JP6494247B2 - Book return device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a book return device that accepts a return of a book lent out from a lending facility.

  For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose techniques related to a system for automatically lending books.

  The library collection automatic accounting system described in Patent Document 1 is a collection accounting robot that runs around the bookshelf, and a library accounting robot equipped with a carriage, a hand mechanism, a control device, and an in-vehicle computer is installed on the bookshelf. It is supposed to be put in and out.

  In the article classification and storage system described in Patent Document 2, a mobile robot including a movable carriage, a gripping mechanism, an operation mechanism, and a rack classifies and stores articles.

  In addition to the above, Patent Documents 3 and 4 disclose techniques related to the automatic book lending system.

JP 2001-233405 A JP 2006-341957 A Taiwan Patent No. 422345 Specification Korean Patent No. 101015164

  By the way, even in the present lending facilities, there is a place where a return port for accepting the return of the book is adopted even outside the usage hours such as at night or on holidays.

  However, if anyone can easily open the return opening, there is a risk that other than the collection of the lending facility, such as a collection of other facilities or garbage.

  Then, an object of this invention is to provide the technique which can prevent things other than the library of the said rental facility, such as the library or garbage of another building, as much as possible in a return port.

In order to solve the above-described problem, the book return device according to the first aspect is a book return device that accepts the return of the book, and is formed with a return opening that is open in such a manner that the book can pass through, and stores the book outside. A partition that divides the space, a lid that covers the return port so that it can be opened and closed, and is biased in the closing direction, and the lid can be locked and unlocked when the lid is closed. is seen containing a possible locking unit switches the locking and unlocking based on the unlock signal with the said lid to open by being pushed by the book to be returned in a state in which locking by the lock portion is released and can be a blocking mechanism, and the external is a by the return opening peripheral located can read identification data stored in the tag attached to the book of the first reading section, the book is the And charged object detection unit capable of detecting that it has passed the却口, based on the identification data to which the first reading unit has read the book, it is determined whether the returnable book is the returnable book The lock release signal is output to the lock unit, and the input detection unit did not detect the input for a certain period of time after the lock unit was unlocked by the lock release signal. And a control unit that outputs a lock signal to the lock unit .

  The book return device according to the second aspect is the book return device according to the first aspect, and is stored in the tag attached to the book that passes through the return port and is located in the storage space. A second reading unit capable of reading the identification data is further provided.

  The book return device according to the third aspect is the book return device according to the first or second aspect, and is provided outside and has a top surface at which the book can be read by the first reading unit. A return table provided so as to continue smoothly from the partition to the partition is further provided, and the return port is provided in a portion of the partition that is continuous with the upper surface of the return table.

According to the book return apparatus which concerns on the 1st- 3rd aspect, the cover part provided in the partition so that a return port may be opened and closed, and the lock part which can lock and unlock | release a cover part by electronic control are included. A shielding mechanism, a first reading unit provided on the first return table, capable of reading data stored in a tag attached to the book, and receiving information read by the first reading unit as a signal; If the book is in the library, and if it is confirmed that the book is in the library, a control unit that outputs a signal for releasing the lock to the lock unit is provided. If it cannot be confirmed, the lock of the lock part is not released and the lid part does not open. As a result, it is possible to prevent as much as possible items other than the library collection of the library, such as collections of other buildings or garbage, from being placed in the return port.

  In particular, according to the book return apparatus according to the second aspect, the second return stand provided on the other side of the partition and below the return port, the second return stand, and attached to the book Since it further includes a second reading unit capable of reading data, it is possible to recognize that the book has been inserted from the return port. Furthermore, this makes it possible to lock the lid at an appropriate timing.

  Particularly, according to the book returning apparatus according to the third aspect, the upper surface of the first return table is provided so as to continue smoothly from the position where the first reading unit is located to the partition, and the return port is the first of the partitions. Since it is provided in a portion continuous with the upper surface of the 1 return table, the user can insert the borrowed books into the return port so as to slide on the upper surface of the first return table. Thereby, the user can easily return the book.

Moreover , according to the book return apparatus which concerns on a 1st-3rd aspect, in order to further provide the input detection part which can detect that the book passed the return port, when a 2nd reading part is not provided, it is provided. Even in this case, when the second reading unit fails to read the tag of the book, it can be detected that the object that seems to be the book has passed through the return port.

It is a schematic perspective view which shows the book handling apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic side view which shows a book handling apparatus same as the above. It is a schematic plan view which shows a book handling apparatus same as the above. It is a schematic front view which shows the internal structure of a book handling apparatus same as the above. It is a schematic perspective view which shows a book. It is a schematic side view which shows the folder for books storage. It is a schematic front view which shows a folder same as the above. It is a schematic plan view which shows a folder same as the above. It is the IX-IX line schematic sectional drawing of FIG. It is a schematic side view which shows a picker and a storage part. It is a schematic front view which shows a part of storage part. It is a front view which shows a part of picker. It is a schematic front view of an outlet mechanism part. It is a schematic side view of an extraction mechanism part. It is a schematic plan view of an outlet mechanism part. It is a partial schematic side view which shows a book return apparatus. It is explanatory drawing which shows the cover part and lock part of a book return apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the control part which manages operation | movement control of a book handling apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of book management data. It is a flowchart which shows a warehousing process. It is a flowchart which shows a lending process. It is a flowchart which shows a book selection lending process. It is a flowchart which shows a book extraction process. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of return of a book. It is a schematic plan view which shows the book handling apparatus which concerns on a modification.

  Hereinafter, the book return apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described.

  The book return apparatus 100 is a book return apparatus 100 that accepts the return of the book 200 that has been lent out from the lending facility. In the following description, it is assumed that the automatic book lending device 20 is employed as a lending facility, and the book return device 100 receives a return of the book 200 lent to the user by the automatic book lending device 20. Here, the book return apparatus 100 will be described as an example of being part of the book handling apparatus 10 together with the automatic book lending apparatus 20.

{1. General configuration of book handling device}
<About the overall configuration>
1 is a schematic perspective view showing the book handling device 10, FIG. 2 is a schematic side view showing the book handling device 10, FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing the book handling device 10, and FIG. 3 is a schematic front view showing an internal structure of the handling device 10. FIG.

  The book handling device 10 is a device installed in a library or the like, and includes an automatic book lending device 20 and a book return device 100. The automatic book lending device 20 is a device that automatically lends a book selected by a user from a plurality of stored books. The book return device 100 is a device that accepts the return of a book that has been lent.

  Here, the automatic book lending device 20 and the book return device 100 are installed side by side, and each of the devices 20 and 100 shares some components. However, in the book handling device, the automatic book lending device and the book return device may be provided in a physically separated manner. In the book handling device, the book return device may be omitted, and the automatic book lending device may be used alone.

<Overall configuration of automatic book lending device>
The automatic book lending device 20 is a device that can automatically lend a book stored in the device to a user in accordance with a book lending instruction from the user. The book lending instruction by the user is made by the lending acceptance unit 70 installed in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 or the like.

  Here, the automatic book lending apparatus 20 includes a storage unit 30, a picker 40, an exit mechanism unit 50, a storage cart 60 as a movable folder storage unit, a lending reception unit 70, and a control unit 80 (see FIG. 18). ).

  The four sides and the upper side of the automatic book lending device 20 are surrounded by a panel 22. Here, the storage part 30, the picker 40, and a part of the outlet mechanism part 50 of the automatic book lending apparatus 20 are arranged in a closed space surrounded by the panel 22 on all sides. In addition, another part of the outlet mechanism 50 and the lending acceptance unit 70 are disposed outside the panel 22. Hereinafter, the inside of the automatic book lending apparatus refers to the inside of the panel 22. The inside of the automatic book lending apparatus 20 is restricted by a panel 22 from being entered by persons other than those concerned. Further, the warehousing cart 60 is arranged so as to be able to go in and out of the automatic book lending device 20.

  In the automatic book lending apparatus 20, the book 200 is stored and transported in a state of being stored in the book storage folder 210.

  That is, the book 200 is stored in the storage unit 30 in a state of being stored in the book storage folder 210 (a state in which the books 200 are stored in some of the book storage folders 210 in FIG. 2). When the user instructs lending of the desired book 200 through the lending accepting unit 70, the picker 40 moves the book storage folder 210 storing the desired book 200 to the book external takeout position P in the takeout mechanism unit 50. (See FIG. 3) The take-out mechanism unit 50 supports the book storage folder 210 in a state where the book 200 can be taken out from the book storage folder 210. Then, the user takes out the book 200 from the book storage folder 210 while leaving the book storage folder 210 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 in the take-out mechanism 50. Thus, a desired book can be automatically lent to the user.

  The warehousing cart 60 is used, for example, when storing the folder 210 storing the books 200 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20.

  That is, the warehousing cart 60 is configured to be able to travel in a state where a plurality of book storage folders 210 are stored. Then, with the book storage folder 210 storing the books 200 stored in the storage cart 60, the storage cart 60 is put into the automatic book lending apparatus 20. In this state, the picker 40 transports the book storage folder 210 stored in the receiving cart 60 toward the empty storage position of the storage unit 30, so that the book storage folder 210 storing books is stored in the storage unit 30. Stored in

  The control unit 80 is configured to be able to control each operation of the automatic book lending apparatus 20 including the above operations. The control unit 80 may be provided in the panel 22 or may be provided outside the panel 22.

<About the overall structure of the book return device>
The book return apparatus 100 includes a partition 24, a shielding mechanism unit 110, and a control unit 80.

  Here, the book return apparatus 100 is provided at the position of one end of the automatic book lending apparatus 20.

  That is, a space 23 for storing the returned books is formed at one end of the internal space partitioned by the panel 22. A part of the panel 22 that partitions the space 23 from the outside is a partition 24. Here, the partition 24 is a panel portion of the panel 22 on the side where the lending acceptance unit 70 is provided, and a portion facing the space 23 is the partition 24. The partition 24 is formed with a return port 24h through which the book 200 can pass. In FIG. 1 and the like, one side portion of the space 23 opens outward, but the opening is closed by a door (preferably a door that can be locked and unlocked).

  The shielding mechanism part 110 is provided with the cover part 112 which covers the said return port 24h so that opening and closing is possible. The cover part 112 normally closes the return opening 24h, and is in an openable state when the book 200 is returned. Thereby, the user can store the book 200 in the space 23 through the return port 24h.

  A return storage cart 120 is disposed in the space 23. The return storage cart 120 includes a container-shaped storage unit 120a that opens upward. A portion of the panel 22 facing one side of the space 23 is provided with an opening 22a through which the return storage cart 120 can be taken in and out. The return storage cart 120 is connected to the space 23 through the opening 22a. It is configured to be able to enter and exit from the outside.

  Then, in a state where the return storage cart 120 is disposed in the space 23, the book 200 returned through the return port 24h is dropped and stored in the storage portion 120a of the return storage cart 120. The return storage cart 120 storing the book 200 is taken out through the opening 22a and handled as a returned book 200 by an operator or the like. The returned book 200 is stored, for example, in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 and is used for the next lending.

  The control unit 80 also controls each operation of the book return apparatus 100. The control unit that performs operation control of the automatic book lending apparatus and the control unit that performs operation control of the book return apparatus may be realized by separate control units.

<About the flow of books in the book handling device>
A flow of the book 200 in the book handling apparatus 10 will be described.

  First, a plurality of books 200 are stored in the storage unit 30 while being stored in separate book storage folders 210.

  At the time of lending the book 200, the user who wants to lend inputs the specific information and lending instruction of the book 200 that he wants to lend through the lending accepting unit 70. Then, under the control of the control unit 80, the picker 40 transports the book storage folder 210 storing the book 200 toward the book external extraction position P. The book external extraction position P is a position accessible by the user. Thus, the user can take out the book 200 from the book storage folder 210 at the book external take-out position P and borrow the book 200.

  When the book 200 is returned, the user returns the book 200 to the return port 24h of the book return apparatus 100. The returned book 200 is stored in the return storage cart 120. A plurality of returned books 200 can be stored in the return storage cart 120. As a result, the book 200 is returned.

  The returned book 200 is stored in the storage unit 30 as follows.

  That is, an operator such as a library staff moves the return storage cart 120 from the book return device 100 to the outside, and takes out the book 200 stored in the return storage cart 120. At this time, the worker confirms the status of contamination of the book 200 and repairs or repairs the book 200 if the contamination is severe. Thereafter, the worker stores the book 200 in the book storage folder 210 and stores the book storage folder 210 in the warehousing cart 60. Then, the storage cart 60 is put into the automatic book lending device 20. Then, the picker 40 transports and stores the book storage folder 210 storing the books 200 to an empty location in the storage unit 30. As a result, the book 200 is stored in the storage unit 30 in a state of being stored in the book storage folder 210, and provided for the next lending.

{2. About each component}
The components of the automatic book lending device and the book return device will be described.

<Book>
As shown in FIG. 5, the book 200 is provided with a tag 202 that records its own identification code. The tag 202 may be attached to at least one of a front cover, a back cover, and a back cover of the book.

  As the tag 202, for example, a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) and a communication unit capable of wireless communication with an external wireless reader or the like through electromagnetic waves (radio waves) or the like. An equipped RFID (Radio Frequency Identifier) or the like can be used. In the nonvolatile memory, an identification code for identifying the book is stored. Then, the tag 202 can read the identification code of the tag 202 or the wireless reading device by transmitting a response signal including its own identification code in response to the identification code inquiry signal from the wireless reading device or the like. . By giving this identification code to the control unit 80, the control unit 80 can identify the book 200.

  But the tag attached to the book 200 is not restricted to the said example. For example, as a tag, a tag in which its own identification code is recorded by magnetism (such as a magnetic barcode), or a tag in which data is recorded in the form of a one-dimensional or two-dimensional figure (such as a barcode or QR code (registered trademark)) is used. It may be adopted. At this time, the reading device may be one that conforms to the tag, but it is preferable that the tag and the reading device can read the identification code in a non-contact manner.

  Here, since an RFID tag is employed as the tag, a reader that performs wireless communication without contact with the tag is used.

<Folder for storing books>
6 is a schematic side view showing a book storage folder 210 (hereinafter simply referred to as a folder), FIG. 7 is a schematic front view showing the folder 210, and FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view showing the folder 210. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. In addition, the halftone dot is attached | subjected to the area | region opened in the side surface of each figure.

  The book storage folder 210 can be stored in the storage unit 30 and can be transported by the picker 40 while the book 200 is stored inside.

  Specifically, the folder 210 includes a folder main body part 222, urging parts 226 and 227, and a held part 228.

  The folder main body 222 is formed in a cylindrical shape that can store the book 200. Here, the folder main body 222 includes a bottom 223 and a pair of side surfaces 224.

  The bottom part 223 is formed of a resin or the like, and is formed in an elongated plate shape. Both end portions 223b (see FIG. 8) of the bottom portion 223 are formed in a shape that gradually becomes narrower toward the outside. Thus, when the folder 210 is stored in the storage unit 30 from the picker 40, even if the folder 210 is already stored on both sides of the position where the folder 210 is stored, the folder 210 is placed between the folders 210 on both sides. It becomes easy to insert. Similarly, the folder 210 can be easily inserted when the folder 210 is stored in the take-out mechanism 50 from the picker 40 and when taken into the picker 40 from the storage unit 30 or the take-out mechanism 50.

  In addition, on the upper surface of the bottom portion 223, mounting recesses 223a that are recessed via stepped portions 223S1 and 223S2 on both ends thereof are formed. When the book 200 is placed on the bottom 223, the book 200 is prevented from dropping from the folder 210 by being housed in the placement recess 223a. In particular, the book 200 is placed on the placement recess 223a while the lower cover side portion of the book 200 is brought into contact with the step 223S1 on one side, so that the book 200 can be placed regardless of the size of the book 200. The position of the back cover of the book 200 in the book folder 210 can be made constant (see FIG. 9). This makes it easier for the user to take out the book 200 from the folder 210.

  The side surface portion 224 is formed of resin or the like, and includes a side surface main body portion 224a and a ceiling portion 224b provided at the upper end portion of the side surface main body portion 224a.

  The side body portion 224a is formed in a flat plate shape. The ceiling portion 224b includes a portion extending from the upper end edge of the side surface main body portion 224a to the one main surface side (inward of the folder main body portion 222), and a portion extending upward from the front end portion of the portion. It is formed into a shape.

  Then, the lower portions of the side surface main body portions 224a of the pair of side surface portions 224 are fixed to both side portions of the bottom portion 223 by a structure, an adhesive, or the like, and the upper ceiling portions 224b of the pair of side surface main body portions 224a are butted together. The folder main body 222 is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape (here, a rectangular parallelepiped shape that is flat in the vertical direction) with both ends opened.

  In addition, when the folder main body 222 is viewed from the side, both side opening edges, that is, both end side edges of the side main body 224a are formed with recesses 224d and 224e that are recessed at the center in the vertical direction. The most recessed portion of one recess 224e exceeds the position of the step 223S1. For this reason, as described above, in the state where the book 200 is placed on the bottom 223 while the lower cover portion of the book 200 is brought into contact with the step 223S1 on one side, A part of the spine side is exposed to the outside through the one concave portion 224e. For this reason, the user can easily take out the book 200 from the folder 210 by grasping a portion of the book 200 exposed to the outside by the one concave portion 224e.

  The side body 224a is formed with ribs 224c for suppressing deformation thereof.

  The urging portions 226 and 227 are portions formed integrally with the pair of side surface portions 224, respectively.

  The urging portions 226 and 227 protrude from the inward surface of the side surface portion 224 and press the cover or back cover of the book 200 stored in the folder main body 222.

  Here, the urging portion 226 is provided at the center of the side surface portion 224, and the urging portion 227 is provided below the urging portion 226 and near the step portion 223S1. Each of the urging portions 226 and 227 extends in the direction of taking out the book 200 from the inward surface of the side surface portion 224 (right direction in FIGS. 6, 8, and 9) and gradually of the folder body portion 222. It extends so as to protrude toward the center in the width direction. Accordingly, when the book 200 is stored in the folder main body 222 from the opening opposite to the direction in which the book 200 is taken out (the left opening in FIGS. 6, 8, and 9), The book 200 can be accommodated between the urging portions 226 on both sides and the urging portions 227 on both sides while opening them. Further, when taking out the book 200 from the folder main body 222, the books 200 can be taken out smoothly without the urging units 226 and 227 being caught by the book 200.

  Moreover, the front-end | tip part of each urging | biasing part 226,227 is extended so that the extension direction of the side surface main-body part 224a, and each urging | biasing part 226,227 contacts with the books 200 as much as possible contact area. It is supposed to be. Thereby, the damage of the book 200 by the contact with the urging | biasing part 226,227 and the book 200 is suppressed.

  The held portion 228 is provided on the upper outer side of the folder main body portion 222, and is configured to be able to hang on the storage portion 30, the picker 40, and the like.

  Specifically, the held portion 228 is an elongated rod-shaped member formed of resin or the like, and is attached to the upper edge of the pair of ceiling portions 224b. The width dimension of the held portion 228 is larger than the thickness dimension of the upper edge portions of the pair of ceiling portions 224b. Therefore, when the folder 210 is viewed from the front, the held portion 228 protrudes outward on both sides from the upper ends of the pair of ceiling portions 224b. The held portion 228 is hooked on the opposing rail 37 of the adjacent hanger 36 provided in the storage portion 30, and the held portion 228 is hung on the storage portion 30.

<About storage unit and picker>
FIG. 10 is a schematic side view showing the picker 40 and the storage unit 30, FIG. 11 is a schematic front view showing a part of the storage unit 30, and FIG. 12 is a front view showing a part of the picker 40.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIGS. 10 to 12, the storage unit 30 is arranged in a space blocked from the outside by the panel 22 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20. The picker 40 is disposed in a space that is blocked from the outside by the panel 22 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20, and is configured so that the folder 210 can be taken in and out of the storage unit 30.

  The storage unit 30 is configured to be able to store a plurality of folders 210 in a state where the book 200 is stored in each of the plurality of folders 210.

  More specifically, the storage unit 30 includes a frame unit 32 and a plurality of hangers 36.

  The frame portion 32 includes a pair of side wall portions 33a facing each other with a space therebetween, and a lateral support bar 33b disposed so as to connect the pair of side wall portions 33a.

  The horizontal support rods 33b are arranged at a plurality of locations at intervals in the vertical direction so as to be spanned between the pair of side wall portions 33a. In addition, at each location in the vertical direction, two horizontal support bars 33b are arranged with a gap therebetween.

  The hanger 36 includes a long rail 37 and a bracket portion 38 that supports the rail 37 with respect to the lateral support bar 33b.

  The two bracket portions 38 are fixed in a suspended manner to the two horizontal support bars 33b at a predetermined height in the vertical direction. The rail 37 is fixed to the lower end portions of the two bracket portions 38. Thereby, the rail 37 is supported in a horizontal posture in a posture orthogonal to the horizontal support rod 33b.

  The plurality of hangers 36 are supported in parallel with the horizontal support bar 33b at equal intervals. A gap is formed between the opposing rails 37 of the adjacent hangers 36. The width dimension of the gap is set to be equal to or larger than the width dimension of the upper end portion of the ceiling portion 224 b of the folder 210 and smaller than the width dimension of the held portion 228. The height dimension of the gap is set to be equal to or larger than the width dimension of the upper end portion of the ceiling portion 224b of the folder 210. Then, the upper end portion of the ceiling portion 224b of the folder 210 is inserted between the opposed rails 37 of the pair of adjacent hangers 36 from one side in the longitudinal direction of the rail 37 of the hanger 36 to the other side, and the pair of rails By inserting the held portion 228 of the folder 210 on the slide 37, the folder 210 can be stored in a fixed position with respect to the hanger 36. That is, the plurality of hangers 36 are configured to be able to hang the folder 210.

  Here, two storage units 30 are provided at positions facing each other across a rail 41 of a picker 40 described later. However, the storage unit 30 may be provided only on one side of the rail 41.

  Moreover, the hanger 36 is abbreviate | omitted in the position in which the outlet mechanism part 50 is provided among the storage parts 30, and the outlet mechanism part 50 is arrange | positioned in the position.

  The picker 40 is configured to be able to selectively take out the plurality of folders 210 from the storage unit 30 and transport them toward the book external take-out position P. Here, the picker 40 is configured to be able to transport the folder 210 stored in the storage cart 60 to the storage unit 30.

  More specifically, the picker 40 includes a rail 41, a travel mechanism unit 42, an elevating mechanism unit 43, a rotation support mechanism unit 44, and a folder entry / exit unit 45.

  The rails 41 are linearly arranged on the floor between the storage units 30 that are arranged to face each other with a space therebetween.

  The traveling mechanism unit 42 includes a wheel, a traveling rotation driving unit that rotationally drives the wheel in both forward and reverse directions, and the like, and is configured to be able to reciprocate the rail 41 by driving the traveling rotation driving unit. As the traveling mechanism unit 42 travels along the rail 41, the position of the folder access unit 45 in the parallel direction of the hanger 36 is adjusted.

  The elevating mechanism 43 is configured to move the folder entry / exit unit 45 up and down. As such an elevating mechanism unit 43, for example, the rotation support mechanism unit 44 is supported so as to be movable up and down by a column erected on the traveling mechanism unit 42, and a pair of gears provided at the upper and lower ends of the column An annular belt (annular chain, etc.) is wound around, the transport unit is connected to the annular belt between a pair of gear bodies, and one of the gear bodies is rotated by a lifting / lowering drive unit such as a motor to rotate the annular belt. Thus, a configuration in which the folder entry / exit unit 45 is moved up and down can be employed. In addition to the above, the lifting mechanism unit may be configured using a linear motor, or in a traction mechanism using a counterweight, the pulley unit is driven by a motor to raise and lower the transport unit. Also good.

  The rotation support mechanism unit 44 is supported by the elevating mechanism unit 43 so as to be driven up and down. The rotation support mechanism 44 is formed in a long shape that is supported in a cantilever manner so as to protrude outward from the support column of the elevating mechanism 43. A folder entry / exit unit 45 is rotatably supported at the tip. The rotation support mechanism unit 44 includes a rotation drive unit such as a motor that rotates the folder entry / exit unit 45. The rotation support mechanism unit 44 has a posture in which the folder entry / exit unit 45 faces the storage unit 30 on one side of the rail 41 and the rail 41. It is configured so as to be able to be rotationally driven (that is, capable of being rotationally driven in both the forward and reverse directions of 180 degrees) with respect to the posture facing the other storage unit 30 (see FIGS. 3 and 4; The state during rotation of the unit 45 is shown).

  The folder entry / exit unit 45 is configured to allow the folder 210 to be taken in / out with respect to the storage unit 30, the storage cart 60, and the takeout mechanism unit 50.

  That is, the folder entry / exit unit 45 includes a unit case 46, a folder case 47, and a folder transfer mechanism 48.

  The unit case 46 is formed in a box shape with both ends open, and is supported at the tip of the rotation support mechanism 44 so as to be rotatable about an axis along the vertical direction.

  In the unit case 46, a folder case 47 and a folder transfer mechanism 48 are incorporated.

  Here, two folder cases 47 are provided. The folder case 47 is formed in a flat box shape with both ends opened. The direction of both openings of the folder case 47 is the same as the direction of both openings of the unit case 46.

  The folder case 47 is formed in a size and shape that can accommodate the folder 210 (here, a size and shape that can accommodate the folder main body 222 of the folder 210 in a fixed position and posture). A slit 47 </ b> S that can be inserted through the upper end of the ceiling 224 b of the folder 210 is formed at the upper end of the folder case 47. Then, the folder main body 222 of the folder 210 is stored in the folder case 47 with the upper end portion of the ceiling portion 224b disposed in the slit 47S and the held portion 228 disposed thereon.

  The two folder cases 47 are supported in parallel in the unit case 46.

  The folder transfer mechanism 48 is configured so that the folder 210 can be taken in and out between the outside and the folder case 47.

  More specifically, the folder transfer mechanism unit 48 includes an in / out movement mechanism unit 48a and a gripping unit 48b.

  The gripping part 48b includes a pair of gripping claw parts 48b1 and an opening / closing drive part 48b2 that is configured by an electromagnetic actuator or the like and that drives the pair of gripping claw parts 48b1 to open and close. The pair of gripping claws 48b1 is driven to open and close by driving the opening / closing drive part 48b2, so that the pair of gripping claws 48b1 grips the held portion 228 of the folder 210 and the state where the gripping is released. Switching drive is possible.

  The in / out moving mechanism 48 a is configured to be able to move and drive the grip 48 b in a direction connecting both side openings of the folder case 47. The entrance / exit moving mechanism 48a is constituted by a linear actuator such as a linear motor. The entrance / exit moving mechanism 48 a is attached to the upper part of the unit case 46 along the direction connecting both side openings of the folder case 47.

  Then, by driving the entrance / exit moving mechanism 48a, the grip 48b can be protruded from the opening on one side of the unit case 46 and the one end of the held portion 228 of the folder 210 stored in the storage 30 or the like can be gripped. It can be driven to move between a position, a position where one end of the held portion 228 of the folder 210 stored in the folder case 47 can be gripped, and a position retracted further outward.

  Further, here, a width direction moving mechanism portion 48c capable of selectively disposing the two folder cases 47 at a position below the gripping portion 48b is provided in the folder case 47.

  The width direction moving mechanism 48c is configured by a linear actuator such as a linear motor, and is disposed below the unit case 46 to support the two folder cases 47 so as to be movable in the width direction. .

  By driving the width direction moving mechanism 48c to reciprocate the pair of folder cases 47 in the width direction, one folder case 47 is disposed below the gripping portion 48b, and the other folder case. 47 can be switched between a state where 47 is disposed below the grip portion 48b.

  Then, in a state where one of the two folder cases 47 is disposed below the gripping portion 48b, the folder transfer mechanism unit 48 causes the folder 210 to be moved between the folder case 47 and the storage unit 30 or the receiving cart 60. Can be transferred.

  A long auxiliary guide 48d for guiding the held portion 228 of the folder 210 toward the upper side of the slit 47S of the folder case 47 is provided on the extension on one end side of the entrance / exit moving mechanism portion 48a. When the folder 210 moves between the storage unit 30 and the like and the folder case 47, the held portion 228 of the folder 210 slides on the auxiliary guide 48d.

  The folder entry / exit unit 45 is provided with a reading device 49 a that reads the tag 202 of the book 200 and a folder detection unit 49 b that detects the presence or absence of the folder 210 in the storage unit 30 or the entry cart 60.

  The reading device 49 a is a device that can wirelessly communicate with the tag 202 as an RFID tag. Here, two reading devices 49 a are provided in each of the two folder cases 47. Then, one reading device 49a reads the tag 202 of the book 200 arranged in one folder case 47, and the other reading device 49a reads the tag 202 of the book 200 arranged in the other folder case 47. It is designed to read.

  The folder detection unit 49b is configured by a reflective optical sensor or the like. The folder detection unit 49b is a held unit 228 of the folder 210 in which the detection light is held at the opposed part in a state where the folder transfer mechanism unit 48 is disposed to face the storage unit 30 or the storage cart 60. It is attached to the unit case 46 at a position and posture irradiated toward one end of the unit. Then, in a state where the folder transfer mechanism unit 48 is disposed at a certain position facing the storage unit 30 or the storage cart 60, the presence / absence of the folder 210 at the position is detected by the presence / absence of reflected light of the detection light. It can be done. Then, in a state where any one of the folder cases 47 is opposed to the position where the folder 210 exists, the folder 210 is transferred from the storage unit 30 or the entry cart 60 to the folder case 47 by the entry / exit movement mechanism unit 48a. can do. Or, conversely, with one of the folder cases 47 facing the position where the folder 210 does not exist, the folder 210 is moved from the folder case 47 to the storage unit 30 or the storage cart 60 by the loading / unloading movement mechanism unit 48a. Can be listed.

<About the outlet mechanism>
13 is a schematic front view of the outlet mechanism 50, FIG. 14 is a schematic side view of the outlet mechanism 50, and FIG. 15 is a schematic plan view of the outlet mechanism 50. As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 13 to 15, the outlet mechanism 50 is provided on one of the panels 22 that surrounds the storage 30. Here, a take-out table 26 is provided in a horizontal posture on the outside of one panel 22. An extraction mechanism 50 is provided at a position from one end of the extraction table 26.

  The take-out mechanism part 50 includes a lid part 52, a lid opening / closing drive part 54, and a folder support part 56 that supports the folder 210.

  The lid portion 52 is disposed so as to be able to open and close an outlet 22 h formed in the panel 22. In other words, an outlet 22h through which the book 200 can be taken out is formed in the panel 22 above the one end of the take-out table 26. Here, the take-out port 22h is formed in a vertically long rectangular shape from which the book 200 can be taken out in a vertical orientation. The lid 52 is formed in a plate shape that can close the outlet 22h. A pair of lid guide portions 53 are provided along the horizontal direction at the upper and lower positions inside the outlet 22h. The upper and lower portions of the lid 52 are supported by the pair of lid guides 53 so as to be slidable, so that the lid 52 closes the outlet 22h, and moves from the closed position to the side to take out the outlet 22h. It is supported so as to be movable between the open position where the is opened.

  The lid opening / closing drive unit 54 is configured to be able to move and drive the lid unit 52 between a closed position and an open position. Here, the lid opening / closing drive unit 54 includes a drive unit 54a such as a motor and an operation unit 54b. The operation portion 54b is formed in an elongated shape, and one end thereof is connected to the rotation shaft portion in a posture orthogonal to the rotation shaft portion of the drive portion 54a. Further, a pin 54c projects from the distal end portion of the operation portion 54b. This pin 54 c is connected to the lid portion 52.

  Here, a pin receiving portion 59 a is provided on one side of the lid portion 52. The pin receiving part 59a has a groove part 59b extending along the vertical direction. The pin 54c is fitted in the groove 59b so as to be movable along the extending direction of the groove 59b of the pin receiving portion 59a.

  When the operation portion 54b is rotated by driving the drive portion 54a in a state where the pin 54c is fitted in the groove portion 59b, the pin 54c moves in the groove portion 59b along its extending direction, and the lid portion 52 It is also displaced in the moving direction. When the pin 54c is moved to the closed position side by the rotational drive of the drive unit 54a, the lid 52 is moved to the closed position side together with the pin receiving unit 59a, and conversely, the pin 54c is opened by the rotational drive of the drive unit 54a. When moved to the position side, the lid 52 moves to the open position side together with the pin receiving portion 59a. Thus, the lid 52 can be driven to open and close by rotationally driving the drive unit 54a in both forward and reverse directions.

  In addition, the structure which opens and closes a cover part and the said cover part is not restricted to the said example. For example, the lid may be configured to open and close by rotating around the hinge. Further, the lid portion may be opened and closed manually. Further, the lid may be omitted.

  The folder support part 56 is disposed inside the outlet 22 h of the panel 22. The folder support portion 56 is formed in a flat box shape with both ends opened, and is formed in a size and shape that can accommodate the folder 210 therein. The opening on one side of the folder support portion 56 faces the outlet 22h. Thereby, the book 200 in the folder 210 accommodated in the folder support part 56 can be taken out through the outlet 22h and the one side opening of the folder support part 56.

  Further, the other side opening of the folder support part 56 opens toward the space between the pair of storage parts 30. The folder 210 conveyed by the picker 40 can be transferred into the folder support part 56 through the opening. In addition, here, guide portions 56g that sequentially spread outward are formed on both sides of the opening on the other side of the folder support portion 56, and the folder 210 from the picker 40 is more reliably transferred into the folder support portion 56. It can be done.

  Similarly to the storage unit 30, the folder support unit may suspend and support the folder 210.

  Further, here, a take-out detection unit 58 capable of detecting the passage of an object at the take-out port 22h is provided. Here, the take-out detection unit 58 is configured by a combination of a plurality of pairs of transmissive optical sensors. The presence or absence of an object (book, user's hand, etc.) at the outlet 22h can be detected based on whether or not the detection light is blocked by the extraction detector 58.

  A lending acceptance unit 70 is provided at a position from the other end of the take-out table 26. The lending acceptance unit 70 is a device that accepts a lending instruction for the book 200 to the automatic book lending device 20.

  Here, the lending reception unit 70 includes a touch panel device 72 having functions as a display unit and an input reception unit, and a card reader 74.

  The card reader 74 is a device that reads a library user card or the like given to each user. When the card reader 74 reads the library user card, it can be determined whether or not the user has authority to use the facility.

  On the touch panel device of the touch panel device 72, various screens for accepting lending are displayed. For example, if a loan reservation is made for the user after the user is identified, the book 200 with the loan reservation is displayed and a loan instruction is accepted. Reservations should be accepted in advance via an internet line or the like. Further, for example, after the user is identified, a list of stored books 200 or a search screen of the books 200 is displayed, and an instruction of the book 200 that is desired to be lent is received based on the display.

<About trolley truck>
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the warehousing cart 60 is a movable folder storage unit that can store and move the folder 210. Here, the warehousing cart 60 is configured to store a plurality of folders 210.

  More specifically, the receiving cart 60 includes a cart frame portion 62, a plurality of hangers, and wheels 68.

  The cart frame portion 62 is formed in a box shape having an opening on at least one side. A hanger having the same configuration as that of the storage unit 30 is provided in the cart frame unit 62. Here, the hanger is provided at two positions above and below the carriage frame portion 62. For this reason, the folder 210 can be stored in the upper and lower rows with respect to the storage cart 60. Further, a plurality of (three or more) hangers are arranged in parallel in the upper and lower rows, and accordingly, a plurality of folders 210 can be stored in the upper and lower rows, respectively. Since the support configuration of the folder 210 in the storage cart 60 is the same as the support configuration of the folder 210 in the storage unit 30, the picker 40 can be placed in the storage unit 30 by arranging the storage cart 60 adjacent to the storage unit 30. The folder 210 can be taken in and out of the cart 60.

  Wheels 68 are attached to the lower part of the storage cart 60, and the storage cart 60 can move under the floor by rolling the wheels 68.

  Here, a space S <b> 1 in which the storage cart 60 can be disposed is provided in the panel 22 at a position adjacent to the one storage unit 30. A portion of the panel 22 adjacent to the space S1 is provided with an opening 22G1 and a door 22G2 that closes the opening so as to be opened and closed. It is preferable that the door 22G2 can be locked and unlocked. The storage cart 60 can be taken in and out between the space surrounded by the panel 22 and the outside through the opening 22G1.

<About the book return device>
FIG. 16 is a partial schematic side view showing the book return apparatus 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 and 16, the book return apparatus 100 is provided on one of the panels 22 that surrounds the four sides of the storage unit 30. Here, a return stand (return table 27) is provided in a horizontal posture on the outside of one panel 22. Here, the return table 27 is provided at a position adjacent to the take-out table 26. The book return apparatus 100 is provided in the return table 27 and the part closer to the panel 22 than this. Here, the take-out table 26 and the return table 27 are also partitioned by a partition panel.

  As described above, the book return apparatus 100 includes the partition 24, the shielding mechanism unit 110, and the control unit 80. Here, the book return apparatus 100 further includes a first reading unit 121, a second reading unit 122, and an input detection unit 123. Here, it is assumed that the return table 27, the inclination guide 130 described later, and the storage unit 120a described later are included in the book return apparatus 100.

  The partition 24 is a portion adjacent to the portion of the panel 22 where the outlet mechanism portion 50 is provided. A return port 24h through which the book 200 can pass is formed in the partition 24. Here, the return port 24h is a long rectangular opening along the horizontal direction, and the book 200 can pass through the return port 24h in a horizontal posture.

  The return table 27 is provided outside, and its upper surface (upward surface) is provided so as to continue smoothly from the position where the first reading unit 121 can read the book 200 to the partition 24. A return port 24 h is provided in a portion of the partition 24 that is continuous with the upper surface of the return table 27. More specifically, here, the lower edge portion of the return port 24 h is located on the extension of the upward surface of the return table 27. Thereby, the book 200 can be put into the return port 24h so as to slide on the return table 27.

  The shielding mechanism part 110 includes a lid part 112 and a lock part 116 (see also FIG. 17).

  The lid portion 112 is configured to cover the return port 24h so that it can be opened and closed. Here, the lid portion 112 is formed in a rectangular plate shape that extends larger than the return port 24h, and the inner peripheral edge portion of the return port 24h and the lid portion 112 are in contact with each other with the lid portion 112 closing the return port 24h. A gap is not formed between the return port 24h and the lid 112. Thereby, it can suppress that garbage etc. are inserted from the clearance gap between the return port 24h and the cover part 112. FIG. At this time, watertightness may be ensured by disposing, for example, an elastic material such as rubber at a portion where the inner peripheral edge portion of the return port 24h contacts the lid portion 112.

  Here, the cover part 112 is provided so that the return port 24h can be opened and closed by rotating. More specifically, the upper edge portion of the lid portion 112 is rotatably supported by the bracket on the inner surface side of the panel 22 via the shaft portion 113. When the lid portion 112 is rotatably attached, the lid portion 112 rotates from a state of covering the return port 24h, and the return port 24h is opened. Also, here, the lid 112 is in a state where the return port 24h is closed, and the lid 112 and the inner peripheral edge of the return port 24h are in contact with each other. It does not rotate to the outer surface side of 22. That is, here, the lid portion 112 opens only the inner surface side to open the return port 24h. Thereby, the lid part 112 closes the return port 24h in the initial state, and the return port 24h can be easily opened from this state by pressing the lid unit 112 with the book 200 to be returned by the user.

  Further, here, the lid portion 112 is urged in a direction to close the return port 24h by an urging portion such as a torsion coil spring or its own weight.

  Note that the lid portion is not limited to the above-described configuration, and for example, the lid portion may rotate to the outer surface side of the panel 22 or slide and move along the main surface of the panel 22. May be.

  The lock portion 116 is configured to be able to lock and unlock the lid portion 112 in a state where the lid portion 112 is closed. The lock unit is configured to be able to switch between locking and unlocking based on the unlocking signal. Here, the lock unit 116 is configured to be able to lock and unlock the lid 112 in a state where the lid 112 is closed based on an instruction from the control unit 80.

  Specifically, here, the lock portion 116 is configured by an electromagnetic actuator or the like, and includes a suppressing portion 116b that is driven forward and backward with respect to the main body portion 116a. Then, with the restraining portion 116b being driven forward, the restraining portion 116b is brought into contact with the back surface of the lid portion 112, whereby the lid portion 112 is locked in a closed state. Further, by retracting the restraining portion 116b, the state where the restraining portion 116b restrains the back surface of the lid portion 112 is released, and the lock is released. In this state, the user can hold the lid 112 inside the panel 22 through the book 200, so that the lid 112 can be opened inside the panel 22.

  The first reading unit 121 is configured to be able to read the tag 202 attached to the book 200 located outside the partition 24 and around the return port 24h. As the first reading unit 121, a wireless reader using wireless communication or the like is used. Here, the first reading unit 121 is provided in the return table 27. For example, the first reading unit 121 is disposed on the lower surface side of the return table 27. Then, when the user places the book 200 on the return table 27, the first reading unit 121 performs wireless communication with the tag 202 and reads the identification code stored in the tag 202.

  The second reading unit 122 is configured to be able to read the tag 202 attached to the book 200 that has passed through the return port 24h. As the second reading unit 122, similarly to the first reading unit 121, a wireless reader using wireless communication or the like is used. Here, the second reading unit 122 is provided on the inner side of the partition 24, more specifically, on the inclined guide 130 provided on the inner side of the partition 24. When the book 200 slides down the tilt guide 130, the second reading unit 122 performs wireless communication with the tag 202 of the book 200 and reads the identification code stored in the tag 202.

  The input detection unit 123 is configured to be able to detect that the book 200 has passed through the return port 24h. The input detection unit 123 is configured by a reflective optical sensor or the like. Here, the input detection unit 123 is provided in the tilt guide 130 and can detect an object such as the book 200 sliding down the tilt guide 130. More specifically, the input detection unit 123 causes the tilt guide 130 (here, the tilt guide) to be in a position and posture at which the detection light is irradiated toward an object such as the book 200 sliding down the tilt guide 130. 130 at the lower end of the gravitational direction 130). The presence or absence of an object such as the book 200 sliding down the tilt guide 130 can be detected based on the presence or absence of reflected light of the detection light. Then, even if the second reading unit 122 fails to read the identification code stored in the tag 202 for the book 200 inserted from the return port 24h, the input detection unit 123 detects an object that seems to be the book 200. Passing through the inclined guide 130 can be detected. However, it is not essential that the input detection unit 123 is provided in the inclined guide, and the input detection unit 123 is provided until the book 200 inserted from the return port 24h reaches the storage unit 120a. Just do it. At this time, it is preferable that the user should be provided at a position where the user does not reach when the user inserts the book 200 from the return port 24h.

  The inclination guide 130 is provided inside the partition 24 and below the return port 24h in such a manner that it is inclined downward from the return port 24h toward the inside. A return storage cart 120 is disposed below the tip of the inclined guide 130. The upper opening of the storage portion 120 a of the return storage cart 120 faces the tip of the inclined guide 130. Then, the book 200 that has passed through the return port 24h slides down the inclined guide 130 and is stored in the storage portion 120a of the return storage cart 120. The inclined guide 130 includes a guide main body 132 and guide ribs 134.

  The guide main body 132 is formed in a flat plate shape and has a width dimension equal to or larger than the width of the return port 24h. And the longitudinal direction one side edge part of the guide main-body part 132 is located under the return port 24h, and the position along the vertical direction of the longitudinal direction other side edge part followed the vertical direction of the longitudinal direction one side edge part. It is arranged to be below the position. Then, the storage portion 120a of the return storage cart 120 is disposed below the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of the guide main body portion 132 with the opening facing upward. As a result, the book 200 that has passed through the return port 24h slides down the upper surface of the guide main body 132 and is stored in the storage portion 120a of the return storage cart 120.

  The guide ribs 134 prevent the book 200 sliding down the upper surface of the guide main body 132 from dropping from the upper surface of the guide main body 132 halfway. The guide ribs 134 are provided so as to protrude above the upper surface of the guide main body 132 in a manner of standing on the guide main body 132 from both ends in the width direction of the guide main body 132. Further, the guide rib 134 is provided from one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the guide main body portion 132 to the other end portion in the longitudinal direction. Here, the guide rib 134 is not provided at the distal end edge portion of the one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the guide main body portion 132 so as not to hinder the rotation of the lid portion 112.

  The storage unit 120a is provided inside the partition 24 and below the return port 24h. The storage unit 120a stores the book 200 placed in the return port 24h. Here, the storage portion 120a is formed in a box shape or a bag shape with one end opened, and is disposed in the partition 24 with the opening facing the return port. The storage unit 120a is provided so as to be removable to the outside. Here, as described above, the storage unit 120a is provided in the return storage cart 120 provided with the wheels 120b, so that the storage unit 120a can be taken out together with the return storage cart 120.

<About the hardware configuration of the control unit>
FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a control unit 80 that controls the operation of the book handling apparatus 10. In addition, although the control part 80 demonstrates here by the example provided with the function of both the control part which manages operation control of the automatic book lending apparatus 20, and the control part which manages operation control of the book return apparatus 100, these are demonstrated. Each control unit may be configured by physically separate control units.

  The control unit 80 is configured by a computer in which a CPU 81, a ROM 82, a RAM 83, an external storage device 84, and the like are interconnected via a bus line. The ROM 82 stores a basic program (BIOS) for starting up the computer, and the RAM 83 is used as a work area when the CPU 81 performs processing according to a predetermined procedure. The external storage device 84 is configured by a nonvolatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk device.

  The external storage device 84 stores an OS (Operation System) 84a, a loading / unloading control program 84b, a return control program 84c, a book management data 84d, and the like.

  The entry / exit control program 84b defines the procedure for carrying the folder 210 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 as described above, and the main control unit is in accordance with the procedure described in the entry / exit control program 84b. As the CPU 81 performs arithmetic processing, the folder 210 is transported.

  The return control program 84c defines a procedure for performing operation control and the like of the shielding mechanism unit 110 in the book return apparatus 100. The CPU 81 as the main control unit performs the procedure described in the return control program 84c. By performing the arithmetic processing, the operation of the shielding mechanism unit 110 is controlled.

  As shown in FIG. 19, the book management data 84d includes the presence / absence of the inventory of the book 200, the position of the book 200 in stock, the reservation registration, the borrower of the book 200 being lent, and the loan for the specific information of the book 200 It is the table which matched the return time limit of the inside book 200. FIG. The specific information of the book 200 is a unique identification code assigned to each book 200 and is usually the same as the identification code assigned to the tag 202. The specific information is also associated with the title of the book and the book information such as the author. In FIG. 19, each position of the book 200 that is omitted is information indicating the position of the book 200 in the storage unit 30. is there. By referring to this position, it is possible to determine in which position the specified book 200 is stored in the storage unit 30. The reservation registration is information indicating whether or not there is a reservation person for each book 200. When there is a reservation person for a certain book 200, the name of the reservation person (or identification information of the reservation person) is registered. By referring to this information, it is determined whether or not the book 200 is reserved for a certain reservation person. The borrower is information (name or borrower identification code, etc.) that identifies the borrower of the book that is out of stock, that is, the book 200 that is being lent. The return deadline is a return deadline for the book 200 that is being lent. By referring to information on a borrower and a return deadline for a certain book 200, when a certain borrower tries to return the book 200, it can be determined whether or not the book 200 has passed the return deadline. The book management data 84d is generated and updated when the book 200 is stored in the storage unit 30 from the storage cart 60, when the book 200 is lent out, when the book 200 is returned, and the like.

  Further, the CPU 81 communicates with the picker 40, the lending acceptance unit 70, the outlet mechanism unit 50, the shielding mechanism unit 110 of the book return apparatus 100, the first reading unit 121, the second reading unit 122, and the like via the input / output interface. Connected as possible.

  The control unit 80 may be connected to an external management server via a communication interface so as to be capable of mutual communication, and the book management data 84d may be stored in the external management server. In this case, it is preferable that the user can access the management server through the public communication network or the like through his / her terminal device or the like, and can reserve the book 200 from the terminal.

  The book return apparatus 100 may be provided with a camera capable of imaging the range including the return port 24h so that a user who wants to return the book 200 can be imaged.

{3. About processing}
Next, processing of the book handling apparatus 10 will be described.

<About warehousing process>
The process of receiving the book 200 in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The warehousing process in the automatic book lending device 20 is disclosed in a state where the warehousing cart 60 is set in the automatic book lending device 20. This warehousing process is performed after the operator presses the storage start button, or after the picker 40 finishes the lending operation and during the period when the next lending operation command is not issued.

  In addition, the operator who operates this automatic book lending apparatus 20 and preparation work are performed before this warehousing process is performed. As preparatory work, the work of storing the book 200 with the tag 202 in the empty folder 210, the work of storing the folder 210 containing the book 200 in the storage cart 60, and the storage cart 60 storing the folder 210 are automatically performed. An operation to be set in the book lending apparatus 20 is set.

  When the warehousing operation in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 is started, in step S101, the control unit 80 instructs the picker 40 to check whether or not the folder 210 is in the warehousing cart 60. Here, this confirmation is performed by moving the picker 40 to a position facing the storage cart 60 and moving the folder access unit 45 to a position facing one of the storage positions of the folder 210 in the storage cart 60. This is performed by checking the presence or absence of reflection of the detection light from the folder detection unit 49b. In addition, the presence / absence of the folder 210 is sequentially checked for each storage position of the folder 210 in the warehousing cart 60 by sequentially moving the folder access unit 45 in front of the warehousing cart 60. If it is determined that there is no folder 210 (no folder 210 in the warehousing cart 60), the warehousing process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the folder 210 exists, the process proceeds to step S102.

  In next step S <b> 102, the control unit 80 instructs the picker 40 to take in the folder 210 from the storage cart 60. Thereby, the folder entry / exit unit 45 takes in the folder 210 from the position where it is determined in step S101 that the folder 210 exists.

  In the next step S103, the control unit 80 instructs the picker 40 to read the data of the tag 202 of the book 200 in the taken-in folder 210. As a result, the reading device 49 a communicates with the tag 202 to read the identification code of the book 200, and gives a signal including the identification code to the control unit 80.

  In the next step S104, the storage location of the folder 210 in the storage unit 30 is determined. The storage position is determined by referring to the book management data 84d shown in FIG. 20 for all storage positions in the storage unit 30, specifying the empty position, and selecting one of the empty positions. .

  In the next step S <b> 105, the control unit 80 gives a storage work start command to the picker 40. Specifically, the control unit 80 informs the picker 40 of the storage position determined in step S104, and issues a command to store the folder 210 at this position. In response to this, the picker 40 transports the folder 210 to the storage position, and stores the folder 210 in the storage position.

  In the next step S106, when the control unit 80 confirms the end of the storage work by the picker 40 based on the storage work end signal in the picker 40, the process proceeds to the next step S107.

  In the next step S107, the book management data 84d is updated. That is, the storage position of the book management data 84d is updated with the book 200 that has been stored as being stored. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101.

  Thereafter, if the steps S101 to S107 are repeated until the folder 210 disappears from the storage cart 60, all the folders 210 in the storage cart 60 can be stored in the storage unit 30.

  Here, the folder entry / exit unit 45 can store and carry a plurality of (here, two) folders. Therefore, the above steps S101 to S103 are repeated a plurality of times, two folders 210 are taken into the picker 40, and then the steps S104 to S107 are repeated a plurality of times to perform the warehousing process. In this case, if a plurality of storage positions are close to each other, the moving distance of the picker 40 can be reduced, and efficient warehousing is possible.

  Note that steps S102, S103, and S104 may be performed before step S105 is completed, and may be in any order. For example, a reader that reads a tag of a book may be provided near a predetermined position of the warehousing carriage, and the position information and the tag may be read at the same time, or the position information may be read after reading the tag information. Also good. Further, as described above, a part of step S105 (for example, a command to store a book from the trolley truck to the transport mechanism) may be performed after step S102 and before step S103 or step S104. obtain.

<About loan processing>
Processing for lending the book 200 from the automatic book lending device 20 to the user will be described with reference to FIG. This process is a process performed when the user borrows the book 200 from the automatic book lending apparatus 20.

  It is assumed that a library user card is given to the user in advance. In addition, it is assumed that the user can make a reservation in advance for the book 200 stored in the automatic book lending apparatus 20 through a public communication network or the like.

  First, in step S201, the control unit 80 determines whether user data has been acquired. Here, when a user who wants to lend the book 200 causes the card reader 74 to read the library user card, user data is acquired. Thereby, the process proceeds to the next step S202.

  In next step S202, the control unit 80 collates whether or not the owner of the user data received in step S201 has the right to use. The presence / absence of the right to use is determined by collating a user list created in advance with a user ID recorded on the book user card. If it is determined that the user has the right to use, the process proceeds to step S203. If the user does not have the right to use, the process proceeds to step S208. As a case where the user does not have the right to use, a case where the usable period of the user ID in the user list has passed is assumed.

  In step S208, an error signal is output from the control unit 80. As a result, a message such as “cannot be used” is displayed on the lending reception unit 70. Then, the process ends.

  If the process proceeds to step S203, it is checked whether there is book reservation data that can be lent. Specifically, the user data read in step S201 is compared with the book management data 84d to find the book 200 that is reserved by the user and in stock. If there is no book, the process proceeds to step S204; Proceed to

  In step S <b> 204, the control unit 80 confirms whether there is a lending instruction for the reserved book 200. For example, the book 200 that is reserved and in stock is displayed on the display unit of the lending acceptance unit 70. Then, it is determined whether or not there is a lending instruction for the book 200 by the user. If it is determined that there is no rental instruction, the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a lending instruction, the process proceeds to step S205, and lending processing is executed.

  Step S205 is processing in which the control unit 80 gives an instruction to the picker 40 so that the book 200 that the user desires to receive is stored and the folder 210 is transported from the storage unit 30 to the book external extraction position P. Thereby, the folder 210 in which the book 200 is stored is conveyed to a position where the user can take out the book 200.

  In the next step S206, the control unit 80 determines whether or not the user has received the book. Here, it is determined whether or not the book 200 has been taken out from the outlet 22h. Specifically, the control unit 80 determines whether or not the book 200 has passed through the outlet 22h based on the detection signal of the extraction detector 58 provided at the outlet 22h. If it is determined that the user has received the book, the lid 52 of the outlet 22h is closed, and the process proceeds to the next step S207.

  In step S207, the control unit 80 updates the book management data 84d. As the data to be updated, for example, the book management data 84d is updated without inventory of the book 200 that has been lent, the reservation registration is not made, the borrower is recorded, and the lending period is added to the date of the day. Set a return deadline and record this.

  Thereby, the lending process ends.

  The book selective lending process (step S209) when there is no book reservation data in step S203 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In this case, in step S211, the control unit 80 determines the presence / absence of a rental request instruction. This determination is made through an instruction operation to the lending acceptance unit 70 by the user. If it is determined that there is no rental request instruction, the process returns to the original flowchart and the process is terminated. If it is determined that there is a rental request, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S <b> 212, the control unit 80 gives a command to the lending reception unit 70 to display a book selection screen. As a result, a list of book names of the books 200 stored in the storage unit 30 or a search screen of the books 200 is displayed on the display unit of the lending acceptance unit 70.

  In the next step S213, when the user inputs a selection instruction for the book 200, the process proceeds to the next step S214.

  In step S214, as in step S205, the control unit 80 instructs the picker 40 to store the book 200 that the user wishes to receive and to transport the folder 210 from the storage unit 30 to the book external extraction position P. It is processing. Thereby, the folder 210 in which the book 200 is stored is conveyed to a position where the user can take out the book 200.

  In next step S215, the control unit 80 determines whether or not the user has received the book. Here, it is determined whether or not the book 200 has been taken out from the outlet 22h. Specifically, the control unit 80 determines whether or not the book 200 has passed through the outlet 22h based on the detection signal of the extraction detector 58 provided at the outlet 22h. If it is determined that the user has received the book, the lid 52 of the outlet 22h is closed, and the process proceeds to the next step S216.

  In step S216, the control unit 80 updates the book management data 84d. As the data to be updated, for example, the book management data 84d is updated without stocking of the book 200 that has been lent, the borrower is recorded, the return date is set by adding the lent period to the date of the day. Record this.

  Thereby, the lending process ends.

  The book extraction process in steps S205 and S215 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  That is, this process is executed when the book 200 to be lent is determined.

  First, in step S221, the control unit 80 refers to the book management data 84d and acquires the storage position of the selected book 200 in the storage unit 30.

  In next step S222, the control unit 80 designates the storage position of the book 200 and gives an extraction start command to the picker 40. As a result, the picker 40 moves toward the designated storage position, and takes the folder 210 stored in the storage position into the folder access unit 45. Then, the picker 40 conveys the folder 210 toward the book external extraction position P. As a result, the folder 210 storing the books 200 is supported by the folder support part 56 of the outlet mechanism part 50. Thereafter, an instruction is given from the control unit 80 to the drive unit 54a to open the lid unit 52. Then, the lid 52 is opened and the user can take out the book 200 in the folder 210 through the outlet 22h.

  Thereafter, the process returns to the original process.

  When it is determined in step S215 that the reception is completed, the control unit 80 instructs the picker 40 to move the folder 210 at the book external extraction position P to the empty storage position of the storage cart 60. Give it. As a result, the picker 40 moves toward the book external extraction position P, and takes in the empty folder 210 at the book external extraction position P into the folder input / output unit 45. Thereafter, the picker 40 moves toward the warehousing cart 60, and searches for an empty storage position in the warehousing cart 60 in the same manner as the process of step S101. Then, the empty folder 210 in the folder loading / unloading unit 45 is transferred to the storage position where the storage cart 60 becomes empty. Thereby, the worker can easily take out the empty folder 210 to the outside by taking out the storage cart 60.

  The empty folder 210 at the book external extraction position P may be transported by the picker 40 to an empty storage position in the storage unit 30. When the warehousing cart 60 is moved out of the automatic book lending device 20 or the like, the vacant folder 210 is temporarily transferred to the storage unit 30 and then the warehousing cart 60 is automatically lent out. When an empty storage position is generated in the apparatus 20, the empty folder 210 temporarily stored in the storage unit 30 may be transferred to the storage cart 60 by the picker 40. .

<About return processing>
Next, processing related to the operation at the time of returning the book 200 to the book return apparatus 100 by the user will be described with reference to FIG.

  In step S <b> 301, the control unit 80 determines whether the tag data stored in the tag 202 has been received through the first reading unit 121. Here, when the user returns the book 200 to the book return apparatus 100, the book 200 is placed on the return table 27. Then, the first reading unit 121 communicates with the tag 202 of the book 200 on the return table 27 and receives the data of the tag 202. Thus, when the book 200 with the tag 202 attached is placed on the return table 27, it is determined in step S301 that tag data has been received, and the process proceeds to the next step S302.

  In step S302, with reference to the book management data 84d, it is determined whether or not the identification code of the tag data corresponds to the book 200 being lent. If it is determined NO, the process proceeds to step S308, and an error signal is output. When an error signal is output, the control unit 80 may notify “not a book in this library” or the like by voice guidance or a display unit. Then, the process ends. If it is determined that the book 200 is being lent, the process proceeds to step S303.

  Even if it is determined in step S302 that the book 200 is being lent out, if the return deadline has passed, it may be determined that the determination is failed.

  In step S <b> 303, the control unit 80 outputs a lock release signal to the lock unit 116 of the shielding mechanism unit 110. In the initial state, the lock unit 116 keeps the lid 112 locked. As a result, the lock unit 116 is unlocked, the lid unit 112 is opened, and the user can return the book 200 through the return port 24h.

  In the next step S304, the control unit 80 determines whether or not the tag data stored in the tag 202 is received through the second reading unit 122 within a certain time after the process of step S303. Here, when the user inserts the book 200 into the return opening 24h, the book 200 slides on the inclined guide 130 and enters the return storage cart 120. When the book 200 slides down on the tilt guide 130, the second reading unit 122 communicates with the tag 202 of the book 200 and receives tag data. If it is determined that no tag data has been received, the process proceeds to step S306. If it is determined that tag data has been received, the process proceeds to step S305.

  In step S <b> 306, the control unit 80 detects the presence or absence of a sliding object (the book 200) based on the detection signal from the input detection unit 123. Here, when the user inserts an object such as the book 200 into the return port 24h when there is a sliding object, the object such as the book 200 slides on the inclined guide 130 and enters the return storage cart 120. When an object such as the book 200 slides down on the inclined guide 130, the presence or absence of the sliding object is detected by detecting the presence or absence of reflected light of the light irradiated by the input detection unit 123. And when it determines with YES, it progresses to S307. If it is determined as NO, the process proceeds to S310. In addition, when proceeding to S310, “Please return the book” or the like may be notified by voice guidance or a display unit.

  In step S310, the control unit 80 determines whether a preset time has elapsed after the lock release signal is output. The preset time is, for example, 30 seconds. If it is determined that a preset time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S309. If it is not determined that a preset time has elapsed, the process returns to step S304.

  On the other hand, when the process proceeds to step S305, the book management data 84d is referred to and it is determined whether or not the identification code read through the second reading unit 122 corresponds to the book 200 being lent. Here, when it determines with YES, it progresses to step S307. If NO is determined, the process proceeds to step S306.

  In next step S307, the control unit 80 updates the book management data 84d. As data to be updated, for example, the borrower of the book 200 that has accepted the return, the return deadline, etc. are cleared.

  In the next step S309, a lock signal is output to the lock unit 116 of the return port 24h. In response to this, the lock part 116 locks the cover part 112, so that the user or the like cannot open the cover part 112 of the return port 24h.

  Then, the return process ends.

{4. About effects, etc.}
According to the book return apparatus 100 according to the embodiment, a return port 24h that is opened in a manner that allows the book 200 to pass therethrough is formed, and the partition 24 that separates the outside from the storage space 23 of the book 200 and the return port 24h can be opened and closed A cover portion 112 provided so as to cover, and a lock portion 116 capable of locking and unlocking the lid portion 112 in a state in which the lid portion 112 is closed and capable of switching between locking and unlocking based on an unlock signal. , A first reading unit 121 that can read identification data stored in a tag 202 attached to the book 200 located outside and around the return port 24h, and a first reading unit 121 If the book 200 is determined to be a returnable book based on the identification data read by the Since a control unit 80 for outputting a lock release signal to the part, and if it can not verify that it is a collection of the loan facility, the locking of the locking portion 116 is not released, the cover portion 112 does not open. Thereby, it is possible to prevent as much as possible items other than the library of the lending facility such as the library or garbage of another building from the return port 24h.

  Further, since the book 200 further includes a second reading unit 122 that can read the identification data stored in the tag 202 attached to the book 200 that passes through the return port 24h and is located in the storage space 23, the book 200 is returned to the return port 24h. Can be recognized. Thereby, the cover part 112 can be locked at an appropriate timing.

  The apparatus further includes a return table 27 that is provided outside and is provided so that the upper surface of the first reading unit 121 is smoothly continuous from a position where the book 200 can be read to the partition 24, and a return port 24h is provided. Since the partition 24 is provided in a portion continuous with the upper surface of the return table 27, the user can put the borrowed book 200 into the return port 24 h so as to slide on the upper surface of the return table 27. Thereby, the user can easily return the book 200.

  Moreover, since the container-shaped storage part 120a is arrange | positioned under the return port 24h, the returned book 200 can be easily taken out from the book return apparatus 100 by taking out the storage part 120a. Furthermore, here, since the storage unit 120a is provided in the return storage cart 120 and the books 200 returned to the return storage cart 120 stored in the book return device 100 are collected, the returned books 200 are used for return. By taking out the entire storage cart 120, it can be easily taken out from the book return apparatus 100. At this time, an operator such as a librarian can check the state of contamination of the book 200 so that the book 200 can be repaired at any time.

  Further, since the input 200 is further provided with an input detection unit 123 that can detect that the book 200 has passed through the return port 24h, the tag of the book 200 is attached even when the second reading unit 122 is not provided or provided. Even when it cannot be read, it can be detected that an object that seems to be the book 200 has passed through the return port 24h.

{Modification}
In the above-described embodiment, the book return device 100 is part of the book handling device 10 together with the automatic book lending device 20, but the book return device, for example, receives a book lent at a manned lending window. It may be operated independently only by the book return device, such as a mode of accepting by the book return device. In addition, as shown in FIG. 25, the automatic book lending device 320 and the book return device 400 may be installed separately. In these cases, in the book return apparatus 400, the storage space for the book 200 is partitioned by a panel or the like from the external space where the user exists.

  In these cases, it is conceivable that the control unit of the book return device is independent or separated from the control unit of the automatic book lending device. The control part of the book return apparatus in such a case should just be comprised as follows, for example. That is, the control unit is configured by a computer in which a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an external storage device, and the like are interconnected via a bus line. The ROM stores a basic program (BIOS) for starting up the computer, and the RAM is used as a work area when the CPU performs processing according to a predetermined procedure. The external storage device is configured by a nonvolatile storage device such as a flash memory or a hard disk device.

  The external storage device stores an OS (operation system), a return control program 84c, book management data, and the like. Here, the book management data of the control unit of the book return apparatus may be the book management data 84d, or a part of the book management data 84d (for example, borrower and return deadline). Also good.

  The CPU is communicably connected to the shielding mechanism unit 110, the first reading unit 121, the second reading unit 122, and the like of the book return apparatus 100 via an input / output interface.

  At this time, the control unit is connected to an external automatic book lending device or a control unit installed in a manned window via a communication interface so as to be able to communicate with each other and to share the book management data. It is desirable that the management data (or part of it) can be updated.

  As described above, the present invention has been described in detail. However, the above description is illustrative in all aspects, and the present invention is not limited thereto. It is understood that countless variations that are not illustrated can be envisaged without departing from the scope of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Book handling apparatus 20 Automatic book lending apparatus 22 Panel 22h Outlet 24 Partition 24h Return port 30 Storage part 40 Picker 50 Outlet mechanism part 60 Storage cart 70 Rental acceptance part 80 Control part 100 Book return apparatus 110 Shielding mechanism part 112 Cover part 116 Lock unit 120 Storage cart for return 120a Storage unit 121 First reading unit 122 Second reading unit 123 Input detection unit 130 Inclination guide 200 Book 202 Tag 210 Folder

Claims (3)

A book return device that accepts book returns,
A return opening that opens in a manner that allows books to pass through, and a partition that separates the outside from the book storage space;
A lid portion that is provided so as to cover the return port so as to be opened and closed, and is biased in a closing direction, and the lid portion can be locked and unlocked in a state in which the lid portion is closed, and an unlock signal is generated. based seen including a lock and unlock switchable locking part is provided to be capable of the lid is opened by the lock by the lock portion is pressed book to be returned in a state of being released A shielding mechanism,
A first reading unit capable of reading identification data stored in a tag attached to a book located outside the return port and the outside;
An input detection unit capable of detecting that the book has passed through the return port;
Based on the identification data read by the first reading unit, it is determined whether the book is a book that can be returned, and when it is determined that the book is a book that can be returned, the lock release signal is output to the lock unit. And a controller that outputs a lock signal to the lock unit when the input detection unit does not detect the input for a certain period of time after the lock unit is unlocked by the unlock signal ,
A book return device. The book return device according to claim 1,
The book return apparatus further comprising a second reading unit that can read the identification data stored in the tag attached to the book that passes through the return port and is located in the storage space. The book return device according to claim 1 or claim 2,
A return table provided on the outside and provided so that an upper surface thereof smoothly continues from a position where the first reading unit can read the book to the partition;
The book return apparatus in which the return port is provided in a portion of the partition that is continuous with the upper surface of the return table.

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