JP7773199B2 - Egg container transport vehicle, vehicle type discrimination device, and vehicle state discrimination device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an egg container transport cart, a cart type discrimination device, and a cart state discrimination device.

Transport racks are used to transport egg containers filled with eggs (also called "egg packs") to retail businesses such as supermarkets. Examples include a transport roll box (also called "KS roll") specifically for egg packs manufactured by Yoshida Elsys Co., Ltd., a roll rack manufactured by San-ei Seisakusho Co., Ltd., and a roll rack manufactured by Sankyo Giken Co., Ltd. Patent Document 1 discloses a transport rack for transporting egg containers containing eggs. The transport rack has multiple foldable shelves and is designed to be stored compactly in the depth direction.
The transport racks, roll boxes, and roll racks (also called "roll inners") can be transported from the factory and displayed in stores as they are.
There are also raw egg racks used for transporting eggs from farms to GP centers (egg grading and packaging facilities). For raw egg racks and the transport racks mentioned above, the shipping destination may be written by hand on a writing board or directly on the rack frame.

Patent Document 2 discloses a shelf opening device that can automatically open the folding shelves of a cart (returning the folded state to its original state (shelf state)).

Patent documents 3, 4, and 5 disclose systems for loading egg containers onto egg container transport vehicles.

Patent Document 6 discloses an information management system for eggs that can manage unique information about eggs by attaching an IC tag to a packaging container.
Patent Document 7 shows that plastic boxes and plastic trays with IC tags attached are used, and various information such as egg information and shipping information is written on the IC tags before transporting the eggs, and that this information is disclosed via the Internet.

Utility Model Registration No. 3209255 Patent No. 6684511 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-172416 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-147241 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-50038 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-135490 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-55108

The following problems exist in the automatic loading of egg containers onto egg container transport carts (also called "roll inners" or "transport racks"), and the above-mentioned patent documents cannot solve these problems.
(1) There are multiple manufacturers of egg container transport carts. Even egg container transport carts of the same type from the same manufacturer may have different external dimensions. The height positions of folding shelves arranged in multiple tiers may not be uniform. Casters may have different sizes. At the loading site, sorting work is required according to the type of egg container transport cart.
(2) Even if egg container transport carts are made by different manufacturers, they have similar appearances, hinge shapes of folding shelves, support structures of shelves, and folding structures of side frames, so that the egg container loading locations, retail stores, and transport workers may not be able to distinguish between them.
(3) Some egg container transport carts have protrusions on the underside of their frames, which may cause problems during transport.
(4) Due to differences in type, size, and other issues between manufacturers, it may be difficult to use a preset robot arm movement program in the egg container loading system.
(5) The height at which egg containers can be stacked varies depending on whether or not each shelf of the folding shelf has reinforcements or hinges, which can make it difficult to achieve this using a preset robot arm movement program.
(6) Some folding shelves are deformed and cannot be opened (deployed) automatically. In such cases, the shelf opening (deployment) operation stops midway, and the trolley must be removed manually. This also requires manual removal of partially loaded egg containers.
(7) If the folding shelf is deformed and not folded properly, the robot arm may collide with the folding shelf.
(8) If the frame of the egg container transport cart itself becomes deformed during transport or if the casters are malfunctioning, the egg container transport cart cannot be positioned in the designated location and may become unusable.
(9) Although it is difficult to distinguish from the outside, some folding shelves have welds that have come off, making them unable to be opened (deployed) smoothly, and even if they can be opened (deployed), they cannot be placed horizontally.
(10) It is anticipated that the detection operation of the folding shelf board by the reflective optical sensor may become unstable due to peeling paint or plating on the folding shelf board, dirt, or differences in whether the board is made of metal or resin.

Therefore, a first object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle type discrimination device that can discriminate the type of egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks).
A second object is to provide a vehicle status determination and management device that determines the status of egg container transport vehicles (including raw egg racks) and links the determination results to the egg container transport vehicles (including raw egg racks) for processing.
A third object is to provide an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) whose state is linked and processed.
A fourth and fifth object is to provide an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) that is provided with a memory that can store and update cart information.
A fifth object is to provide various devices (for example, a shelf opening device, a cart transport device, an egg container loading system, etc.) that are equipped with a cart type discrimination device and/or a cart state discrimination management device.

The first vehicle type discrimination device (A1)
an imaging unit (e.g., a color camera, a monochrome camera, a line camera, an area camera, a three-dimensional scanner, etc.) that images the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack);
a first type discrimination unit that analyzes an image captured by the imaging unit (e.g., a camera image, a three-dimensional scanner image, etc.), compares the analysis result with vehicle type information stored in advance in a first vehicle type information storage unit, and discriminates the type of the egg container transport vehicle (including the raw egg rack);
The device may also include:
The imaging unit may capture an image of the entire cart, a part of the cart, or a part of the cart, for example.
The first vehicle type discrimination device (A1)
The device may include a first type output unit that outputs the first type determination result of the first type determination unit (by emitting a sound (voice) according to the type, printing, or transmitting to an external device).

The second vehicle type discrimination device (A2)
a sensor unit (e.g., a reflective optical sensor, a light-emitting/receiving optical sensor, a proximity sensor, etc.) that detects the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack);
a second type discrimination unit that compares the detection result detected by the sensor unit with vehicle type information previously stored in a second vehicle type information storage unit to discriminate the type of the egg container transport vehicle (including the raw egg rack);
The device may also include:
The sensor unit may be configured to detect, for example, the entire cart, a part thereof, or a component thereof.
The second vehicle type discrimination device (A2)
The device may include a second type output section that outputs the second type determination result of the second type determination section (by emitting a sound (voice) according to the type, printing, or transmitting to an external device).

The third vehicle type discrimination device (A3)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be equipped with a two-dimensional code reader (e.g., a barcode reader or a QR code (registered trademark) reader) that reads code information from a two-dimensional code (e.g., a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark)) provided thereon.
The third vehicle type discrimination device (A3)
The system may further include a third type discrimination unit that compares the results of reading by the two-dimensional code reader with vehicle type information stored in advance in a third vehicle type information storage unit to discriminate the type of the egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks).
The third vehicle type discrimination device (A3)
It may also be provided with a third type output unit that outputs the reading results read by the two-dimensional code reader or the third type discrimination results of the third type discrimination unit (by emitting a sound (audio) according to the type, printing, or transmitting to an external device).

The fourth vehicle type discrimination device (A4)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a code information reading (writing) device (e.g., an RFID reader) that reads code information from (and writes information to) a storage device (T1) that has a communication means and a storage means.
The fourth vehicle type discrimination device (A4)
The system may further include a fourth type discrimination unit that compares the read result read by the code information reading (writing) device with vehicle type information stored in advance in a fourth vehicle type information storage unit to discriminate the type of egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks).
The fourth vehicle type discrimination device (A4)
It may also be provided with a fourth type output unit that outputs the reading results read by the code information reading (writing) device or the fourth type discrimination results of the fourth type discrimination unit (by emitting a sound (voice) according to the type, printing, or transmitting to an external device).

The first, second, third, and fourth trolley type discrimination devices (A1, A2, A3, A4) may determine the type when the shelves and side frames are folded, or when the side frames and shelves (at least the lowest shelf) are unfolded.

The fifth vehicle type discrimination device (A5)
an imaging unit, a first type discrimination unit, a sensor unit, and a second type discrimination unit of a first and second vehicle type discrimination device (A1, A2);
The apparatus may further include a type determination unit that determines the type of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) based on the first type determination result of the first type determination unit and the second type determination result of the second type determination unit.
The device may include a fifth type output unit that outputs the determination result of the type determination unit (by emitting a sound (voice) according to the type, printing, or transmitting to an external device).
The type determination unit
If the first type discrimination result and the second type discrimination result are the same result, the type indicated by both results may be determined;
If the first type discrimination result and the second type discrimination result are different results, the type indicated by one of the preset results may be determined, or it may be determined that the type is indistinguishable.
The "determination result" may be, for example, the carriage identification information, the overall frame height, the width size, the depth size, or the type cannot be determined.

The external device to which the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth type output units transmit may be, for example, a cloud server, an on-premise server, an information processing device, an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) equipped with a memory, a cart status determination and management device, a shelf opening device, a cart transport device, an egg container loading system, a retail store product management device, or a transporter management system.

(Effect of bogie type discrimination device)
According to the vehicle type discrimination device, the type of egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) can be discriminated.

The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) may be provided with a first state determination unit that determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) from first state information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) that is stored in a storage device (T1) that is provided with communication means and storage means, and determines whether or not to use the egg container transport cart for the loading process of egg containers (or raw eggs).
The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The system may include a first management database that stores first status information of egg container transport vehicles (including raw egg racks) or that can update already-stored first status information. The first management database stores first status information of each egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks). Meanwhile, a storage device (T1) equipped with communication means and storage means and provided in each egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) stores the first status information of that egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks).
The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The device may further include a first writing/updating unit that writes first status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) to a storage device (T1) that is provided in the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) and that has communication means and storage means, or updates the data of the first status information stored in the storage means, or that writes the first status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) to the first management database, or updates the data of the first status information stored in the first management database.
When an operation stoppage due to an egg container transport cart occurs in various devices (for example, a shelf opening device, an egg container (or raw egg) loading system, or a cart transport device) (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.), a first writing/updating unit may write first status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a first status determination result, etc.) to the storage device (T1), and/or the first status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a first status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the first management database.
Furthermore, when a problem (e.g., caster failure, folding failure, deformation failure, paint peeling, etc.) occurs at each location, such as an egg farm, GP center, retail store, or transport location, a worker at each location may use a first write update unit (a code information reading (writing) device) to write information about the problem to the storage device. The worker at each location may use the first write update unit or an input update means (a means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal) to store (update) first status information (e.g., information about the problem, travel distance, delivery route, storage conditions, etc.) in the first management database.
An operator at each location may use a code information reading (writing) device to read the first status information and check information about the trouble, or may decide not to use the equipment based on the first status information.
The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a code information reading (writing) device (e.g., an RFID reader) that reads code information from (and writes information to) a storage device (T1) equipped with a communication means and a storage means. The code information reading (writing) device may also function as the first write/update unit.
The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may include a first acquisition unit (receiving unit) that acquires code information read from a storage device (T1) that is provided with a communication means and a storage means.
The first status determination unit may determine the status of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) from the code information (including the first status information) acquired by the first acquisition unit or the code information (including the first status information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.
The first bogie state determination management device (B1)
The device may be provided with a first status information output unit that outputs (emits a sound (voice) according to the status, prints, or transmits to an external device) information on the first status determination result determined by the first status determination unit, various information in the first management database, code information (including the first status information) acquired by the first acquisition unit, and/or code information (including the first status information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.

The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
A second management database is provided that stores second status information including information on problems that have occurred during the manufacturing, use, and distribution processes of the egg container transport carts (including raw egg racks).
The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
The egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) may be equipped with a two-dimensional code reader (e.g., a barcode reader or a QR code (registered trademark) reader) that reads code information (including cart identification information) from a two-dimensional code (e.g., a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark)) provided on the egg container transport cart.
The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
The apparatus may include a second acquisition unit (receiving unit) that acquires code information (including cart identification information) read from a two-dimensional code provided on the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack).
The "manufacturing, use, and distribution process of egg container transport carts (including raw egg racks)" may include, for example, one or more of manufacturers of egg container transport carts (including raw egg racks), shelf opening devices, egg container (or raw egg) loading systems, cart transport devices, egg farms, GP centers, storage warehouses, retail stores, and transport trucks.
The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
The system may include a second status determination unit that extracts second status information of the egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) stored in the second management database from the code information (including the vehicle identification information), determines the status of the egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks), and determines whether or not to use the vehicle for the egg container (or raw eggs) loading process.
The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
The apparatus may further include a second writing/updating unit that writes second status information of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) to the second management database or updates the stored second status information data.
When an operation stoppage due to an egg container transport cart (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.) occurs in various devices (e.g., shelf opening devices, egg container (or raw egg) loading systems, cart transport devices), the second status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, second status determination results, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the second management database by the second writing/updating unit.
In addition, when a problem (e.g., caster failure, poor folding, poor deformation, paint peeling, etc.) occurs at each location such as an egg farm, GP center, retail store, or transport facility, a worker at each location may use a second writing update unit or input update means (means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal) to store (update) second status information (e.g., one or more types of information such as information about the problem, travel distance, delivery route, and storage conditions) in the second management database.
Workers at each location may use an information terminal (a terminal having a two-dimensional code reader function) to read the code information (including the trolley identification information), access the second management database using the communication means of the information terminal, and check the second status information (e.g., information regarding a problem), or may decide not to use the trolley based on the second status information.
The second bogie state determination management device (B2)
It may also be provided with a second status information output unit that outputs (emits a sound (voice) according to the status, prints, or transmits to an external device) the second status determination result determined by the second status determination unit, various information in the second management database, code information (cart identification information) acquired by the second acquisition unit, and/or code information (cart identification information) read by the two-dimensional code reader.
The second bogie state determination management device (B2) may include each of the components of the first bogie state determination management device (B1).

The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
an imaging unit (e.g., a color camera, a monochrome camera, a line camera, an area camera, a three-dimensional scanner, etc.) that images the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack);
The apparatus may include a third state determination unit that analyzes an image captured by the imaging unit (e.g., a camera image, a three-dimensional scanner image (3D image), etc.), and determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) from the analysis results, determines whether the cart is normal (e.g., whether there is an abnormal frame distortion or an abnormal tilt), or determines whether it will be used in the egg container (or raw egg) loading process.
The analysis may involve various image processing steps, comparison with a normal image, and various analyses of shape, size, angle, color, etc.
The third state determination unit may determine whether the dolly is normal or not or whether it will be used in the loading process based on the type of dolly or the type of dolly linked to the identification information (obtained from the code information). Furthermore, the third state determination unit may determine, depending on the degree of abnormality, to stop an alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range.

The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
a first learning model storage unit that stores a first vehicle state identification learning model (first classifier) created by intelligent information technology using training data in which images of various egg container transport vehicles (for example, the whole, a part, or each component) are classified according to their appearance states (normal, abnormal (or may be further classified into two or more types depending on the type or degree of abnormality));
The apparatus may further include a first carriage state classifying unit that classifies first carriage state information including a carriage state according to an appearance state of the egg container transport carriage by inputting, as input data, an image (camera image or three-dimensional scanner image) of the egg container transport carriage captured by an imaging unit or a separate device into the first carriage state identification learning model (first classifier). The first carriage state classifying unit may also have the function of the third state determining unit.
The image data captured by the imaging unit may be used as input data (verification data) and/or the teacher data (or training data) of the first bogie state identification learning model.
The classification may be, for example, normal, level of abnormality (e.g., major abnormality, medium abnormality, minor abnormality), type of abnormality (e.g., rust, distortion, tilt, etc.), level of likelihood of abnormality (including future predictions such as abnormal shipment during delivery or abnormal occurrence in store).

The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
The system may include a third management database that stores third status information of the egg container transport carts (including raw egg racks) or that is configured to be able to update already-stored third status information. The third management database stores status information of each egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks). Meanwhile, a storage device (T1) equipped with communication means and storage means and provided in the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) may store status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks).
The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
When the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) is provided with a storage device (T1) having a communication means and a storage means, the device may be provided with a third writing/updating unit that writes third status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) or updates the data of the third status information stored in the storage means, or that writes the third status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) to a third management database or updates the data of the third status information stored in the third management database.
When an operation stoppage due to an egg container transport cart occurs in various devices (for example, a shelf opening device, an egg container (or raw egg) loading system, or a cart transport device) (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.), a third writing/updating unit may write third status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a third status determination result, etc.) to the storage device (T1), and/or the third status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a third status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the third management database.
Furthermore, when a problem (e.g., caster failure, folding failure, deformation failure, paint peeling, etc.) occurs at each location, such as an egg farm, GP center, retail store, or transport location, a worker at each location may use a third write update unit (a code information reading (writing) device) to write information about the problem to the storage device (T1). The worker at each location may use the third write update unit or an input update means (a means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal) to store (update) third status information (e.g., information about the problem, travel distance, delivery route, storage conditions, etc.) in the third management database.
An operator at each location may use a code information reading (writing) device to read the third status information and check information about the trouble, or may decide not to use the equipment based on the third status information.
The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a code information reading (writing) device (e.g., an RFID reader) that reads code information from (and writes information to) a storage device (T1) equipped with a communication means and a storage means. The code information reading (writing) device may also function as a third write/update unit.
The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a third acquisition unit (receiving unit) that acquires code information read from a storage device (T1) equipped with a communication means and a storage means.
The third state determination unit may determine the state of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) from the code information (including the third state information) acquired by the third acquisition unit or the code information (including the third state information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.
The third bogie state determination management device (B3)
The device may be provided with a third status information output unit that outputs (emits a sound (voice) according to the status, prints, or transmits to an external device) information on the third status determination result determined by the third status determination unit, various information in the third management database, code information (including the third status information) acquired by the third acquisition unit, and/or code information (including the third status information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.

The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
a sensor unit (e.g., a reflective optical sensor, a light-emitting/receiving optical sensor, a proximity sensor, etc.) that detects the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack);
The apparatus may include a fourth state determination unit that determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) from the detection results detected by the sensor unit, determines whether the cart is normal (for example, whether there is an abnormal frame distortion or an abnormal tilt), or determines whether the cart will be used in the egg container (or raw egg) loading process.
The fourth state determination unit may make a determination by comparing the detection result detected by the sensor unit with normal data.
The fourth state determination unit may determine whether the dolly is normal or not or whether to use it for the loading process based on the type of dolly or the type of dolly linked to the identification information (obtained from the code information). Furthermore, the fourth state determination unit may determine, based on the degree of abnormality, to stop an alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range.
The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
The system may include a fourth management database that stores fourth status information of the egg container transport carts (including raw egg racks) or that is configured to be able to update already-stored fourth status information. The fourth management database stores status information of each egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks). Meanwhile, a storage device (T1) equipped with communication means and storage means and provided in the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) stores status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks).
The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
The egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) may include a fourth writing/updating unit that writes fourth status information of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) to a storage device (T1) that is provided in the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) and that has communication means and storage means, or updates the data of the fourth status information stored in the storage means, or writes the fourth status information of the cart 8 to a fourth management database B43, or updates the data of the fourth status information stored therein.
When an operation stoppage due to an egg container transport cart occurs in various devices (e.g., a shelf opening device, an egg container (or raw egg) loading system, or a cart transport device) (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.), the fourth status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, a fourth status determination result, etc.) may be written to the storage device (T1) by a fourth writing/updating unit, and/or the fourth status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, a fourth status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the fourth management database.
Furthermore, when a problem (e.g., caster failure, folding failure, deformation failure, paint peeling, etc.) occurs at each location, such as an egg farm, GP center, retail store, or transport location, a worker at each location may use a fourth write update unit (a code information reading (writing) device) to write information related to the problem to the storage device (T1). The worker at each location may use the fourth write update unit or an input update means (a means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal) to store (update) fourth status information (e.g., information related to the problem, travel distance, delivery route, storage conditions, etc.) in the fourth management database.
An operator at each location may use a code information reading (writing) device to read the fourth status information and check information about the trouble, or may decide not to use the equipment based on the fourth status information.
The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a code information reading (writing) device (e.g., an RFID reader) that reads code information from (and writes information to) a storage device (T1) equipped with a communication means and a storage means. The code information reading (writing) device may also function as the fourth write/update unit.
The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
The egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) may be provided with a fourth acquisition unit (receiving unit) that acquires code information read from a storage device (T1) equipped with a communication means and a storage means.
The fourth state determination unit may determine the state of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) from the code information (including the fourth state information) acquired by the fourth acquisition unit or the code information (including the fourth state information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.
The fourth bogie state determination management device (B4)
The device may also include a fourth status information output unit that outputs (emits a sound (voice) according to the status, prints, or transmits to an external device) information on the fourth status determination result determined by the fourth status determination unit, various information in the fourth management database, code information (including the fourth status information) acquired by the fourth acquisition unit, and/or code information (including the fourth status information) read by the code information reading (writing) device.

The fifth bogie state discrimination management device (B5)
an imaging unit, a third state determination unit, a sensor unit, and a fourth state determination unit of a third and fourth bogie state determination management device (B3, B4);
The system may further include a state determination unit that determines a state of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) based on a third state determination result of the third state determination unit and a fourth state determination result of the fourth state determination unit.
The device may include a fifth state output unit that outputs the determination result of the state determination unit (by emitting a sound (voice) according to the state, printing it, or transmitting it to an external device).
The state determination unit
If the third state determination result and the fourth state determination result are the same result, the state indicated by both results may be determined;
If the third state determination result and the fourth state determination result are different results, the state indicated by one of the preset results may be determined, or a determination may be made that the state cannot be determined.
The "decision result" may be, for example, usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, disposal instructions, etc.

The external device to which the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth status output units transmit may be, for example, a cloud server, an on-premise server, an information processing device, an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) equipped with a memory, a cart type discrimination device, a shelf opening device, a cart transport device, an egg container loading system, a retail store product management device, or a transporter management system.

The first, second, third, and fourth trolley state determination and management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4) may determine the state when the shelves and side frames are folded, or when the side frames and shelves (at least the lowest shelf) are unfolded.

The first, second, third and fourth trolley status determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4) store in their corresponding management databases trolley identification information, product information of the loaded egg containers (raw eggs), manufacturing and shipping transportation route information, retailer identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, start date of use, cumulative travel distance, temperature data, location information, corresponding status information, etc.
The first, second, third, and fourth bogie state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4)
a second learning model storage unit that stores a second cart state identification learning model (second classifier) created by intelligent information technology using training data that classifies the state of the cart from one or more first data groups selected from cart identification information, product information of the loaded egg containers (raw eggs), production and shipping transportation route information, retail store identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, start date of use, cumulative travel distance, temperature data, location information, and corresponding state information; and
The system may also include a second cart state classification unit that estimates second cart state information including the state of the egg container transport cart (normal, level of abnormality (major abnormality, medium abnormality, minor abnormality), type of abnormality (e.g., rust, distortion, tilt, etc.), and level of possibility of abnormality (including future predictions such as abnormal shipment during delivery or abnormality occurrence at a store)) by inputting data or code information stored in the management database into the second cart state identification learning model (second classifier) as input data.
The classification may be, for example, normal, level of abnormality (e.g., major abnormality, medium abnormality, minor abnormality), type of abnormality (e.g., rust, distortion, tilt, etc.), level of likelihood of abnormality (including future predictions such as abnormal shipment during delivery or abnormal occurrence at the store).

The sixth bogie state determination management device (B6)
a third learning model storage unit that stores a third cart state identification learning model (third classifier) created by intelligent information technology using training data that classifies the state of the cart from one or more first data groups selected from cart identification information, product information of the loaded egg containers (raw eggs), production and shipping transportation route information, retail store identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, start date of use, cumulative travel distance, temperature data, location information, and corresponding state information; and
The system may further include a third cart state classification unit that estimates third cart state information including the state of the egg container transport cart (normal, level of abnormality (major abnormality, medium abnormality, minor abnormality), type of abnormality (e.g., rust, distortion, tilt, etc.), and level of possibility of abnormality (including future predictions such as abnormal shipment during delivery or abnormality occurrence at a store)) by inputting data stored in the sixth management database into the third cart state identification learning model (third classifier) as input data.
The sixth management database may store the same data as the first, second, third, and fourth management databases, or may be used in combination with any of the first, second, third, and fourth management databases.
The sixth cart state determination management device (B6) may be provided in various devices (for example, a shelf opening device, an egg container (or raw eggs) loading system, or a cart transport device). A worker at each location may access the sixth cart state determination management device (B6) or the sixth cart state determination management device (B6) from an information terminal, execute the operation of the third cart state classifying unit, and classify the state of the egg container transport cart.
The bogie status management system is
a database storing the first data group;
An information processing device (e.g., a processor, a server, a general-purpose personal computer, a device installed with a function for obtaining the trolley status information, etc.) that responds to requests for the trolley status from various devices and sends the trolley status information,
The information processing device includes the third learning model storage unit and the third bogie state classification unit.
The various devices are devices that can access the information processing device via a communication means, such as a processor, a mobile terminal, a general-purpose personal computer, a device with the access function installed, a shelf opening device, a cart transport device, an egg container loading system, a mobile terminal of each worker, a personal computer in each workplace, etc.

The first, second and third bogie state identification learning is a software program.
Examples of "intelligent information processing technology" include machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and deep reinforcement learning.
The algorithms for machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and deep reinforcement learning are not particularly limited, and conventional algorithms may be used. For supervised learning, various algorithms may be adopted, such as linear regression, generalized linear model, support vector regression, Gaussian process regression, ensemble method, decision tree, neural network, support vector machine, discriminant analysis, naive Bayes, and nearest neighbor method.

The first egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1)
The system has a storage device (T1) that includes one or more communication means and storage means.
The storage device stores “code information.” The “code information” may include, for example, one or more of the following: vehicle identification information (e.g., one or more of the manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of tiers, size, etc.), retail store identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, start date of use, and cumulative travel distance.
"Truck type information" may include, for example, truck identification information (e.g., one or more types of information such as manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), total frame height, width size, depth size, etc.
The storage device (T1) may store (first, second, third, fourth) status information of the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack).
The storage device (T1) may store product information (e.g., one or more types of information such as product type, load amount, production date, shelf life, use-by date, best-before date, etc.) of the loaded egg containers (raw eggs) and/or production, shipping, and transportation route information (e.g., one or more types of information such as egg farm identification information, GP center identification information, transportation company information, delivery route information, retailer identification information, storage information, date and time of each operation, and lot number of each operation).
The storage device (T1) may store temperature data (and date and time, work location, work content, location information, etc. linked to the temperature data) at each point on the movement route of the egg container transport cart.
The "storage device having a communication means and a storage means" may be, for example, a tag that uses RFID technology, such as an RF tag, an IC tag, an NFC tag, or an UHF tag (these tags may be called by different names depending on their functions). The storage device (T1) may be a passive, active, or semi-active type. The storage device (T1) may be provided at any location on the egg container transport cart. The storage device (T1) may further include a temperature sensor, and may be configured to continuously or periodically measure temperature and store the temperature in the storage means. In such a case, even if temperature sensors are not provided at each location, temperature can be sensed by a storage device (e.g., an RFID tag with a temperature logger (temperature sensor)) provided on the cart. The storage device (T1) may further include location information acquisition means (GPS function means), and may be configured to continuously or periodically acquire location information from GPS satellites or GPS satellites via base stations and store the information in the storage means.

The second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C2)
It has one or more two-dimensional codes (for example, a barcode, a QR code (registered trademark)).
The code information of the two-dimensional code includes, for example, cart identification information. The two-dimensional code may be provided at any position on the egg container transport cart. It is preferable that the code be provided at a position that can be read by a two-dimensional code reader.

(Effects of the trolley status discrimination management device and egg container transport trolley)
The vehicle status determination and management device determines the status of egg container transport vehicles (including raw egg racks) and links the determination result to the egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks). From the status of the egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks), it can be determined whether or not it can be used for the egg container (or raw egg) loading process.
The status information may be stored in the egg container transport vehicle or may be accumulated in a database for centralized management. The database can also be accessed from any location via a cloud server or communication means.
By recording and managing product information and manufacturing, shipping, and transportation route information, data can be read and processed at the time of shipment, delivery, and arrival, reducing shipping and delivery errors.
By storing temperature history, it is possible to control the temperature throughout the entire process, from manufacturing and storage at the GP center, to truck transportation, and storage and display at retail stores, making it possible to detect quality abnormalities early on.
By using active tags, the communication distance becomes longer, making it possible to confirm the location of egg container transport carts at each location and also to prevent loss.
By providing multiple two-dimensional codes and memory devices (T1) on the cart, it is possible to respond to damage or malfunction of either one.
Using the first cart state identification learning model (first classifier), it is possible to determine whether the egg container transport cart is normal or abnormal based on its external appearance from images (camera images, three-dimensional scanner images) of the egg container transport cart taken by the imaging unit or a separate device.
Using the second and third bogie state identification learning models (second and second classifiers), the state of the bogie (normal, level of abnormality, type of abnormality, level of possibility of becoming abnormal) can be inferred from the history of the management database.

The first shelf opening device (D1)
a first shelf opening means for fixing either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) with a fixing means and automatically opening the folding shelf;
and any one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth bogie type discrimination devices (A1 to A5).
The first shelf opening device (D1)
It may also be provided with a communication means for transmitting information relating to troubles occurring in the shelf opening device (D1) (for example, transport troubles, shelf opening troubles, etc.) to an external device.
The first shelf opening device (D1) may be equipped with a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving a signal to stop the operation of the shelf opening device or an abnormality signal). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to a cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The first shelf opening device (D1) may be provided with a first opening control unit that controls the first shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on two-dimensional code information read by a two-dimensional code reader of the cart type discrimination device.
The first shelf opening device (D1) may be equipped with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the shelf opening device. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via communication means, or may be sent to a cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or storage device (T1).
The first shelf opening device (D1) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the first egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C2). The first opening control unit may control the first shelf opening means based on this code information.

The second shelf opening device (D2)
a second shelf opening means for fixing either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) with a fixing means and automatically opening the folding shelf; and any one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth cart state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6);
Equipped with.
The second shelf opening device (D2)
It may also be provided with a communication means for transmitting information relating to troubles occurring in the shelf opening device (D2) (for example, transport troubles, shelf opening troubles, etc.) to an external device.
The second shelf opening device (D2) may be equipped with a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the shelf opening device). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or storage device (T1).
The second shelf opening device (D2) may be equipped with a second opening control unit that controls the second shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status determination management device.
The second shelf opening device (D2) may be equipped with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the shelf opening device. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to the management database or storage device (T1).
The second shelf opening device (D2) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the first egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C2). The second opening control unit may control the second shelf opening means based on this code information.

The third shelf opening device (D3)
a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from the memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C1); and/or
a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C2);
a third shelf opening means for fixing either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) with a fixing means and automatically opening the folding shelf;
Equipped with.
The third shelf opening device (D3) may be provided with a third opening control unit that controls the third shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of cart based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader.
The first, second, and third opening control sections may control the driving of the fixing means and the driving of the shelf opening means according to, for example, the size of the carriage and the number of shelves.

Examples of the first, second, and third shelf opening means include the shelf opening device shown in Japanese Patent No. 6684511 and the shelf opening device shown in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2021-147241.
The external device to which the communication means of the first, second, and third shelf opening devices (D1, D2, D3) send information related to the trouble may be, for example, a cloud server, an on-premise server, an information processing device, an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) equipped with a memory, a cart conveying device, an egg container loading system, a retail store product management device, or a transporter management system.

The first egg container loading system (E1) comprises:
a first loading means for loading egg containers onto either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or onto another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks);
Any one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth bogie type discrimination devices (A1 to A5),
Equipped with.
The first egg container loading system (E1) comprises:
The system may be provided with a communication means for transmitting information about a problem occurring in the egg container loading system (E1) (for example, a transport problem, a shelf opening problem, a loading problem, etc.) to an external device.
The egg container loading system (E1) may include a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the egg container loading system). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to a cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written in a management database or a storage device (T1).
The egg container loading system may include a first loading control unit that controls the first loading means based on the type of cart based on two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader of the cart type discrimination device.
The egg container loading system (E1) may include a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the egg container loading system. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to a cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The egg container loading system (E1) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided in the second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C2). The first loading control unit may control the first loading means based on the code information.

The second egg container loading system (E2) comprises:
a second loading means for loading egg containers onto either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or onto another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks);
Any one of the first, second, third, and fourth bogie state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4),
Equipped with.
The second egg container loading system (E2) comprises:
The egg container loading system (E2) may be provided with a communication means for transmitting information about troubles that have occurred in the system (E2) (for example, transport troubles, shelf opening troubles, loading troubles, etc.) to an external device.
The egg container loading system (E2) may include a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the egg container loading system). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written in a management database or the storage device (T1).
The egg container loading system (E2) may include a second loading control unit that controls the second loading means based on the type of cart based on code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart state determination management device.
The egg container loading system (E2) may include a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the egg container loading system. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be transmitted to a cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The egg container loading system (E2) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from the memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport cart (including the raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided in the second egg container transport cart (including the raw egg racks) (C2). The second loading control unit may control the second loading means based on the code information.

The third egg container loading system (E3)
a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from the memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C1); and/or
a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C2);
a third loading means for loading egg containers onto either the first or second egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or onto another egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks);
Equipped with.
The third egg container loading system (E3) may include a third loading control unit that controls the third loading means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of cart based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader.
The first, second, and third loading control units may set a loading pattern according to, for example, the size of the cart, the number of shelves, the height of the shelves, and the size of the shelves, and control the operation of the multi-axis robot arm.

Examples of the first, second, and third loading means include the automatic egg pack loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6684511, the automatic egg pack loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-147241, the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-050038, and the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-172416.
The external device to which the communication means of the first, second, and third egg container loading systems (E1, E2, E3) send information related to the trouble may be, for example, a cloud server, an on-premise server, an information processing device, an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) equipped with a memory, a cart conveying device, a shelf opening device, a retail store product management device, or a transporter management system.

The first carriage transport device (F1)
a first carriage transport means for carrying in and/or transporting either the first or second egg container transport carriage (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or other egg container transport carriages (including raw egg racks) to the shelf opening device and/or the egg container loading system;
Any one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth bogie type discrimination devices (A1 to A5),
Equipped with.
The first carriage transport device (F1)
The carriage transport device (F1) may be provided with a communication means for transmitting information relating to a trouble occurring therein (for example, a transport trouble) to an external device.
The carriage transport device (F1) may be provided with a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the carriage transport device). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to a carriage type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The first cart transport device (F1) may be equipped with a first cart transport control unit that controls the first cart transport means based on the type of cart based on code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status determination management device.
The first carriage transport device (F1) may be provided with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature in the vicinity of the carriage transport device. Information relating to the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to a carriage type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The first carriage transport device (F1) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport carriage (including raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided in the second egg container transport carriage (including raw egg racks) (C2). The first carriage transport control unit may control the first carriage transport means based on this code information.

The second carriage transport device (F2)
a second vehicle transport means for carrying in and/or transporting either the first or second egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or other egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) to the shelf opening device and/or the egg container loading system;
Any one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth bogie state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, and B6),
Equipped with.
The second carriage transport device (F2)
The carriage transport device (F2) may be provided with a communication means for transmitting information relating to a trouble occurring therein (for example, a transport trouble) to an external device.
The second carriage transport device (F2) may be provided with a trouble detection means for detecting trouble (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the carriage transport device). Information about the trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be sent to the carriage state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The second cart transport device (F2) may be equipped with a second cart transport control unit that controls the second cart transport means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status determination management device.
The second carriage transport device (F2) may be provided with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature in the vicinity of the carriage transport device. Information relating to the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be transmitted to the carriage status determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The second carriage transport device (F2) may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the first egg container transport carriage (including raw egg racks) (C1) and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport carriage (including raw egg racks) (C2). The second carriage transport control unit may control the second carriage transport means based on this code information.

The third carriage transport device (F3)
a third vehicle transport means for carrying in and/or transporting either the first or second egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) (C1, C2) or other egg container transport vehicle (including raw egg racks) to the shelf opening device and/or the egg container loading system;
a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from the memory device (T1) provided in the first egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C1); and/or
a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the second egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack) (C2);
Equipped with.
The third cart transport device (F3) may be equipped with a third cart transport control unit that controls the third cart transport means based on the type of cart based on code information read by a code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of cart based on two-dimensional code information read by a two-dimensional code reader.
The first, second, and third carriage transport control units may control the driving of the fixing means and the driving of the transport means according to the carriage size and caster position, for example.

Examples of the cart transport means include the means for loading and unloading carts described in the egg pack automatic loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6684511, the egg pack automatic loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-147241, the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-050038, and the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-172416.
The external device to which the communication means of the first and second cart transport devices (F1, F2) send information related to the trouble may be, for example, a cloud server, an on-premise server, an information processing device, an egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) equipped with a memory, a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, a retail store product management device, or a transporter management system.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a first bogie type discrimination device. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a second bogie type discrimination device. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a third bogie type discrimination device. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a fourth bogie type discrimination device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a first bogie state determination management device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a second bogie state determination management device. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a third bogie state determination management device. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a fourth bogie state determination management device. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an egg container transport cart and a shelf opening device. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an egg container transport cart and a cart transport device. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an egg container transport vehicle and an egg container loading system.

(First bogie type discrimination device)
The first vehicle type discrimination device A1 shown in FIG. 1A includes a first imaging unit A11, a first type discrimination unit A12, a first vehicle type information storage unit A13, and a first type output unit A14.
The first imaging unit A11 is composed of, for example, a color camera, a monochrome camera, a line camera, an area camera, etc., and captures an image of a first predetermined location of the egg container transport cart 8 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "cart").
The first type discrimination unit A12 analyzes the image captured by the first imaging unit A11, and compares the analysis results with the bogie type information stored in advance in the first bogie type information storage unit A13 to determine the type of bogie 8.
The first type output unit A14 outputs the first type determination result of the first type determination unit A12. The first type output unit A14 may emit a sound (audio) according to the type, print it, or transmit it to an external device.
Examples of the "first specified location" include an overall view of the egg container transport cart (at least one of six faces (front, back, flat, bottom, left and right sides)), each frame (front frame, back frame, left and right side frames, flat frame, bottom frame), nameplate, product name sticker, caster, each folding shelf, etc., and it may be one or more of these.
The "image" may be taken in a state where the dolly is folded during transportation, or in a state where the first folding plate is open (unfolded).
Examples of the "image analysis results" include the frame height (total height of the trolley), caster height, height of the first folding plate, height of each folding plate, width size, width size of the left and right sides (depth size), number of folding plate levels, whether it is made of plastic or metal, manufacturer, and product information.
Examples of "cart type information" include cart identification information (e.g., one or more of the following: manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size), overall frame height, width size, depth size, etc.
The "first type discrimination result" may be, for example, one or more of the following: bogie identification information (e.g., one or more types of information such as manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), overall frame height, width size, depth size, or inability to discern type.

(Second bogie type discrimination device)
The second bogie type discrimination device A2 shown in FIG. 1B includes a first sensor unit A21, a second type discrimination unit A22, a second bogie type information storage unit A23, and a second type output unit A24.
The first sensor unit A21 detects a second predetermined location of the carriage 8. The sensor unit A21 may be configured, for example, by a reflective optical sensor, a light projecting and receiving optical sensor, or a proximity sensor.
The second type discrimination unit A22 compares the detection result detected by the sensor unit A21 with the vehicle type information stored in advance in the second vehicle type information storage unit A23, and discriminates the type of the vehicle 8.
The second type output unit A24 outputs the second type determination result of the second type determination unit A22. The second type output unit A24 may emit a sound (audio) according to the type, print it, or transmit it to an external device.
Examples of the "second predetermined location" include each frame of the egg container transport cart (front frame, back frame, left and right side frames, flat frame, bottom frame), beams (horizontal frames arranged between vertical frames), casters, folding shelves, etc., and the "second predetermined location" may be one or more of these.
The "detection" may be performed when the cart is folded during transportation, or when the first folding plate is opened (deployed).
Examples of the "detection results detected by the sensor unit" include the frame height (total height of the trolley), caster height, height of the first folding plate, height of each folding plate, width size, width size of the left and right sides (depth size), number of folding plate stages, whether made of resin or metal, etc.
Examples of "cart type information" include cart identification information (e.g., manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), overall frame height, width size, depth size, etc.
The "second type discrimination result" may be, for example, one or more of the following: trolley identification information (e.g., one or more types of information such as manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), overall frame height, width size, depth size, or inability to discern type.

(Third bogie type discrimination device)
The third vehicle type discrimination device A3 shown in FIG. 1C includes a two-dimensional code reader A31, a third type discrimination unit A32, a third vehicle type information storage unit A33, and a third type output unit A34.
The two-dimensional code A31 reads code information from a two-dimensional code Q1 provided on the cart 8. The two-dimensional code Q1 is, for example, a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark), and the two-dimensional code A31 is, for example, a barcode reader or a QR code (registered trademark) reader correspondingly. The two-dimensional code reader A31 may have a function to read multiple types of two-dimensional codes, or may be configured to include multiple types of code readers.
The third type discrimination unit A32 compares the reading result read by the two-dimensional code reader A31 with the cart type information stored in advance in the third cart type information storage unit A33, and discriminates the type of the cart 8.
The third type output unit A34 outputs the reading result read by the two-dimensional code reader A31 or the third type discrimination result by the third type discrimination unit A32. The third type output unit A34 may emit a sound (audio) according to the type, print, or transmit the result to an external device.
The "code information of the two-dimensional code" may include, for example, one or more of the following: trolley identification information (e.g., one or more of the manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of tiers, size, etc.), retail store identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, and start date of use.
"Truck type information" may include, for example, truck identification information (e.g., one or more types of information such as manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), total frame height, width size, depth size, etc.
The "third type discrimination result" may be one or more of the following: carriage identification information, overall frame height, width size, depth size, and inability to discriminate type.

(Fourth bogie type discrimination device)
The fourth vehicle type discrimination device A4 shown in FIG. 1D includes a code information reading (writing) device A41, a fourth type discrimination unit A42, a fourth vehicle type information storage unit A43, and a fourth type output unit A44.
The code information reading (writing) device A41 reads code information from a storage device T1 equipped with communication means and storage means, which is provided on the carriage 8. It is also possible to write information into the storage device T1.
The fourth type discrimination unit A42 compares the reading results read by the code information reading (writing) device A41 with the cart type information stored in advance in the fourth cart type information storage unit A43, and determines the type of cart 8.
The fourth type output unit A44 outputs the read result read by the code information reading (writing) device A41 or the fourth type discrimination result by the fourth type discrimination unit A42. The fourth type output unit A44 may emit a sound (audio) according to the type, print, or transmit the sound to an external device.
The "code information" may include, for example, one or more of the following: trolley identification information (e.g., one or more of the manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of tiers, size, etc.), retail store identification information, egg container loading location identification information, raw egg loading location identification information, GP center identification information, and start date of use.
"Truck type information" may include, for example, truck identification information (e.g., one or more types of information such as manufacturer, product number (type), serial number, manufacturing date, number of steps, size, etc.), total frame height, width size, depth size, etc.
The "fourth type discrimination result" may be one or more of the following: carriage identification information, overall frame height, width size, depth size, and inability to discriminate type.
The "storage device T1 having a communication means and a storage means" may be, for example, a tag that uses RFID technology, such as an RF tag, an IC tag, an NFC tag, or an UHF tag (these tags may be called by different names depending on their functions). The storage device T1 may be a passive type, an active type, or a semi-active type.
The fourth bogie type discrimination device A4 may have each of the components of the third bogie type discrimination device A3.

The first, second, third, and fourth vehicle type information storage units may be built into the device, may be externally connected storage media, or may be cloud-based storage media.

(First bogie state determination management device)
The first bogie status determination management device B1 shown in Figure 2A includes a code information reading (writing) device B11, a first status determination unit B12, a first management database B13, a first writing and updating unit B14, and a first status information output unit B15.
The code information reading (writing) device B11 reads code information from a storage device T1 provided on the carriage 8 and equipped with a communication means and a storage means.
The first state determination unit B12 determines the state of the cart 8 from the first state information of the cart 8 stored in a memory device T1 equipped with a communication means and a memory means, and determines whether or not the cart 8 will be used for the egg container loading process.
The "first status information" may include, for example, one or more of the following: trolley identification information, information regarding trouble (trouble during transport, caster trouble, noise trouble, frame deployment trouble, shelf opening trouble, rust, paint peeling, etc.), number of uses, cumulative travel distance, first status determination result, etc.
The first state determination unit B12 may make a determination based on the first state information and, for example, when the number of troubles exceeds a threshold or when a risk level (for example, a five-level level) corresponding to the trouble exceeds a threshold, not use the egg container transport cart for the stacking process of egg containers (or raw eggs). Furthermore, if the number of uses or the accumulated travel distance exceeds a threshold, the first state determination unit B12 may determine that the frequency of troubles is high and not use the egg container transport cart for the stacking process of egg containers (or raw eggs).
The first status determination unit B12 may generate information on the first status determination result, such as usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, or disposal instructions.
The first management database B13 is configured to store first status information of the bogies 8 or to be able to update already stored first status information. The first management database B13 accumulates the first status information of each bogie 8. Meanwhile, the first status information of the bogie 8 is stored in a storage device T1 provided in the bogie 8 and equipped with a communication means and a storage means.
The first writing and updating unit B14 writes the first status information of the trolley 8 to a memory device T1 equipped with a communication means and a memory means provided on the trolley 8, or updates the data of the first status information stored in the memory means T1.
When an operation stoppage due to the cart 8 (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.) occurs in various devices (e.g., shelf opening device, egg container loading system, cart transport device), the first status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, first status determination result, etc.) may be written to the storage device T1 by the first writing/updating unit B14, and/or the first status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, first status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the first management database B13. The code information reading (writing) device B11 may also have the function of the first writing/updating unit B14.
The first status information output unit B15 outputs information on the first status determination result determined by the first status determination unit B12, various information in the first management database B13, and/or code information (including the first status information) read by the code information reading (writing) device B11. The first status information output unit B15 may emit a sound (audio) according to the status of the cart 8, print it, or transmit it to an external device.

As another embodiment of the first bogie state determination management device B1, a first acquisition unit (receiving unit) may be provided instead of or in addition to the code information reading (writing) device B11.
The first acquisition unit (receiving unit) may receive code information from various devices (e.g., a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, a cart transport device, etc.) The first state determination unit B12 may determine the state of the cart 8 from the code information acquired by the first acquisition unit or the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device.

(First bogie state determination management device)
The second bogie status determination management device B2 shown in Figure 2B includes a two-dimensional code reader B21, a second status determination unit B22, a second management database B23, a second writing and updating unit B24, and a second status information output unit B25.
The second management database B23 stores second status information including information on problems that have occurred during the manufacturing, use and distribution processes of the carriage 8.
The two-dimensional code reader B21 reads code information (including cart identification information) from a two-dimensional code (for example, a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark)) provided on the cart 8.
The second status determination unit B22 extracts the second status information of the trolley 8 stored in the second management database B23 from the code information (including the trolley identification information) read by the two-dimensional code reader B21, determines the status of the trolley 8, and determines whether or not the trolley 8 will be used for the egg container loading process.
The "second status information" may be, for example, one or more of the following: cart identification information, information regarding trouble (one or more types such as trouble during transport, caster trouble, noise trouble, frame unfolding trouble, shelf opening trouble, rust, paint peeling, etc.), number of uses, cumulative travel distance, and information regarding the second status determination result.
The second state determination unit B22 may make a determination based on the second state information and, for example, when the number of troubles exceeds a threshold or when a risk level (for example, a five-level level) corresponding to the trouble exceeds a threshold, not use the egg container transport cart for the stacking process of egg containers (or raw eggs). Furthermore, if the number of uses or the accumulated travel distance exceeds a threshold, the second state determination unit B22 may determine that the frequency of troubles is high and not use the egg container transport cart for the stacking process of egg containers (or raw eggs).
The second state determination unit B22 may generate information on the second state determination result, such as usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, or disposal instructions.
The second writing/updating unit B24 may write the second status information of the carriage 8 to the second management database B23, or may update the stored data of the second status information.
When various devices (e.g., shelf opening devices, egg container loading systems, cart transport devices) experience an operational stoppage due to the cart 8 (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.), the second write update unit B24 may store (update) second status information (e.g., information regarding the trouble, second status determination results, etc.) in the second management database B23.
The second status information output unit B25 outputs the second status determination result determined by the second status determination unit B22, various information in the second management database B23, and/or code information (cart identification information) read by the two-dimensional code reader. The second status information output unit B25 may emit a sound (audio) according to the status of the cart 8, print it, or transmit it to an external device.

As another embodiment of the second bogie state determination management device B2, a second acquisition unit (receiving unit) may be provided instead of or in addition to the two-dimensional code reader B21.
The second acquisition unit (receiving unit) may receive code information from various devices (e.g., a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, a cart transport device, etc.) The second status determination unit B22 may extract second status information of the cart 8 stored in the second management database B23 from the code information acquired by the second acquisition unit and determine the status of the cart 8.

(Third bogie state discrimination management device)
The third bogie state determination management device B3 shown in Figure 2C includes a second imaging unit B31, a third state determination unit B32, a third management database B33, a third write update unit B34, and a third state information output unit B35.
The second imaging unit B31 captures an image of a first predetermined location on the carriage 8.
The third state determination unit B32 analyzes the image captured by the second imaging unit B31, and determines the state of the cart 8 from the analysis result, and determines whether or not to use it for the egg container loading process.
Examples of the "third status information" include trolley identification information, image data linked to the trouble, information about the trouble (one or more types such as trouble during transport, caster trouble, noise trouble, frame unfolding trouble, shelf opening trouble, rust, paint peeling, etc.), number of uses, cumulative travel distance, and one or two types of third status determination results.
The third state determination unit B32 may make a determination based on the third state information and, for example, when a risk level corresponding to the image data associated with the trouble (for example, the level of rust, the level of paint peeling, the level of frame deformation, the level of shelf deformation, etc., are classified into five levels) exceeds a threshold. Furthermore, when the determination result based on the image data associated with the trouble, and further the number of troubles, the number of uses, or the accumulated travel distance exceed a threshold, the third state determination unit B32 may determine that the frequency of troubles is high and may not use the egg container transport cart for the egg container stacking process.
The third state determination unit B32 may create information on the fourth state determination result, such as usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, or disposal instructions.
The third management database B32 is configured to store third status information of the bogie 8 or to be able to update already stored third status information. The third management database B32 accumulates status information of each bogie 8. Meanwhile, the bogie 8 may be provided with a storage device (T1) equipped with communication means and storage means, and the status information of the bogie 8 may be stored therein.
When the trolley 8 is provided with a storage device (T1) having a communication means and a storage means, the third writing/updating unit B34 may write third status information of the trolley 8 or update the data of the third status information stored in the storage means, or may write third status information of the trolley 8 to the third management database B33 or update the data of the third status information stored therein.
When an operation stoppage due to an egg container transport cart occurs in various devices (for example, a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, or a cart transport device) (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.), the third status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a third status determination result, etc.) may be written to the storage device (T1) by the third writing/updating unit B24, and/or the third status information (for example, information related to the trouble, a third status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the third management database B33.
The third status information output unit B35 outputs information on the third status determination result determined by the third status determination unit B32 and various information in the third management database B33. The third status information output unit B35 may emit a sound (audio) according to the status, print, or transmit the information to an external device.

As another embodiment of the third bogie state determination management device B3, in addition to the imaging unit B31, a two-dimensional code reader, a code information reading (writing) device, and a third acquisition unit (receiving unit) may be provided.
The third acquisition unit (receiving unit) may receive code information from various devices (e.g., a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, a cart transport device, etc.) The third status determination unit B32 may extract third status information of the cart 8 stored in the third management database B33 from the code information acquired by the third acquisition unit, and determine the status of the cart 8.

(Fourth bogie state discrimination management device)
The fourth bogie state determination management device B4 shown in Figure 2D includes a second sensor unit B41, a fourth state determination unit B42, a fourth management database B43, a fourth write update unit B44, and a fourth state information output unit B45.
The second sensor unit B41 detects a second predetermined location of the carriage 8. The second sensor unit B41 is configured with, for example, a reflective optical sensor, a light projecting and receiving optical sensor, or a proximity sensor.
The fourth state determination unit B42 determines the state of the cart 8 from the detection result detected by the second sensor unit B41, and determines whether or not to use the cart 8 for the egg container loading process.
The "fourth status information" may include, for example, one or more of the following: trolley identification information, information regarding trouble (one or more types such as trouble during transport, caster trouble, noise trouble, frame unfolding trouble, shelf opening trouble, rust, paint peeling, etc.), number of uses, cumulative travel distance, and information regarding the fourth status determination result.
The fourth state determination unit B42 may make a determination based on the fourth state information and, for example, may not use the egg container transport cart for the egg container stacking process when a risk level according to the detection results linked to the trouble (for example, the level of rust, the level of paint peeling, the level of frame deformation, the level of shelf deformation, etc., are classified into five levels) exceeds a threshold. Furthermore, if the determination result based on the detection results linked to the trouble, and further the number of troubles, the number of uses, or the accumulated travel distance exceed a threshold, the fourth state determination unit B42 may determine that the frequency of troubles is high and may not use the egg container transport cart for the egg container stacking process.
The fourth state determination unit B42 may create information on the fourth state determination result, such as usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, or disposal instructions.
The fourth management database B43 is configured to store fourth status information of the bogie 8 or to be able to update already stored fourth status information. The fourth management database B43 accumulates status information of each bogie 8. On the other hand, if the bogie 8 is provided with a storage device (T1) equipped with communication means and storage means, the status information of that bogie 8 is stored therein.
When the trolley 8 is provided with a storage device (T1) having a communication means and a storage means, the fourth write update unit B44 writes the fourth status information of the trolley 8 or updates the data of the fourth status information stored in the storage means, or writes the fourth status information of the trolley 8 to the fourth management database B43 or updates the data of the fourth status information stored therein.
When an operation stoppage due to the cart 8 (transportation trouble, shelf opening trouble, loading trouble, etc.) occurs in various devices (e.g., shelf opening device, egg container loading system, cart transport device), the fourth status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, fourth status determination result, etc.) may be written to the storage device (T1) by the fourth writing update unit B44, and/or the fourth status information (e.g., information related to the trouble, fourth status determination result, etc.) may be stored (updated) in the fourth management database B44.
The fourth status information output unit B45 outputs information on the fourth status determination result determined by the fourth status determination unit B42 and various information in the fourth management database B43. The fourth status information output unit B45 may emit a sound (audio) according to the status, print, or transmit the information to an external device.

As another embodiment of the fourth bogie state determination management device B4, in addition to the second sensor unit B41, a two-dimensional code reader, a code information reading (writing) device, and a fourth acquisition unit (receiving unit) may be provided.
The fourth acquisition unit (receiving unit) may receive code information from various devices (e.g., a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, a cart transport device, etc.) The fourth status determination unit B42 may extract fourth status information of the cart 8 stored in the fourth management database B43 from the code information acquired by the fourth acquisition unit, and determine the status of the cart 8.
The fourth bogie state determination management device B4 may have each of the components of the third bogie state determination management device B3.
The first, second, third, and fourth management databases may be built into the device, may be externally connected storage media, or may be cloud storage media.

(Adding components)

The first, second, third, and fourth bogie state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4)
Product information (e.g., product type, load amount, production date, shelf life, use-by date, best-before date, etc.) and/or production, shipping, and transportation route information (e.g., egg farm identification information, GP center identification information, transport company information, delivery route information, retailer identification information, storage information, date and time of each operation, lot number of each operation, etc.) of the loaded egg containers (raw eggs) may be accumulated in each management database and/or stored in the storage device (T1) provided in the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack).
At each location, a worker (at a farm, at a GP center, in a transport truck, or at a retail store) may store and write data using a specified device (for example, a code information reading (writing) device, or an input/updating means (means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal)), or various devices at each location (for example, a raw egg loading system, an egg container loading system, a shelf opening device, a temperature control device for storage locations, etc.) may perform the data storage/updating process.

The first, second, third, and fourth bogie state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4)
Temperature data (as well as date and time, work location, work content, etc.) at each point along the movement route of the egg container transport cart may be accumulated in each management database and/or stored in a storage device (T1) provided on the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack).
At each location, a worker (at the farm, GP center, transport truck, or retail store) may store and write data using a predetermined device (for example, a code information reading (writing) device, input update means (means that can be accessed and input from an information terminal)), or various devices at each location (for example, a raw egg loading system, an egg container loading system, a shelf opening device, a cart transport device, a temperature control device for storage locations, etc.) may store data. Temperatures obtained by temperature sensors at each location (for example, an average temperature for a predetermined time or working day, continuous measured temperatures, temperature data at predetermined intervals, etc.) may be transmitted via communication means and stored in each management database and/or written in a memory device (T1) provided in the egg container transport cart (including the raw egg rack).

(Egg container transport trolley)
FIG. 3A shows an example of an egg container transport cart and a shelf opening device.
The dolly 8 is a commonly available egg container transport dolly. When the dolly 8 is sent to a dolly transport device, a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, or the like, the side frames are opened perpendicular to the rear frame in advance, and the bottom folding shelf is opened (deployed). The width, depth, and spacing (height) between the upper and lower shelves of the dolly 8 vary depending on the manufacturer, and the hinge position and structure of the folding frame also vary. However, the present invention is designed to accommodate a wide variety of dollies of different sizes, even in malfunctioning states.

A two-dimensional code Q1 or an IC tag T1 (corresponding to a storage device having a communication means and a storage means) is provided at a predetermined position on the cart 8.
The two-dimensional code Q1 or the IC tag T1 may be read by a two-dimensional code reader or a code information reading (writing) device provided in the vehicle type discrimination device.The two-dimensional code Q1 or the IC tag T1 may be read by a two-dimensional code reader or a code information reading (writing) device provided in the vehicle status discrimination management device.
The two-dimensional code Q1 or IC tag T1 may be read by a two-dimensional code reader or code information reading (writing) device provided in a trolley transport device, a shelf opening device, an egg container loading system, or the like.

The cart 8 shown in Figures 3A and 3B has a bottom frame 831, a back frame 834 that is fixed to the bottom frame 831 in an L-shape when viewed from the side, and a left frame 832 and a right frame 833 that are connected to the back frame 834 by hinges (not shown) so that the cart can be folded.
The front side of the cart 8 is open so that egg containers can be loaded into it. The bottom frame 831 has four corners each provided with a freely rotating caster (wheel).

The left frame 832 has a first side panel 811, a second side panel 812, a third side panel 813, and a fourth side panel 814 arranged in that order from the bottom at a predetermined interval in the width direction of the frame (the direction from the back to the front, perpendicular to the vertical direction).
The first side plate 811, the second side plate 812, the third side plate 813, and the fourth side plate 814 are provided with a first loading rail 8111, a second loading rail 8121, a third loading rail 8131, and a fourth loading rail 8141, which extend from their respective bottom sides at a right angle (approximately a right angle) toward the center of the carriage 8. Similar opposing side plates and loading rails are also provided on the right frame 833 facing the first side plate 811, the second side plate 812, the third side plate 813, and the fourth side plate 814, respectively.

One end of the folding shelf 801 is pivotally supported (801d) and rotatably connected to the rear ends (near the back frame 834) of a pair of opposing loading rails, and the folding shelf 801 is configured so that the rear shelf 801a and the front shelf 801b can be folded in half (M1) using a hinge (801e) in its center. The front end 801c and rear end (not shown) of the folding shelf 801 extend diagonally upward, thereby restricting the movement of the egg container P toward the rear and front. The front end 801c functions as the locked portion of the locking portion of the multi-axis robot arm, as described below.

(First carriage transport device)
3A transports the carriage 8 with the lowest shelf plate unfolded to the loading position of the egg containers. At the loading position, the multi-axis robot arm performs loading.
The first carriage conveying device 34 is composed of, for example, a first extrusion section 341 having a contact surface that contacts the lower frame of the carriage 8, a movement path 342 (which may be a rail or a groove) along which the first extrusion section 341 moves, and a drive section (not shown, linear motion device) that moves the first extrusion section 341 along the movement path 342.
The first carriage transport device 34 is equipped with a first carriage state detection unit (not shown) for detecting the open state of the lowest folding shelf of the carriage 8 being carried in and the orientation (front-to-back direction) of the carriage. The detection result of the first carriage state detection unit is sent to an operation control unit (not shown), and if the detection result indicates that the open state of the lowest folding shelf or the orientation of the carriage is abnormal, the operation control unit may issue a warning command to a notification means (such as a light output device that flashes a light, a monitor display, a warning sound emitting speaker, or sending a warning to a mobile terminal). If the detection result indicates that the open state of the lowest folding shelf and the orientation of the carriage are normal, the operation control unit may control the first carriage transport device 34 to restrict the transport operation of the carriage 8. If the detection result indicates that the open state of the lowest folding shelf and the orientation of the carriage are normal, the operation control unit may control the first carriage transport device 34 to allow the carriage 8 to be transported. The first carriage state detection unit is composed of, for example, a pair of light-emitting and light-receiving optical sensors, a reflective optical sensor, a distance measurement sensor, an imaging means, an image analysis device, etc.

The first carriage transport unit 34 carries and/or transports the carriages 8 to the shelf opening device and/or the egg container loading system.
The first carriage transport unit 34 may be equipped with any one of the first, second, third, and fourth carriage type discrimination devices (A1 to A4).
The first carriage transport device (34) may be equipped with a communication means for transmitting information relating to a trouble occurring in the carriage transport device (e.g., a transport trouble) to an external device. The carriage transport device may be equipped with a trouble detection means for detecting a trouble (e.g., a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the carriage transport device). Information relating to a trouble detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via the communication means, or may be sent to a carriage type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The carriage transport device may include a first carriage transport control unit that controls the first carriage transport means based on the type of carriage based on code information read by a code information reading (writing) device of the carriage status determination management device. The carriage transport device may include a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the carriage transport device. Information regarding the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via communication means, or may be sent to the carriage type determination device and processed so as to be written to the management database or storage device (T1). The carriage transport device may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a storage device (T1) provided on the carriage 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the carriage 8. The first carriage transport control unit may control the first carriage transport device 34 based on this code information.

The first cart transport unit 34 may be equipped with any one of the first, second, third and fourth cart status discrimination management devices (B1, B2, B3 and B4) instead of the first, second, third and fourth cart type discrimination devices (A1 to A4).
The cart transport device 34 may be equipped with a second cart transport control unit that controls the cart transport device 34 based on the type of cart based on code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status determination management device. The cart transport device is equipped with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature in the vicinity of the cart transport device, and information regarding the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time linked to the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via communication means, or may be transmitted to the cart status determination management device and processed so as to be written to the management database or storage device (T1).

The first carriage transport unit 34 may be equipped with a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the carriage 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the carriage 8. The carriage transport unit 34 may be equipped with a third carriage transport control unit that controls the carriage transport unit 34 based on the type of carriage based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of carriage based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader.

(First shelf opening device)
3B shows the dolly 8 and the first shelf opening device 50. The shelf opening device 50 includes a first frame body 510 forming a back surface 512, a front surface 511, and both side surfaces (not shown), a first shelf opening unit 51 that moves up and down on the back side of the first frame body 510, and a first shelf opening unit drive unit 513 and a drive belt 5131 (which may be a toothed belt or a chain) that drive the first shelf opening unit 51 up and down. The shelf opening device 50 fixes one of the dollies 8 or another dolly with a fixing means and automatically opens the folding shelf. Examples of the shelf opening device include the shelf opening device shown in Japanese Patent No. 6684511 and the shelf opening device shown in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2021-147241.

The first shelf opening device 50 is equipped with any one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth cart type discrimination devices A1 to A5.
The first shelf opening device 50 is equipped with a communication means for transmitting information relating to a problem that has occurred in the shelf opening device (for example, a transport problem, a shelf opening problem, etc.) to an external device. The first shelf opening device 50 is equipped with a trouble detection means for detecting a problem (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the shelf opening device). Information relating to a problem detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via the communication means, or may be sent to a cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or storage device T1.
The first shelf opening device 50 may be equipped with a first opening control unit (not shown) that controls the shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader of the cart type discrimination device.
The first shelf opening device 50 may be equipped with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the shelf opening device. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be sent to an external device via communication means, or may be sent to the cart type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to the management database or storage device (T1).
The first shelf opening device 50 may be equipped with a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8. The first opening control unit may control the shelf opening means based on this code information.
The first shelf opening device may read temperature data from a storage device (T1) with a temperature sensor provided on the cart 8 using a code information reading (writing) device.

(Second shelf opening device)
The second shelf opening device includes the shelf opening means of the first shelf opening device and any one of the first, second, third and fourth cart state determination management devices (B1, B2, B3, B4).
The second shelf opening device is equipped with a communication means for transmitting information relating to a problem that has occurred in the shelf opening device (for example, a transport problem, a shelf opening problem, etc.) to an external device. The second shelf opening device is equipped with a trouble detection means for detecting a problem (for example, a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the shelf opening device). Information relating to a problem detected by the detection means may be transmitted to an external device via the communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or storage device (T1).
The second shelf opening device may be equipped with a second opening control unit that controls the second shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status determination management device.
The second shelf opening device may be equipped with a temperature measurement unit that detects the environmental temperature near the shelf opening device. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, date and time associated with the temperature data, work location, work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to the management database or storage device (T1).
The second shelf opening device may be equipped with a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8. The second opening control unit may control the shelf opening means based on this code information.
The second shelf opening device may read temperature data from a storage device (T1) with a temperature sensor provided on the trolley 8 using a code information reading (writing) device.

The second shelf opening device may be equipped with an imaging unit and a third state determination unit of a third cart state determination management device (B3). The third state determination unit analyzes images captured by the imaging unit (e.g., camera images, 3D scanner images, etc.) and determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) from the analysis results, determining whether the cart is normal (e.g., abnormal frame distortion, abnormal tilt, etc.) or whether it should be used for the egg container (or raw egg) loading process. Furthermore, depending on the degree of abnormality, the third state determination unit determines whether to stop the alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range. In response to this determination result, the second shelf opening device and the second egg container loading system perform egg carton loading.

The second shelf opening device may be equipped with a sensor unit and a fourth state determination unit of a fourth cart state determination management device (B4). The fourth state determination unit determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) based on the detection results detected by the sensor unit, determines whether the cart is normal (for example, abnormal frame distortion, abnormal tilt, etc.), or determines whether it will be used for the egg container (or raw egg) loading process. Furthermore, the third state determination unit determines, depending on the degree of abnormality, whether to stop the alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information, or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range. In response to this determination result, the second shelf opening device and the second egg container loading system load egg cartons.

(Third shelf opening device)
The third shelf opening device comprises the shelf opening means of the first shelf opening device, a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8.
The third shelf opening device is equipped with a third opening control unit that controls the shelf opening means based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of cart based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader.

(First egg container loading system)
3C shows the egg container loading system. The multi-axis robot arm is driven, and the suction part of the arm hand picks up egg containers in a standby position and loads them onto the first shelf of the cart 8 in a predetermined layout. Once loading onto the first shelf is complete, the shelf opening device opens the folding shelf above it. Loading onto the opened shelf is performed by the multi-axis robot arm. Loading and shelf opening are repeated in this manner.
Once loading is complete, the cart is sent out by the cart transport device. Then, the next cart is sent into the egg container loading system, and the loading operation is performed. Examples of egg container loading systems include the automatic egg carton loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 6684511, the automatic egg carton loading system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-147241, the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-050038, and the egg container transfer system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-172416.

The first egg container loading system includes a multi-axis robot arm and any one of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth vehicle type discrimination devices.
The first egg container loading system includes a communication means for transmitting information about a problem that has occurred in the egg container loading system (e.g., a transport problem, a shelf opening problem, a loading problem, etc.) to an external device. The egg container loading system may also include a problem detection means for detecting a problem (e.g., a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the egg container loading system). The information about the problem detected by the detection means may be transmitted to the external device by the communication means, or may be sent to a vehicle type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The first egg container loading system may include a first loading control unit that controls the multi-axis robot arm based on the type of cart based on two-dimensional code information read by a two-dimensional code reader of the cart type identification device.
The first egg container loading system may include a temperature measurement unit that detects an environmental temperature near the egg container loading system. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, a date and time associated with the temperature data, a work location, a work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be transmitted to a vehicle type discrimination device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The first egg container loading system may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8. The first loading control unit may control the multi-axis robot arm based on the code information.
The first egg container loading system may read temperature data from a storage device with a temperature sensor (T1) provided on the carriage 8 by a code information reading (writing) device.

(Second egg container loading system)
The second egg container loading system includes a multi-axis robot arm and any one of a first, second, third, and fourth cart state determination management device (B1, B2, B3, B4).
The second egg container loading system includes a communication means for transmitting information about a problem that has occurred in the egg container loading system (e.g., a transport problem, a shelf opening problem, a loading problem, etc.) to an external device. The second egg container loading system may also include a problem detection means for detecting a problem (e.g., a means for receiving an operation stop signal or an abnormality signal from the egg container loading system). The information about the problem detected by the detection means may be transmitted to the external device by the communication means, or may be sent to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The second egg container loading system may include a second loading control unit that controls the multi-axis robot arm based on the type of cart based on code information read by the code information reading (writing) device of the cart status discrimination management device.
The second egg container loading system may include a temperature measurement unit that detects an environmental temperature near the second egg container loading system. Information about the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit (temperature data, a date and time associated with the temperature data, a work location, a work content, etc.) may be transmitted to an external device via a communication means, or may be transmitted to the cart state determination management device and processed so as to be written to a management database or a storage device (T1).
The second egg container loading system may include a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8. The second loading control unit may control the multi-axis robot arm based on the code information.
The second egg container loading system may read temperature data from a storage device with a temperature sensor (T1) provided on the carriage 8 by a code information reading (writing) device.

The second egg container loading system may include an imaging unit and a third state determination unit of a third cart state determination management device (B3). The third state determination unit analyzes images captured by the imaging unit (e.g., camera images, 3D scanner images, etc.) and determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) from the analysis results, determining whether the cart is normal (e.g., abnormal frame distortion, abnormal tilt, etc.) or whether it should be used for the egg container (or raw egg) loading process. Depending on the degree of abnormality, the third state determination unit may also determine whether to stop an alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range. In response to this determination result, the second egg container loading system loads egg cartons.

The second egg container loading system may include a sensor unit and a fourth state determination unit of a fourth cart state determination management device (B4). The fourth state determination unit determines the state of the egg container transport cart (including raw egg racks) from the detection results detected by the sensor unit, determines whether the cart is normal (for example, abnormal frame distortion, abnormal tilt, etc.), or determines whether it will be used for the egg container (or raw egg) loading process. Furthermore, the third state determination unit determines whether, depending on the degree of abnormality, it is possible to stop an alarm, fine-tune the loading position, record warning information or display a warning while performing normal processing, or perform normal processing within the normal range. In response to this determination result, the second egg container loading system loads egg cartons.

(Third egg container loading system)
The third egg container loading system includes a multi-axis robot arm, a code information reading (writing) device that reads code information from a memory device (T1) provided on the cart 8, and/or a two-dimensional code reader that reads code information from a two-dimensional code provided on the cart 8.
The third egg container loading system may include a third loading control unit that controls the multi-axis robot arm based on the type of cart based on the code information read by the code information reading (writing) device and/or the type of cart based on the two-dimensional code information read by the two-dimensional code reader.

(egg container)
The egg containers may be, for example, flat-top packs or regular packs, and may contain, but are not limited to, 6, 10, 12, or other eggs. Unless otherwise specified, the egg containers are filled with a specified number of eggs.

Each control unit, each type discrimination unit, each status determination unit, each acquisition unit, each write update unit, each trolley status classification unit, etc. may be realized, for example, through cooperation between hardware such as a processor or memory and a program that describes the control content, or may be realized through a combination of dedicated circuits and firmware, or may be realized by a cloud-based or on-premise server or a general-purpose computer.
One or more of the storage device (T1) and the two-dimensional code (Q1) may be provided at any position on the egg container transport cart.

The above-mentioned egg container loading system, shelf opening device, and cart transport device allow the mobile terminals of workers at each work area and the work area management device to access the cart status management system, obtain cart status information, and, based on the results, determine whether to perform the work, including whether to use the cart.

The above-mentioned egg container loading system, shelf opening device, and cart transport device may have a first learning model memory unit and a first cart state classification unit of a third cart state discrimination management device (B3), and may determine the execution of work, including whether or not to use the cart, in response to the first cart state information classified thereby.

A1 First bogie type discrimination device A2 Second bogie type discrimination device A3 Third bogie type discrimination device A4 Fourth bogie type discrimination device B1 First bogie state discrimination management device B2 Second bogie state discrimination management device B3 Third bogie state discrimination management device B4 Fourth bogie state discrimination management device 8 Bogie T1 IC tag Q1 Two-dimensional code

Claims (5)

a first state determination unit that determines a state of the egg container transport vehicle based on first state information of the egg container transport vehicle stored in a storage device that is provided in one or more types of egg container transport vehicle and that has a communication means and a storage means, and determines whether or not the egg container transport vehicle will be used for a loading step of egg containers ;
The first status information includes bogie identification information, information regarding a trouble, a number of uses, and a first status determination result,
The first state determination unit
When the number of troubles in the information about the troubles exceeds a threshold value or when a risk level corresponding to the troubles exceeds a threshold value, it is determined that the egg container transport cart will not be used for the egg container loading process, or
If the number of uses or the cumulative travel distance exceeds a threshold, it is determined that the frequency of occurrence of trouble is high, and it is determined that the egg container transport cart will not be used for the egg container stacking process,
the first state determination unit generates one or more types of first state determination result information among usable, unusable, repair instructions for defective parts, maintenance instructions, and disposal instructions ;
Bogie status determination management device. An egg container transport vehicle having a storage device including one or more communication means and storage means,
The storage device stores status information including bogie identification information, information regarding a trouble, and a number of uses, which are used in the bogie status determination management device according to claim 1.
Egg container transport trolley. A shelf opening device that automatically opens the folding shelves of the egg container transport cart described in claim 2. An egg container loading system for loading egg containers onto the egg container transport cart described in claim 2. A cart transport device that transports the egg container transport cart described in claim 2 to the shelf opening device described in claim 3 or to the egg container loading system described in claim 4.