Moving distance calculation method, moving distance calculation device, and moving distance calculation program product

Abstract

A moving distance calculation device (2) accumulates the distance between the first main sensor (M1) and the central sensor (H1) to the moving distance when a person is detected by a first main sensor (M1) arranged in a first space (101) and then by a central sensor (H1) arranged in a third space (103) connecting the first space (101) and the second space (102); accumulates the distance between the second main sensor (M2) and the central sensor (H1) to the moving distance when a person is detected by a second main sensor (M2) arranged in a second space (102) and then by the central sensor (H1); and does not accumulate the distance between the first main sensor (M1) and the second main sensor (M2) to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor (M2) after the person is detected by the first main sensor (M1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for calculating the movement distance of a person in a residence. Background Art

[0002] Caregivers living alone tend to have fewer opportunities to go out, resulting in reduced physical activity and exercise. This reduction in physical activity and exercise can affect various daily activities, such as eating, sleeping, and defecation. Therefore, caregivers and care managers can help support caregivers by measuring their activity levels.

[0003] In order to measure the amount of activity in daily life, the care recipient needs to wear an activity meter. However, sometimes the care recipient forgets to wear the activity meter or does not wear the activity meter due to the troublesome operation, in which case it is difficult to accurately measure the amount of activity.

[0004] To this end, a technology is being developed that can measure the amount of activity of the care recipient without having the care recipient wear an activity meter.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for calculating the amount of human movement in a room using human position information sensed by multiple passive sensors installed in each room. The multiple passive sensors are arranged at certain intervals along the vertical and horizontal axes of the room when viewed from above.

[0006] However, the above-mentioned prior art does not take into account the erroneous response of the sensor and needs further improvement.

[0007] Prior art literature

[0008] Patent Literature

[0009] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-99843 Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technology that can calculate the travel distance of a person even when a sensor malfunctions.

[0011] A moving distance calculation method according to an embodiment of the present invention is a moving distance calculation method for a moving distance calculation device that calculates the moving distance of a person located in a residence, comprising the following steps: obtaining first detection information indicating that the person is detected by a first sensor set in a first space in the residence, second detection information indicating that the person is detected by a second sensor set in a second space in the residence different from the first space, and third detection information indicating that the person is detected by a third sensor set in a third space in the residence connecting the first space and the second space; based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, The method comprises the steps of: accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance; based on the second detection information and the third detection information, when the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, accumulating the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance; based on the first detection information and the second detection information, not accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor to the moving distance when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor; and outputting the accumulated moving distance.

[0012] According to the present invention, even when a sensor malfunctions, the movement distance of a person can be calculated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a travel distance calculation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a room layout of a residence where main sensors and central sensors are installed in the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 Schematic diagram showing an example of a distance table stored in the distance table storage unit according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a first flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 5 This is a second flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating that, in the first embodiment, when the main sensor and the central sensor normally detect a person, the main sensor and the central sensor that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating that in the first embodiment, when the central sensor fails to detect a person normally, the main sensors and the central sensor that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating that, in the first embodiment, when the main sensor mistakenly detects a person, the main sensors and the central sensors that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a travel distance calculation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a room layout of a residence where a main sensor, a hub sensor, and sub-sensors are installed in the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing an example of a distance table stored in the distance table storage unit according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a first flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a second flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a third flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a fourth flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 16This is a fifth flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating that in the second embodiment, when the main sensor, the central sensor, and the sub-sensors normally detect a person, the main sensor, the central sensor, and the sub-sensors that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order.

[0030] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating that, in the second embodiment, when the main sensor mistakenly detects a person, the main sensor, the central sensor, and the sub-sensors that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Basic knowledge of the present invention

[0032] The above-mentioned prior art does not take into account the erroneous response of the sensor. In the case of a erroneous response of the sensor, it is difficult to calculate the movement distance of the person.

[0033] Furthermore, the aforementioned prior art requires multiple sensors in each room, which incurs significant costs. In particular, prior art primarily focuses on capturing human activity within a single space, known as a room, by installing multiple sensors. Consequently, while prior art can measure movement over relatively short distances, it faces the significant cost of installing multiple sensors when measuring relatively long distances, such as movement between rooms.

[0034] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, an embodiment of the present invention relates to a moving distance calculation method, which is a moving distance calculation method of a moving distance calculation device for calculating the moving distance of a person located in a residence, comprising the following steps: obtaining first detection information indicating that the person is detected by a first sensor set in a first space in the residence, second detection information indicating that the person is detected by a second sensor set in a second space in the residence different from the first space, and third detection information indicating that the person is detected by a third sensor set in a third space in the residence connecting the first space and the second space; based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, In this case, the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance; based on the second detection information and the third detection information, when the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance; based on the first detection information and the second detection information, when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor is not added to the moving distance; and the accumulated moving distance is output.

[0035] According to this configuration, a person cannot move from the first space to the second space without passing through the third space in the residence connecting the first space and the second space. Therefore, in a case where a person is detected by the third sensor set in the third space after being detected by the first sensor set in the first space, or in a case where a person is detected by the first sensor set in the first space after being detected by the third sensor set in the third space, the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Moreover, in a case where a person is detected by the third sensor set in the third space after being detected by the second sensor set in the second space, or in a case where a person is detected by the second sensor set in the second space after being detected by the third sensor set in the third space, the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Further, in a case where a person is detected by the second sensor set in the second space after being detected by the first sensor set in the first space, or in a case where a person is detected by the first sensor set in the first space after being detected by the second sensor set in the second space, the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor is not added to the moving distance.

[0036] Therefore, for example, if a first sensor in a first space detects a person and then a second sensor in a second space detects the person, the distance between the first and second sensors is not added to the travel distance because the person did not pass through the third space and their movement path cannot be accurately captured. Therefore, because the distance between the sensors is added to the travel distance in consideration of the person's movement path, the person's travel distance can be calculated even in the event of a sensor malfunction.

[0037] Furthermore, by installing one sensor in each of the first, second, and third spaces, there is no need to install multiple sensors in each space, thus reducing the cost of installing multiple sensors. Furthermore, it is possible to capture relatively long movements, such as movement from room to room within a residence, at a low cost.

[0038] Moreover, in the moving distance calculation method, it may also be that, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance corresponding to the combination of the setting location of the first sensor and the setting location of the third sensor is read from a table, and the read distance is added to the moving distance, wherein the table corresponds the combination of the setting location of the first sensor and the setting location of the third sensor to the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor, and corresponds the combination of the setting location of the second sensor and the setting location of the third sensor to the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor; in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance corresponding to the combination of the setting location of the second sensor and the setting location of the third sensor is read from the table, and the read distance is added to the moving distance.

[0039] According to this configuration, the combination of the installation locations of the two sensors and the distance between the two sensors are associated with each other in the table. Therefore, by reading the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation locations of the two sensors from the table, the distance moved by the person can be easily calculated.

[0040] Furthermore, the table can also associate the combination of the first sensor's installation location and the second sensor's installation location with the distance between the first and second sensors. In this case, even if the second sensor detects a person after the first sensor detects a person, the distance cannot be read from the table because the table does not contain a distance corresponding to the combination of the first and second sensor's installation locations. Therefore, only the distances associated with the table are added to the travel distance, eliminating the need to calculate the distance between the sensors.

[0041] Moreover, in the moving distance calculation method, it may also be that fourth detection information indicating that the person is detected by a fourth sensor set at a position different from the position of the first sensor set in the first space is also obtained; and based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, when the person is detected by the fourth sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the fourth sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor is added to the moving distance.

[0042] According to this configuration, not only the first sensor is set in the first space, but also the fourth sensor is set at a position different from the position where the first sensor is set. By accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor in the first space to the movement distance, a more accurate movement distance of a person can be calculated.

[0043] Moreover, in the moving distance calculation method, it may be that, when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, and the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, and the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the first sensor and at least one of the first sensor and the fourth sensor for more than three times in a row, the distance between the third sensor and the second sensor is not added to the moving distance, but the distance between the third sensor and the first sensor is added to the moving distance.

[0044] According to this configuration, if a person is detected by the first sensor and then detected three or more times consecutively by at least one of the first and fourth sensors, the person is presumed to be in the first space. Therefore, if a person is detected by the third sensor and then by the second sensor, then by the second sensor and then by the first sensor, then by at least one of the first and fourth sensors and then by the first sensor and then by the first sensor, it can be presumed that a false response occurred in the second sensor. It can be presumed that the person did not move from the third space to the second space, but rather from the third space to the first space. Therefore, even in the case of a sensor false response, the person's distance can be calculated more accurately.

[0045] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned method for calculating the moving distance, when the person is detected at the same time by any two sensors among the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor, the moving distance may not be calculated.

[0046] If multiple people are present in a residence, it can be difficult to calculate the travel distance of only the target person. Here, if any two of the first, second, and third sensors detect a person at the same time, travel distance calculation can be stopped. This allows calculation of only the target person's travel distance, as the travel distance is not calculated if a person other than the target person is present in the residence.

[0047] Furthermore, the present invention can be implemented not only as a method for calculating travel distance that performs the characteristic processing described above, but also as a device for calculating travel distance that has a characteristic configuration corresponding to the characteristic method performed by the method. Furthermore, the present invention can be implemented as a computer program that causes a computer to execute the characteristic processing included in the method. Therefore, even the other embodiments described below can achieve the same effects as the above-described method for calculating travel distance.

[0048] Another embodiment of the present invention relates to a movement distance calculation device, which is a movement distance calculation device for calculating the movement distance of a person located in a residence, including: an acquisition unit for acquiring first detection information indicating that the person is detected by a first sensor set in a first space in the residence, second detection information indicating that the person is detected by a second sensor set in a second space in the residence different from the first space, and third detection information indicating that the person is detected by a third sensor set in a third space in the residence connecting the first space and the second space; a movement distance calculation unit for calculating the movement distance of a person located in a residence based on the first detection information and the third detection information, when the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor. The distance between the first sensor and the third sensor is accumulated to the moving distance; based on the second detection information and the third detection information, when the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor is accumulated to the moving distance; based on the first detection information and the second detection information, when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor is not accumulated to the moving distance; and an output unit for outputting the accumulated moving distance.

[0049] A moving distance calculation program according to another embodiment of the present invention is a moving distance calculation program for calculating the moving distance of a person located in a residence, and causes a computer to perform the following functions: obtain first detection information indicating that the person is detected by a first sensor set in a first space in the residence, second detection information indicating that the person is detected by a second sensor set in a second space in the residence different from the first space, and third detection information indicating that the person is detected by a third sensor set in a third space in the residence connecting the first space and the second space; based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, The method comprises the steps of: accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance; based on the second detection information and the third detection information, when the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, accumulating the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance; based on the first detection information and the second detection information, not accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor to the moving distance when the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or when the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor; and outputting the accumulated moving distance.

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0051] First embodiment

[0052] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a travel distance calculation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1 The illustrated movement distance calculation system includes a first main sensor M1 , a second main sensor M2 , a hub sensor H1 , and a movement distance calculation device 2 .

[0054] The first main sensor M1 is installed in a first space 101 within the residence 100 and is used to detect people within the first space 101. The first main sensor M1 is, for example, a motion sensor or a door opening / closing sensor installed at the entrance or exit of the first space 101. The first space 101 is, for example, a room within the residence 100, such as a living room, dining room, bedroom, toilet, or bathroom. When the first main sensor M1 detects a person within the first space 101, it transmits first detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2. The first detection information also includes time information indicating the time the person was detected.

[0055] The second main sensor M2 is located in a second space 102 within the residence 100, separate from the first space 101, and is used to detect people within the second space 102. The second main sensor M2 is, for example, a human presence sensor or a door opening / closing sensor located at the entrance or exit of the second space 102. The second space 102 may be, for example, a living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom, or toilet within the residence 100. Upon detecting a person within the second space 102, the second main sensor M2 transmits second detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2. The second detection information also includes time information indicating the time the person was detected.

[0056] A central sensor H1 is located in a third space 103 within the residence 100, connecting the first space 101 and the second space 102, and is used to detect people within the third space 103. Central sensor H1 is, for example, a human presence sensor. Third space 103, for example, a hallway, is a location through which people pass when moving between the first space 101 and the second space 102. Upon detecting a person within the third space 103, central sensor H1 transmits third detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2. The third detection information also includes time information indicating the moment the person was detected.

[0057] In addition, the first main sensor M1 is an example of a first sensor, the second main sensor M2 is an example of a second sensor, and the hub sensor H1 is an example of a third sensor.

[0058] and, Figure 1 While the illustrated residence 100 includes a first space 101, a second space 102, and a third space 103, the present invention is not limited thereto and may include more than four spaces. Furthermore, a main sensor or a central sensor may be provided in each of the four or more spaces. Either a main sensor or a central sensor may be provided in each space.

[0059] Furthermore, multiple central sensors H1 can be installed in the third space. This is effective when the third space is large and a single central sensor H1 cannot detect people within it. Furthermore, central sensors H1 are not limited to corridors; they can also be installed in rooms where people frequently pass through. Furthermore, central sensors H1 can be installed in each of multiple spaces.

[0060] The movement distance calculation device 2 calculates the movement distance of a person in the residence 100. The movement distance calculation device 2 is, for example, a server. The movement distance calculation device 2 is connected to the first main sensor M1, the second main sensor M2, and the hub sensor H1 via a network 4 so that they can communicate with each other. The network 4 is, for example, the Internet.

[0061] The travel distance calculation device 2 includes a processor 21 , a memory 22 , and a communication unit 23 .

[0062] The communication unit 23 receives the first detection information transmitted by the first main sensor M1 , the second detection information transmitted by the second main sensor M2 , and the third detection information transmitted by the hub sensor H1 .

[0063] The memory 22 is a storage device capable of storing various information, such as RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or flash memory. The memory 22 includes a detection information storage unit 221 , a distance table storage unit 222 , and a movement distance storage unit 223 .

[0064] The detection information storage unit 221 stores first detection information transmitted by the first main sensor M1 , second detection information transmitted by the second main sensor M2 , and third detection information transmitted by the hub sensor H1 .

[0065] The distance table storage unit 222 stores a distance table in which the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 and the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the central sensor H1 are mutually corresponded, and the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 and the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the central sensor H1 are mutually corresponded.

[0066] The travel distance storage unit 223 stores the travel distances of the residents of the residence 100. The travel distance storage unit 223 may store the travel distances for each residence 100 or for each resident.

[0067] The processor 21 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), and the detection information acquisition unit 211 , the movement distance calculation unit 212 , and the movement distance output unit 213 are implemented by the processor 21 .

[0068] The detection information acquisition unit 211 acquires first detection information indicating that a person has been detected by a first main sensor M1 located in a first space 101 within the residence 100; second detection information indicating that a person has been detected by a second main sensor M2 located in a second space 102 within the residence 100 different from the first space 101; and third detection information indicating that a person has been detected by a hub sensor H1 located in a third space 103 within the residence 100 connecting the first space 101 and the second space 102. The detection information acquisition unit 211 reads the first, second, and third detection information stored in the detection information storage unit 221.

[0069] The movement distance calculation unit 212 arranges the first detection information, the second detection information, and the third detection information output from each sensor during a predetermined period in chronological order. The predetermined period is, for example, one day.

[0070] The moving distance calculation unit 212, based on the first detection information and the third detection information, adds the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the central sensor H1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the central sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the central sensor H1.

[0071] Moreover, the moving distance calculation unit 212, based on the second detection information and the third detection information, adds the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the central sensor H1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after a person is detected by the central sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after a person is detected by the central sensor H1.

[0072] Moreover, the moving distance calculation unit 212, based on the first detection information and the second detection information, does not add the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after being detected by the first main sensor M1, or when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 after being detected by the second main sensor M2.

[0073] Specifically, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the hub sensor H1, it is presumed that the person has moved from the first space 101 to the third space 103, and the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. On the other hand, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the second main sensor M2, since the person did not pass through the third space 103 as they were supposed to when moving from the first space 101 to the second space 102, it is presumed that the second main sensor M2 mistakenly detected the person, and the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2 is not added to the movement distance.

[0074] The moving distance calculation unit 212 reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222, when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the central sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the central sensor H1, and adds the read distance to the moving distance.

[0075] The moving distance calculation unit 212 reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222, when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after the person is detected by the central sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after the person is detected by the central sensor H1, and adds the read distance to the moving distance.

[0076] Furthermore, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then detected by the first main sensor M1, the movement distance calculation unit 212 does not add the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M1 to the movement distance. This is because if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then detected by the first main sensor M1, it is presumed that the person has not moved from the first space 101. Similarly, if a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 and then detected by the second main sensor M2, the movement distance calculation unit 212 does not add the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the second main sensor M2 to the movement distance. Furthermore, if a person is detected by the hub sensor H1 and then detected by the hub sensor H1, the movement distance calculation unit 212 does not add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor H1 to the movement distance.

[0077] The distance table does not associate the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the second main sensor M2 with the distance between them. Therefore, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 followed by the second main sensor M2, or if a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 followed by the first main sensor M1, the distance table does not contain a distance corresponding to the combination of the installation locations of the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2. Therefore, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2 is not added to the movement distance.

[0078] Alternatively, the distance table may associate the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the second main sensor M2 with 0 meters. Thus, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 followed by the second main sensor M2, or if a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 followed by the first main sensor M1, 0 meters is added to the travel distance, and the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2 is not added to the travel distance.

[0079] The travel distance output unit 213 outputs the travel distance accumulated and calculated by the travel distance calculation unit 212. The travel distance output unit 213 may also output the travel distance of the person during the specified period to the memory 22 and store the travel distance in the travel distance storage unit 223. Furthermore, the travel distance output unit 213 may also output the travel distance of the person during the specified period to the communication unit 23. In this case, the communication unit 23 may also transmit the travel distance of the person during the specified period to an information terminal (not shown). The information terminal is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, or a personal computer. The information terminal is used, for example, by a resident of the residence 100, a caregiver of a resident of the residence 100, or a care manager of a resident of the residence 100.

[0080] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a room layout of a residence where a main sensor and a central sensor are installed in the first embodiment.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8 and the central sensor H1 are installed in each room of the residence 100. The first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8 are respectively installed in the dining room, living room, bedroom, western-style room, storage room, toilet, washroom, and entrance hall, while the central sensor H1 is installed in the hallway. When a person moves from a room with a main sensor to another room with another main sensor, they need to pass through the hallway where the central sensor H1 is installed.

[0082] Figure 3 Schematic diagram showing an example of the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222 according to the first embodiment.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, for the combination of the hallway where the hub sensor H1 is located and the rooms where the first through eighth main sensors M1 through M8 are located, there are corresponding distances. For example, for the hallway and dining room combination, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is 4 meters. For example, if a person moves from the dining room to the hallway, the distance traveled is 4 meters.

[0084] Furthermore, the first detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the first main sensor M1 (dining room), the second detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the second main sensor M2 (living room), and the third detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the hub sensor H1 (hallway). Thus, the installation location can be determined based on the detection information.

[0085] Furthermore, the first detection information may include identification information for the first main sensor M1, the second detection information may include identification information for the second main sensor M2, and the third detection information may include identification information for the hub sensor H1. In this case, the memory 22 may store a table that associates the identification information of each sensor with the location of each sensor. Thus, the location of each sensor can be determined based on the detection information.

[0086] Figure 4 1 is a first flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a second flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the main sensor MN is a general term for the first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8.

[0087] First, in step S1 , the detection information acquisition unit 211 acquires a plurality of detection information outputted by the main sensor MN and the hub sensor H1 from the detection information storage unit 221 .

[0088] For example, Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The moving distance calculation process shown is executed once a day. The detection information acquisition unit 211 acquires the detection information of a day at midnight, for example. In addition, the time of acquiring the detection information is not limited to midnight. Figure 4 and Figure 5The movement distance calculation process shown is not limited to being executed once a day, and may be executed multiple times a day, once a week, or once every predetermined period.

[0089] Next, in step S2 , the movement distance calculation unit 212 arranges the plurality of detection information acquired by the detection information acquisition unit 211 in chronological order.

[0090] Next, in step S3, the travel distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the main sensor MN initially detected the person based on the chronologically arranged detection information. If the main sensor MN did not initially detect the person, that is, if the hub sensor H1 initially detected the person ("No" in step S3), the process proceeds to step S9.

[0091] On the other hand, when it is determined that the person was initially detected by the main sensor MN ("Yes" in step S3), in step S4, the moving distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the person was detected by the central sensor H1 after the person was detected by the main sensor MN based on the detection information arranged in chronological order.

[0092] If it is determined that a person was not detected by the main sensor MN followed by the hub sensor H1, that is, if it is determined that a person was detected by the main sensor MN followed by the main sensor MN ("No" in step S4), in step S5, the movement distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed. If it is determined that the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S5), in step S6, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance accumulated by the movement distance calculation unit 212. For example, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance to the movement distance storage unit 223. The movement distance storage unit 223 stores the movement distance output by the movement distance output unit 213.

[0093] On the other hand, if it is determined that the evaluation of all acquired detection information has not yet been completed ("No" in step S5), the process returns to step S4. In this manner, if a person is continuously detected by the same main sensor MN, it can be assumed that the person has not moved from the room where the main sensor MN is installed. Therefore, the distance between the two main sensors is not added to the movement distance. Furthermore, if a person is continuously detected by different main sensors MN, it can be assumed that the latter main sensor MN has mistakenly detected the person. Therefore, the distance between the two main sensors is not added to the movement distance.

[0094] If it is determined that a person has been detected by the main sensor MN and then by the hub sensor H1 ("YES" in step S4), the travel distance calculator 212 adds the distance between the main sensor MN and the hub sensor H1 to the travel distance in step S7. At this time, the travel distance calculator 212 reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the main sensor MN and the installation location of the hub sensor H1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222 and adds the read distance to the travel distance.

[0095] Next, in step S8, the movement distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S8), the process transfers to step S6.

[0096] On the other hand, when it is determined that the judgment of all the acquired detection information has not been completed ("No" in step S8), in step S9, the moving distance calculation unit 212 determines whether a person is detected by the main sensor MN after the person is detected by the central sensor H1 based on the detection information arranged in chronological order.

[0097] If it is determined that a person was not detected by the main sensor MN after being detected by the hub sensor H1, that is, if it is determined that a person was detected by the hub sensor H1 after being detected by the hub sensor H1 ("No" in step S9), in step S10, the movement distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed. If it is determined that the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S10), in step S11, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance accumulated and calculated by the movement distance calculation unit 212. For example, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance to the movement distance storage unit 223. The movement distance storage unit 223 stores the movement distance output by the movement distance output unit 213.

[0098] On the other hand, if it is determined that the evaluation of all acquired detection information has not yet been completed ("No" in step S10), the process returns to step S9. In this manner, since it can be inferred that a person has not moved from the room where the hub sensor H1 is installed if the person is continuously detected by the same hub sensor H1, the distance between the two hub sensors is not added to the movement distance.

[0099] If it is determined that a person was detected by the main sensor MN after the hub sensor H1 detected a person ("YES" in step S9), in step S12, the travel distance calculator 212 adds the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the main sensor MN to the travel distance. At this time, the travel distance calculator 212 reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the hub sensor H1 and the installation location of the main sensor MN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222 and adds the read distance to the travel distance.

[0100] Next, in step S13, the movement distance calculation unit 212 determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S13), the process transfers to step S11.

[0101] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (No in step S13 ), the process returns to step S4 .

[0102] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the main sensors and the hub sensors that have output detection information in chronological order when the main sensors and the hub sensors have normally detected a person in the first embodiment.

[0103] Because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t1 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the second main sensor M2 detected a person at time t3 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t4 and the second main sensor M2 detected a person at time t3, the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance.

[0104] Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t5 after the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t4, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t6 after the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t5, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the first main sensor M1 is not added to the movement distance. This is because it is presumed that the person has not moved from the first space 101.

[0105] Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t6 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t7, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t8 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t7, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is added to the movement distance.

[0106] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing that, in the first embodiment, when the central sensor fails to detect a person normally, the main sensors and the central sensor that have output detection information are arranged in chronological order.

[0107] exist Figure 7 In this example, the hub sensor H1 does not properly detect a person at time t2. After the first main sensor M1 detects the person at time t1, the second main sensor M2 detects the person at time t3. In this case, because the person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the second main sensor M2, the distance between the first and second main sensors M1 and M2 is not added to the movement distance.

[0108] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the main sensors and the hub sensors that have output detection information in chronological order when the main sensor mistakenly detects a person in the first embodiment.

[0109] exist Figure 8 In this example, the third main sensor M3 mistakenly detects a person at time t3. Therefore, the third main sensor M3 detects the person at time t3 after the hub sensor H1 detects the person at time t2. In this case, because the person is detected by the third main sensor M3 after the hub sensor H1 detects the person, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the third main sensor M3 is added to the movement distance. On the other hand, the second main sensor M2 detects the person at time t4 after the third main sensor M3 detects the person at time t3. In this case, because the person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after the third main sensor M3 detects the person, the distance between the third main sensor M3 and the second main sensor M2 is not added to the movement distance.

[0110] Thus, for example, if the first main sensor M1 located in the first space 101 detects a person and then the second main sensor M2 located in the second space 102 detects the person, the distance between the first and second main sensors M1 and M2 is not added to the travel distance because the person did not pass through the third space 103 and their movement path cannot be accurately captured. This allows the calculation of the person's travel distance even in the event of a sensor malfunction by taking the person's movement path into account when adding the distance between the sensors to the travel distance.

[0111] Furthermore, by providing the first main sensor M1, the second main sensor M2, and the hub sensor H1 with one sensor each in the first space 101, the second space 102, and the third space 103, there is no need to provide multiple sensors in each space, thereby reducing the cost required for providing multiple sensors.

[0112] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the travel distance calculation unit 212 may not calculate the travel distance if any two of the first main sensor M1, the second main sensor M2, and the hub sensor H1 detect a person at the same time. For example, if a caregiver visits the care receiver's residence while the travel distance calculation device 2 is calculating the travel distance of a resident who is the care receiver, the main and hub sensors may detect not only the care receiver but also the caregiver, preventing the accurate calculation of the care receiver's travel distance. If any two of the multiple main and hub sensors simultaneously detect a person, the travel distance calculation unit 212 may infer the presence of multiple people in the residence and stop calculating the travel distance. This allows the calculation of only the travel distance of the target person (resident) to be calculated, since the travel distance is not calculated if a person other than the target person (resident) is present in the residence.

[0113] Second embodiment

[0114] In the first embodiment, one main sensor or hub sensor is provided in each space within the residence 100. In contrast, in the second embodiment, at least one sub-sensor is provided in addition to the main sensor or hub sensor provided in each space.

[0115] Figure 9 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a travel distance calculation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Figure 9The illustrated travel distance calculation system includes a first main sensor M1, a second main sensor M2, a hub sensor H1, sub-sensors SA1 and SB1, and a travel distance calculation device 2A. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0117] The first main sensor M1 is installed at a first location in a first space 101 within the residence 100 and is configured to detect a person at the first location within the first space 101. The first location is, for example, the entrance to the first space 101. Upon detecting a person at the first location within the first space 101, the first main sensor M1 transmits first detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2A. The first detection information also includes time information indicating the time the person was detected.

[0118] The sub-sensor SA1 is located at a second position within the first space 101, different from the first position where the first main sensor M1 is located, and is used to detect a person at the second position. The sub-sensor SA1 is, for example, a human presence sensor or a door open / close sensor for electrical equipment located at the second position within the first space 101. Upon detecting a person at the second position within the first space 101, the sub-sensor SA1 transmits fourth detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2A. The fourth detection information also includes time information indicating the moment the person was detected.

[0119] The second main sensor M2 is installed at a first location in a second space 102 within the residence 100, which is different from the first space 101, and is used to detect a person at the first location within the second space 102. The first location is, for example, the entrance to the second space 102. When the second main sensor M2 detects a person at the first location within the second space 102, it transmits second detection information indicating the detection of the person to the travel distance calculation device 2A. The second detection information also includes time information indicating the time when the person was detected.

[0120] Sub-sensor SB1 is located at a second position within second space 102, different from the first position where second main sensor M2 is located, and is used to detect a person at the second position. Sub-sensor SB1 is, for example, a human presence sensor or a door open / close sensor for electrical equipment located at the second position within second space 102. Upon detecting a person at the second position within second space 102, sub-sensor SB1 transmits fourth detection information indicating the detection of the person to travel distance calculation device 2A. This fourth detection information also includes time information indicating the moment the person was detected.

[0121] The sub-sensors SA1 and SB1 are examples of the fourth sensor. Furthermore, the number of sub-sensors installed in one space is not limited to one, and a plurality of sub-sensors may be installed in one space.

[0122] The movement distance calculation device 2A is communicably connected to the first main sensor M1 , the second main sensor M2 , the hub sensor H1 , and the sub-sensors SA1 and SB1 via the network 4 .

[0123] The travel distance calculation device 2A includes a processor 21A, a memory 22A, and a communication unit 23A.

[0124] The communication unit 23A receives first detection information transmitted by the first main sensor M1 , second detection information transmitted by the second main sensor M2 , third detection information transmitted by the hub sensor H1 , and fourth detection information transmitted by the sub-sensors SA1 and SB1 .

[0125] The memory 22A is a storage device such as RAM, HDD, SSD, or flash memory that can store various information. The memory 22A includes a detection information storage unit 221A, a distance table storage unit 222A, and a movement distance storage unit 223 .

[0126] The detection information storage unit 221A stores first detection information transmitted by the first main sensor M1 , second detection information transmitted by the second main sensor M2 , third detection information transmitted by the hub sensor H1 , and fourth detection information transmitted by the sub-sensors SA1 and SB1 .

[0127] The distance table storage unit 222A stores a distance table, in which the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 and the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the central sensor H1 are corresponded to each other, and the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of the central sensor H1 and the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the central sensor H1 are corresponded to each other.

[0128] Furthermore, the distance table associates the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the sub-sensor SA1 with the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the sub-sensor SA1. Furthermore, if multiple sub-sensors are installed in the first space 101, the distance table may associate the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation locations of each sub-sensor with the distance between the first main sensor M1 and each sub-sensor, and associate the combination of the installation locations of two sub-sensors with the distance between the two sub-sensors.

[0129] Furthermore, the distance table associates the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of the sub-sensor SB1 with the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the sub-sensor SB1. Furthermore, if multiple sub-sensors are installed in the second space 102, the distance table may associate the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of each sub-sensor with the distance between the second main sensor M2 and each sub-sensor, and associate the combination of the installation locations of two sub-sensors with the distance between the two sub-sensors.

[0130] The processor 21A is, for example, a CPU, and the detection information acquisition unit 211A, the movement distance calculation unit 212A, and the movement distance output unit 213 are implemented by the processor 21A.

[0131] The detection information acquisition unit 211A acquires first detection information indicating that a person has been detected by the first main sensor M1, second detection information indicating that a person has been detected by the second main sensor M2, and third detection information indicating that a person has been detected by the hub sensor H1 disposed in the third space 103. The detection information acquisition unit 211A reads the first, second, and third detection information stored in the detection information storage unit 221A.

[0132] Furthermore, the detection information acquisition unit 211A acquires fourth detection information indicating that a person has been detected by the sub-sensor SA1, which is provided at a position different from the position where the first main sensor M1 is provided within the first space 101. The detection information acquisition unit 211A reads the fourth detection information stored in the detection information storage unit 221A.

[0133] The movement distance calculation unit 212A arranges the first detection information, the second detection information, the third detection information, and the fourth detection information output from each sensor during a predetermined period in chronological order. The predetermined period is, for example, one day.

[0134] The moving distance calculation unit 212A, based on the first detection information and the third detection information, adds the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the hub sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 and then by the hub sensor H1.

[0135] Moreover, the moving distance calculation unit 212A, based on the second detection information and the third detection information, adds the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the central sensor H1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after a person is detected by the central sensor H1, or when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after a person is detected by the central sensor H1.

[0136] Moreover, the moving distance calculation unit 212A, based on the first detection information and the second detection information, does not add the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the second main sensor M2 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after being detected by the first main sensor M1, or when a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 after being detected by the second main sensor M2.

[0137] Moreover, based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, the moving distance calculation unit 212A adds the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the sub-sensor SA1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the first main sensor M1, or when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the first main sensor M1.

[0138] Moreover, based on the second detection information and the fourth detection information, the moving distance calculation unit 212A adds the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the sub-sensor SB1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102 after the person is detected by the second main sensor M2, or when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after the person is detected by the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102.

[0139] In addition, based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, the moving distance calculation unit 212A does not add the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the sub-sensor SB1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102 after a person is detected by the first main sensor M1, or when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102 after a person is detected by the first main sensor M1.

[0140] Moreover, based on the second detection information and the fourth detection information, the moving distance calculation unit 212A does not add the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the sub-sensor SA1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the second main sensor M2, or when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the second main sensor M2.

[0141] The moving distance calculation unit 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the first main sensor M1 and the installation location of the sub-sensor SA1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222 (should be 222A), when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the first main sensor M1, or when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after the person is detected by the first main sensor M1, and adds the read distance to the moving distance.

[0142] Moreover, the moving distance calculation unit 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the second main sensor M2 and the installation location of the sub-sensor SB1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222 (should be 222A), and adds the read distance to the moving distance, when a person is detected by the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102 after the second main sensor M2 detects the person, or when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after the sub-sensor SB1 of the second space 102 detects the person.

[0143] In addition, the moving distance calculation unit 212A does not add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 to the moving distance, but adds the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 to the moving distance when a person is detected by the second main sensor M2 after being detected by the hub sensor H1, and by at least one of the first main sensor M1 and the sub-sensor SA1 of the first space 101 after being detected by the second main sensor M2.

[0144] That is, if the hub sensor H1, the second main sensor M2, and the first main sensor M1 sequentially detect a person, there is a possibility that one of the second main sensor M2 or the first main sensor M1 may have misdetected a person because the hub sensor H1 did not detect the person after the second main sensor M2. If, after the second main sensor M2 detects a person, at least one of the first main sensor M1 or the sub-sensor SA1 in the first space 101 detects the person three or more times in a row, it can be inferred that the person did not move from the third space 103 to the second space 102, but rather from the third space 103 to the first space 101. Therefore, the movement distance calculator 212A does not add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 to the movement distance, but instead adds the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1.

[0145] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of a room layout of a residence where a main sensor, a hub sensor, and sub-sensors are installed in the second embodiment.

[0146] like Figure 10 As shown, the first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8 and the central sensor H1 are installed in each room of the residence 100. The first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8 are respectively installed in the dining room, living room, bedroom, western-style room, storage room, toilet, washroom, and entrance hall, while the central sensor H1 is installed in the hallway. In particular, the first main sensor M1 is installed at the entrance to the dining room, and the second main sensor M2 is installed at the entrance to the living room. When a person moves from a room where a main sensor is installed to another room where another main sensor is installed, they need to pass through the hallway where the central sensor H1 is installed.

[0147] Furthermore, sub-sensors SA1 through SA4 are located in different locations within the dining room than the first main sensor M1. Specifically, sub-sensor SA1 is a human presence sensor located near the dining table, used to detect people sitting at the table. Furthermore, sub-sensor SA2 is an open / close sensor located on the refrigerator door, used to detect people opening and closing the door. Furthermore, sub-sensor SA3 is an open / close sensor located on the microwave door, used to detect people opening and closing the microwave door. Finally, sub-sensor SA4 is a human presence sensor located near the kitchen, used to detect people in the kitchen.

[0148] Furthermore, the sub-sensor SB1 is installed at a position in the living room different from the position where the second main sensor M2 is installed. Specifically, the sub-sensor SB1 is a human body sensing sensor installed near a sofa to detect a person on the sofa.

[0149] Figure 11 Schematic diagram showing an example of the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A according to the second embodiment.

[0150] like Figure 11 As shown, the hallway, where the hub sensor H1 is located, corresponds to the distances between the rooms where the first through eighth main sensors M1 through M8 are located. For example, for the hallway and dining room combination, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is 4 meters. For example, if a person moves from the dining room to the hallway, 4 meters is added to the distance traveled.

[0151] Furthermore, the first main sensor M1 is installed at the entrance to the dining room, and the second main sensor M2 is installed at the entrance to the living room. The location where the first main sensor M1 is installed (the dining room entrance) and the locations where the sub-sensors SA1 to SA4 are installed (the dining table, refrigerator, microwave oven, or kitchen) are associated with each other by distance. For example, for the combination of the dining room entrance and the dining table, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the sub-sensor SA1 is 6 meters. For example, if a person moves from the dining room entrance to the dining table, 6 meters is added to the distance traveled.

[0152] Furthermore, pairs of sub-sensors also correspond to distances. For example, for the dining table and refrigerator combination, the distance between sub-sensors SA1 and SA2 is 2 meters. For example, if a person moves from the dining table to the refrigerator, 2 meters is added to the distance traveled.

[0153] Furthermore, the first detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the first main sensor M1 (dining room), the second detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the second main sensor M2 (living room), the third detection information may include information indicating the installation location of the hub sensor H1 (hallway), and the fourth detection information may include information indicating the installation locations of the sub-sensors SA1 to SA4. Thus, the installation locations can be determined based on the detection information.

[0154] Furthermore, the first detection information may include identification information for the first main sensor M1, the second detection information may include identification information for the second main sensor M2, the third detection information may include identification information for the hub sensor H1, and the fourth detection information may include identification information for the sub-sensors SA1 through SA4. In this case, the memory 22 may also store a table that associates the identification information of each sensor with its installation location. Thus, the installation location can be determined based on the detection information.

[0155] Figure 12 1 is a first flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13 2 is a second flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 1 is a third flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 4 is a fourth flowchart for explaining the movement distance calculation process of the movement distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16This is a fifth flowchart for describing the distance calculation process of the distance calculation device 2A according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, the main sensor MN is a collective term for the first to eighth main sensors M1 to M8, and the sub-sensor SN is a collective term for the sub-sensors SA1 to SA4 and SB1.

[0156] The processing from step S21 to step S22 is related to Figure 4 The processes from step S1 to step S2 shown are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0157] Next, in step S23, the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the main sensor MN initially detected the person. If the main sensor MN does not initially detect the person, that is, the hub sensor H1 or the sub-sensor SN initially detects the person ("No" in step S23), the travel distance calculation unit 212A then determines in step S27 whether the hub sensor H1 initially detected the person.

[0158] If it is determined that the central sensor H1 initially detected the person ("YES" in step S27), the process proceeds to step S28. If it is determined that the central sensor H1 did not initially detect the person, that is, if the sub-sensor SN initially detected the person ("NO" in step S27), the process proceeds to step S41.

[0159] On the other hand, if it is determined that the person was initially detected by the main sensor MN ("YES" in step S23), in step S24, the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the person was detected by the hub sensor H1 after the person was detected by the main sensor MN based on the chronologically arranged detection information. If it is determined that the person was not detected by the hub sensor H1 after the person was detected by the main sensor MN, that is, if it is determined that the person was detected by the main sensor MN or the sub-sensor SN after the person was detected by the main sensor MN ("NO" in step S24), the process proceeds to step S37.

[0160] On the other hand, if it is determined that a person was detected by the hub sensor H1 after the main sensor MN detected the person ("YES" in step S24), in step S25, the travel distance calculator 212A adds the distance between the main sensor MN and the hub sensor H1 to the travel distance. In this case, the travel distance calculator 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the main sensor MN and the installation location of the hub sensor H1 from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and adds the read distance to the travel distance.

[0161] Next, in step S26, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the evaluation of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the evaluation of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S26), in step S51, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance accumulated and calculated by the movement distance calculation unit 212. For example, the movement distance output unit 213 outputs the movement distance to the movement distance storage unit 223. The movement distance storage unit 223 stores the movement distance output by the movement distance output unit 213.

[0162] If it is determined that the judgment of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed ("No" in step S26), or if it is determined that the person was initially detected by the hub sensor H1 ("Yes" in step S27), in step S28, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the person was detected by the main sensor MN after the person was detected by the hub sensor H1 based on the detection information arranged in chronological order. Here, if it is determined that the person was not detected by the main sensor MN after the person was detected by the hub sensor H1, that is, if the person was detected by the hub sensor H1 or the sub-sensor SN after the person was detected by the hub sensor H1 ("No" in step S28), in step S29, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the person was detected by the sub-sensor SN after the person was detected by the hub sensor H1 based on the detection information arranged in chronological order.

[0163] If it is determined that the person was not detected by the sub-sensor SN after the central sensor H1 detected the person, that is, if the person was detected by the central sensor H1 after the central sensor H1 detected the person ("No" in step S29), in step S30, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the evaluation of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If it is determined that the evaluation of all the acquired detection information has not been completed ("No" in step S30), the process returns to step S28. In this way, since the continuous detection of a person by the same central sensor H1 can be inferred that the person has not moved from the room where the central sensor H1 is installed, the distance between the two central sensors is not added to the movement distance.

[0164] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has been completed (YES in step S30 ), the process proceeds to step S51 .

[0165] If the sub-sensor SN determines that a person has been detected after the hub sensor H1 ("YES" in step S29), the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines in step S31 whether the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed. If the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed ("YES" in step S31), the process proceeds to step S51.

[0166] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (NO in step S31 ), the process proceeds to step S41 .

[0167] Furthermore, if it is determined that a person was detected by the main sensor MN after the hub sensor H1 detected the person ("YES" in step S28), in step S32, the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines, based on the chronologically arranged detection information, whether the person was detected by another main sensor MN after the person was detected by the main sensor MN. In other words, if it is determined that a person was detected by the main sensor MN after the hub sensor H1 detected the person, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the main sensor MN is not added to the travel distance. Instead, a determination is made as to whether the person was detected by another main sensor MN after the person was detected by the main sensor MN.

[0168] Here, if it is determined that a person has been detected by the main sensor MN but no person has been detected by the other main sensors MN ("No" in step S32), in step S35, the travel distance calculator 212A adds the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the main sensors MN to the travel distance. In this case, the travel distance calculator 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the hub sensor H1 and the installation location of the main sensors MN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and adds the read distance to the travel distance.

[0169] Next, in step S36, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S36), the process transfers to step S51.

[0170] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (No in step S36 ), the process returns to step S24 .

[0171] If it is determined that a person has been detected by the main sensor MN and then by another main sensor MN ("YES" in step S32), in step S33, the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the person has been detected three or more times consecutively by the other main sensor MN or the sub-sensor SN in the same space as the other main sensor MN based on the chronologically arranged detection information. If it is determined that the person has not been detected three or more times consecutively by the other main sensor MN or the sub-sensor SN in the same space as the other main sensor MN ("NO" in step S33), the process proceeds to step S35.

[0172] On the other hand, if it is determined that a person has been detected three or more times consecutively by another main sensor MN or a sub-sensor SN in the same space as the other main sensor MN ("YES" in step S33), in step S34, the movement distance calculation unit 212A accumulates the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the other main sensor MN into the movement distance. In this case, the movement distance calculation unit 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the hub sensor H1 and the installation location of the other main sensor MN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and accumulates the read distance into the movement distance. In this case, the movement distance calculation unit 212A accumulates the distance between the other main sensors MN and the hub sensor H1 that detected a person after the main sensor MN into the movement distance.

[0173] In addition, if a person is detected three times consecutively by the same other main sensor MN in step S33, the movement distance calculation unit 212A may also add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the other main sensor MN to the movement distance. Furthermore, if a person is detected two consecutive times by the same sub-sensor SN in the same space as the other main sensor MN after the other main sensor MN detects the person in step S33, the movement distance calculation unit 212A may also add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the other main sensor MN to the movement distance.

[0174] Next, in step S37, the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines, based on the chronologically arranged detection information, whether a person was detected by the sub-sensor SN in the same space after the main sensor MN detected the person. If it is determined that the sub-sensor SN in the same space did not detect the person after the main sensor MN detected the person, that is, if the person was detected by the main sensor MN or by a sub-sensor SN in another space after the main sensor MN detected the person ("No" in step S37), the travel distance calculation unit 212A determines, based on the chronologically arranged detection information, whether a person was detected by the sub-sensor SN in another space after the main sensor MN detected the person. If it is determined that the sub-sensor SN in another space detected the person after the main sensor MN detected the person ("Yes" in step S38), the process proceeds to step S40.

[0175] On the other hand, in a case where it is determined that a person is not detected by the sub-sensor SN in another space after the main sensor MN has detected a person, that is, in a case where a person is detected by the main sensor MN again after the main sensor MN has detected a person ("No" in step S38), the processing is transferred to step S43.

[0176] If the main sensor MN detects a person and then the sub-sensor SN detects a person in the same space ("YES" in step S37), the travel distance calculator 212A adds the distance between the main sensor MN and the sub-sensor SN to the travel distance in step S39. In this case, the travel distance calculator 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the main sensor MN and the installation location of the sub-sensor SN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and adds the read distance to the travel distance.

[0177] Next, in step S40, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S40), the process moves to step S51.

[0178] On the other hand, if it is determined that the evaluation of all acquired detection information has not yet been completed ("No" in step S40), in step S41, the travel distance calculator 212A determines, based on the chronologically arranged detection information, whether a person has been detected by the main sensor MN in the same space after the sub-sensor SN has detected the person. If it is determined that a person has been detected by the main sensor MN in the same space after the sub-sensor SN has detected the person ("Yes" in step S41), in step S42, the travel distance calculator 212A accumulates the distance between the sub-sensor SN and the main sensor MN into the travel distance. In this case, the travel distance calculator 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the sub-sensor SN and the installation location of the main sensor MN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and accumulates the read distance into the travel distance.

[0179] Next, in step S43, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S43), the process transfers to step S51.

[0180] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (No in step S43 ), the process returns to step S24 .

[0181] Furthermore, if it is determined that a person was not detected by the main sensor MN in the same space after being detected by the sub-sensor SN, that is, if a person was detected by the main sensor MN in another space, another sub-sensor SN in the same space, a sub-sensor SN in another space, or the hub sensor H1 after being detected by the sub-sensor SN ("No" in step S41), in step S44, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether a person was detected by another sub-sensor SN in the same space after being detected by the sub-sensor SN based on the chronologically arranged detection information. If it is determined that a person was detected by another sub-sensor SN in the same space after being detected by the sub-sensor SN ("Yes" in step S44), in step S45, the movement distance calculation unit 212A accumulates the distance between the sub-sensor SN and the other sub-sensor SN into the movement distance. In this case, the movement distance calculation unit 212A reads the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the sub-sensor SN and the installation location of the other sub-sensor SN from the distance table stored in the distance table storage unit 222A and accumulates the read distance into the movement distance.

[0182] Next, in step S46, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed. If the judgment of all the acquired detection information has been completed ("Yes" in step S46), the process transfers to step S51.

[0183] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (No in step S46 ), the process returns to step S41 .

[0184] Furthermore, if it is determined that a person has not been detected by another sub-sensor SN in the same space after being detected by a sub-sensor SN, that is, if a person has been detected by the same sub-sensor SN in the same space, a main sensor MN in another space, a sub-sensor SN in another space, or the hub sensor H1 after being detected by a sub-sensor SN ("No" in step S44), in step S47, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether a person has been detected by the same sub-sensor SN in the same space after being detected by the sub-sensor SN based on the chronologically arranged detection information. If it is determined that a person has been detected by the same sub-sensor SN in the same space after being detected by the sub-sensor SN ("Yes" in step S48 (should be S47)), the process returns to step S41. Specifically, since it can be assumed that the person has not moved if the same sub-sensor SN continuously detects a person, distance accumulation is not performed, and the process returns to step S41.

[0185] On the other hand, if it is determined that no human has been detected by the same sub-sensor SN in the same space after a human has been detected by the sub-sensor SN, that is, if a human has been detected by the main sensor MN in another space, a sub-sensor SN in another space, or the hub sensor H1 after a human has been detected by the sub-sensor SN ("No" in step S48 (should be S47)), in step S48, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines, based on the chronologically arranged detection information, whether a human has been detected by the hub sensor H1 after the human has been detected by the sub-sensor SN. Here, if it is determined that a human has been detected by the hub sensor H1 after the human has been detected by the sub-sensor SN ("Yes" in step S48), the process returns to step S28.

[0186] On the other hand, if it is determined that the hub sensor H1 has not detected a person after the sub-sensor SN has detected a person, that is, if the main sensor MN in another space or the sub-sensor SN in another space has detected a person after the sub-sensor SN has detected a person ("No" in step S48), in step S49, the movement distance calculation unit 212A determines whether the sub-sensor SN in another space has detected a person after the sub-sensor SN has detected a person based on the chronologically arranged detection information. Here, if it is determined that the sub-sensor SN in another space has not detected a person after the sub-sensor SN has detected a person, that is, if the main sensor MN in another space has detected a person after the sub-sensor SN has detected a person ("No" in step S49), the processing returns to step S24.

[0187] If, after determining that a person has been detected by a sub-sensor SN, a sub-sensor SN in another space has detected a person ("YES" in step S49), step S50 determines whether the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed. If the evaluation of all acquired detection information has been completed ("YES" in step S50), the process proceeds to step S51.

[0188] On the other hand, when it is determined that the determination of all the acquired detection information has not yet been completed (No in step S50 ), the process returns to step S41 .

[0189] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the main sensor, the hub sensor, and the sub-sensors that have output detection information in chronological order when the main sensor, the hub sensor, and the sub-sensors have normally detected a person in the second embodiment.

[0190] First, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t1 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the second main sensor M2 detected a person at time t3 after the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the sub-sensor SB1, located in the same space as the second main sensor M2, detected a person at time t4 after the second main sensor M2 detected a person at time t3, the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the sub-sensor SB1 is added to the movement distance.

[0191] Furthermore, because the second main sensor M2 detects a person at time t5 after the sub-sensor SB1 detects a person at time t4, the distance between the sub-sensor SB1 and the second main sensor M2 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the hub sensor H1 detects a person at time t6 after the second main sensor M2 detects a person at time t5, the distance between the second main sensor M2 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance.

[0192] Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t7 after the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t6, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t8 after the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t7, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the first main sensor M1 is not added to the movement distance. This is because it is presumed that the person has not moved from the first space 101.

[0193] Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t8 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t9, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t10 after the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t9, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is added to the movement distance.

[0194] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the main sensor, the hub sensor, and the sub-sensors that have output detection information in chronological order when the main sensor mistakenly detects a person in the second embodiment.

[0195] First, because the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t1 and the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, the distance between the first main sensor M1 and the hub sensor H1 is added to the movement distance. Furthermore, although the first main sensor M1 detected a person at time t3 after the hub sensor H1 detected a person at time t2, it is unknown whether the first main sensor M1 correctly detected the person. Therefore, the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1 is not currently added to the movement distance.

[0196] Next, after the first main sensor M1 detects a person at time t3, the second main sensor M2 detects a person at time t4. Sub-sensor SB1, located in the same space as the second main sensor M2, detects a person at time t5, and the second main sensor M2 detects a person at time t6. In other words, because the second main sensor M2, sub-sensor SB1 in the second space 102, and second main sensor M2 continuously detect the person after the first main sensor M1 detects the person, it can be inferred that the person moved from the third space 103 to the second space 102, not from the third space 103 to the first space 101. In this way, because at least one of the second main sensor M2 and sub-sensor SB1 in the second space 102 detects the person three or more times consecutively after the first main sensor M1 detects the person, the distance between the central sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 is added to the movement distance, not the distance between the central sensor H1 and the first main sensor M1. This allows for more accurate calculation of the person's movement distance, even in the event of a sensor malfunction.

[0197] Furthermore, if a person is detected by the first main sensor M1 in the first space 101 and then detected at least three times consecutively by a sub-sensor in the second space 102, the movement distance calculator 212A may deem the person to be in the second space 102 and add the distance between the hub sensor H1 and the second main sensor M2 in the second space 102 to the movement distance. The sub-sensors that detect a person at least three times consecutively may include the same sub-sensor or different sub-sensors.

[0198] In each of the above-described embodiments, each component may be implemented using dedicated hardware or by executing a software program suitable for that component. Each component may also be implemented by having a program execution unit, such as a CPU or processor, read and execute a software program stored on a storage medium, such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. Furthermore, the program may be stored and transferred on a storage medium or transferred via a network, allowing execution of the program on a separate independent computer system.

[0199] Part or all of the functions of the devices involved in the embodiments of the present invention can typically be implemented as an integrated circuit (LSI). Part or all of these functions can be individually formed into chips, or they can be formed into a chip that includes part or all of them. Moreover, integrated circuits are not limited to LSIs and can also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) that can be programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or reconfigurable processors that can reconfigure the connections or settings of circuit cells within the LSI, can also be used.

[0200] Furthermore, part or all of the functions of the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention may be realized by causing a processor such as a CPU to execute a program.

[0201] Furthermore, the numbers used above are examples given to specifically illustrate the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these exemplified numbers.

[0202] Furthermore, the order in which the steps shown in the flowcharts are executed is merely an example for the purpose of illustrating the present invention in detail. Other orders are possible while achieving the same effects. Furthermore, some of the steps may be executed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps.

[0203] Industrial applicability

[0204] The technology involved in the present invention can calculate the movement distance of a person even when a sensor malfunctions, and therefore has practical value as a technology for calculating the movement distance of a person in a residence.

Claims

1. A method for calculating a moving distance, wherein a moving distance calculating device calculates a moving distance of a person in a residence, wherein the method comprises: The following steps are involved: acquiring first detection information indicating that the person was detected by a first sensor provided in a first space within the residence, second detection information indicating that the person was detected by a second sensor provided in a second space within the residence different from the first space, third detection information indicating that the person was detected by a third sensor provided in a third space within the residence connecting the first space and the second space, and fourth detection information indicating that the person was detected by a fourth sensor provided in a position within the first space different from the position where the first sensor was provided; Based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Based on the second detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Based on the first detection information and the second detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, no adding the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor to the movement distance; and based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the fourth sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the fourth sensor, accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, or by at least one of the first sensor and the fourth sensor after being detected by the first sensor for three or more consecutive times, accumulating the distance between the third sensor and the first sensor in the movement distance instead of the distance between the third sensor and the second sensor; and The accumulated moving distance is output.

2. The moving distance calculation method according to claim 1, characterized in that: In a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, reading the distance corresponding to the combination of the installation location of the first sensor and the installation location of the third sensor from a table, wherein the table corresponds the combination of the installation location of the first sensor and the installation location of the third sensor to the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor, and corresponds the combination of the installation location of the second sensor and the installation location of the third sensor to the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor, and adding the read distance to the movement distance; In a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance corresponding to the combination of the setting location of the second sensor and the setting location of the third sensor is read from the table, and the read distance is added to the moving distance.

3. The moving distance calculation method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Furthermore, when the person is detected at the same time by any two sensors among the first sensor, the second sensor, and the third sensor, the movement distance is not calculated.

4. A moving distance calculation device for calculating the moving distance of a person in a residence, characterized in that include: an acquisition unit configured to acquire first detection information indicating that the person was detected by a first sensor provided in a first space within the residence, second detection information indicating that the person was detected by a second sensor provided in a second space within the residence different from the first space, third detection information indicating that the person was detected by a third sensor provided in a third space within the residence connecting the first space and the second space, and fourth detection information indicating that the person was detected by a fourth sensor provided in a position within the first space different from the position where the first sensor was provided; The moving distance calculating unit accumulates the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, and accumulates the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor to the moving distance based on the second detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, and based on the first detection information and the second detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor. In this case, the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor is not added to the movement distance. Based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, when the person is detected by the first sensor and then by the fourth sensor, or when the person is detected by the first sensor and then by the fourth sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor is added to the movement distance. When the person is detected by the third sensor and then by the second sensor, then by the first sensor and then by at least one of the first sensor and the fourth sensor for three or more consecutive times, the distance between the third sensor and the second sensor is not added to the movement distance, but the distance between the third sensor and the first sensor is added to the movement distance; and An output unit is used to output the accumulated moving distance.

5. A moving distance calculation program product, comprising a moving distance calculation program for calculating the moving distance of a person located in a residence, characterized in that: Enables the computer to: acquiring first detection information indicating that the person was detected by a first sensor provided in a first space within the residence, second detection information indicating that the person was detected by a second sensor provided in a second space within the residence different from the first space, third detection information indicating that the person was detected by a third sensor provided in a third space within the residence connecting the first space and the second space, and fourth detection information indicating that the person was detected by a fourth sensor provided in a position within the first space different from the position where the first sensor was provided; Based on the first detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the first sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the first sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Based on the second detection information and the third detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the third sensor after being detected by the second sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, the distance between the second sensor and the third sensor is added to the moving distance. Based on the first detection information and the second detection information, in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the first sensor or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, no adding the distance between the first sensor and the second sensor to the movement distance; and based on the first detection information and the fourth detection information, accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the fourth sensor, or in a case where the person is detected by the first sensor after being detected by the fourth sensor, accumulating the distance between the first sensor and the fourth sensor in a case where the person is detected by the second sensor after being detected by the third sensor, by the first sensor after being detected by the second sensor, or by at least one of the first sensor and the fourth sensor after being detected by the first sensor for three or more consecutive times, accumulating the distance between the third sensor and the first sensor in the movement distance instead of the distance between the third sensor and the second sensor; and The accumulated moving distance is output.

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