Sensor device, system and transmission method

Abstract

A sensor device (50) includes an acquisition unit that acquires biological information of a subject, a communication unit that performs near field wireless communication, and a control unit. The sensor device is characterized in that it determines whether the acquired biological information is specific biological information, and in the case where the biological information is specific biological information, transmits the biological information to a server device via a first terminal device (10) using the communication unit, and in the case where the biological information is not specific biological information, transmits the biological information using broadcasting using the communication unit, whereby the biological information is transmitted to the server device via a second terminal device (20) that is not specific.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to sensor devices, etc. This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-101709, filed on June 18, 2021. All contents described in the aforementioned patent application are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Systems for managing an individual's physical condition using sensors have long been known (e.g., Patent Document 1). Furthermore, systems for managing the physical condition of multiple workers have been disclosed (e.g., see Patent Document 2). Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-232963 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-154920 Summary of the Invention The problem the invention aims to solve

[0004] One of the purposes of this disclosure is to provide a system that can properly acquire the state of an object and the sensor device used in the system. Technical means to solve the problem

[0005] The sensor device disclosed herein can be configured as follows: a sensor device comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring biometric information of a subject; a communication unit for performing short-range wireless communication; and a control unit that determines whether the acquired biometric information is specific biometric information. If the biometric information is specific biometric information, the control unit transmits the biometric information to a server device via a specific terminal device through the communication unit. If the biometric information is not specific biometric information, the control unit transmits the biometric information via broadcast through the communication unit, thereby transmitting the biometric information to a server device via a non-specific terminal device.

[0006] The system disclosed herein can be configured as follows: it includes a sensor device that transmits acquired sensor information; and a terminal device that transmits the sensor information received from the sensor device to a server device. When transmitting the sensor information in a connection-oriented manner, a first terminal device that has established communication with the sensor device sends the sensor information to the server device. When transmitting the sensor information in a broadcast manner, a second terminal device that receives the sensor information sends the sensor information to the server device.

[0007] The transmission method disclosed herein can be configured as follows: a transmission method in which sensor information is transmitted from a sensor device to a server device via a terminal device; when the sensor information is transmitted from the sensor device in a connection-oriented manner, the terminal device that has established communication with the sensor device transmits the sensor information to the server device; when the sensor information is transmitted in a broadcast manner, any terminal device that receives the sensor information transmits the sensor information to the server device. The effects of the invention

[0008] According to the system disclosed herein, there is a system capable of properly acquiring the state of an object and a sensor device utilized in the system. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the general structure of the system in the first embodiment. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the general structure of the system in the first embodiment. Figure 3 A diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the first terminal device in the first embodiment. Figure 4 Figure (a) is an example of sensor information in the first embodiment. Figure 4 (b) is a diagram showing an example of the setting information in the first embodiment. Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the configuration of the gateway device in the first embodiment. Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the second terminal device in the first embodiment. Figure 7 A diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the third terminal device in the first embodiment. Figure 8 A diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the sensor device in the first embodiment. Figure 9 This figure shows an example of the setting information of the sensor device in the first embodiment. Figure 10 A diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the server device in the first embodiment. Figure 11 This diagram illustrates an example of the configuration of the object DB of the server device in the first embodiment. Figure 12 This diagram illustrates an example of the configuration of the sensor DB in the server device of the first embodiment. Figure 13 A sequence diagram illustrating the system flow in the first embodiment. Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating the setting process of the sensor device in the first embodiment. Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the sensor device in the first embodiment. Figure 16 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the server device in the first embodiment. Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the third terminal device in the first embodiment. Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the third terminal device of the first embodiment. Figure 24 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the first terminal device in the second embodiment. Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first terminal device of the second embodiment. Figure 26 This diagram illustrates an example of operation in the first terminal device of the second embodiment. Figure 26 (a) represents the shift diagram of SpO2. Figure 26 (b) represents a graph showing the progression of heart rate. Figure 26 (c) represents the graph of body temperature change. Figure 26 (d) shows the trend of activity levels. Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating an example of operation in the first terminal device of the second embodiment. Figure 28 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the sensor device in the third embodiment. Figure 29 A flowchart illustrating the operation of the server device in the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0010] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a specific embodiment for carrying out the present disclosure will be described. Furthermore, the following embodiment is merely an example for illustrating the present disclosure, and the technical scope of the invention as described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0011] Typically, there are sensor devices capable of acquiring information related to the subject. These sensor devices can acquire, for example, the subject's biological information, sleep information, state information including the subject's movements, and lifestyle patterns. For instance, sensor devices can acquire the subject's heart rate, respiration rate, body temperature, SpO2, etc., as biological information.

[0012] Furthermore, there are systems that aggregate information about the subjects acquired by sensor devices (hereinafter referred to as subject information) to a server device to manage the subjects' physical condition and health. Here, the sensor devices have short-range wireless communication capabilities to communicate with terminal devices, but most do not have the capability to communicate directly with the server device or serve as gateways to forward communications from other devices. Therefore, the sensor devices sometimes transmit the acquired information to the server device via a terminal device or gateway device with communication capabilities.

[0013] Furthermore, as revealed in the cited literature above, systems for managing the physical condition of one or more individuals are sometimes used in locations such as construction sites or factories. In such cases, the system must be equipped with sensor devices corresponding to the number of individuals, devices for acquiring information about the individuals, and devices for communication between the sensor devices and server devices.

[0014] In recent years, managing the physical condition of evacuees has become a major problem at disaster relief sites and other similar locations. Such sites present the challenge of easily preparing equipment appropriate for the number of evacuees to transmit data from sensor devices to server devices or to communicate with server devices.

[0015] Furthermore, the sensor device considers using BLE broadcast communication to transmit the recipient's information. However, if the sensor device simply uses broadcast communication, the recipient's information will be sent to the server device via a large number of unspecified terminal devices. This would allow third parties to view the recipient's information, raising concerns about the need to handle personal information with caution.

[0016] In shelters, health management of refugees is extremely important. However, during disasters, it is extremely difficult for a small number of medical personnel to conduct rounds and assess those in need. There is a need for methods to monitor changes in the physical condition of refugees in real time and for medical personnel to respond quickly when these changes occur. Especially during influenza outbreaks, there is a need for screening and remote treatment that can reduce the frequency of contact between refugees and medical personnel. This requires building a system that can be used without introducing new equipment.

[0017] The system for solving such problems will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely examples disclosed herein, and the invention is not limited to this content.

[0018] [1. First Embodiment] [1.1 Overall Overview] The following is a general overview of this embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the term "object" refers to a person who uses the system to manage their physical condition and health status.

[0019] In addition, the term "staff" refers to people working in hospitals, shelters, and elderly care facilities. For example, staff include medical personnel such as doctors and nurses, and those who are equivalent to medical or nursing staff in care facilities for people they care for.

[0020] Furthermore, the so-called object-related information refers to information related to the objects being processed by the system. Object-related information includes not only the information that the sensor devices can acquire, but also the information derived from the information acquired by the sensor devices. Object-related information includes information about changes in values, states, etc., and especially information that personnel should pay attention to. For example, object-related information includes the following:

[0021] (1) Bioinformatics Biometric information refers to information related to the vital signs of the subject. For example, biometric information includes the subject's heart rate, respiration rate, SpO2, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, etc. In addition, the biometric information in this embodiment may also include the subject's activity level, number of steps, etc.

[0022] (2) The state of the object (state information) The subject's state can be determined based on sensor data such as acceleration and changes in center of gravity. State information represents the subject's state. This state information may include, for example, the subject's posture (standing, lying down, sitting, or sitting upright), sleeping position (e.g., side-lying, supine), and movement (walking, stationary). Furthermore, state information may also include whether the subject is asleep or awake (sleep state), and the depth of sleep (e.g., REM sleep, non-REM sleep). Additionally, the subject's state may include stress levels.

[0023] (3) The subject's lifestyle (lifestyle information) Lifestyle information is derived from the subject's actions. Lifestyle information may include, for example, the subject's bedtime, wake-up time, and sleep duration. Additionally, it may include information such as the number of times the subject gets out of bed and the number of times they use the toilet.

[0024] (4) Environmental Information Environmental information refers to information related to the environment in which the subject is located. Examples of environmental information include the temperature, humidity, sound level, and brightness of the room. Furthermore, depending on the volume and pattern of the sound, it may also include information related to the sounds produced by the subject, such as the presence or absence of snoring or teeth grinding, and the timing of such sounds.

[0025] (5) Sleep information Sleep information refers to information related to the subject's sleep. This information may include, for example, sleep duration, bedtime, wake-up time, sleeping position, and sleep state (indicating sleep or wakefulness), as described above. Additionally, sleep information may include biometric data such as the subject's heart rate and respiration during sleep. Furthermore, sleep information may also include information related to the subject's snoring, teeth grinding, etc.

[0026] [1.1.1 System Composition] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the overall overview of System 1 in this embodiment. In System 1, the server device 80 is capable of receiving sensor information acquired by the sensor device 50, including biological information such as the heartbeat, respiration, and SpO2 of the subject P.

[0027] In System 1, the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 20, the third terminal device 30, and the server device 80 are connected to the network NW. The first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 20, and the third terminal device 30 can achieve their respective functions by installing and executing the required applications on the terminal devices. Therefore, each terminal device can be the same hardware.

[0028] There may be one or more of the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 20, and the third terminal device 30. Furthermore, each device can function as multiple devices by installing separate applications. For example, one terminal device may have the functions of both the first terminal device 10 and the second terminal device 20.

[0029] The first terminal device 10 is a device that performs connection-oriented communication with the sensor device 50 under BLE. The first terminal device 10 may include, for example, a smartphone 12 owned by the user P, or a gateway device 15 capable of BLE / WiFi communication. In this case, the first terminal device 10 is the central device, and the sensor device 50 is the peripheral device. Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 may be pre-paired with the sensor device 50.

[0030] The second terminal device 20 is a terminal device capable of broadcast communication with the sensor device 50 under BLE. The second terminal device 20 is, for example, a smartphone 22 owned by a third party. In this case, the second terminal device 20 is an observation device, and the sensor device 50 is a broadcasting device. Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 can also simultaneously perform broadcast communication. The second terminal device 20 is a non-specific terminal device owned by someone other than the target user.

[0031] The third terminal device 30 is a display device capable of displaying various information. For example, a display device 32 installed in hospitals for doctors and other medical staff to display information, or a tablet computer 34 owned by staff in shelters. In addition, the display device 32 can also be installed in other locations (such as hospitals in locations far from shelters) via a network.

[0032] Furthermore, the configuration typically consists of the first terminal device 10 being its own terminal device (a smartphone owned by the user) and the second terminal device 20 being another terminal device (a smartphone owned by a third party other than the user). Additionally, the third terminal device 30 may be a display device or management device used by staff or others. Furthermore, the term "terminal device" is a general expression encompassing all the aforementioned terminal devices, specifically referring to terminal devices (first terminal device 10, second terminal device 20) capable of receiving data from the sensor device 50.

[0033] Sensor device 50 is a device capable of acquiring information (object information) related to the object P. There is one or more sensor devices 50 in system 1. For example, it can be carried on the body of the object P or directly attached to the body, like sensor device 52, thereby acquiring the object information (e.g., biometric information) of the object P.

[0034] Furthermore, sensor device 50 can also be a standalone sensor device or measuring device like sensor device 54. Sensor device 54 can be a thermometer, blood pressure monitor, pulse oximeter, blood glucose meter, or a device for measuring the activity of the subject, such as a pedometer, activity meter, or sleep tracking device. In addition, sensor device 50 can be a device pre-owned by the subject (e.g., a smartwatch) or a device prepared on the system side.

[0035] Regarding the sensor device 54, any conventional sensor device can be used. As for the method by which the sensor device 54 acquires biological information such as respiratory rate and heart rate, the method described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-30177 (Invention title: Respiratory Disorder Determination Device, Respiratory Disorder Determination Method and Procedure, Application Date: July 30, 2014) can be used, for example. Furthermore, as a method for determining sleep state, the methods described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-264193 (Invention title: Sleep State Determination Device, Procedure and Sleep State Determination System, Application Date: May 18, 2009) and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-87355 (Invention title: Sleep State Determination Device, Sleep State Determination Method and Procedure, Application Date: November 11, 2014) can also be used. In addition, other known technologies can be used for the method by which the sensor device 54 acquires biological information.

[0036] Server device 80 is a device for storing information about individuals and registering them with an electronic medical record system. It receives information acquired by sensor device 50 via first terminal device 10 or second terminal device 20. Server device 80 stores the received information on a per-individual basis.

[0037] Furthermore, the server device 80 can output alarms based on the subject's information. For example, if the subject's biometric information value falls within the range that warrants a warning, the server device 80 can notify staff or terminal devices.

[0038] [1.1.2 Overview of communication] refer to Figure 2 The communication overview in this embodiment will be described below. The sensor device 50 can be connected to the first terminal device 10 and the second terminal device 20 via wireless communication. In this embodiment, the sensor device 50 will be described as communicating via short-range wireless communication as an example. As an example, the case of wireless communication using Bluetooth (registered trademark) and Bluetooth Low Energy (hereinafter referred to as BLE) will be described.

[0039] As for BLE communication methods, there are typically two types: broadcast communication, which occurs when the communication target is uncertain, and connection-oriented communication, which occurs after the communication target is determined. Sensor device 50 communicates with the first terminal device 10 via connection-oriented communication and with the second terminal device 20 via broadcast communication.

[0040] That is, in the case of connection-oriented communication, sensor device 50 is a peripheral device and first terminal device 10 is a central device. Sensor device 50 periodically sends advertising data (advertising packets) representing connection-oriented communication, which is received by first terminal device 10. Upon receiving the advertising data, first terminal device 10 requests a connection to sensor device 50 if the advertising data represents connection-oriented communication, thus establishing a connection between sensor device 50 and first terminal device 10.

[0041] Here, "establishing a connection" means that two devices can transmit and receive data bidirectionally. In this case, data can be transmitted and received between sensor device 50 and the first terminal device 10. For example, a channel for data transmission and reception has been established between the two devices.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, if the PDU field of the advertising package contains data indicating "connectivity present", then the first terminal device 10 determines that it indicates connection-oriented communication.

[0043] Therefore, sensor device 50 transmits sensor information to server device 80 via RT1 in a path that goes through first terminal device 10 to server device 80 without passing through any other terminal device. For example, sensor device 54 establishes a connection with gateway device 15 and transmits sensor information to gateway device 15. In addition, gateway device 15 transmits the sensor information received from sensor device 54 to server device 80 via network NW.

[0044] Furthermore, the sensor device 50 can connect to multiple devices. Additionally, the sensor device 50 can establish connections with multiple devices.

[0045] Furthermore, in the case of broadcast communication, sensor device 50 acts as a broadcasting device, transmitting advertising data (advertising packets) representing broadcast communication. In this case, sensor device 50 transmits the advertising data by including its own identification information and information acquired by sensor device 50 (sensor information).

[0046] When the second terminal device 20 receives advertising data from the sensor device 50, it sends the advertising data to the server device 80. Specifically, the second terminal device 20 determines that the advertising data represents broadcast communication. For example, if the PDU field of the advertising packet is data indicating "none" connectivity, the second terminal device 20 determines that it represents broadcast communication.

[0047] Therefore, sensor device 50 periodically sends data containing sensor information (advertising data). That is, sensor device 50 broadcasts data containing sensor information to other devices. Then, when the second terminal device 20 receives the advertising data, it sends the data to server device 80.

[0048] Therefore, the sensor information sent from sensor device 50 is transmitted to server device 80 via path RT2. The second terminal device 20 can be any device among the terminal devices of a third party, so it can transmit sensor information through a highly available communication method.

[0049] For example, sensor device 54 periodically transmits sensor information included in advertising data. When a smartphone 22 owned by a third party located near sensor device 54 receives the advertising data, it transmits the received advertising data to server device 80.

[0050] Alternatively, the second terminal device 20 can directly send advertising data to the server device 80, or it can extract only sensor information from the advertising data and send it to the server device 80. The second terminal device 20 only needs to send the sensor information acquired by the sensor device 50 to the server device 80 using either method.

[0051] Furthermore, there is one or more second terminal devices 20 in system 1. Among the second terminal devices 20 included in system 1, the device that receives advertising data broadcast from sensor device 50 sends sensor information to server device 80. System 1 can send sensor information from sensor device 50 to server device 80.

[0052] Sensor device 50 utilizes any second terminal device 20 through broadcast communication, thus reliably transmitting sensor information to server device 80. In other words, it provides a highly available communication method.

[0053] Thus, in the system of this embodiment, a first communication method with high reliability and a second communication method with high availability can be used as appropriate. Therefore, the system of this embodiment can provide a system that can properly collect the required sensor information to the server device even in environments with large numbers of people, such as shelters. Furthermore, the system of this embodiment can also be used in places other than shelters, such as stadiums and event venues.

[0054] [1.2 Device Composition] Next, the configuration of each device in this embodiment will be described. In addition, the common configuration will be described first.

[0055] The control unit is a device that controls all the devices as a whole. The control unit performs various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory of each device, and may consist of one or more control devices. The control unit may be configured as a System on a Chip (SoC) or as a single function like a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0056] The storage unit is a device that stores various programs and data required for the operation of each device. The storage unit can be configured as, for example, a semiconductor memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or other devices that can be mounted on each device. Furthermore, the storage unit can be configured as a temporary storage area for the program and memory to operate during program execution, or as a non-temporary storage area for storing data or programs. In this embodiment, the program is stored in a computer-readable, non-temporary tangible storage medium.

[0057] The communication unit is a device that provides functions related to connecting the device to other devices or networks. For example, it can be a NIC (Network Interface Card) that can communicate via wireless LAN or wired LAN, such as IEEE 802.11a / b / g. Furthermore, the communication unit can also be a communication module capable of utilizing mobile communications such as LTE (Long Term Evolution) / 4G / 5G / 6G.

[0058] The short-range wireless communication unit enables short-range wireless communication. This embodiment utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), a registered trademark, but similar technologies such as Bluetooth 5 can also be used. Furthermore, the short-range wireless communication unit can communicate in other ways, as long as it is available for communication between the sensor device and the terminal device. For example, LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) communication, or communication technologies such as Sigfox, Wi-Fi HaLow, and ZETA, can also be used.

[0059] The operation unit is a device that allows users to input operations into various devices. For example, the operation unit can be an external input device such as a keyboard or mouse, or it can be a soft key implemented using a touch panel.

[0060] The display unit is a device that displays various information for various devices. For example, the display unit can be a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL display using OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode), or it can be an external display device connected by HDMI (registered trademark) or DVI.

[0061] [1.2.1 First Terminal Device] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the first terminal device 10. The first terminal device 10 includes a control unit 100, a storage unit 110, a communication unit 120, a short-range wireless communication unit 130, an operation unit 150, and a display unit 160. The following description focuses on the configuration unique to the first terminal device 10.

[0062] The control unit 100 reads and executes the program from the storage unit 110, thereby functioning as the setting unit 102, the forwarding control unit 104, and the object information display unit 106.

[0063] The setting unit 102 performs various settings on the sensor device 50. For example, the setting unit 102 sets the type of information to be sent to the server device 80 and sets the communication method. The settings made by the setting unit 102 are stored as setting information in the setting information storage area 114. In addition, the setting unit 102 sends the setting information to the sensor device 50.

[0064] The forwarding control unit 104 sends (forwards) the sensor information received from the sensor device 50 to the server device 80. When a channel is established between the sensor device 50 and the first terminal device 10 (in the case where they have been paired and connected beforehand), the forwarding control unit 104 acquires the sensor information. Then, the forwarding control unit 104 sends the acquired sensor information to the server device 80.

[0065] The user information display unit 106 displays user information of the user (user) of the first terminal device 10. For example, the user information display unit 106 displays user information (biological information) on the display unit 160 based on user information (biological information) contained in the sensor information obtained from the sensor device 50. The user information display unit 106 may display specific biological information values, graphs showing changes in biological information values, or other biological information contained in the user information. In addition, the user information display unit 106 may display user information stored in the user information storage area 116, or it may obtain and display user information from the server device 80.

[0066] The storage unit 110 ensures the storage areas such as sensor information storage area 112, setting information storage area 114, and object information storage area 116.

[0067] Sensor information storage area 112 stores sensor information received from sensor device 50. Furthermore, sensor information storage area 112 can temporarily store sensor information or permanently store sensor information. Sensor information storage area 112 can temporarily store sensor information until it is sent to server device 80.

[0068] For example, Figure 4 (a) is an example of sensor information stored in sensor information storage area 112. Regarding the sensor information, the sensor device ID (e.g., "012-3456"), the object ID (e.g., "0001"), the acquisition date and time (e.g., "2021 / 06 / 01 23:10:15"), information actually acquired by sensor device 50 such as heart rate (e.g., "80") and respiratory rate (e.g., "10"), and remarks (e.g., "difficulty falling asleep").

[0069] The sensor device ID of the sensor device 50 is unique information used to identify the sensor device 50. The object ID is the ID of the object using the first terminal device 10. The acquisition date and time can be the date and time when the sensor device 50 acquires the information, or the date and time when the first terminal device 10 acquires the sensor information.

[0070] Furthermore, the information acquired by the sensor device 50 may include one or more pieces of information. For example, Figure 4 The information acquired by the sensor device 50 shown in (a) includes heart rate and respiratory rate, which are biological information. In addition, the information acquired by the sensor device 50 may also include values ​​such as SpO2, blood pressure, body temperature, blood glucose, etc., and may also include sleep time and the state of the subject (e.g., posture, position).

[0071] Furthermore, the information acquired by the sensor device 50 may include multiple heart rates or other similar information. For example, the sensor device 50 acquires the heart rate every minute. The sensor device can then aggregate the acquired heart rates and send them as sensor information to the first terminal device 10 every 10 minutes.

[0072] The remarks can be entered arbitrarily by the recipient. In addition, voice input or captured images can also be included using the first terminal device 10.

[0073] The setting information storage area 114 stores information related to the setting of the sensor device 50, i.e., setting information. For example, Figure 4(b) is an example of the setting information stored in the setting information storage area 114. As setting information, the sensor device identification ID (e.g., "012-345"), communication method (e.g., "connection-oriented mode"), type of information acquired by the sensor device 50 (e.g., "heart rate, respiratory rate"), information acquisition interval (e.g., "10 minutes"), and target ID (e.g., "0001") are stored for each sensor device 50 capable of acquiring sensor information.

[0074] The identification ID of the sensor device is information that identifies the sensor device 50. For example, it can be any identification information inherent to the sensor device 50, such as the identification information contained in the advertising data sent by the sensor device 50. Alternatively, it can be the name, ID, or other name attached to the sensor device 50 by the system or personnel.

[0075] The communication mode is the communication mode set for the sensor device 50. As the communication mode, it can be set to "connection-oriented mode" and "broadcast mode". Alternatively, the communication mode can be set to "connection-oriented mode / broadcast mode". In this case, the control unit 100 can automatically switch between connection-oriented communication and broadcast communication, or it can perform both types of communication.

[0076] The information acquired is the information that the sensor device 50 is set to acquire. One or more of the information that the sensor device 50 can acquire (such as biological information) can be set. Alternatively, all the information can be acquired.

[0077] The acquisition interval is the set interval at which the sensor device 50 acquires information. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sensor device 50 transmits the acquired sensor information at the moment it is acquired, but the timing of acquiring the sensor information and the timing of transmitting the sensor information (transmission interval) can be different. For example, the sensor device 50 can set the acquisition interval to 10 minutes and the transmission interval to 60 minutes.

[0078] The object ID stores identification information used to determine the object. The object ID can also be determined in server device 80 by matching the identification ID of the sensor device. In this case, the object ID may not be included in the configuration information.

[0079] In addition, information related to the recipient (basic information) can also be stored beyond the recipient ID. For example, basic information can include the recipient's name, weight, height, person in charge, and shelter location as recipient-related information.

[0080] Furthermore, during pairing, the setting information storage area 114 can also simultaneously store pairing-related information. When the first terminal device 10 pairs with the sensor device 50 via the functions of the OS, the information required for pairing (pairing information) is stored in the storage unit 110. This pairing function can be performed by the control unit 100 executing the functions of the OS, or it can be performed by executing other applications. When pairing is performed by the control unit 100 executing any of the applications in this embodiment, the pairing information can be simultaneously stored in the setting information storage area 114.

[0081] The object information storage area 116 stores the object information of the object using the first terminal device 10. The object information can be stored by the control unit 100 based on the sensor information obtained from the sensor device 50, or it can be received from the server device 80 and stored.

[0082] When the first terminal device 10 is a gateway device 15, the functional configuration of the gateway device 15 is shown below. Figure 5 The gateway device 15 is configured to include a control unit 100A, a storage unit 110A, a communication unit 120A, and a short-range wireless communication unit 130A.

[0083] The control unit 100A of the gateway device 15 implements the function of the forwarding control unit 102A by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 110A. The forwarding control unit 102A performs the same function as the forwarding control unit 104.

[0084] In addition, the storage unit 110A ensures the storage area of ​​the sensor information storage area 112A. The sensor information storage area 112A temporarily stores sensor information forwarded from the sensor device 50 to the server device 80.

[0085] That is, the first terminal device 10 can provide the same functionality whether using the smartphone 12 or the gateway device 15.

[0086] [1.2.2 Second Terminal Device] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the second terminal device 20. The second terminal device 20 includes a control unit 200, a storage unit 210, a communication unit 220, a short-range wireless communication unit 230, an operation unit 250, and a display unit 260. The following description focuses on the unique configuration of the second terminal device 20.

[0087] The control unit 200 functions as the forwarding control unit 202 by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 210. The forwarding control unit 202 forwards (sends) the sensor information received from the sensor device 50 to the server device 80.

[0088] That is, the forwarding control unit 202 receives advertising data (advertising packets) from the sensor device 50 via the near-field wireless communication unit 230. The second terminal device 20 only needs to receive data from the sensor device 50 and does not need to establish a connection with the sensor device 50.

[0089] The forwarding control unit 202 sends the sensor information contained in the advertising data to the server device 80. The forwarding control unit 202 can send the advertising data directly to the server device 80, or it can extract the sensor information from the advertising data and send it to the server device 80.

[0090] Storage unit 210 ensures the storage area of ​​sensor information storage area 212. Sensor information storage area 212 is an area for temporarily storing sensor information received from sensor device 50. In addition, the sensor information stored in sensor information storage area 212 is preferably deleted after being sent to server device 80.

[0091] [1.2.3 Third Terminal Device] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the third terminal device 30. The third terminal device 30 includes a control unit 300, a storage unit 310, a communication unit 320, an operation unit 350, and a display unit 360. The following description focuses on the unique configuration of the third terminal device 30.

[0092] The control unit 300 functions as the object information display control unit 302 and the object status management unit 304 by reading and executing the program stored in the storage unit 310.

[0093] The object information display control unit 302 displays various information on the display unit 360 based on the object information received from the server device 80 and the object information stored in the object information storage area 312.

[0094] The target status management unit 304 notifies staff based on the target information. For example, the target status management unit 304 sets thresholds for the alert and warning ranges for each target information. Then, if the target information falls within the alert range or the warning range, the target status management unit 304 performs alert processing or warning processing.

[0095] For example, the Subject Status Management Unit 304 alerts staff by identifying and displaying the subject information on a list. Furthermore, if a subject's heart rate falls within a warning range, the Subject Status Management Unit 304 alerts staff by sounding an alarm. The Subject Status Management Unit 304 manages the overall health and physical condition of the subjects.

[0096] Storage unit 310 ensures the storage area of ​​subject information storage area 312. Subject information storage area 312 stores subject information. Subject information is received and stored from server device 80. In addition, biological information can also be input by staff or others via operation unit 350, or additionally stored from external devices (such as thermometers, blood pressure monitors, etc.) via communication unit 320.

[0097] [1.2.4 Sensor Device] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the sensor device 50. The sensor device 50 includes a control unit 500, a storage unit 510, a short-range wireless communication unit 530, and an acquisition unit 540. The following description focuses on the unique configuration of the sensor device 50.

[0098] The control unit 500 implements the function of the sensor information transmission unit 502 by executing the program stored in the storage unit 510.

[0099] The sensor information transmitting unit 502 transmits the acquired sensor information and the sensor information stored in the sensor information storage area 512 via the near-field wireless communication unit 530. Here, when the communication mode of the sensor device 50 is set to connection-oriented mode in the setting information, the sensor information transmitting unit 502 establishes a connection with the first terminal device 10, which is the connection target. Subsequently, the sensor information transmitting unit 502 transmits the sensor information to the server device 80 via the first terminal device 10.

[0100] On the other hand, when the communication mode of the sensor device 50 is set to broadcast in the setting information, the sensor information transmission unit 502 transmits the advertising data including sensor information. That is, the sensor information transmission unit 502 transmits the sensor information to the server device 80 via a terminal device (e.g., the second terminal device 20) included in the system 1.

[0101] The storage unit 510 ensures the storage areas of the sensor information storage area 512 and the setting information storage area 514.

[0102] The sensor information storage area 512 is a temporary storage area for the information acquired by the sensor device 50, i.e., sensor information.

[0103] The setting information storage area 514 stores setting-related information of the sensor device 50, i.e., setting information.

[0104] Figure 9This diagram illustrates an example of the setting information stored in the setting information storage area 514. The setting information includes a transmission target ID (e.g., "325-44587") used to identify the transmission target device transmitting sensor information, the communication method of the sensor device 50 (e.g., "connection-oriented mode"), information indicating the type of information the sensor device 50 needs to acquire from the subject information (e.g., "heart rate, respiratory rate"), and the interval for acquiring the information (e.g., "10 minutes"). Additionally, the setting information may also store subject-related information.

[0105] The acquisition unit 540 allows the sensor device 50 to acquire information from various sensors. For example, the acquisition unit 540 may be a device for acquiring various information such as the subject's biological information and sleep information. For example, the acquisition unit 540 may be a pressure sensor, and the control unit 500 may detect the subject's heartbeat and respiration based on the signal from the pressure sensor. Thus, the sensor device 50 is able to acquire the subject's heartbeat (heart rate) and respiration (respiratory rate).

[0106] [1.2.5 Server Device] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the server device 80. The server device 80 includes a control unit 800, a storage unit 810, a communication unit 820, an operation unit 850, and a display unit 860. The following description focuses on the configuration unique to the server device 80.

[0107] The control unit 800 functions as the object management unit 802, sensor management unit 804, object information storage unit 806, and object status management unit 808 by reading and executing programs from the storage unit 810. Furthermore, the storage unit 810 stores the object database (DB) 812 and the sensor database (DB) 814.

[0108] The object management unit 802 manages object-related information stored in the object database DB812. For example, the object management unit 802 can store and delete new objects. Figure 11 A diagram representing an example of the object DB812.

[0109] The object's DB812 will associate and store basic information with the object's information. For example, like... Figure 11As shown, the basic information stored includes the subject ID (e.g., "0003"), the subject's name (e.g., "Niigata Kazuki"), the subject's current location (e.g., "ABC Elementary School Shelter"), and the subject's group (e.g., "A-3") used for identification. Here, the subject's basic information is information related to the subject that will not be changed by the sensor device 50. This basic information can be input by the subject or staff, or obtained from an electronic medical record server, etc.

[0110] The object information is based on sensor information received from sensor device 50. Object information storage unit 806 stores the sensor information-based object information in object database 812 for each object. Here, the object information includes information stored in time sequence (object information 1) and information stored by date (object information 2). Furthermore, in addition to information directly derived from sensor information, the object information also includes values ​​calculated from the output values ​​of the sensor information, results given by conditional judgments, and results inferred using machine learning.

[0111] For example, in the case of a subject's sleeping posture, sensor device 50 can determine the subject's sleeping posture and include it in the sensor information. Furthermore, the subject information can store the sleeping posture determined by one of the first terminal device 10, the second terminal device 20, or the server device 80 based on information output from sensor device 50 (e.g., information related to center of gravity or pressure). Subject information can be stored one or more times per subject.

[0112] The sensor management unit 804 manages the sensor DB814. For example, the sensor management unit 804 binds a new sensor device 50 to a target, or deletes the sensor device 50. Figure 12 As shown, sensor DB814 stores sensor IDs and object IDs in association. Here, the relationship between sensor IDs and object IDs is generally many-to-one. That is, the object is uniquely determined for each sensor ID by referring to sensor DB814. However, depending on the type of sensor device 50, the relationship between object IDs and sensor IDs can also be many-to-many. For example, in the case of a voice-using sensor device 50, multiple object IDs can be associated with the sensor ID of a microphone that is also a sensor device 50. Furthermore, multiple microphone sensor IDs can be associated with the same object ID.

[0113] The subject status management unit 808 manages the subject's status based on the subject's information. For example, the subject status management unit 808 sets reminder ranges and warning ranges for each subject's information. Furthermore, the subject status management unit 808 sets reminder ranges for sleeping positions and reminders related to getting out of bed. And, the subject status management unit 808 refers to the subject's information and, when it determines that a notification situation has arisen, issues a notification.

[0114] For example, let's illustrate how the object status management unit 808 manages the status of an object based on SpO2. The object status management unit 808 sets the SpO2-related values ​​as follows.

[0115] • The warning range is SpO2 greater than 93% and less than 96%. • Warning range: SpO2 below 93% The object status management unit 808, referring to object information, determines that the SpO2 value has entered a warning range when it falls below 93%, and thus performs notification processing (warning notification processing). This notification processing may include, for example, notifying the staff's terminal device (smartphone) (sending an email, pop-up display, etc.) or notifying them by outputting a warning tone from the third terminal device 30 (warning notification). Furthermore, if the SpO2 value enters a reminder range, the object status management unit 808 performs reminder notification processing. This notification processing may include, for example, notifying them by displaying a pop-up or identification on the third terminal device 30. In this case, the notification processing may use different methods for delivering the warning and reminder notifications.

[0116] Furthermore, the Subject Status Management Department 808 can modify the notification target or the notification content when issuing a notification. For example, when notifying about body temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate, the Subject Status Management Department 808 may target general staff (nurses) as the notification target. Similarly, when notifying about electrocardiogram waveforms, the Subject Status Management Department 808 may notify specialists or the nurses in charge of that department. Furthermore, when notifying about activity levels or posture, the Subject Status Management Department 808 may notify physical therapists or occupational therapists. Additionally, when notifying about communication problems, the Subject Status Management Department 808 may notify clinical psychologists or social workers. In this way, the Subject Status Management Department 808 pre-determines notification targets categorized by occupation and sets appropriate notification targets based on the notification content. As a result, the recipients of services can receive appropriate treatment, and the service providers can respond appropriately.

[0117] Thus, the subject status management unit 808 processes notifications for each subject based on the subject's information. Therefore, the subject status management unit 808 can appropriately manage the subject's health status and physical condition.

[0118] Furthermore, the subject status management unit 808 can also notify the subject using the sensor device 50. For example, it can send a signal from the subject status management unit 808 to the sensor device 50 based on the subject's information. When the sensor device 50 receives the signal, it can notify the subject, for example, using vibration, sound, or light. Thus, for example, it can notify a subject with no symptoms of changes in physical condition about an elevated heart rate or an abnormal SpO2 value.

[0119] [1.3 Processing Flow] Next, the processing flow of this embodiment will be explained.

[0120] [1.3.1 Overall System Flow] refer to Figure 13 The overall processing flow of the system in this embodiment will be explained. Figure 13 A sequence diagram illustrating the relationship between sensor device 50, first terminal device 10, second terminal device 20, and server device 80.

[0121] Figure 13 The sensor information is recorded as first sensor information and second sensor information. First sensor information is information intended to be transmitted via a specific terminal device, i.e., in a secure environment. That is, information classified as first sensor information includes, for example, information about protecting the privacy of the recipient. In this case, the sensor device 50 transmits the first sensor information to the server device 80 via the first terminal device 10.

[0122] Furthermore, the second sensor information requires either immediacy or reliability. In this case, the sensor device 50 transmits the second sensor information to the server device 80 via the second terminal device 20.

[0123] (1) Information from the first sensor The case where sensor device 50 sends the first sensor information to server device 80 will be described. In this case, the first terminal device 10 has a program pre-installed that can forward the first sensor information. Furthermore, sensor device 50 and the first terminal device 10 may have been paired.

[0124] Sensor device 50 sends advertising data indicating a connection-oriented manner (S1002). The first terminal device 10, having received the advertising data, establishes a connection by sending a connection request to sensor device 50 (S1004). Subsequently, sensor device 50 sends first sensor information containing target information to the connected first terminal device 10 (S1006). Here, a one-to-one connection is established between sensor device 50 and the first terminal device 10, enabling secure communication. Furthermore, by pairing sensor device 50 and the first terminal device 10, even more secure communication can be achieved.

[0125] The first terminal device 10 sends the received first sensor information to the server device 80 (S1008).

[0126] In addition, when the first terminal device 10 establishes a connection with multiple sensor devices 50, data with high importance can be sent from the object information received from the multiple sensor devices 50 to the server device 80.

[0127] For example, when the first terminal device 10 receives the pulses (first sensor information) of multiple subjects from multiple sensor devices 50, the first terminal device 10 prioritizes sending the data of the subject with the largest pulse deviation to the server device 80.

[0128] Furthermore, if the first terminal device 10 receives the first sensor information of a second object whose urgency or importance is higher than that of the first object while it is sending the first sensor information of the first object to the server device 80, the first terminal device 10 may temporarily suspend the transmission of the object information of the first object. In this case, the first terminal device 10 resumes the transmission of the first sensor information of the first object after sending the object information of the second object to the server device 80.

[0129] The server device 80 binds the object corresponding to the first sensor information according to the received first sensor information and stores it as object information (S1010).

[0130] Thus, after the sensor device 50 is connected to the first terminal device 10 (after a secure channel is established), the sensor device 50 can send the first sensor information via the first terminal device 10.

[0131] Furthermore, the second terminal device 20 does not receive the first sensor information sent by the sensor device 50. Even if the second terminal device 20 receives the first sensor information sent by the sensor device 50, it will discard the first sensor information. Therefore, the first sensor information is sent from the sensor device 50 to the server device 80 via the first terminal device 10. Moreover, the first sensor information is not sent to the server device 80 via the second terminal device 20. Thus, in system 1, the first sensor information can be sent using a secure channel.

[0132] (2) Information from the second sensor The case where sensor device 50 sends the second sensor information to server device 80 will be described. In this case, the description assumes that the second terminal device 20 has a program pre-installed that can forward the second sensor information.

[0133] also, Figure 13 In this section, we will describe a case where the first terminal device 10 has the function of forwarding advertising data that indicates a broadcast to the server device 80 upon receiving such data.

[0134] Sensor device 50 transmits advertising data indicating a broadcast manner (S1102, S1104). Sensor device 50 includes second sensor information in this advertising data during transmission. That is, sensor device 50 periodically transmits the second sensor information in a broadcast manner.

[0135] Furthermore, as mentioned above, transmitting the second sensor information as advertising data means transmitting the second sensor information via broadcast. Therefore, Figure 13 The diagram shows the state where the second sensor information sent by the sensor device 50 is 1 time, the first terminal device 10 receives the second sensor information in S1102, and the second terminal device 20 receives the second sensor information in S1104.

[0136] Here, when the first terminal device 10 and the second terminal device 20 are within the communication range of BLE, they respectively receive second sensor information from the sensor device 50 (S1102, S1104). Then, the first terminal device 10, having received the second sensor information, sends the second sensor information to the server device 80 (S1106). Furthermore, the second terminal device 20, having received the second sensor information, sends the second sensor information to the server device 80 (S1108).

[0137] In addition, when the second terminal device 20 receives second sensor information from multiple sensor devices 50, it can send the data with the highest importance from the second sensor information received from the multiple sensor devices 50 to the server device 80.

[0138] For example, when the second terminal device 20 receives the body surface temperatures (second sensor information) of multiple subjects from multiple sensor devices 50, the second terminal device 20 prioritizes sending the second sensor information of the subject with the highest body surface temperature to the server device 80.

[0139] Furthermore, if the second terminal device 20 receives information about a second object whose urgency or importance is higher than that of the first object while it is sending the second sensor information of the first object to the server device 80, the second terminal device 20 may temporarily suspend the transmission of the second sensor information of the first object. In this case, the second terminal device 20 resumes the transmission of the second sensor information of the first object after sending the second sensor information of the second object to the server device 80.

[0140] Server device 80 receives second sensor information from first terminal device 10 and second terminal device 20 respectively. In this case, server device 80 receives second sensor information from both first terminal device 10 and second terminal device 20, resulting in duplicate information. Therefore, server device 80 deletes the duplicate second sensor information (S1010). Subsequently, server device 80 binds and stores object information corresponding to the non-duplicate second sensor information (S1012).

[0141] in addition, Figure 13 The description addresses the case where both the first terminal device 10 and the second terminal device 20 are within the range capable of communicating with the sensor device 50. However, if only the second terminal device 20 is present, processing can be performed using only one terminal device. In this case, the server device 80 does not need to delete duplicate data. Furthermore, if three or more terminal devices are within the range capable of communicating with the sensor device 50, the sensor information from only one terminal device can be stored, while the sensor information from the others can be deleted.

[0142] Thus, even if no connection is established between the sensor device and each terminal device, the sensor device 50 can freely send the second sensor information to the server device 80. Therefore, for example, even if communication with its own terminal device (first terminal device 10) fails or communication with the terminal device (first terminal device 10) is out of range, sensor information can be sent to the server device 80 using any terminal device.

[0143] [1.3.2 Sensor Device Setting Processing] refer to Figure 14 The processing of the operation of the sensor device 50 is explained. Figure 14The processing is performed by a terminal device (e.g., the first terminal device 10) that has the setting function of the sensor device 50.

[0144] First, the control unit 100 of the first terminal device 10 establishes a connection with the sensor device 50 (step S104). Alternatively, the first terminal device 10 and the sensor device 50 may be paired. The pairing of the two devices can be performed using standard functions of an operating system (OS, such as iOS, Android, Windows, etc.) or independently.

[0145] Furthermore, step S104 is described assuming that the first terminal device 10 and the sensor device 50 are connected via short-range wireless communication (e.g., BLE), but they can also be connected via other communication methods. For example, in this process, the connection between the first terminal device 10 and the sensor device 50 can also be achieved using a wireless LAN or a USB cable.

[0146] Then, the control unit 100 sets the communication mode of the sensor device 50 (step S106: for example...). Figure 18 (R104). Here, the communication method can be selected from one or both of "connection-oriented mode" and "broadcast mode".

[0147] Various methods can be considered when choosing a method, such as those described later. Figure 18 As shown in area R104, the control unit 100 displays a selection box on the display screen W100. When a specific device is selected as the transmission target, the user selects the "The following device" field. When this field is selected, the control unit 100 determines that "connection-oriented mode" has been selected, and thus sets the communication mode to "connection-oriented mode".

[0148] Furthermore, when the user selects the "Allow broadcast" option, the control unit 100 determines that the selected option is "broadcast mode" and sets the communication mode to "broadcast mode".

[0149] Here, the two columns are checkboxes, so the user can select either one. When both are selected, the control unit 100 can select either "two communication methods" or "connection-oriented method / broadcast method" for the communication mode.

[0150] Alternatively, either of the two communication methods can be selected. In this case, the control unit 100 displays a radio button instead of the checkbox in area R104. Furthermore, if neither is selected, the control unit 100 can display a prompt to the user: "Please select one."

[0151] Next, if the sensor device 50 is currently configured for connection-oriented communication or for both communication modes, the control unit 100 sets the transmission target for sending sensor information (step S108: Yes → step S110). That is, the control unit 100 sets the information of the first terminal device 10, from which sensor information is to be sent, as the transmission target. For example, the control unit 100... Figure 18 The terminal device (first terminal device 10) selected as the transmission target within region R104a.

[0152] Furthermore, the control unit 100 can set multiple transmission targets for the sensor device 50 to send sensor information. Additionally, when the sensor device 50 is configured for broadcast communication, it does not send sensor information to a specific transmission target. Therefore, the control unit 100 does not need to set the transmission target for the sensor information of the sensor device 50, but it can set the priority of the second terminal device 20 to be broadcast. For example, the second terminal device 20 as the broadcast target can be set to a terminal device owned by a family member.

[0153] Next, the control unit 100 sets the information that the sensor device 50 needs to acquire (step S112: Figure 18 (Region R106). For example, the control unit 100 specifies the required information from the information that can be acquired. All the information that the sensor device 50 can acquire can be specified, or one or more can be selected. For example, the control unit 100 can select to acquire biological information such as heartbeat (heart rate) and respiration (respiratory rate), or it can select to acquire sleep-related information such as sleep time.

[0154] In addition, the control unit 100 can simultaneously set the timing of acquisition ( Figure 18 (Region R108). For example, the control unit 100 can be configured to set the time interval for acquiring biological information, such as acquiring it every 1 minute, every 5 minutes, or every 10 minutes.

[0155] The control unit 100 stores these settings as setting information in the setting information storage area 114. Furthermore, the control unit 100 sends the setting information to the sensor device 50. When the sensor device 50 receives the setting information, it stores the setting information in the setting information storage area 514.

[0156] Alternatively, the control unit 100 may also transmit the setting information to the sensor device 50 using other methods. For example, in the first terminal device 10, the control unit 100 generates setting information. Then, the first terminal device 10 can transmit the setting information to the sensor device 50. In this case, the method of transmitting the setting information from the first terminal device 10 to the sensor device 50 can also utilize NFC (Near Field Communication) as a short-range wireless communication.

[0157] [1.3.3 Sensor Device Processing] Next, refer to Figure 15 The operation of the sensor device 50 will now be explained. First, the control unit 500 of the sensor device 50 determines whether to perform connection-oriented communication by referring to the setting information (step S202). Specifically, the control unit 500 determines by referring to the setting information whether the communication mode is set to "connection-oriented communication" or whether it is set to "both communication modes".

[0158] If the configuration information indicates connection-oriented communication (step S202: Yes), it is determined whether a connection has been established with the terminal device (first terminal device 10) that is the connection target (step S206). Here, if no connection is established, the control unit 500 does not send sensor information and temporarily terminates the process (step S206: No).

[0159] If a connection has been established with the terminal device (first terminal device 10) that is the connection target, the sensor device 50 sends sensor information to the terminal device (step S206: Yes → step S208).

[0160] On the other hand, if the setting information does not specify connection-oriented communication, that is, if the setting specifies broadcast communication (step S202: No), the control unit 500 determines whether it can be sent via broadcast (step S210).

[0161] When sensor information is available to be delivered via broadcast, the control unit 500 transmits the sensor information via broadcast (step S210: Yes → step S212). Specifically, the sensor device 50 transmits the sensor information, which is included in the advertising data, to other terminal devices (second terminal device 20).

[0162] Additionally, the sensor device 50 can temporarily store sensor information to prevent data loss. For example, during connection-oriented communication, the sensor device 50 sends sensor information in step S208 and stores it in the sensor information storage area 512. Then, when the sensor device 50 receives a signal from the first terminal device 10, it can delete the sensor information. Furthermore, the sensor device 50 can also retransmit the sensor information to the first terminal device 10 if it does not receive a signal from the first terminal device 10 within a specified time.

[0163] Furthermore, when the first terminal device 10 receives sensor information from the sensor device 50, it can send the received signal to the sensor device 50. Additionally, the first terminal device 10 can also send signals to the sensor device 50 at the time of deleting sensor information from the device, at the time of sending sensor information to the server device 80, and at the time when the server device 80 informs the first terminal device 10 that it has received sensor information.

[0164] In addition, when the sensor device 50 is conducting broadcast communication, it sends sensor information via broadcast in step S212 and stores the sensor information in the sensor information storage area 512.

[0165] When server device 80 receives sensor information transmitted via broadcast communication from first terminal device 10 and / or second terminal device 20, it sends a signal indicating that reception has been confirmed to the transmitting source. The first terminal device 10 or second terminal device 20, having received the signal from server device 80, then sends a signal via broadcast communication indicating that the sensor information has been properly received. When sensor device 50 receives the signal indicating that the sensor information has been properly received, it deletes the sensor information. Alternatively, first terminal device 10 or second terminal device 20 may also send a signal indicating that reception has been confirmed via broadcast communication to sensor device 50 upon receiving sensor information transmitted via broadcast communication.

[0166] [1.3.4 Storage and Processing of Sensor Information] refer to Figure 16 The storage and processing of sensor information in the server device will be described. The control unit 800 of the server device 80 receives sensor information via the communication unit 820 (step S302: Yes). Here, the control unit 800 determines the target based on the sensor information. Here, regarding the method for determining the target, the following two methods are considered.

[0167] (1) Determine the object based on the object ID contained in the sensor information. For example, when transmitting sensor information via connection-oriented communication, the sensor information may contain a target ID. In this case, the control unit 800 directly extracts the target ID from the sensor information to determine the target who is recording the sensor information. Alternatively, when referring to personal information (such as the target's name), the control unit 800 can determine specific personal information by referring to the target's DB812.

[0168] (2) Determine the target based on the sensor device ID contained in the sensor information. For example, when sensor information is transmitted via broadcast communication, the sensor information does not contain an object ID. In this case, the control unit 800 extracts the sensor device ID contained in the sensor information. Then, the control unit 800 reads the object ID with reference to the sensor DB814 to determine the object.

[0169] (3) Determine the target based on the information from the first terminal device 10. The control unit 800 determines the target ID based on the information from the first terminal device 10 that sent the sensor information. For example, the information of the first terminal device 10, which will become the target of transmission from the sensor device 50, is included in the sensor information, or the first terminal device 10 includes identification information in the sensor information when forwarding the sensor information (when sending it to the server device 80). Then, the control unit 800 determines the target ID based on the identification information of the first terminal device 10. Alternatively, the correspondence between the identification information of the first terminal device 10 and the target ID can be stored in advance in the target DB812, or it can be separate data.

[0170] Then, the control unit 800 determines whether the received sensor information is duplicated (step S306). For example, if the information contained in the sensor information is completely identical or the specified items are identical, the control unit 800 determines that the sensor information is duplicated. In addition, the control unit 800 may also use the identification information assigned to each sensor information to determine whether the sensor information is duplicated.

[0171] Subsequently, if the sensor information is not duplicated, the control unit 800 extracts the object information from the sensor information and stores it in the object DB812 (step S306: No → step S308). Furthermore, if the sensor information is duplicated, the control unit 800 deletes the duplicate object information (step S306: Yes → step S310).

[0172] Furthermore, as a method for deleting sensor information in the server device 800, the control unit 800 can prioritize data received earlier in the order of arrival. For example, the control unit 800 can store the earliest received data and delete the data received after that.

[0173] Furthermore, the server device 80 can also perform deletion based on the priority of the second terminal device 20. For example, the server device 80 stores duplicate sensor information for a certain period of time and determines whether duplicate data has been received. Here, the server device 80 prioritizes storing data with higher priority from the second terminal device 20 that sent the sensor information. For example, in the case of terminal devices that repeatedly send data among the second terminal devices 20 or terminal devices set by the recipient (e.g., a family member's terminal device), the priority is set to high.

[0174] Furthermore, when receiving sensor information containing object information of the same type as that of the second terminal device 20 from the first terminal device 10, the server device 80 can prioritize the sensor information received from the first terminal device 10. For example, if the SpO2 value contained in the sensor information is the value received by the first terminal device 10 from a pulse oximeter and the value received by the second terminal device 20 from a smartwatch, the server device 80 receives sensor information containing SpO2 values ​​from both terminal devices. In this case, if the two SpO2 values ​​are within a specified time range, the server device 80 can prioritize storing the value from the first terminal device 10.

[0175] In addition, the server device 80 may preferentially store sensor information received from the first terminal device 10 or the second terminal device 20 with higher priority, and store sensor information from the second terminal device 20 with lower priority if the sensor information cannot be received.

[0176] [1.3.5 Display Processing in the Third Terminal Device] Next, refer to Figure 17 An example of display processing in the third terminal device 30 will be described. The control unit 300 performs processing as needed to obtain object-related information from the object DB812 of the server device 80.

[0177] First, the control unit 300 determines the display range of the objects to be displayed on the display unit 360 (step S402). For example, the control unit 300 selects a shelter, a refuge area, or a group within a shelter / refuge area.

[0178] Next, the control unit 300 displays a summary of the target's information (step S404). When the target to be displayed is determined in step S402, the control unit 300 displays biological information such as heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, SpO2, and activity level as the target's information.

[0179] Furthermore, the control unit 300 can perform identification display corresponding to the value of each biological information when displaying it. For example, the control unit 300 can display the biological information in a chart or use color differentiation based on the biological information value.

[0180] The control unit 300 specifically identifies and displays information about objects in a warning state (step S406). For example, for biometric values ​​that are in a warning state, the control unit 300 identifies and displays this warning state. For example, when SpO2 is below a specified value (e.g., 93%), the control unit 300 can identify and display it as a warning state.

[0181] In addition, when in a warning state, the control unit 300 can not only display an identification message, but also pop up a message, sound an alarm, and output an alarm to other devices (such as terminal devices owned by staff).

[0182] When a target is selected from the list of targets, the control unit 300 displays a separate screen (step S408: Yes → step S410). The separate screen may display detailed target information or past history. In addition, the separate screen may display past history using charts or the like.

[0183] Here, if a return operation has been performed, the control unit 300 resumes processing from step S402 (step S412: Yes → step S402). That is, the control unit 300 switches from a single screen to a screen displaying an overview.

[0184] Furthermore, when selecting to display the sleep state while displaying a single screen, the control unit 300 displays a screen containing sleep-related information (step S412: No → step S414: Yes → step S416). For example, the screen containing sleep-related information could be a screen displaying a sleep log (including bedtime / wake-up and sleep / wake cycles), sleep duration, sleep respiratory rate, and sleep heart rate as charts. Additionally, the screen containing sleep-related information could also display charts showing the past changes in these values.

[0185] Then, if a back operation is performed at this time, the user can return to the previous screen. For example, if a back operation is performed while a screen containing sleep-related information is displayed, the individual screen will be displayed again (step S418: Yes → step S410).

[0186] [1.4 Action Examples] The following is an explanation of the action examples using the screen. Figure 18This figure shows an example of a display screen W100 when the sensor device 50 is set on the first terminal device 10.

[0187] The display screen W100 shows the object's name and object's ID as object-related information within area R100.

[0188] In addition, the display screen W100 shows information about the sensor device 50 that is currently being configured. It indicates that the device has been paired with the sensor device 50 and is either in a connectable or connected state.

[0189] Area R102 of the display screen W100 shows the name and sensor device ID of the sensor device 50. Furthermore, area R104 displays the communication method in an optional manner. For example, the user can choose between "broadcast mode" or device-specific (i.e., connection-oriented mode) for the communication method of the sensor device 50. Furthermore, when device-specific mode is selected, the devices that the sensor device 50 can currently connect to can be selected. Additionally, both communication methods can be selected.

[0190] Furthermore, within region R106, one or more pieces of information can be selected to retrieve. Additionally, within region R108, the interval for retrieving information can be selected. The interval for retrieving information can be arbitrary.

[0191] Figures 19-23 This is an example of a display screen on the third terminal device 30. The actions of personnel such as medical staff in managing evacuees using the third terminal device 30 will be explained.

[0192] Figure 19 This is an example of a display screen W120 displayed on the third terminal device 30. In the display screen W120, the upper part is an area for displaying the title and menu, and below it is an area for displaying information.

[0193] In addition, various information is displayed in the areas where information is shown. For example, area R120 displays the shelter locations. Furthermore, area R122 displays labels for groups switching shelter locations. Staff and others can select labels to switch between the list of individuals displayed on the right.

[0194] Area L120 displays an overview of the subjects. By displaying an overview of multiple subjects, it provides a highly convenient display screen for staff to manage the biometric information of multiple subjects.

[0195] Each subject is displayed line by line within area L120. For example, area L122 displays the subject information for "New Home and Hope". Display screen W120 displays sleep time, body surface temperature (body temperature), activity level, SpO2, and pulse rate as subject information. In addition, body temperature is displayed as an icon to make it easy for staff to identify risks, and activity level is also displayed as a graph, thus providing a highly legible display.

[0196] Here, when the object information contains information that has become a warning, it will be identified and displayed. Figure 20 Here is an example of a display screen W140 that displays an identification feature. For instance, the identification display M140 shows a number at the label's location, indicating how many warning states are present in the object information contained on that label. Furthermore, in display screen W140, the "SpO2" value for "New Home and Happiness" is an abnormal value, so an identification display M142 (highlighted display) is displayed. Here, the identification display can be highlighted, displayed with a border, or displayed in different colors. Additionally, the identification display can also be displayed by flashing.

[0197] Selecting tab B in display screen W140 will bring up the following. Figure 21 The display screen W160 clearly indicates the presence of two objects in a warning state using identification labels. Furthermore, when the actual objects are displayed at a glance, their information is highlighted in two locations, allowing immediate awareness that the object information has become a warning state.

[0198] In addition, Figure 19 When the individual information of region L122 is selected on the display screen, it becomes... Figure 22 The display screen W200 is a single screen that displays information for only one object.

[0199] For example, display screen W200 shows the name of the person in distress, the location of the refuge, and the area within area R202. Additionally, area R204 can display messages. As an example, display screen W200 displays four charts. For instance, display screen W200 displays chart G202 showing changes in body temperature, chart G204 showing changes in activity level, chart G206 showing changes in SpO2, and chart G208 showing changes in pulse rate.

[0200] The charts display the most recently acquired values. For example, in chart G202, the body surface temperature "36.9℃" is the body temperature last acquired by sensor device 50. Furthermore, regarding this biometric value, not only the previous value is displayed, but also the real-time value, and the highest (or lowest) value may also be shown.

[0201] Furthermore, various types of charts can be displayed. For example, Figure 21 The W200 displays line charts and bar charts.

[0202] Furthermore, line charts and bar charts can be combined in various ways through settings. For example, display screen W200 shows a single line chart in charts G202 and G208 arranged in a time series. Additionally, chart G202 changes the shape of the points according to each measurement time. For example, a black dot represents 9:00 AM, and a white triangle represents 5:00 PM. Furthermore, chart G206 displays multiple line charts overlaid. Additionally, chart G204 is displayed as a bar chart. These charts can be changed through settings. For ease of explanation, this embodiment displays multiple types, but they can also be displayed uniformly using the same type.

[0203] In addition, the display screen W200 displays the sleep time in area R204, and displays a display button B202 for displaying information related to the sleep time. Furthermore, the display screen W200 displays a button B204 for saving the screen or saving (storing) values ​​of manually entered object information.

[0204] Here, if the user selects the sleep time-related display button B202, it becomes... Figure 23 The display screen W220 shows a graph G222 representing the sleep log, a graph G224 representing the sleep duration, a graph G226 representing the respiratory rate during sleep, and a graph G228 representing the heart rate during sleep.

[0205] Thus, according to this embodiment, the third terminal device 30 can also be used to easily grasp the state of the target.

[0206] [2. Second Implementation] Next, the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is an embodiment in which various information can be displayed on the first terminal device 10. In addition, aspects of the structure and processing that are the same as those in the first embodiment will be omitted from the description, and the description will focus on the differences.

[0207] Figure 24 This is the processing performed by the first terminal device 10 in this embodiment. Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 in this embodiment can perform connection-oriented communication, but it can also perform broadcast communication.

[0208] Control unit 100 determines whether the advertising data represents connection-oriented data or broadcast data. Then, if the advertising data represents connection-oriented data, it is considered to be... Figure 13 The connection is established by receiving the first sensor information as described above (step S502: Yes).

[0209] Then, the control unit 100 displays the biometric information (values) included in the subject information on the display unit 160 based on the sensor information (step S504). Subsequently, the control unit 100 allows the subject to input remarks as needed (step S506), and sends the input remarks and sensor information together to the server device 80 (step S508).

[0210] For example, Figure 25 This is an example of a display screen showing biological information on the first terminal device 10. The values ​​of SpO2 and heart rate are displayed, with a remarks column below them. The subject can fill in remarks in the remarks column, and the remarks, along with the subject's information, are stored.

[0211] Furthermore, when the operation of displaying the target information is performed, the first terminal device 10 executes the target information display process (step S510: Yes → step S514). For example, the first terminal device 10 is configured to switch the display of the target's SpO2 shift graph (e.g. Figure 26 (a) ), the heart rate shift graph of the subject (e.g. Figure 26 (b)) The body temperature shift of the subject (e.g.) Figure 26 (c) ), a graph showing the shift in the activity level of the target (e.g. Figure 26 (d) and other charts.

[0212] in addition, Figure 26 (a) is a graph representing the shift of SpO2 in the object, showing the shift over two time periods. Figure 26 In the chart (a), at the initial (6 / 2) time point, the lower chart shows the change in SpO2 at point 9, and the upper chart shows the change in SpO2 at point 17. Figure 26 (b) is a graph showing the changes in the heart rate of the subject, illustrating the changes over two time periods. Figure 26 In chart (b), at the initial (6 / 2) time point, the lower chart shows the heart rate shift at 9 o'clock, and the upper chart shows the heart rate shift at 17 o'clock.

[0213] Furthermore, when the first terminal device 10 receives advertising data indicating a broadcast method, it considers it to be... Figure 13 The advertising data is forwarded to the server device 80 using the second sensor information described earlier (steps S516 → S518). That is, the advertising data contains sensor information, and the first terminal device 10 sends the sensor information to the server device 80.

[0214] Furthermore, if the first terminal device 10 is a terminal device owned by medical personnel or other staff, it may have the function of verifying biometric information. For example, Figure 27 The display screen shows the biometric information forwarded by the first terminal device 10. The sensor information delivered via broadcast does not contain information to identify the user, so the name becomes the user, but an identification number corresponding to the ID of the sensor device is displayed in serial form.

[0215] also, Figure 27 The system displays the body temperature and SpO2 values ​​of each subject's biometric information. In the event of an abnormal value, staff can click on each subject to query the server device 80. Specifically, the first terminal device 10 queries the server device 80 for information about the selected subject. At this time, the server device 80 authenticates whether the user of the first terminal device 10 is a staff member or someone with the authority to display information about a third party. If the user is verified as an authorized staff member, the server device 80 sends information corresponding to the query. For example, the server device 80 can obtain detailed biometric information and changes in biometric information related to the specific subject experiencing the problem. Furthermore, staff can use the first terminal device 10 to display information for the selected subject. Figure 26 That kind of display screen.

[0216] [3. Third Implementation] Next, the third embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the communication method of the sensor device 50 is selected by the object or other party as either a connection-oriented method or a broadcast method. This embodiment is an implementation in which the sensor device 50 switches and sends sensor information as appropriate by making an "automatic" selection.

[0217] This embodiment is to Figure 15 The processing was replaced with Figure 28 The same symbol is used to mark the same process, and the explanation is omitted.

[0218] First, the control unit 500 determines whether the importance is low or high and the immediacy is high based on the type of sensor information (step S220).

[0219] That is, the control unit 500 determines that it conforms to... Figure 13 The information from the first sensor, as explained in the text, is still consistent. Figure 13 The second sensor information, as described earlier, is then transmitted. Next, the control unit 500 transmits the sensor information determined to be the first sensor information via a connection-oriented communication method. Furthermore, the control unit 500 transmits the sensor information determined to be the second sensor information via a broadcast communication method.

[0220] Here, information conforming to the first sensor information is preferred due to the presence of personal information in it, and therefore, secure communication methods are preferred. For example, information acquired by sensor device 50, viewed as a medical device, conforms to the first sensor information. Furthermore, the recipient can identify any item as the first sensor information.

[0221] Furthermore, the information consistent with the second sensor information is information with high timeliness and aims to prevent data loss. For example, in the case of sleeping, the subject's own body becomes an obstacle, making it impossible to establish a channel with the first terminal device 10. In this case, transmitting the sensor information via broadcast can reliably transmit the data.

[0222] Furthermore, information of high urgency can also be used as secondary sensor information. For example, heart rate is usually used as primary sensor information, but when it becomes a value that warrants a warning, it can be used as secondary sensor information to be sent to the server device 80 more reliably.

[0223] Furthermore, sensor information can be categorized into first sensor information and second sensor information based on data volume. For example, for data with limited information such as heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, activity level, SpO2, and sleep duration, the control unit 500 can transmit it as second sensor information. Conversely, the control unit 500 can transmit large amounts of data, such as continuous waveform data from an electrocardiogram or continuous waveform data from respiration, as first sensor information.

[0224] Furthermore, in cases where connection-oriented communication is not possible, the sensor device 50 of this embodiment can switch to broadcast communication. For example, if a connection cannot be established with the first terminal device 10, which is the target of the connection (step S206: No), the sensor device 50 can send sensor information through broadcast communication (step S210: Yes → step S212).

[0225] Furthermore, if communication with the first terminal device 10 is interrupted, the sensor device 50 can transmit sensor information via broadcast communication. Additionally, if a connection is established with the first terminal device 10 during the transmission of sensor information via broadcast communication, the sensor device 50 can transmit sensor information to the first terminal device 10 via connection-oriented communication.

[0226] Furthermore, the sensor device 50 can also perform operations in parallel. Figure 28Steps S208 and S212. For example, the sensor device 50 sends the information determined to be of high importance or selected by the subject in step S220 to the first terminal device 10 via connection-oriented communication. In addition, the sensor device 50 sends information of low importance, information not specifically selected by the subject, and information of high immediacy via broadcast communication.

[0227] Thus, the sensor device 50 can utilize two communication methods in parallel. The sensor device 50's parallel use of two communication methods means that it can automatically switch between the two communication methods or utilize both communication methods simultaneously. In this case, the sensor device 50 can have multiple short-range wireless communication units 530.

[0228] [4. Fourth Implementation] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The fourth embodiment is an embodiment in which the server device 80 makes suggestions based on the forwarding status of the second terminal device 20. Furthermore, aspects of the configuration and processing that are the same as in the first embodiment will be omitted from the description, and the description will focus on the differences. Figure 29 A diagram illustrating the processing of the server device 80 in the fourth embodiment.

[0229] The control unit 800 calculates the data received from the terminal devices (step S600). Here, if there is a terminal device in the second terminal device 20 other than the target being nearby, the first notification process is performed (step S602: Yes → step S604).

[0230] For example, the forwarding rate of sensor information of the target is summed for each second terminal device 20. The higher the forwarding rate, the more frequently the control unit 800 can determine that the contact frequency with the target is higher. Furthermore, if the forwarded sensor information includes radio wave intensity and distance to the sensor device 50, the control unit 800 can determine that the distance to the target is close. Thus, the control unit 800 can notify close contacts of those with infectious diseases (such as COVID-19).

[0231] Furthermore, the control unit 800 determines the number of sensor devices that are transmitting sensor information being forwarded by the second terminal device 20, and determines whether the change is within a specified range (step S606). If the change in the terminal device is within the specified range, the control unit 800 performs the second notification process (step S606: Yes → step S608).

[0232] For example, if the second terminal device 20 that is forwarding sensor information changes little, it is known that the subject is always located in the same place, or even if the subject is moving, the same second terminal device 20 is still sending sensor information within a narrow range that can be connected. "Little change in the second terminal device 20" means, for example, that the types of terminal devices around the subject (e.g., the types of terminal devices determined based on terminal device identification information) do not change, or the number of second terminal devices 20 forwarding sensor information does not change. Based on the situation that the subject is not moving, the control unit 800 determines that the risk of disuse syndrome is high, or notifies that the risk of depression due to insufficient communication is increasing.

[0233] Furthermore, although it has been stated that the actions of this embodiment are performed by the server device 80, they can also be performed by the first terminal device 10 or the third terminal device 30 held by authorized persons such as staff members.

[0234] [5. Application Examples and Effects] This system can be effectively used, for example, in shelters for managing the physical condition of refugees.

[0235] For example, vital sign data (such as measurement data from medical devices) that are personal information that requires careful handling can be sent to server device 80 via a dedicated gateway or a first terminal device 10 such as a personal smartphone of the person in question. For other data, the data can be broadcast from sensor device 50 to server device 80, including data other than the person's own data, and sent from a second terminal device 20 such as a smartphone of the person in question.

[0236] The broadcast data contains identification information and vital sign data of sensor device 50. It will only be associated with personal information when sensor device 50 is bound to the subject in server device 80.

[0237] Furthermore, this system sets the network in the shelter to local (e.g., Local 5G), allowing the binding of the identification information of the sensor device 50 and the identification information of the target to be viewed only in a local environment, thereby creating a safer environment.

[0238] In addition, this system can receive data using all terminal devices (smartphones) in the shelter, thus reducing the frequency of data loss caused by human error.

[0239] Furthermore, this system effectively utilizes the refugees' smartphones and other terminal devices, thus minimizing the need for gateway setup.

[0240] Thus, shelters can become environments that foster mutual assistance within the local community. Therefore, shelter residents with smartphones or other mobile devices should install a dedicated app beforehand. This system can then transmit data from environmental sensors or wearable sensors via various pathways to the server device within the shelter. Consequently, even those without smartphones or other mobile devices can have their data transmitted to the server device in real time, thus creating a system that minimizes data communication interruptions.

[0241] In addition, this system broadcasts data acquired from wearable sensors at fixed intervals using beacons. The gateway or smartphone that receives the data forwards it to the server device, and the server device discards duplicate data if duplicate data from the same ID is found.

[0242] Furthermore, relying solely on broadcast transmission carries the risk of data being received on various terminals, making it difficult to protect personal information. Therefore, devices that acquire vital sign data—personal information requiring careful handling—are paired to create a communication environment that prevents information leakage to external parties. Server devices can manage and utilize this data, along with any other data being broadcast, within the same environment.

[0243] To create a more secure environment for broadcast data, this system uses a local network (e.g., Local 5G) to establish connections between server devices, gateways, and smartphones. It can manage files that bind data IDs (such as sensor device IDs) to personal IDs within shelters (e.g., within the server device). Therefore, this system can eliminate the risk of leaking personally identifiable information to anyone outside the designated personnel.

[0244] Furthermore, the data utilized includes data obtained from medical devices as well as data obtained from non-medical devices. This system can also utilize information from medical devices.

[0245] Furthermore, the data stored on the server can also be accessed by medical institutions and other similar organizations. Therefore, medical instructions can be issued from medical personnel to refugees in shelters or on-site staff based on screening results. In other words, even in shelters with limited medical personnel, remote health management and guidance can be implemented.

[0246] In this way, the system can address the previously difficult task of managing the physical condition of personnel in shelters without consuming human time and labor.

[0247] Furthermore, this system utilizes refugees' smartphones within shelters based on mutual assistance, thereby enabling responses without expending time, labor, or costs.

[0248] Furthermore, the sensor device can connect to terminal devices such as smartphones owned by the user using short-range wireless communication such as BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy). By utilizing BLE in communication with the terminal device, the sensor device can achieve power-saving communication, thus enabling designs that take battery capacity into account.

[0249] Even when using BLE for short-range wireless communication, the sensor device of this embodiment can transmit subject information to the server device without data loss. Generally, due to the characteristics of BLE radio waves, communication with terminal devices such as smartphones is easily interrupted. This is because BLE radio waves cannot penetrate the human body, so communication can be interrupted, for example, when the subject is sleeping and their body is positioned between the sensor and the smartphone. Thus, the sensor device may experience communication interruptions depending on the subject's posture. When communication between the sensor device and the terminal device is interrupted, the sensor device cannot send data to the server device, resulting in prolonged data loss.

[0250] However, in such cases, the sensor devices in this system broadcast the target information, thus ensuring reliable data transmission. By broadcasting the target information through the sensor devices, any terminal device can send the target information to the server device. Therefore, the server device can prevent the loss of target information data.

[0251] [6. Variations] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and designs that do not depart from the spirit of the present invention are also included in the claims.

[0252] Furthermore, the techniques disclosed in the above-described implementation methods, application examples, operation examples, and variations are intended to be implemented as much as possible, whether used alone or in combination.

[0253] Furthermore, the programs that operate in each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU and other devices in a manner that enables the computer to perform its functions in accordance with the functions described in the embodiments described above. In addition, the information processed in these devices is temporarily stored in temporary storage devices (such as RAM) during processing, and then stored in various ROM or HDD storage devices, and read out by the CPU for correction and writing as needed.

[0254] Furthermore, when circulating in the market, the program can be stored on a portable, non-transitory recording medium to facilitate its distribution, or forwarded to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the server computer's storage device is naturally also included in this invention.

[0255] Furthermore, while the above embodiment describes communication using BLE, different communication methods or combinations thereof are also possible. For example, in cases where highly urgent data needs to be transmitted, communication can be switched from BLE to WiFi. In this case, the second sensor information can be transmitted via wireless LAN. Furthermore, wireless LAN can also be combined as a third communication method.

[0256] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, when using a communication method different from that used with BLE, connection-oriented communication / connectionless communication can be used for connection-oriented communication / broadcast communication.

[0257] Furthermore, the first terminal device 10 and the second terminal device 20 can be switched based on the connection frequency. For example, if the second terminal device 20 has multiple connections, it can be switched to the first terminal device 10. Specifically, if the same second terminal device 20 is continuously forwarding sensor information, the system 1 can recommend whether to set the second terminal device 20 as the communication target for connection-oriented communication.

[0258] Furthermore, the above process can end at any time. For example, the program execution can end when a stop signal is input from the recipient (user), staff, or system, or it can return to the previous step or the previous operation screen. For example, in Figure 17 The processing flow can also end at any time. Symbol Explanation

[0259] 1 system 10. Terminal device 100 Control Department 102 Setting Unit, 104 Forwarding Control Unit, 106 Target Information Display Unit, 110 Storage Unit 112 Sensor information storage area, 114 Setting information storage area, 116 Object information storage area 120 Department of Communications 130 Short-Range Wireless Communication Unit 150 Operations Department 160 display unit 20 Second Terminal Device 200 Control Department 202 Forwarding Control Department 210 Storage Department 212 Sensor Information Storage Department 220 Department of Communications 230 Short-Range Wireless Communication Unit 250 Operations Department 260 Display Unit 30 Third terminal device 300 Control Department 302 Subject Information Display and Control Department, 304 Subject Status Management Department 310 Storage Division 312 Object Information Storage Area 320 Communications Department 350 Operations Department 360 Display Department 50 sensor devices 500 Control Department 502 Sensor Information Transmission Unit 510 Storage Division 512 Sensor Information Storage Area, 514 Setting Information Storage Area 530 Short-Range Wireless Communication Unit 540 Acquisition Department 80 server devices 800 Control Department 802 Object Management Department, 804 Sensor Management Department, 806 Object Information Storage Department, 808 Object Status Management Department 810 Storage Division 812 Object DB, 814 Sensor DB 820 Communications Department 850 Operations Department 860 display unit.

Claims

1. A sensor device comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring biometric information of a subject; a communication unit for performing short-range wireless communication; and a control unit, characterized in that... The control unit determines whether the acquired biological information is specific biological information. When the biological information is the specific biological information, the biological information is transmitted to the server device via the communication unit through a specific terminal device. In cases where the biological information is not the specific biological information, the biological information is transmitted via broadcast through the communication unit, thereby transmitting the biological information to the server device via a non-specific terminal device.

2. The sensor device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the importance of the acquired biological information is low or the immediacy of the acquired biological information is high, the control unit determines the acquired biological information as the specific biological information.

3. A system, characterized in that, have: The sensor device as described in claim 1 or 2 transmits the acquired biological information as sensor information; as well as A terminal device that sends the sensor information received from the sensor device to a server device; When the sensor information, which is the specific biological information, is transmitted in a connection-oriented manner, the first terminal device that has established communication with the sensor device sends the sensor information to the server device as the specific terminal device. When transmitting sensor information other than the specific biological information via broadcast, the second terminal device that receives the sensor information, acting as the non-specific terminal device, transmits the sensor information to the server device.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The terminal device is designated as the target terminal device for sending sensor information via the connection-oriented method.

5. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, When the sensor information transmitted via broadcast is forwarded from multiple terminal devices, the server device will delete duplicate sensor information.

6. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The server device determines the state of the target based on the sensor information sent by the terminal device via the connection-oriented method.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The server device determines the state of the target based on the distance between the sensor device and the terminal device or the forwarding rate of the sensor information from the sensor device.

8. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that, A notification is issued when the distance between the sensor device and the terminal device is closer than a specified distance, or when the forwarding rate of sensor information from the sensor device is higher than a specified forwarding rate.

9. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The server device determines the state of the target based on changes in the second terminal device that has sent sensor information from the sensor device.

10. The system according to claim 9, characterized in that, A notification is issued when the second terminal device that sent the sensor information is of the same type or when the number of the second terminal devices that sent the sensor information remains unchanged.

11. The system according to any one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that, When the terminal device receives high-urgency sensor information from the sensor device while sending the sensor information to the server device, it temporarily stops sending the currently sending sensor information and sends the high-urgency sensor information to the server device with priority.

12. A method for transmitting biometric information as sensor information from a sensor device as described in claim 1 or 2 via a terminal device to a server device, characterized in that, When the sensor information, which is the specific biological information, is transmitted from the sensor device in a connection-oriented manner, the terminal device that has established communication with the sensor device sends the sensor information to the server device as the specific terminal device. When transmitting sensor information other than the specific biological information via broadcast, a terminal device that receives the sensor information may, as the non-specific terminal device, transmit the sensor information to the server device.

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