 | |
| Founded | 2009; 16 years ago (2009) |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | , |
| Website | okoban |
Okoban[1] is a system that allows individuals to register property with pre-assigned unique identification codes in an online database so that, if the property is lost then found, the finder can notify the registrant.
Okoban manages its tracking system on behalf of the companies and agencies who use it, including luggage manufacturers, airlines and theTSA. It neither makes nor sells products directly and is provided to end users at no charge.
Okoban first emerged as a spin-off ofTravel Sentry, a company that sets standards for luggage locks.
The first products based on the Okoban standard were produced in 2009 bySunco Luggage [ja] of Japan. These included luggage and travel accessories with Okoban codes.
The name Okoban is based on the Japanese system ofKōbans, or small local police stations, which are the central place for reporting lost items or turning in found items in Japan. In theJapanese language the letter "O" preceding a word is asign of respect; synonymous with "honourable".[2]
The Okoban standard includes three elements:
Okoban issuesunique identifier (UID) codes to manufacturers of luggage and other products used in travel such as personal electronics. These codes are added to products at the time of production or can be added by the user to personal items using adhesive labels.[3]
If an item is misplaced or lost, and then found, the finder can enter its UID into the Okoban system. The owner then receives an alert message, either via e-mail orSMS text message.[4] The user then contacts the finder directly to arrange recovery.
The Okoban system is also integrated intoWorldTracer,[5] the central lost and found system used by airlines. It is used by over 400 airlines, airport companies and baggage handlers.[6]
