a history database, wherein the management device includes second communication means for connecting to the local area network and communicating with the terminal device, card issuing means for issuing the IC card, and input third control means for controlling the card issuing means and controlling the issuance of the IC card; and a management device for storing the money data of the IC card in association with the unique number of the IC card. and a database, wherein the management device acquires the history data stored in the history database by polling each of the terminal devices, and stores the history data in the management device database based on the history data. The money data of the IC card is stored in association with the unique number, and the card issuance password and the money data to be written to the IC card associated with the card issuance password are stored in the management device database. when reissuing the IC card, the monetary data to be written into the IC card is the monetary data associated with the unique number of the reissued IC card stored in the management device database; The money data to be written to the IC card associated with the card issuance password is the last polling performed before reissuance of the IC card. Separately from, the terminal device connected to the management device is requested to transmit the history data, the history data transmitted from the terminal device is acquired in response to the request, and the history data acquired from the terminal device is acquired. said monetary data associated with said unique number of said IC card to be reissued stored in said management device database updated based on said history data, said third control means being input from said input means; When the obtained password matches the card issuance password stored in the management device database, the card issuance means is controlled to associate the new IC card with the card issuance password and store it in the management device database. The money data to be written into the stored IC card is written.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a remote management system capable of easily reissuing a replacement IC card even if the IC card used in the remote management system is damaged and cannot be used in the device. Especially in the laundry system, IC cards can be easily reissued even in an unmanned store.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a laundry system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the management device. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a terminal device and laundry equipment. FIG. 4 is a diagram explaining another example of deposit/withdrawal means. FIG. 5 is a diagram explaining still another example of the deposit/withdrawal means. FIG. 6 is a flow chart explaining the operation of the management device and the terminal device. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the IC card reissue management device. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of IC card reissue operation.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Each figure is merely a schematic representation to the extent that the present invention can be fully understood. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples only. Moreover, in each figure, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected about a common component and a similar component, and those overlapping description is abbreviate|omitted.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of the entire laundry system. A management apparatus 1 and an administrator apparatus 3 are connected to a network 2, which is a wide area network such as the Internet. Although one management apparatus 1 and one administrator apparatus 3 are illustrated, there may be a plurality of them. A laundry machine will be described as an example of an automatic operation machine.

The administrator's device 3 is a computer connected to the network 2 . The administrator device 3 is, for example, a computer such as a personal computer, a PDA, or a smart phone, which has a communication function, an input function, and a display function. Various processing such as comparison and calculation can be performed according to the program.

The administrator's device 3 can obtain various data stored in the administrator's device 1 via the network 2 and send data generated by the administrator's device 3 to the manager 1 . For example, various information such as operation status of the managed laundry machine, monetary data and usage history for each IC card are acquired from the management apparatus 1, and various commands, data, results of various processes, etc. are obtained from the management apparatus 1. can be sent out. Also, various information can be obtained from a plurality of terminal devices (first terminal device 4, second terminal device 6, third terminal device 8) connected to the management device 1 via the management device 1, and various commands can be obtained. or send data.

The management device 1 is a computer connected to the network 2, is provided with a communication device, and is connected to a plurality of terminals such as a first terminal device 4, a second terminal device 6, and a third terminal device 8 via a local area network (LAN). It is communicably connected to the terminal device.

The management device 1 is wirelessly connected to the first terminal device 4, the second terminal device 6, and the third terminal device 8. FIG. Here, an example of wireless connection will be described, but wired connection is also possible. The management device 1 can acquire data from a terminal device such as the first terminal device 4 and manage and control the states of devices connected thereto. Details will be described later.

A first laundry machine 5 is connected to the first terminal device 4 . The first laundry machine 5 is a laundry machine such as a washing machine and a dryer. Devices to be managed and controlled by the management device 1 are connected.

A first terminal device 4 and a first laundry machine 5 are connected. The first terminal device 4 and the first laundry machine 5 can mutually input and output signals. The first terminal device 4 includes a card reader/writer capable of reading and writing data stored in an IC card, which will be described later, for example.

Details of the first terminal device 4 and the first laundry machine 5 will be described later. A first laundry machine 5 connected to the first terminal device 4, a second laundry machine 7 connected to the second terminal device 6, and a third laundry machine 9 connected to the third terminal device 8. are devices having similar functions, so unless otherwise specified, one representative, for example, the first terminal device 4 and the first laundry machine 5 connected thereto, will be explained, and the other devices will be explained. Description is omitted.

In an unmanned store or the like, a plurality of managed devices are connected by communication and managed by one management device 1 . For example, laundromats typically have multiple washing machines, dryers, and other laundry equipment. Each device is connected to the management device 1 by communication, and various information such as operation status is centrally managed by the management device 1 . A manager device 3 connected to the network 2 manages the management device 1 and transmits and receives information. Further, the administrator device 3 can control the management device 1 and its managed devices and devices such as remote operations.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the management device. The management device 1 has management device control means 20 , first communication means 21 , memory 22 , database 23 , second communication means 24 , card issuing device 25 , deposit/withdrawal means 26 , and touch panel 27 . The management device 1 is a kind of computer. A card issuing device 25 , which is card issuing means capable of issuing an IC card, includes a card conveying device 28 and a card read/write device 29 .

Management device control means 20 includes a CPU and performs various controls of the entire device according to programs stored in memory 22 .

The memory 22 includes ROM for storing programs, initial setting values, etc., temporary data storage, working memory, and RAM for storing setting values.

The database 23 includes a memory for storing data, and is a database that stores information about devices and devices to be managed and information about IC cards in association with each device, device, and each IC card. For example, the usage history of the IC card is stored in association with the unique number of the IC card. Also, the usage history of the managed laundry machines is stored in association with each laundry machine. It also stores information such as the current operating status of each device. The database 23 is connected to the management device control means 20 and operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . In the database 23, under the control of the management device control means 20, processing such as updating and searching of stored data is performed. The database 23 stores information such as issuance of the IC card of the management apparatus 1, update of money data in the IC card, operation status of the managed apparatus, and operation history information for each managed apparatus and for each individual IC card. Information is stored in an associated manner. In addition, when reissuing an IC card, information related to reissuing such as a card issuance password, a unique number of a damaged IC card, money data, and point data is stored. Since various types of information are associated and stored, the management device control means 20 can acquire necessary information by searching.

The first communication means 21 is connected to the network 2, which is a wide area network such as the Internet, and can transmit and receive data to and from an external device such as the administrator device 3, for example. The first communication means 21 includes an interface that connects to the network 2 , is connected to the management device control means 20 , and operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . The administration device control means 20 can transmit and receive data to and from the administration device 3 connected to the network 2 via the first communication means 21 .

The second communication means 24 is wireless communication means such as wireless LAN. The second communication means 24 operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . The second communication means 24 communicates with each of the first terminal device 4, the second terminal device 6, and the third terminal device 8 to transmit and receive data. A kind of local area network (LAN) can be formed. Also, although wireless communication means is used here, it may be replaced with a wired LAN.

For example, the first terminal device 4 is connected to a first laundry machine 5, which is a device to be managed. Therefore, the administrator device 3 can manage the first laundry machine 5 via the network 2, the management device 1, the first terminal device 4, and the like.

The card issuing device 25 operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . The card issuing device 25 includes a card read/write device 29 for reading data from and writing data to the IC card. It also has a card conveying device 28 for conveying and setting the IC card from the storage or from the insertion/ejection port to the card read/write device 29 . The card conveying device 28 can also convey the read/written IC card to the insertion/ejection port. When reissuing an IC card that cannot be read or written by the card read/write device 29, the card can be collected and transported to a card collection box (not shown).

In accordance with the input from the touch panel 27 (to be described later), the instruction from the administrator apparatus 3, and the transmitted data, the administrator apparatus 1 performs processes such as issuing an IC card, changing data, and storing data. By issuing the IC card, money data corresponding to the amount of payment is written in the IC card so that the IC card can be used in a laundry machine like money such as coins.

The deposit/withdrawal means 26 operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . Money is inserted from the deposit port, its denomination is identified, and the deposited amount is output to the management device control means 20. - 特許庁Also, the amount of money instructed by the management device control means 20 is paid out from the payout port. For example, when money data is added to the IC card, the money data corresponding to the amount of money inserted into the deposit/withdrawal means 26 is added to the money data originally stored in the IC card and updated. It also includes a credit card processing device and can process deposits by card. For example, the amount corresponding to the money data to be written in the IC card is deposited from the deposit/withdrawal means 26 . When the money is received, money data is added and written to the IC card.

The touch panel 27 operates under the control of the management device control means 20 . The touch panel 27 is an input/output device in which a liquid crystal display device and sensors arranged in a matrix on the liquid crystal display device are arranged so as to obtain both a detection signal and a contact position when an object touches the touch panel 27 . The management device control means 20 displays a predetermined display on the touch panel 27 and receives an output signal from the touch panel 27 . For example, the management device control means 20 can display a button at a predetermined position on the liquid crystal display device and, when a finger touches that position, perform processing corresponding to the display of the button.

The management device control means 20 includes data analysis means 60 . The data analysis means 60 analyzes the operation history data of the first laundry machine 5 and the first terminal device 4 acquired from the first terminal device 4 and generates data to be stored in the database 23 . For example, various data stored in association with date and time as history data are converted into data to be stored in the database 23 as data associated with the unique number of the IC card or the unique number of the laundry machine. Acquired data can be analyzed, rearranged, and calculated.

The management device control means 20 also includes a card data generation means 61 . Based on the data stored in the database 23, data to be written in a newly issued IC card is generated. The card data generating means 61 also acquires card data associated with a card issuance password for issuing an IC card, and outputs the data to the card issuing device 25 . It can also have a function of generating a card issuance password.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a terminal device and laundry equipment. A first terminal device 4 and a first laundry machine 5 are connected.

The first terminal device 4 includes terminal control means 30 , third communication means 31 , card reader/writer 32 , display panel 33 , input means 34 , memory 35 and history database 36 .

The terminal control means 30 includes a CPU and performs various controls over the entire first terminal device 4 according to programs stored in the memory 35 .

The memory 35 includes a ROM for storing programs, initial setting values, etc., temporary data storage, a working memory, and a RAM for storing setting values.

The third communication means 31 is a wireless communication means such as a wireless LAN that operates under the control of the terminal control means 30 and communicates with the second communication means 24 of the management device 1 . The first terminal device 4 can transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the third communication means 31 .

The card reader/writer 32 operates under the control of the terminal control means 30 to read/write the IC card.

The display panel 33 is a device that operates under the control of the terminal control means 30 and displays characters, graphics, and the like. Numbers, characters, etc. are displayed so that the user can visually recognize them. For example, the charge for using the connected first laundry machine 5 is displayed. The input means 34 operates under the control of the terminal control means 30, and is an input means for performing operations and instructions such as changing the amount of money to be inserted by the user.

The history database 36 operates under the control of the terminal control means 30 and stores the history of the operation status of the first terminal device 4 , that is, the history data of the first terminal device 4 . For example, when an IC card is used, the date and time, the unique number of the IC card, the money data of the IC card, the amount of money data used, and when coins are used, the date and time, the amount, and the first laundry It is data such as data transmission history to the device 5 .

For example, communication between the management device 1 and the first terminal device 4 is performed intermittently in order to improve the response of the device. If communication with the management apparatus 1 is performed for each process including change of history data, the processing time may become longer due to communication errors, retransmission, and the like. If the processing time is long, the user-friendliness becomes worse. For example, history data as operation history information of the device is stored in the history database 36, and the history data is acquired by the management device 1 periodically or when the user is not using the device. The management device 1 periodically polls the first terminal device 4, and if there is a change in the history, acquires history data as operation history information of the device.

The history database 36 is stored in storage means such as RAM, EEPROM, flash memory, etc. provided in the first terminal device 4, but has a smaller storage capacity than the database 23 of the management device 1, and can store so much information. I can't. Therefore, the management device 1 periodically acquires the stored data so that even a small memory capacity can be used to store the history without any problem.

The first laundry machine 5 is, for example, a laundry machine such as a clothes washing machine and a clothes dryer provided in a laundromat. The first laundry machine 5 includes a currency receiving unit 44 , currency identification means 45 , laundry control means 40 , memory 41 , input/output unit 42 and driving unit 43 . The power supply control target unit includes, for example, the money identification unit 45, the laundry control unit 40, the memory 41, the input/output unit 42, and the driving unit 43. The power control target unit is a target whose power is turned on/off by the power control means. A power control unit (not shown) can select whether or not to supply power to a power control target unit. The power supply control means receives power supply from the outside and can operate independently even when power is not supplied to other functions of the first laundry machine 5 . The power control means selects whether or not to supply power to the power control target unit based on the signal from the first terminal device 4 .

The laundry control means 40 includes a CPU and performs various controls over the entire first laundry machine 5 according to programs stored in the memory 41 .

The memory 41 includes a ROM for storing programs, initial setting values, etc., temporary data storage, a working memory, and a RAM for storing setting values.

The input/output unit 42 operates under the control of the laundry control means 40 . The input/output unit 42 includes an input/output device such as a touch panel. Under the control of the laundry control means 40 , character graphics are displayed on a display panel such as a liquid crystal display device, and input information such as a change in operation mode is output to the laundry control means 40 . Operational instructions such as changing the operation mode of the first laundry machine 5 can be input.

The drive unit 43 operates under the control of the laundry control means 40 . For example, it is a drive unit that drives devices such as a motor that rotates a washing tub, a combustor that generates heat in a dryer, and a blower that blows hot air.

The money receiving part 44 is, for example, an insertion slot into which coins are inserted. A fee for using the first laundry machine 5 can be introduced.

The currency identification means 45 operates under the control of the laundry control means 40 . The inserted coin passes through the passage and moves to the coin identification means 45, which identifies the denomination and authenticity of the coin, and outputs a coin identification signal as a result of the identification. For example, an identification signal corresponding to an inserted coin such as a 100-yen coin or a 500-yen coin is output. This identification signal is a money signal that indicates the amount of money. Based on the identification signal, the control means such as the laundry control means 40 and the terminal control means 30 perform various processes such as the operation of the connected equipment.

When the first terminal device 4 is connected to the first laundry machine 5, the money acceptor 44 and the card reader/writer 32 can be used together. The terminal control means 30 inputs the money data which is the deposited amount of money obtained by adding the identification signal from the money identification means 45 and the money data from the card reader/writer 32 or the point data corresponding to this money data. can generate an identification signal and output it to the laundry control means 40 .

When the first terminal device 4 is connected to the first laundry machine 5, the first terminal device 4 operates on a different power supply than the first laundry machine 5, so the first laundry machine 5 is powered off. It can work even when For example, the history of the operation status of the first laundry machine 5 can be left in the history database 36 . Also, the management device 1 and the first terminal device 4 can transmit and receive data. For example, when the money accepting unit 44 receives a deposit of an amount that is not enough to operate, the status of the deposit can be stored in the history database 36 of the first terminal device 4 . When the power supply is cut off by the power control means in this state, the first laundry machine 5 stops operating. However, the history database 36 of the first terminal device 4 retains the information that the payment was in progress and that the power supply was cut off. In cases such as when a refund has to be made later, it is possible to check the contents of the history database 36 and accurately acquire the situation. For example, even if the money data in the latest history is subtracted without any operation, the money data for this subtracted amount can be grasped, so even if the IC data is damaged in this state, this The inactive money data can be added to the latest money data to generate the card data of the reissued IC card.

Alternatively, the laundry control means 40 can perform a calculation to add the identification signal from the money identification means 45 and the money data from the first terminal device 4, and process it as the deposited amount. In this case, the signal line 46 is connected, and the output from the currency identification means 45 is only the signal line 46, that is, the output is only to the laundry control means 40. FIG.

Also, the laundry control means 40 outputs the amount of money necessary for the operation to the terminal control means 30 of the first terminal device 4, the first terminal device 4 displays the amount on the display panel 33, and the card reader/writer 32 is operated by the IC A predetermined amount from the card, i.e., money data corresponding to the amount is updated with a reduced amount, and the fact that the money has been received is output from the terminal control means 30 to the laundry control means 40 of the first laundry machine 5 as an identification signal. is also possible.

Here, when the first terminal device 4 is not directly connected to the first laundry machine 5, the output of the money identification means 45 is connected to the laundry control means 40 through the signal line 46, and an identification signal corresponding to the deposited money. is input to the laundry control means 40 to control the operation of the first laundry machine 5 . For example, when a predetermined amount of money is deposited, the first laundry machine 5 is operated for a predetermined period of time.

The first terminal device 4 can be configured separately from the first laundry machine 5, and various usages are possible, such as when the first terminal device 4 is removed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating another example of deposit means. The first two-dimensional code 55 is displayed on the display panel 33 of the first terminal device 4 connected to the first laundry machine 5, and is recognized by the mobile phone 51 owned by the user so that the money can be deposited. .

A mobile phone 51 is equipped with a first image input means 52 such as an electronic camera, and has a function of recording images. Also, the mobile phone 51 is equipped with a liquid crystal display device 53, and can display characters, graphics, and the like. Also, the mobile phone 51 is a mobile device such as a smart phone that can be connected to the Internet via a base station.

The first laundry machine 5 is connected to the first terminal device 4 . Clothes and the like can be put into the clothes loading section 50 and washed and dried. The first terminal device 4 is equipped with a second image input means 54 such as an electronic camera capable of recording images. The second image input means 54 is controlled by the terminal control means 30 and can record images and generate image data.

Also, the first two-dimensional code 55 can be displayed on the display panel 33 of the first terminal device 4 . This first two-dimensional code 55 can be copied by the first image input means 52 of the mobile phone 51, stored as image data in the mobile phone 51, and variously processed.

The first two-dimensional code 55 displayed on the display panel 33 selectively displays a plurality of patterns by displaying or hiding linear or rectangular display elements and arranging the elements vertically and horizontally. It is possible. The more display elements there are, the more patterns can be displayed. Since each pattern can be specified individually, one of the patterns can be associated with the amount data. Also, by specifying the displayed information and the user of the mobile phone 51, the payment can be made.

For example, the first two-dimensional code 55 displayed on the display panel 33 and the amount of money required to operate the first laundry machine 5 are linked in advance and registered in a settlement server (not shown). Then, the displayed first two-dimensional code 55 is read by a pre-registered device such as the user's mobile phone 51 and transmitted to the settlement server for settlement. Since the first two-dimensional code 55, the amount of money, and the user can be specified, the money can be deposited and settled from the account specified by the user.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating still another example of deposit means. In FIG. 4, the case where the first two-dimensional code 55 is displayed on the first terminal device 4 has been described, but here, an example of displaying the second two-dimensional code 56 on the mobile phone 51 will be described.

Information specifying the user is registered in advance in a settlement server (not shown) so that the second two-dimensional code 56 unique to the user can be displayed on the liquid crystal display device 53 of the mobile phone 51 . The first terminal device 4 acquires the second two-dimensional code 56 by making the second two-dimensional code 56 fall within the imaging range 57 of the second image input means 54 of the first terminal device 4 . This makes it possible to identify the user who owns the second two-dimensional code 56 . The amount of money is displayed on the display panel 33, and if a payment confirmation input is input from the input means 34, the money can be deposited and settled from the specified user's account.

Payments using two-dimensional codes as described above have become widely used. The first terminal device 4 includes a display panel 33 having a high-definition liquid crystal display capable of displaying a two-dimensional code, a second image input means 54 such as an electronic camera, and an input means 34 having buttons for user input. By providing a third communication means 31 capable of communicating with an external device connected to the Internet, two-dimensional code payment is possible if the user owns a communication terminal such as a mobile phone capable of two-dimensional code payment. becomes. A touch panel having both buttons for user input and a display device for displaying a two-dimensional code or the like can also be used. In addition, history information of these operations can be stored as history data in the history database 36 of the first terminal device 4 .

FIG. 6 is a flow chart explaining the operation of the management device and the terminal device. Related operations of the management device 1 and the first terminal device 4 will be described. The management device 1 periodically acquires new history information stored in the history database 36 from the first terminal device 4 and updates the information in the database 23 . The first terminal device 4 stores the usage history in the history database 36 according to the usage status of the first terminal device 4 and the first laundry machine 5 . The first terminal device 4 generates and transmits data about the usage status in response to a transmission request for the usage status data from the management device 1, that is, a transmission request for the history data stored in the history database 36. FIG. When there is a transmission request, regardless of whether or not updated history data has been transmitted, that time point is used as the starting point for determining whether or not the data in the history database 36 has been updated.

In step S<b>1 , the management device 1 periodically transmits a request for transmission of usage data of the first laundry machine 5 to the first terminal device 4 . A plurality of terminal devices (a first terminal device 4, a second terminal device 6, and a third terminal device 8) are connected to the management device 1, and requests are made to each of them individually. Here, the first terminal device 4 will be described as an example.

Data on the usage status of the first laundry machine 5, that is, history data, is stored in the first terminal device 4. FIG. The date and time when the state changed and the changed information such as the money put into the first laundry machine 5, the IC card unique number when paying with an IC card, the money data reduced by use, the remaining money data, etc. It is stored in the history database 36 as history data. History data is acquired from the first terminal device 4 , the acquired data is analyzed by the data analysis means 60 , and data to be stored in the database 23 is generated. Further, in the database 23, a unique number is given to each managed laundry machine, and various information is stored in association with each unique number. Various information such as remaining money data, date and time of each use, money data, used equipment, etc. are stored in association with each unique number of the managed IC card. In addition, history information such as the used laundry machine, the used amount, and the balance data is stored in association with the date and time of use.

Further, the first laundry machine 5 continues to operate for several minutes to several tens of minutes after starting operation. The management device 1 normally acquires history information of each terminal device periodically by polling processing. The first terminal device 4 is no exception, and periodically checks whether or not the history has been updated, and acquires new history information from the history database 36 if there is an update. A short interval of about one minute is preferable, but since the history does not change frequently, it can be performed every one to ten and several minutes.

On the other hand, the operation of storing the first laundry machine usage history of the first terminal device 4 in the history database 36 will be described. Step S<b>5 is a step in which the user starts using the first laundry machine 5 . When using the first laundry machine 5 , money is inserted from the money receiving portion 44 , and an identification signal corresponding to the money is generated by the money identification means 45 and output to the terminal control means 30 . The terminal control means 30 calculates the amount of money inserted from the output signal and generates a corresponding identification signal. Furthermore, it outputs an identification signal to the laundry control means 40 of the first laundry machine 5 . Here, instead of the identification signal, the laundry control means 40 may generate and output a signal that can be interpreted as the amount of money deposited, for example, a command corresponding to a predetermined amount of money.

The laundry control means 40 starts the operation when the amount of the input signal is the amount corresponding to the predetermined operation of the first laundry machine 5 .

In the case of payment by an IC card, money data information is output from the card reader/writer 32 to the terminal control means 30, and the terminal control means 30 generates identification information based on the money data and sends it to the laundry control means 40. Output. For example, the usage amount is determined in advance according to the operation contents of the first laundry machine 5 . When the amount of money to be used is received by the IC card, a predetermined operation is performed. The deposit can be made by money such as coins and banknotes, credit cards, two-dimensional code settlement systems, etc. Information on money data is output to the terminal control means 30 from these, and the terminal control means 30 receives the money data. and outputs the identification information to the laundry control means 40 .

Next, in step S6, the first terminal device 4 receives information on date and time, deposit method, deposit amount, unique number of the IC card, money data stored in the IC card, and output of a signal to the first laundry machine 5. , and various information such as unique information of the connected first laundry machine 5 are associated with each other and stored in the history database 36 .

In this manner, the first terminal device 4 stores the history as history data in the history database 36 each time the first terminal device 4 and the first laundry machine 5 operate.

Next, processing for transmitting history data from the history database 36 of the first terminal device 4 to the management device 1 will be described.

The first terminal device 4 waits for a transmission request for usage status data of the first laundry machine 5 from the management device 1 (step S7). When this transmission request arrives, the process proceeds to step S8.

In step S8, usage data is generated. First, it is determined whether or not the history database 36 has been updated between the previous transmission request and the current transmission request. If there is an update, generate the data to send. If not, it generates data indicating that there was no update.

For example, as history management information, information that is reset when a transmission request is made and changed or added when there is new history information from there, such as a flag, updated record number of the history database 36, etc. , can be considered to have If it remains reset at the time of determination, no new history data exists, and if there is changed or added information, it can be determined that there is new history data. Alternatively, the presence or absence of new history data may be determined by searching the contents of the history database 36 for the presence or absence of history data added from the previous transmission request to the current transmission request.

If there is new history data, the history data is extracted from the history database 36, each element of the history data is associated, and usage status data that can be analyzed by the management device 1 is generated.

Next, in step S9, usage status data generated based on the history data extracted in step S8 is transmitted to the management device 1. FIG.

Next, in step S10, the management history information is reset, the process proceeds to step S7, and the first terminal device 4 is placed in a state of waiting for a transmission request.

Next, the management device 1 receives usage data of the first laundry machine 5, that is, data generated based on history data (step S2).

In step S3, it is determined whether or not the history database 36 has been updated. If there is, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the acquired new history data is analyzed by the data analysis means 60, data in a format to be stored in the database 23 is generated, and stored in the database 23. FIG. For example, for each IC card, various information such as individual usage history and money data are associated and stored.

In this manner, history data stored in the first terminal device 4, the second terminal device 6, and the third terminal device 8 connected to the management device 1 are periodically collected and stored in the database 23. FIG.

The stored data includes money data stored for each unique number of the IC card, added point data, data such as equipment used, expiration date, and the like. The point data can be handled in the same manner as money data, and is used as a return to the user or as a bonus.

Next, the operation of reissuing an IC card will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the IC card reissue management device. Various operations of the management device 1 are controlled by a management device control means 20 .

First, in step S20, when the user operates the button corresponding to IC card reissue using the touch panel 27 of the management device 1, the management device control means 20 starts processing according to the operation.

Next, in step S21, it is determined whether or not the input by the user is a request for input of a password for issuing an IC card. If no password is entered, the process proceeds to step S27. If the password is to be entered, the process proceeds to step S22.

In step S27, processing including displaying information indicating that a password must be obtained in order to reissue an IC card is performed.

In step S22, the user uses the touch panel 27 to input a password for reissuing the IC card, and the management device control means 20 acquires the input password.

Next, in step S23, it is determined whether or not the entered password is correct. If it is correct, the process proceeds to step S24, and if incorrect, the process proceeds to step S28.

A card issuance password for reissuing an IC card is obtained and stored in advance by the management device 1 . For example, it is stored in the database 23 . If the entered password matches any one of a plurality of stored card issuing passwords, it can be determined to be correct, and if not included, it can be determined to be incorrect. If the card issuance password is not reissued within a predetermined period of time, even if the password itself is correct, the password is not recognized as correct and the process proceeds to step S28.

In step S24, card data presumed to have been stored in the IC card corresponding to the card issuance password is read from the database 23 in order to reissue the IC card corresponding to the entered password. Each time the IC card is used, its history data is collected. The data originally recorded in the IC card is correct data, but if the data is damaged and cannot be read, alternative data is required. The estimated card data is information generated based on the latest collected history data, and is card data estimated to have been stored in the IC card. The card data generation means 61 acquires this card data as card data corresponding to the card issuance password. Also, if there is a reduction in the amount of money data corresponding to when the first laundry machine 5 is inoperable, the card data is generated by adding this money data to the money data of the latest history. That is, in addition to the latest history data, if the content of the history data should be refunded, the card data is generated based on the previously acquired history data as well. It is also possible to generate card data by analyzing the history in this way.

Based on this estimated card data, the card issuing device 25 writes to a new IC card. Under the control of the management device control means 20 , the unused IC card stocked in the card conveying device 28 is conveyed to the card read/write device 29 . A unique number is already stored in the transported IC card. Since this unique number is unique to the IC card, it is not rewritten. The card read/write device 29 writes the acquired card data to the IC card. It includes at least monetary data, and in some cases, includes point data corresponding to monetary data. In addition, it is possible to include data on the reissue date and time. Further, the usage history of the device, the unique number of the regenerated IC card, the value indicating that it has been regenerated, and accompanying data such as store information may also be acquired by the card data generating means 61 and recorded by the card issuing device 25. can. These data are also generated based on data stored in the database 23 .

Next, in step S25, the card information of the IC card to be reissued is displayed on the touch panel 27 for confirmation by the user. At this time, it is also possible to let the user decide whether or not to reissue the card. If the confirmed result is acceptable, it will be issued. If not, the corresponding contact information can be displayed and the process can be terminated.

Then, the IC card to be reissued after the card data has been written is ejected from the card ejecting port by the card conveying device 28. - 特許庁The user can obtain and use the reissued IC card.

Next, in step S26, the fact that the IC card has been reissued is transmitted to the administrator apparatus 3. FIG. Also, after the reissue is completed, the fact that a new IC card has been issued is recorded in the database 23 . The database 23 records reissue history data such as the IC card number, card data, card issue password, issue date and time, and information indicating that the card has been reissued.

On the other hand, in step S28, a message indicating that the password was entered incorrectly is displayed.

Next, in step S29, it is determined whether the number of times the password has been entered, that is, the number of times the password is incorrect is within an allowable predetermined number of times, such as three times. . Input errors may occur, so you can set an acceptable range and try multiple inputs.

In step S30, it is determined that the input is not a mere input error, but that it is a mischief or an illegality, and error processing for reissuing is performed. A message is displayed on the touch panel 27 to the effect that it cannot be reissued. In addition, it is possible to perform control to switch to an abnormality monitoring mode different from the normal mode, such as directing a monitoring camera in a store (not shown) to a high-definition image, continuous image capturing, and management device 1 direction. If there is no special processing, the surveillance camera operates in a normal mode with low resolution and intermittent drive in order to save memory and communication traffic.

Next, in step S31, the administrator device 3 is notified that reissuance of the card has failed. With the manager device 3, the manager of the store can notify that there is some kind of abnormality in the store and confirm it with the image of the surveillance camera. Also, you can have a conversation with a microphone and speaker attached to the store, or a telephone.

For example, in order to obtain the user's password for card issuance, a telephone (not shown) attached to the store is used to inform the manager of the number of the damaged IC card. Then, the administrator generates a card issuance password for reissuing the damaged IC card and card data information to be written to the new IC card. It is conceivable that the user obtains from the administrator a card issuance password for reissuing the generated IC card. Then, the generated card issuance password and card data are transmitted from the administrator device 3 to the management device 1 . The user can use the obtained card issuing password to reissue an IC card with the management device 1 also serving as a card issuing machine. Also, as a method of obtaining the card issuance password, various methods, which will be described later, are conceivable. Further, the card issuance password can contain the unique number of the damaged IC card as it is or after being encrypted. Also, the password entry can include both the unique number of the damaged IC card and the card issue password.

As described above, a new IC card can be easily issued in place of a damaged IC card based on the password entered by the user. Further, if the password is not entered within a predetermined period, the IC card cannot be reissued with the card issuance password, thereby preventing fraudulent use of this function. It is also possible to prevent fraud in conjunction with other devices in the store.

Next, an example of reissuing an IC card will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of IC card reissue operation. Related operations of the administrator device 3, the management device 1, and the first terminal device 4 will be described with reference to the drawings.

In step S<b>40 , when the IC card is inserted into the management device 1 , the card conveying device 28 conveys the IC card to the card read/write device 29 . Therefore, the read/write test of the inserted IC card is performed.

Next, in step S41, as a result of the test, it is determined whether or not there is an abnormality in the IC card, such as being unable to read or write. If there is no problem with the IC card, the IC card can be used, and the IC card reissue process ends. If there is an abnormality in the IC card, the process proceeds to the next step S42.

In step S42, a message indicating that the IC card has a problem in reading and writing and that the IC card needs to be reissued is displayed, and the user is requested to input whether or not to reissue the IC card. Keep the data in the database 23 up-to-date regardless of whether or not to reissue.

Collect up-to-date information on device usage history. In order to acquire usage status data, i.e. history data, of a plurality of laundry machines (first laundry machine 5, second laundry machine 7, third laundry machine 9) managed by the management device 1, each terminal device (first terminal A data transmission request is made to the device 4, the second terminal device 6, and the third terminal device 8).

In step S43, the operation of each terminal device will be described using the first terminal device 4 as an example. Normally, acquisition of history data from each terminal device, which is performed periodically, is obtained temporarily. Upon receiving the data transmission request, the first terminal device 4 transmits the latest updated history data to the management device 1 if the history data stored in the history database 36 is updated. Also, if there is no update, a value corresponding to that fact is transmitted.

Next, in step S44, the management device 1 analyzes the received usage data, i.e. history data, by the data analysis means 60, and if there is any data newer than that recorded in the database 23, new data is stored in the database 23. Make updates that add or change.

Next, in step S45, if the IC card is to be reissued, the unique number of the IC card is entered. If the IC card is a partial problem and the unique number of the IC card can be read, the number can be used. The IC card may be ejected using the card conveying device 28 and the number written on the IC card may be input. If the management apparatus 1 is equipped with an electronic camera (not shown), the camera may be used for input. If the two-dimensional code is printed, the input becomes easy.

Next, in step S46, management device 1 requests administrator device 3 to reissue the IC card based on the input unique number of the IC card. At this time, information relating to the unique number of the IC card to be reproduced is obtained from the database 23, and the card data generating means 61 generates card data based on the latest history data. The generated card data is estimated data generated based on the data left in the database 23 . This card data is combined and transmitted to the administrator device 3 .

Alternatively, in response to a request from administrator device 3 , administration device 1 may generate card data for a reissued IC card based on information stored in database 23 and transmit it to administrator device 3 . In addition, at the request of the administrator device 3, the management device 1 transmits information about the IC card to be reissued, and the card data to be reissued by the administrator device 3 is generated based on the input or acquired information. Although there are various methods, the latest data is collected in the database 23, and card data to be written in a new IC card is generated based on the collected data.

Next, in step S47, when the administrator apparatus 3 receives an IC card reissue request from the administrator apparatus 1, it generates a card issuance password for reissuing the IC card. Also, the card issuing card data is generated or acquired as the reproduction information of the IC card to be reissued as described above. The information of the damaged IC card, the password for issuing the card, and the card data to be written can be confirmed by the administrator device 3. - 特許庁

Next, in step S48, the card issuance password and the card data of the reissued IC card generated based on the latest data collected in the database 23 of the management device 1 are associated and transmitted to the management device 1. . The processing of the management device 1 after transmission is step S50.

Next, in step S49, the generated card issuance password is notified to the user. As a notification method, there is a method of displaying on the touch panel 27 of the management device 1 . In addition, the card issuance password can be communicated via the telephone attached to the store. Also, if the user's e-mail address is registered in advance, the card issuance password can be e-mailed to that e-mail address. Either method may be used, but the user is made to obtain the generated card issuance password. When the notification of the card issuance password to the user is finished, the administrator device 3 waits for the next processing.

On the other hand, as for the management device 1, in step S50, the management device 1 stores the obtained card issuance password and card data in the database 23 as data for reissuing the IC card in association with each other.

Next, in step S51, a password input display is performed to prompt the user to input the card issuance password acquired.

Next, in step S52, the input password and the card issuance password stored in the database 23 are compared to determine whether they match or not. The entered password is compared with the card issuance password stored in the database 23, and if they do not match, the entry of the password is permitted up to a predetermined number of times. If the number of failures exceeds the predetermined number, the process ends. Moreover, when it matches, it transfers to step S53.

Next, in step S53, card data based on the entered password is obtained from the database 23, and the card read/write device 29 of the card issuing device 25 associates the IC card with the new unique number with the password obtained from the database 23. Write the card data stored in the card and eject it. In addition, a step of confirming written contents such as monetary data with the user can be added before discharging.

Next, in step S54, the history of reissued IC cards and the history of reissues are recorded in the database 23. FIG. It is also possible to register the unique number of the damaged IC card. In this case, when the IC card is used, it is compared with the unique number registered, and if they match, the use can be restricted.

Next, in step S55, the management device 1 notifies the administrator device 3 of the completion of the reissuance of the IC card.

Next, in step S56, the administrator device 3 receives the notification that the reissue of the IC card has been completed, acquires and displays the data of the issued IC card, and stores it as management data of the IC card. At this time, the damaged IC card can be reinserted and recovered.
Also, when reissuing a damaged IC card, it is possible to store the IC card without ejecting it in step S45.

In this manner, the password for reissuing the IC card can be issued by the administrator device 3 communicating with the administrator device 1 . In addition, the management device 1 can provide a process for checking whether or not there is damage, thereby preventing unauthorized use. Also, the generation and input of the password in steps S47 to S52 may be omitted, and the card data generating means 61 may generate only the card data to be written in the new IC card. At this time, when it is found that the IC card is damaged, it is decided whether or not to reissue the IC card, and only by entering the number of the IC card to be reissued, card data is written in the IC card, and the IC card is reissued. can be reissued.

By connecting the management device 3 and the management device 1 at a remote location by communication, it is possible to easily reissue the IC card. In the present embodiment, a laundry system has been described as an example of a remote management system, but the remote management system can also be used for equipment used in unmanned stores that use IC cards.

1 Management Device 2 Network 3 Administrator Device 4 First Terminal Device 5 First Laundry Machine 6 Second Terminal Device 7 Second Laundry Machine 8 Third Terminal Device 9 Third Laundry Machine 33 Display Panel 34 Input Means 50 Clothes Throwing Unit 51 Mobile phone 52 First image input means 53 Liquid crystal display device 54 Second image input means 55 First two-dimensional code 56 Second two-dimensional code 57 Imaging range

Claims (5)

an automatic operation device having money identification means for outputting a money signal corresponding to the amount of inserted money; and first control means for controlling execution of a predetermined action based on the money signal;
a management device connected to the automatic operation device via communication and managing the automatic operation device;
a terminal device connected to the automatic operation device and connecting the automatic operation device and the management device via the communication, wherein the management device manages the automatic operation device via the terminal device; In the management system,
The terminal device
a first communication means that connects to a local area network and performs the communication with the management device;
a card reader/writer for reading and writing an IC card;
The IC card set in the card reader/writer is read and written, the money data stored in the IC card is updated by decreasing a predetermined amount, and the money signal corresponding to the money data of the predetermined amount is generated. , a second control means for performing control to output the generated money signal to the first control means;
a history database that stores history data of the operation status of the terminal device;
The management device
a second communication means for connecting to the local area network and performing the communication with the terminal device;
card issuing means for issuing the IC card;
an input means for inputting;
a third control means for controlling the card issuing means and controlling the issuance of the IC card;
a management device database in which the money data of the IC card is stored in association with the unique number of the IC card;
The management device acquires the history data stored in the history database by polling each of the terminal devices, and stores the money data of the IC card in the management device database based on the history data. is stored in association with the unique number,
The management device database stores a card issuance password and the money data to be written into the IC card associated with the card issuance password,
When reissuing the IC card,
the money data to be written into the IC card is the money data associated with the unique number of the reissued IC card stored in the management device database;
The money data to be written into the IC card associated with the card issuance password is the terminal device connected to the management device separately from the last polling performed before reissuance of the IC card. is requested to transmit the history data to, in response to the request, the history data transmitted from the terminal device is acquired, and stored in the management device database updated based on the history data acquired from the terminal device the money data associated with the unique number of the IC card to be reissued,
The third control means controls the card issuance means when the password input from the input means matches the card issuance password stored in the management device database, and transfers the new IC card to the new IC card. A remote management system, wherein the money data to be written to the IC card stored in the management device database in association with the card issuance password is written. The third control means analyzes the history data, and if the money data is deducted from the IC card but the automatic operation device is not in operation, the deducted money data is used as a refund amount. 2. The remote management system according to claim 1, wherein said monetary data corresponding to the refund amount is added to said monetary data to be written into said IC card associated with said card issuance password. The second control means inputs the money signal output from the money identification means,
The second control means generates the money signal that is added based on the money signal that has been input and the money signal corresponding to the predetermined amount of money data, and sends the generated money signal to the first money signal. 3. The remote management system according to claim 1, wherein control is performed to output to the control means. The management device has deposit/withdrawal means for depositing money,
The third control means controls the card issuing means, and adds the money data corresponding to the deposit amount received from the deposit/withdrawal means to the money data stored in the IC card. The remote management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: 5. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said automatic operation device and said terminal device operate on different power sources, and said terminal device operates even when said automatic operation device is not powered on. or the remote management system according to item 1.

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