Passage detection device, passage management system, passage management method, and storage medium

Abstract

The access detection device, access management system, access management method, and procedure can suppress the reduction of convenience for pedestrians and save on wiring. The access management system (1) has multiple reading devices (7). Other reading devices, besides the reference device which is an arbitrary reading device, determine the timing of their own detection signal transmission based on the detection signal transmitted by the reference device at a preset time. Each reading device receives a response signal transmitted by the communication device (6) in response to the detection signal transmitted by the reading device itself, and a response signal transmitted by the communication device in response to the detection signal transmitted by other reading devices. The master device, which is an arbitrary reading device, transmits the identification information of the response signal received from the communication device to the management device (8). The slave devices, which are other reading devices besides the master device, transmit the identification information of the response signal received from the communication device to the master device via wireless communication, and the master device transmits the identification information to the management device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a passage detection device, a passage management system, a passage management method, and a storage medium storing a passage management program. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of an access control system. The access control system has multiple reading devices. These multiple reading devices are electrically connected via a synchronization line. Each reading device transmits a detection wave. Tags held by users transmit response waves to these detection waves. Each reading device receives the response waves transmitted by the tags in response to the detection waves. The identification information read from the received response waves by each reading device is transmitted to a main control device via a corresponding secondary control device.

[0003] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 030821

[0004] However, the access control system described in Patent Document 1 requires extensive wiring, such as synchronization lines, between multiple reading devices, secondary control devices, and primary control devices. Therefore, the construction of the access control system can sometimes be difficult. On the other hand, if communication between devices is simply made wireless to save on wiring, communication failures due to wireless signal interference may reduce the convenience for users. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention was made to solve such a problem. It provides a passage detection device, a passage management system, a passage management method, and a passage management program, which can suppress the reduction of convenience for pedestrians and save on wiring.

[0006] The passage detection device of the present invention has multiple reading devices disposed at the boundary of a managed area where a management device manages the passage of pedestrians. Each reading device transmits a detection signal wirelessly. This detection signal causes a communication device moving with the pedestrian to transmit a response signal containing the pedestrian's identification information wirelessly. A reference device, acting as a reference for any of the multiple reading devices, transmits the detection signal at a predetermined time. Other reading devices besides the reference device determine their own timing for transmitting the detection signal based on the detection signal transmitted by the reference device. Each of the multiple reading devices receives a response signal from the communication device regarding the reading signal. The device takes the response signal sent by the detection signal itself and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices. The master device of any of the plurality of reading devices sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device. The slave devices other than the master device among the plurality of reading devices send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the master device via wireless communication. The master device sends the identification information of the passerby received from the slave device to the management device.

[0007] The access control system of the present invention comprises: a management device for managing the passage of pedestrians at the boundary of a managed area; a communication device that moves with the pedestrians; and a plurality of reading devices disposed at the boundary of the managed area, each transmitting a detection signal wirelessly. The detection signal causes the communication device to transmit a response signal containing the pedestrian's identification information wirelessly. A reference device, serving as a reference device among the plurality of reading devices, transmits the detection signal at a predetermined time. Other reading devices besides the reference device determine their own timing for transmitting the detection signal based on the detection signal transmitted by the reference device. The plurality of reading devices respectively receive... The communication device sends a response signal to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and a response signal sent by the communication device to the detection signal sent by other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices. As the master device of any of the plurality of reading devices, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device. The slave devices among the plurality of reading devices other than the master device send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the master device via wireless communication. The master device sends the identification information of the passerby received from the slave devices to the management device.

[0008] The access control method of the present invention uses multiple reading devices positioned at the boundary of a management area where access is managed by a management device. Each reading device wirelessly transmits a detection signal, which causes a communication device moving with the accessed person to wirelessly transmit a response signal containing the accessed person's identification information. The access control method includes: a first transmitting step, in which a reference device, acting as any of the multiple reading devices, transmits the detection signal at a predetermined time; a determining step, in which other reading devices besides the reference device determine their own timing for transmitting the detection signal based on the detection signal transmitted in the first transmitting step; a second transmitting step, in which the reading device that performed the determining step transmits the detection signal at the timing determined in the determining step; and a receiving step, in which the multiple reading devices... Any reading device in the reading device receives a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by the reading device itself, or a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by another reading device among the plurality of reading devices; in the third sending step, if a secondary device among the plurality of reading devices, other than the primary device that is any reading device among the plurality of reading devices, receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the primary device via wireless communication; and in the fourth sending step, if the primary device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the secondary device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

[0009] The access control procedure of the present invention enables the access control system to execute a first sending step, a decision step, a second sending step, a receiving step, a third sending step, and a fourth sending step. The access control system has multiple reading devices positioned at the boundaries of a management area where the access of travelers is managed by the management device. Each reading device transmits a detection signal wirelessly. This detection signal causes a communication device moving with the traveler to transmit a response signal containing the traveler's identification information wirelessly. In the first sending step, a reference device, acting as a reference device among the multiple reading devices, sends the detection signal at a predetermined time. In the decision step, other reading devices besides the reference device determine their own timing for sending the detection signal based on the detection signal sent in the first sending step. In the second sending step, the reading device that performed the decision step... The detection signal is sent at a time determined by the communication device. In the receiving step, any one of the plurality of reading devices receives the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, or the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices. In the third sending step, if a secondary device other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the primary device via wireless communication. In the fourth sending step, if the primary device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the secondary device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

[0010] If the access detection device, access management system, access management method, or access management program of the present invention is applicable, it can suppress the reduction of accessibility for travelers and save on wiring. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the access management system in Implementation Method 1.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the detection area of ​​the access control system according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the synchronization of the timing of the transmission of detection signals in the access management system of Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the synchronization of the timing of the transmission of detection signals in the access management system of Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the transmission of response signals in the access control system of Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of wireless communication of the first location information of a communication device in the access management system of Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of determining the second location information of a communication device in the access control system of Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of determining the second location information of a communication device in the access control system of Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the reading device according to Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the reading device according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the reading device according to Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the reading device according to Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a hardware structure diagram of the main parts of the access management system in Implementation Method 1.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram of the access management system in Implementation Method 2.

[0025] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the transmission of response signals in the access control system of Embodiment 2.

[0026] Label Explanation

[0027] 1: Access control system; 2a: Management area; 2b: Boundary area; 3: Security gate; 4, 4a, 4b: Passageway; 5: Barrier; 6: Communication device; 7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f: Reading device; 8: Management device; 9: Reading array; 100a: Processor; 100b: Memory; 200: Dedicated hardware. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, identical or equivalent parts are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are simplified or omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments; any modifications or omissions of any constituent elements of the embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0029] Implementation Method 1

[0030] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the access management system 1 according to implementation method 1.

[0031] Access control system 1 is applied to a facility. The facility may be an indoor facility, an outdoor facility, or a combination of both. The facility may consist of one or more buildings. The facility may also be part of a building. A management area 2a is defined within the facility. The management area 2a is a pre-defined area inside or outside the facility. Access control system 1 may also be an access area management system that manages entry and exit to the management area 2a.

[0032] In the access control system 1, a security gate 3 is provided at the boundary of the managed area 2a. The boundary of the managed area 2a may also include a boundary area 2b, such as a space adjacent to the managed area 2a. The security gate 3 is provided, for example, at the entrance of a building or the entrance / exit of a room inside a building. Passages 4a and 4b are arranged side by side in the security gate 3. Here, without specifically distinguishing between passages 4a and 4b, they are sometimes simply referred to as passages 4. Each passage 4 is a passageway for pedestrians who can pass through the boundary of the managed area 2a. Pedestrians who can pass through the boundary of the managed area 2a are, for example, people who are permitted to enter and exit the managed area 2a. Each passage 4 is provided with an opening and closing device such as a baffle 5. The baffle 5 is a device that switches between a closed state that restricts passage 4 passage and an open state that allows passage 4 passage. In addition, there may be one or more passages 4 provided in the security gate 3. Furthermore, the passages 4 may also be arranged non-parallel.

[0033] Passengers passing through the boundary of managed area 2a carry communication device 6. Communication device 6 moves with the passerby by being carried by them. Communication device 6 can be, for example, a portable, general-purpose information processing terminal device such as a smartphone, or a dedicated device such as a wireless tag. Wireless tag, for example, includes semi-active RFID tags (RFID: Radio Frequency Identification). Communication device 6 can be, for example, an external device of the access management system 1 carried by the passerby, or an internal device of the access management system 1 distributed to the passerby by the administrator of the access management system 1. Communication device 6 is equipped with the function of communicating with wireless signals. Wireless signals can be, for example, wireless communication signals based on electromagnetic waves. Wireless signals can be, for example, signals from wireless PAN (Personal Area Network) or UWB (Ultra-Wide Band). Wireless signals can also be signals from wireless communication based on the IEEE 802.11 standard or the IEEE 802.15.1 standard, or their successors, related standards, alternative standards, or similar standards. The communication device 6 maintains identification information that identifies the person holding the communication device 6. This identification information may be, for example, a unique ID number (ID: Identifier) ​​assigned to the person. Alternatively, the identification information may be information identifying the communication device 6 held by the person.

[0034] The access control system 1 includes reading devices 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, and 7f. Here, without specifically distinguishing between reading devices 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, and 7f, they are sometimes simply referred to as reading devices 7. Furthermore, the number of reading devices 7 in the access control system 1 is not limited to six; it can be five or fewer, or seven or more. The access control system 1 may also include other reading devices 7 not shown here. These reading devices 7 are, for example, located at other entrances or exits of the management area 2a (not shown here). Each reading device 7 is equipped with the function of communicating with wireless signals. Each reading device 7 communicates, for example, with a communication device 6 held by a passerby and at least any other reading device 7 via wireless signals. Each reading device 7 is, for example, mounted on a security gate 3. A security gate 3 equipped with multiple reading devices 7 is an example of an access detection device. In this example, reading devices 7a and 7b are positioned on the right side of channel 4a as viewed from the outside of management area 2a. Reading devices 7c and 7d are positioned between channel 4a and channel 4b. Reading devices 7e and 7f are positioned on the left side of channel 4b as viewed from the outside of management area 2a. Furthermore, reading devices 7a, 7c, and 7e are positioned near the front of each channel 4 as viewed from the outside of management area 2a. Reading devices 7b, 7d, and 7f are positioned on the inner side of each channel 4 as viewed from the outside of management area 2a. Reading devices 7a and 7c are positioned opposite each other across channel 4a. Reading devices 7b and 7d are positioned opposite each other across channel 4a. Reading devices 7c and 7e are positioned opposite each other across channel 4b. Reading devices 7d and 7f are positioned opposite each other across channel 4b.

[0035] The access control system 1 includes a management device 8. The management device 8 manages the passage of pedestrians at the boundary of the managed area 2a. The management device 8 is communicatively connected to any reading device 7. In this example, the management device 8 is electrically connected to the reading device 7a via wired connection. The management device 8 is connected to the reading device 7a, for example, through underfloor wiring. The reading device 7a connected to the management device 8 is an example of a main device. Other reading devices 7 besides the main device (e.g., reading device 7b) are examples of secondary devices. Furthermore, the management device 8 can also perform management processing collaboratively with external server devices, etc. The external server device may, for example, provide storage or processing resources as a cloud service. In this case, the management device 8 can also connect to the external server device via a communication network such as the Internet.

[0036] In the access control system 1, each reading device 7 sends a detection signal as a wireless signal. The detection signal is a signal that causes the communication device 6 held by the person passing through to send a response signal containing the person's identification information as a wireless signal.

[0037] In the access control system 1, groups containing multiple reading devices 7 are provided. These groups can be set for each passageway 4 used by a user, or for each entrance / exit of a management area 2a if the access control system 1 is applied to multiple management areas 2a or if multiple entrances / exits are provided in the management area 2a. Groups can also be set independently on the entrance and exit sides of a single passageway 4. In this example, reading devices 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d mounted on security doors 3 along passageway 4a belong to the same group. Alternatively, reading devices 7c, 7d, 7e, and 7f mounted on security doors 3 along passageway 4b can also belong to the same group. That is, reading devices 7c and 7d positioned between passageways 4a and 4b can also belong to multiple groups. Furthermore, reading devices 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, and 7f positioned along adjacent passageways 4a and 4b can also be grouped into one group. The groups of reading devices 7 are identified by group identifiers, which are assigned as inherent values. Each reading device 7 belonging to the same group transmits detection signals synchronously and sequentially in a time-division manner in a way that can suppress interference with wireless signals. In this way, the groups of reading devices 7 form synchronization groups.

[0038] A timing identifier is set for each reading device 7 belonging to the same group. The timing identifier is information indicating the timing of the transmission of the detection signal. For example, the timing identifier may be information indicating the transmission order of the detection signal.

[0039] In the access control system 1, any one of the reading devices 7 belonging to the same group functions as a reference device. In this example, reading device 7a functions as a reference device. Reading device 7a is assigned a special timing identifier that distinguishes it from other timing identifiers, enabling it to be identified as a reference device. Reading device 7a sends a detection signal at a preset timing. Reading device 7a polls the detection signal at a preset period, i.e., it periodically sends the detection signal. The detection signal sent by reading device 7a includes the group identifier of the group to which reading device 7a belongs and the timing identifier of reading device 7a.

[0040] Other reading devices 7 besides the reference device (e.g., reading device 7b) receive the detection signal sent by reading device 7a. Reading device 7b determines whether the group identifier of the received detection signal is the group identifier that identifies its own group. If the determination is affirmative, reading device 7b determines whether the timing identifier of the detection signal is the timing identifier of reading device 7a, which is the reference device for that group. If the determination is affirmative, reading device 7b determines the timing of its next detection signal transmission based on its own timing identifier. Reading device 7b transmits the detection signal at the determined timing. The detection signal transmitted by reading device 7b includes the group identifier of the group to which reading device 7b belongs and the timing identifier of reading device 7b.

[0041] Other reading devices 7c and 7d, etc., similarly determine the timing of transmitting the detection signal and transmit the detection signal. Here, when the reading device 7c belongs to multiple groups, the detection signal transmitted by the reading device 7c may include, for example, a group identifier for determining the timing of transmitting the detection signal, and a timing identifier for the reading device 7c in the group identified by that group identifier. Alternatively, when the reading device 7c belongs to multiple groups, it may also include the group identifiers of each of the multiple groups to which the reading device 7c belongs, and the timing identifiers of the reading devices 7c in each group.

[0042] When the person attempting to enter the passage 4 of security gate 3, the communication device 6 held by the person receives a detection signal sent by the arbitrary reading device 7. The communication device 6 sends a response signal to the detection signal, which includes identification information held by the person and a group identifier contained in the detection signal.

[0043] The arbitrary reading device 7 receives a response signal sent by the communication device 6 in response to a detection signal. At this time, the reading device 7 can receive a response signal sent by the communication device 6 in response to a detection signal sent by the reading device 7 itself, or it can receive a response signal sent by the communication device 6 in response to a detection signal sent by another reading device 7. For example, if the group identifier included in the response signal is a group identifier identifying the group to which it belongs, the reading device 7 performs the response signal reception processing. The reading device 7 performs the response signal reception processing as described below.

[0044] The reading device 7 uses the received response signal to obtain the first position information of the communication device 6 that sent the response signal. The first position information is the position information of the communication device 6 obtained by each reading device 7 using the response signal. The first position information obtained by the reading device 7 may be, for example, a relative position based on the reading device 7. The first position information obtained by the reading device 7 may also include one or both of the information such as distance and angle based on the reading device 7. In this example, the reading device 7 obtains the first position information of the communication device 6 by using distance and angle measurement of the received response signal. The reading device 7 may also obtain the first position information of the communication device 6 by using only distance and angle measurement. The reading device 7 obtains distance information between the reading device 7 and the communication device 6, for example, based on the signal strength of the received response signal. The signal strength is, for example, the RSSI value (Received Signal Strength Indicator). For example, if the RSSI value is greater than a preset threshold, the reading device 7 determines that the communication device 6 is within a preset detection range around the reading device 7.

[0045] The reading device 7 can also obtain the distance to the communication device 6 that sent the response signal using ranging methods such as Time of Flight (ToF). In this case, the response signal may also include information about the processing time from the moment the detection signal is received in the communication terminal to the moment the response signal is sent. Therefore, the reading device 7 can calculate the propagation time of the detection signal and the response signal in space based on the time from the moment the detection signal is sent to the moment the response signal is received, and the processing time included in that response time. When the reading device 7 that sent the detection signal and the reading device 7 that received the response signal are the same device, the calculated propagation time is equivalent to the round-trip time between the reading device 7 and the communication device 6. Therefore, the reading device 7 can calculate the distance between the reading device 7 and the communication device 6 using the propagation speed of wireless signals such as the speed of light. On the other hand, when the reading device 7 that sent the detection signal and the reading device 7 that received the response signal are different, for example, when reading device 7b receives a response signal to the detection signal sent to reading device 7a, reading device 7b can also obtain the first location information of the communication device 6 as described below. In this case, the propagation distance calculated based on the propagation time and speed of the wireless signal is the sum of the distance from the reading device 7a to the communication device 6 and the distance from the communication device 6 to the reading device 7b. Therefore, the reading device 7b can also determine the first position information of the communication device 6 onto an ellipse with the positions of the reading devices 7a and 7b as foci. Furthermore, the position information of the reading device 7a, based on the reading device 7b, can be pre-stored by the reading device 7b, for example.

[0046] The reading device 7 can also obtain the direction of arrival of the response signal from the communication device 6, i.e., the direction of the communication device 6, by angle measurement methods such as PDoA (Phase Difference of Arrival). The reading device 7 obtains the direction of arrival of the response signal based on the phase difference of the response signals received by the multiple receiving antennas mounted on it.

[0047] When the reading device 7b, acting as a secondary device, receives and processes the response signal, it reads the identification information contained in the response signal. The reading device 7b obtains the first location information of the communication device 6 using one or more of the following methods: based on the RSSI value, Time-of-Flight (ToF), PDoA, or others. The reading device 7b then transmits the read identification information and the first location information of the communication device 6 to the primary reading device 7a via wireless communication. Other secondary devices, such as the reading device 7c, perform the same processing.

[0048] When the reading device 7a, acting as the main device, receives and processes the response signal, it reads the identification information contained in the response signal. The reading device 7a acquires the first location information of the communication device 6 using one or more of the following methods: based on the RSSI value, Time-of-Flight (ToF) method, PDoA method, or others. The reading device 7a determines the second location information of the communication device 6 based on the acquired first location information. The second location information is the location information of the communication device 6, which moves with the pedestrian, used for pedestrian access management. The second location information may include, for example, information that determines the positional relationship of the communication device 6 relative to a passageway 4 or other pathway used by the pedestrian carrying the communication device 6. The second location information may also include, for example, coordinates in space encompassing the boundary of the management area 2a. The reading device 7a may also directly use the first location information as the second location information if it can determine the second location information of the communication device 6 based on its own acquired first location information. Furthermore, when the reading device 7a receives first location information from other reading devices 7b, it can use the first location information of the communication device 6 it has acquired, as well as the first location information of the communication device 6 received from the reading devices 7b, to determine the second location information of the communication device 6. In this case, the reading device 7a can, for example, use pre-stored location information of the reading devices 7b based on the reading device 7a. When the second location information is determined based on multiple first location information, the location of the communication device 6 can be represented with higher precision. The reading device 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within a pre-set detection zone based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6. If it determines that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, the reading device 7a sends the passerby's identification information to the management device 8. On the other hand, if it does not determine that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, the reading device 7a does not send the passerby's identification information to the management device 8 but retains it.

[0049] Furthermore, if the main reader 7a receives first location information from other readers 7b or 7c, even if it does not receive a response signal from the communication device 6, it can use this first location information to determine the second location information of the communication device 6. Alternatively, if the reader 7a can determine the second location information of the communication device 6 based on a single first location information, it can directly use that first location information as the second location information. Based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6, the reader 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within the detection zone. If it determines that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, the reader 7a will send the passerby identification information received from other readers 7 to the management device 8, even if it does not receive a response signal from the communication device 6 itself. On the other hand, if it does not determine that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, the reader 7a will not send the passerby identification information to the management device 8, but will retain it.

[0050] The management device 8 determines, for example, whether the passage of a person identified based on the identification information received from the reading device 7a has been authorized by checking against a pre-set list of authorized persons. If the passage of a person has been authorized, the management device 8 authenticates that person. At this time, the management device 8 causes the security door 3 to open the barrier 5 of the passage 4 through which the person passes. The authenticated person then passes through the passage 4 with the barrier 5 now open and enters the management area 2a.

[0051] Next, use Figure 2 An example of the detection area will be provided.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the detection area of ​​the access management system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0053] exist Figure 2 The image shows the reading device 7a, the reading device 7c, and the communication device 6 as viewed from above.

[0054] In this example, the detection zone is set for channel 4a. The detection zone is defined as an area within a pre-defined detection range surrounding the reading device 7a and within a pre-defined detection range surrounding the reading device 7c. Here, the detection range of the reading device 7 is, for example, closer to the range of the reading device 7 than a pre-defined distance. Thus, by using the overlapping detection ranges set for a pair of reading devices 7 facing each other across channel 4a as the detection zone, it is possible to more reliably detect pedestrians passing through channel 4a. Furthermore, since it is possible to determine whether the communication device 6 is within the detection zone based on its distance from the reading device 7, the reading device 7 can easily perform this determination.

[0055] For example, the reading device 7a can also receive information such as RSSI values, which are equivalent to distance, as first location information from other reading devices 7. In this case, the reading device 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within the detection range of the other reading device 7 based on the first location information. Alternatively, the reading device 7a can also receive information about whether the communication device 6 is within the detection range of the other reading device 7 as first location information from the other reading device 7. The reading device 7a determines whether there is a combination of reading devices 7 forming a detection zone for any channel 4 among one or more reading devices 7 within its detection range of the communication device 6. More specifically, the reading device 7a, for example, determines whether there are reading devices 7a and 7c forming a combination of reading devices 7a and 7c forming a detection zone for channel 4a among multiple reading devices 7 within its detection range of the communication device 6. Information about such a combination can determine the positional relationship of the communication device 6 relative to the channel 4 traversed by the person holding the communication device 6; therefore, the reading device 7a can also determine this combination information as second location information of the communication device 6.

[0056] In addition, if the reading device 7a can determine the second position information of the communication device 6 in detail by means of coordinates, the detection area can also be set as a rectangular or other shaped area containing the corresponding channel 4a.

[0057] Next, use Figures 3-8 An example of the operation of the multiple reading devices 7 mounted on the security door 3 will be explained.

[0058] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the synchronization of the timing of the transmission of detection signals in the access management system 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0059] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the transmission of response signals in the access control system 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0060] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of wireless communication of the first location information of the communication device 6 in the access management system 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0061] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of determining the second location information of the communication device 6 in the access management system 1 of Embodiment 1.

[0062] exist Figures 3-8 The image shows the reading device 7a, the reading device 7c, and the communication device 6 as viewed from above.

[0063] like Figure 3As shown, the reading device 7a, acting as a reference device, transmits a detection signal at a pre-set polling period. In this example, the communication device 6 is far from the channel 4a and therefore does not receive the detection signal transmitted by the reading device 7a. On the other hand, the detection signal, as a wireless signal, also propagates to the reading device 7c, which is opposite to the reading device 7a across the channel 4a. The reading device 7c reads information about the group identifier and the timing identifier from the detection signal transmitted by the reading device 7a. The reading device 7c determines whether the group identifier read from the detection signal is the group identifier that identifies its own group. If the determination result is positive, the reading device 7c determines whether the timing identifier read from the detection signal is the timing identifier of the reading device 7a, which is the reference device for that group. If the determination result is positive, the reading device 7c determines the timing of its next transmission of the detection signal based on its own timing identifier.

[0064] For example, if the timing identifier of the reading device 7c indicates the sequence immediately following the reading device 7a, the reading device 7c takes the time when the transmission of the detection signal from the reading device 7a ends as its own timing for transmitting the detection signal next. For example, if a time width for transmitting the detection signal is pre-allocated for each reading device 7, the reading device 7c takes the time elapsed from the start time of the transmission of the detection signal from the reading device 7a, equal to the time width allocated to the reading device 7a, as its own timing for transmitting the detection signal next. Information about the start time of the detection signal transmission can also be included in the detection signal itself. Alternatively, the reading device 7c can take the time when it receives the detection signal from the reading device 7a as the start time of that detection signal transmission. The reading device 7c can also determine the timing of transmitting the detection signal using other methods.

[0065] The communication device 6 carried by the passerby who wants to enter the management area 2a approaches the passage 4 of the security door 3 together with the passerby.

[0066] Then, as Figure 4 As shown, the reading device 7c sends a detection signal at a time determined by itself. The detection signal sent by the reading device 7c includes a group identifier of the group to which the reading device 7c belongs and a timing identifier of the reading device 7c. In this example, when the reading device 7c sends the detection signal, the reading device 7a, which is a reference device belonging to the same group as the reading device 7c, does not send a detection signal.

[0067] Then, as Figure 5As shown, the communication device 6 held by the traveler receives a detection signal sent by the reading device 7c. The communication device 6 reads the identification information held by the traveler. The communication device 6 reads the group identifier from the received detection signal. The communication device 6 generates information containing the read identification information and the read group identifier. The communication device 6 sends the generated information to the reading device 7c as a response signal via wireless communication.

[0068] A response signal to the wireless signal transmitted by the communication device 6 in response to the detection signal of the reading device 7c is transmitted to the reading device 7c. When the group identifier contained in the response signal is a group identifier that identifies the group to which it belongs, the reading device 7c performs reception processing on the response signal, including acquiring the first location information of the communication device 6 and reading the identification information.

[0069] Furthermore, a response signal, which is a wireless signal transmitted by the communication device 6 in response to the detection signal of the reading device 7c, is also propagated to the reading device 7a, which is located opposite the reading device 7c across the channel 4a. When the group identifier included in the response signal is a group identifier that identifies the group to which it belongs, the reading device 7a performs reception processing on the response signal, including acquiring the first location information of the communication device 6 and reading the identification information.

[0070] In addition, when the communication device 6 sends a response signal to the detection signal of the reading device 7a, both the reading device 7a and the reading device 7c can also perform the receiving process in the same way.

[0071] Then, as Figure 6 As shown, the reading device 7c, as a secondary device, sends the read identification information and the first location information of the communication device 6 to the reading device 7a, as the primary device, via wireless communication.

[0072] The reading device 7a determines the second location information of the communication device 6 based on the identification information of the passerby it reads and the first location information of the communication device 6, as well as the identification information of the passerby and the first location information of the communication device 6 received from the reading device 7c.

[0073] For example, Figure 7As shown, the reading device 7a determines the second position information of the communication device 6 based on the first position information obtained by angle measurement using methods such as PDoA. The reading device 7a estimates that the communication device 6 is located on a straight line La passing through the reading device 7a based on its own first position information including direction θa. The reading device 7a estimates that the communication device 6 is located on a straight line Lc passing through the reading device 7c based on the first position information including direction θc obtained by the reading device 7c, and the position information of the reading device 7c relative to the reading device 7a. The reading device 7a determines the second position information of the communication device 6 as the intersection point of multiple lines, such as the estimated straight lines La and Lc.

[0074] In addition, for example, Figure 8 As shown, the reading device 7a can also determine the second position information of the communication device 6 based on the first position information obtained by ranging using methods such as ToF. The reading device 7a estimates that the communication device 6 is located on an ellipse Ea with the reading devices 7a and 7c as foci, based on its own first position information including the propagation distance da and the position information of the reading device 7c relative to the reading device 7a. Here, the propagation distance da corresponds to the sum of the distance between the reading device 7c and the communication device 6, and the distance between the communication device 6 and the reading device 7a. Ellipse Ea is an ellipse with the propagation distance da as its major axis. The reading device 7a estimates that the communication device 6 is located on a circle Cc centered on the reading device 7c, based on the first position information including the propagation distance dc obtained by the reading device 7c and the position information of the reading device 7c relative to the reading device 7a. Here, the propagation distance dc corresponds to the round-trip distance between the reading device 7c and the communication device 6. Circle Cc is a circle with the propagation distance dc as its diameter. The reading device 7a determines the second position information of the communication device 6 as the position of the intersection point of multiple curves such as the ellipse Ea and the circle Cc estimated in this way.

[0075] Furthermore, the reading device 7a can also combine the first position information obtained by angle measurement and distance measurement to determine the second position information of the communication device 6. For example, if any reading device 7 obtains the first information obtained only by angle measurement, and other reading devices 7 obtain the first information obtained only by distance measurement, they can be combined to determine the second position information of the communication device 6.

[0076] Based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6, the reading device 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within the detection zone of the channel 4a. If the reading device 7a determines that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, it sends the passerby's identification information to the management device 8. On the other hand, if the reading device 7a does not determine that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, it does not send the passerby's identification information to the management device 8 but retains the transmission of the identification information.

[0077] Next, use Figures 9-12 Examples of the processing in each reading device 7 will be explained.

[0078] Figures 9-12 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the reading device 7 in Embodiment 1.

[0079] exist Figure 9 The image shows an example of the processing when the reading device 7a, which serves as a reference device, sends a detection signal.

[0080] In step S11, the reading device 7a determines whether the current timing is the preset timing for sending the detection signal. If the determination result is "no", the reading device 7a's processing, for example, returns to step S11 after a preset time has elapsed. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the reading device 7a's processing proceeds to step S12.

[0081] In step S12, the reading device 7a sends a detection signal as a wireless signal. Then, the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S11.

[0082] exist Figure 10 The diagram illustrates an example of the processing when a detection signal sent from another reading device 7 propagates to another reading device 7d other than the reference device. The same processing is performed in reading devices 7b and 7c, etc.

[0083] In step S21, the reading device 7d determines whether the group identifier of the detection signal sent from other reading devices 7 is the group identifier of its own group. If the determination result is "no", the reading device 7d's processing, for example, returns to step S21 after a preset time. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the reading device 7d's processing proceeds to step S22.

[0084] In step S22, the reading device 7d determines whether the timing identifier of the detection signal sent from other reading devices 7 is the timing identifier of the reading device 7a, which is the reference device of its own group. If the determination result is "no", the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S21. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S23.

[0085] In step S23, the reading device 7d determines the timing of its next transmission of a detection signal based on the timing identifiers of the detection signals sent from other reading devices 7 and its own timing identifier. Then, the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S24.

[0086] In step S24, the reading device 7d determines whether the current timing is the timing for sending the detection signal determined in step S23. If the determination result is "no", the reading device 7d's processing, for example, returns to step S24 after a preset time has elapsed. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the reading device 7d's processing proceeds to step S25.

[0087] In step S25, the reading device 7d sends a detection signal as a wireless signal. Then, the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S21.

[0088] exist Figure 11 The diagram shows an example of the processing when a response signal propagates from the communication device 6 to the reading device 7d, which is a secondary device. The same processing is performed in other secondary devices such as the reading device 7b and the reading device 7c.

[0089] In step S31, the reading device 7d determines whether the group identifier of the response signal sent from the communication device 6 is the group identifier of its own group. If the determination result is "no", the reading device 7d's processing will proceed to step S31 again, for example, after a preset time has elapsed. Alternatively, if the response signal has not been transmitted to the reading device 7d, the reading device 7a's processing may also proceed to step S31. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the reading device 7d's processing proceeds to step S32 for receiving processing.

[0090] In step S32, the reading device 7d obtains the first location information of the communication device 6 based on the response signal sent from the communication device 6. Then, the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S33.

[0091] In step S33, the reading device 7d reads the passerby's identification information contained in the response signal sent from the communication device 6. Then, the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S34.

[0092] In step S34, the reading device 7d transmits the first location information of the communication device 6 and the identification information of the passerby obtained to the reading device 7a, which is the master device, via wireless communication. Then, the processing of the reading device 7d proceeds to step S31.

[0093] exist Figure 12 The example shown is an example of the processing when a response signal is transmitted from the communication device 6 to the reading device 7a, which is the master device.

[0094] In step S41, the reading device 7a determines whether the group identifier of the response signal sent from the communication device 6 is the group identifier of its own group. If the determination result is "no", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S42. Alternatively, if the response signal has not been transmitted to the reading device 7a, the processing of the reading device 7a may also proceed to step S42. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S43 for receiving processing.

[0095] In step S42, the reading device 7a determines whether the first location information and identification information have been sent from another reading device 7. If the determination result is "no", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S41. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S45.

[0096] In step S43, the reading device 7a obtains the first location information of the communication device 6 based on the response signal sent from the communication device 6. Then, the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S44.

[0097] In step S44, the reading device 7a reads the passerby's identification information contained in the response signal sent from the communication device 6. Then, the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S45.

[0098] In step S45, the reading device 7a determines the second location information of the communication device 6 based on one or more first location information. Then, the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S46.

[0099] In step S46, the reading device 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within a pre-set detection area based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6. If the determination result is "no", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S41. On the other hand, if the determination result is "yes", the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S47.

[0100] In step S47, the reading device 7a sends the passerby's identification information to the management device 8. Then, the processing of the reading device 7a proceeds to step S41.

[0101] The management device 8 determines whether the passage of the person identified based on the identification information received from the reading device 7a has been authorized. If the passage of the person has been authorized, the management device 8 authenticates the person. At this time, the management device 8 causes the security door 3 to switch the barrier 5 of the passage 4 through which the person passes to the open state.

[0102] The access control system 1 reads programs recorded on recording media by various devices such as reading devices 7 and management devices 8, and performs actions according to these programs to execute various functions. The recording media for recording these programs may be built into each device constituting the access control system 1, connected to each device, or have information read by a reading device such as a driver for each device. The program may also be a software package containing multiple software programs that operate on each of the multiple devices constituting the access control system 1.

[0103] As explained above, the access control system 1 of Embodiment 1 has multiple reading devices 7. A reference device, acting as any reading device 7, sends a detection signal at a predetermined time. Other reading devices 7, besides the reference device, determine when to send their own detection signals based on the detection signals sent by the reference device. Each reading device 7 receives a response signal from the communication device 6 in response to its own detection signal, and a response signal from the communication device 6 in response to detection signals sent by other reading devices 7. The master device, acting as any reading device 7, sends the visitor identification information contained in the response signal received from the communication device 6 to a management device 8 that manages the passage of visitors at the boundary of the management area 2a. Sub-devices, acting as other reading devices 7 besides the master device, send the visitor identification information contained in the response signal received from the communication device 6 to the master device via wireless communication. The master device sends the visitor identification information received from the sub-devices to the management device 8.

[0104] With this structure, each reading device 7 can synchronize based on the detection signal sent by the reference device to the communication device 6 of the passerby. Therefore, by sending the detection signal in a time-division manner, interference with wireless signals can be suppressed. Furthermore, even in response to detection signals sent by other reading devices 7, each reading device 7 can receive and read the identification information. Therefore, delays in passerby authentication caused by sequentially sending detection signals in a time-division manner are less likely to occur. This reduces the likelihood of wireless communication failures and improves the real-time performance of access management processes such as passerby authentication, thus preventing interference with passerby authentication. Moreover, since the reading devices 7 communicate with each other via wireless signals, the wiring of synchronization lines and the like between the reading devices 7 can be reduced. Therefore, the access management system 1 can simultaneously mitigate the reduction in passerby convenience and save on wiring. By saving on the wiring of the access management system 1, the ease of installation when setting up the access management system 1 is improved, and the cost of implementing the access management system 1 can be reduced.

[0105] Furthermore, in the above example, the reading device 7a, which serves as the reference device, is the main device. In this case, the other reading devices 7 are auxiliary devices. Here, the reading device 7a, which functions as the reference device, and the other reading devices 7 can be equipped with different hardware or software, and can be switched between each other through hardware switch operation or software settings. Furthermore, the main device and auxiliary devices can be equipped with different hardware or software, and can be switched between each other through hardware switch operation or software settings. Although the example of the reading device 7a being both a reference device and a main device has been described, the reading device 7 serving as the reference device and the reading device 7 serving as the main device can also be different devices. For example, in the design of the access control system 1, the choice of which reading device 7 is the main device can be based on the ease of wiring between it and the management device 8, and the choice of which reading device 7 is the reference device can be based on the ease of synchronizing the detection signals.

[0106] Furthermore, each reading device 7 obtains the first position information of the communication device 6 by using at least one of ranging and angle measurement of the response signal received from the communication device 6. Thus, each reading device 7 can obtain the position information of the communication device 6 simultaneously while reading the identification information, thereby enabling more accurate detection of pedestrian passage.

[0107] Furthermore, the secondary device wirelessly transmits the first location information of the communication device 6, obtained using a response signal received from the communication device 6, to the primary device. The primary device determines the second location information of the communication device 6 based on at least one of the first location information obtained using the response signal received from the communication device 6 and the first location information of the communication device 6 received from the secondary device. By determining the location information of the communication device 6 for pedestrian access management based on more than one first location information, the primary device can perform pedestrian access detection with higher accuracy.

[0108] Furthermore, the main device determines whether the communication device 6 is within a pre-defined detection zone based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6. If the main device determines that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, it sends the visitor's identification information to the management device 8. On the other hand, if the main device does not determine that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, it does not send the visitor's identification information to the management device 8 but retains the information. Thus, when the communication device 6 is not within the detection zone, the identification information is not sent to the management device 8, thereby suppressing useless authentication of visitors. As a result, communication resources are saved, and the security of the management area 2a is improved.

[0109] Furthermore, in the access control system 1, each reading device 7 is assigned a timing identifier indicating the timing of the transmission of a detection signal. The detection signal transmitted by the reference device includes the timing identifier of the reference device. When the detection signal received from the reference device includes the timing identifier of that reference device, other reading devices 7 determine the timing of their own transmission of a detection signal based on their own timing identifier. In this way, each reading device 7 can easily achieve synchronization based on the detection signal transmitted by the reference device to the communication device 6 of the passerby, thus suppressing interference with the detection signal.

[0110] Furthermore, in the access control system 1, each reading device 7 belongs to a group identified by a group identifier. The detection signal sent by each reading device 7 includes a group identifier indicating the group to which that reading device 7 belongs. The response signal sent by the communication device 6 in response to the detection signal includes the group identifier contained in the detection signal. If each reading device 7 receives a response signal from the communication device 6 that includes the group identifier of its own group, it receives that response signal and performs reception processing. Thus, each reading device 7 can determine whether to perform reception processing based on the response signal sent by the communication device 6 in response to detection signals sent by other reading devices 7.

[0111] Furthermore, the master device can also send the visitor's identification information contained in the response signal to the management device 8 without waiting for the visitor's identification information to be received from the slave device when it receives the visitor's identification information from the slave device. Additionally, the master device can also send the identification information to the management device 8 without waiting for the response signal to be received from the communication device 6 when it receives the visitor's identification information from any slave device. Moreover, the master device can also send the identification information to the management device 8 without waiting for the visitor's identification information to be received from other slave devices when it receives the visitor's identification information from any slave device. This further improves the real-time performance of visitor authentication and other access management processes.

[0112] Furthermore, in the access management system 1, the user can also be an autonomous mobile entity such as a robot or a motor vehicle. In this case, the communication device 6 can also be a wireless communication module built into the autonomous mobile entity.

[0113] Next, use Figure 13 An example of the hardware structure of the access control system 1 is given.

[0114] Figure 13 This is a hardware structure diagram of the main parts of the access management system 1 in Implementation Method 1.

[0115] The various functions of the access control system 1 can be implemented by processing circuitry. Processing circuitry can be mounted, for example, on each of the reading devices 7 and the management device 8. Each processing circuit has at least one processor 100a and at least one memory 100b. Alternatively, the processing circuit may have at least one dedicated hardware 200, either together with or without the processor 100a and memory 100b.

[0116] When the processing circuit has a processor 100a and a memory 100b, the functions of the access control system 1 are implemented by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is described as a program. The program is stored in the memory 100b. The processor 100a implements the functions of the access control system 1 by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 100b.

[0117] The processor 100a is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), processing device, arithmetic device, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. The memory 100b is composed of non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory).

[0118] When the processing circuit has dedicated hardware 200, the processing circuit is implemented, for example, by a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmable processor, a parallel programmable processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0119] Each function of the access control system 1 can be implemented separately by processing circuitry. Alternatively, each function of the access control system 1 can also be implemented centrally by processing circuitry. Regarding each function of the access control system 1, some can be implemented by dedicated hardware 200, and others by software or firmware. Thus, the processing circuitry implements each function of the access control system 1 through dedicated hardware 200, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0120] Implementation Method 2

[0121] In Embodiment 2, the differences from the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 are described in particular detail. Any feature of the example disclosed in Embodiment 1 may be used for features not described in Embodiment 2.

[0122] Figure 14 This is a structural diagram of the access management system 1 in implementation method 2.

[0123] The access control system 1 has a reader array 9. The reader array 9 includes, for example, multiple reader devices 7 configured in an array. The reader array 9 includes reader devices 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d. The reader array 9, formed by multiple reader devices 7, is an example of an access detection device. The reader array 9 is located at the boundary of the management area 2a. The reader array 9 is, for example, located on the ceiling surface of a building entrance, etc. In this example, reader devices 7a, 7b, 7c, and 7d belong to the same group. Reader device 7a functions as a reference device. Reader device 7a is the main device connected to the management device 8. Reader devices 7b, 7c, and 7d are auxiliary devices.

[0124] Reading device 7a, acting as a reference device, transmits a detection signal at a pre-set polling period. This detection signal, as a wireless signal, propagates to the communication device 6 held by the user, and also to other reading devices 7b, 7c, and 7d. Reading device 7b determines its next transmission timing based on the detection signal. Reading devices 7c and 7d similarly determine their own transmission timing.

[0125] In this example, the communication device 6 receives a detection signal from the reading device 7a.

[0126] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the transmission of response signals in the access control system 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0127] Communication device 6 sends a response signal in response to the detection signal from reading device 7a. The detection signal, as a wireless signal, propagates to reading device 7a, and also to other reading devices 7b, 7c, and 7d. Reading device 7a receives the response signal, performing reception processing including acquiring the first location information of communication device 6 and reading identification information. Since the group identifier of the response signal is the group identifier of its own group, reading device 7b also receives the response signal. Reading devices 7c and 7d also receive the response signal in the same way.

[0128] The reading device 7 obtains the first position information, for example, using angle measurement methods such as PDoA. The reading device 7 determines the direction of arrival of the response signal based on the phase difference of the response signals received by multiple receiving antennas. Here, the reading device 7 can also perform angle measurement on two or more axes by using three or more receiving antennas. Furthermore, the reading device 7 can also obtain the first position information, including the propagation distance of the wireless signal, using ranging methods such as ToF. The reading devices 7b, 7c, and 7d, acting as auxiliary devices, transmit identification information and the first position information to the main reading device 7a via wireless communication.

[0129] The reading device 7a determines the second location information of the communication device 6. For example, if the first location information includes the propagation distance of a wireless signal based on methods such as Time-of-Flight (ToF), the reading device 7a can also estimate the location of the communication device 6 as being located on a curved surface such as a sphere or a rotating elliptical surface with each reading device 7 as a reference. The reading device 7a can determine the second location information of the communication device 6 in three dimensions, or in two dimensions as its location projected onto a horizontal surface such as the ground.

[0130] The reading device 7a determines whether the communication device 6 is within a pre-set detection zone based on the determined second location information of the communication device 6. If the reading device 6 is determined to be within the detection zone, the reading device 7a sends the passerby's identification information to the management device 8. On the other hand, if the reading device 7a does not determine that the communication device 6 is within the detection zone, it does not send the passerby's identification information to the management device 8 but retains the transmission of the identification information.

[0131] The management device 8 determines whether the visitor identified based on the identification information received from the reading device 7a has been registered as an authenticable visitor. If the visitor is authenticable, the management device 8, for example, causes the security door 3 to open the barrier 5 of the passage 4 through which the visitor passes. Alternatively, the access control system 1 can also be applied to doors equipped with electronic locks. In this case, the management device 8 can also output a signal to unlock the electronic lock when authenticating the visitor.

[0132] In summary, the structures that can be adopted by the technology of the present invention include the following structures shown as appendices.

[0133] (Postscript 1)

[0134] A passage detection device, wherein,

[0135] The passage detection device has multiple reading devices positioned at the boundary of a managed area where the passage of pedestrians is managed by a management device. Each reading device transmits a detection signal wirelessly, which triggers a communication device moving with the pedestrian to transmit a response signal containing the pedestrian's identification information wirelessly.

[0136] As a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices, the detection signal is sent at a predetermined time.

[0137] The other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine when to send the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal sent by the reference device.

[0138] The plurality of reading devices respectively receive the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices.

[0139] The master device of any of the plurality of reading devices will send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device.

[0140] The secondary devices, other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices, transmit the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the primary device via wireless communication.

[0141] The main device will send the identification information of the passerby received from the secondary device to the management device.

[0142] (Postscript 2)

[0143] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 1, wherein...

[0144] The reference device is the main device.

[0145] (Note 3)

[0146] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0147] The plurality of reading devices obtain the first position information of the communication device by using at least one of ranging and angle measurement of the response signal received from the communication device.

[0148] (Note 4)

[0149] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 3, wherein...

[0150] The secondary device transmits, via wireless communication, the first location information of the communication device obtained using the response signal received from the communication device.

[0151] The master device determines the second location information of the communication device for the passage management of the passerby based on at least one of the first location information of the communication device obtained using the response signal received from the communication device and the first location information of the communication device received from the slave device.

[0152] (Note 5)

[0153] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 4, wherein...

[0154] The main device determines whether the communication device is within a pre-set detection zone based on the determined second location information of the communication device. If it is not determined to be within the detection zone, the main device retains the transmission of the passerby's identification information to the management device.

[0155] (Note 6)

[0156] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0157] When the master device receives the response signal from the communication device, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the management device without waiting to receive the passerby's identification information from the slave device.

[0158] (Note 7)

[0159] According to the passage detection device described in Appendix 1 or 2, wherein,

[0160] When the master device receives the identification information of the passerby from the slave device, it sends the identification information to the management device without waiting for the response signal received from the communication device.

[0161] (Postscript 8)

[0162] According to any one of the appendices 1 to 7, the passage detection device, wherein...

[0163] Each of the plurality of reading devices is assigned a timing identifier that indicates the timing of the transmission of the detection signal.

[0164] The detection signal sent by the reference device includes the timing identifier of the reference device.

[0165] If the detection signal received from the reference device contains the timing identifier of the reference device, the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine the timing at which they send the detection signal based on their own timing identifier.

[0166] (Note 9)

[0167] According to any one of the appendices 1 to 8, the passage detection device, wherein,

[0168] The plurality of reading devices belong to groups identified based on group identifiers.

[0169] The detection signal sent by each of the plurality of reading devices includes a group identifier indicating the group to which the reading device belongs.

[0170] The response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal includes the group identifier contained in the detection signal.

[0171] If the response signal received from the communication device contains a group identifier of the group to which it belongs, the plurality of reading devices respectively receive the response signal.

[0172] (Postscript 10)

[0173] An access control system, wherein the access control system has:

[0174] A management device that manages the passage of pedestrians at the boundaries of a managed area;

[0175] Communication device, which moves with the traveler; and

[0176] Multiple reading devices are positioned at the boundary of the managed area, each transmitting a detection signal wirelessly. This detection signal triggers the communication device to transmit a response signal containing the identification information of the person passing through.

[0177] As a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices, the detection signal is sent at a predetermined time.

[0178] The other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine when to send the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal sent by the reference device.

[0179] The plurality of reading devices respectively receive the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices.

[0180] The master device of any of the plurality of reading devices will send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device.

[0181] The secondary devices, other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices, transmit the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the primary device via wireless communication.

[0182] The main device will send the identification information of the passerby received from the secondary device to the management device.

[0183] (Postscript 11)

[0184] A passage management method utilizes multiple reading devices positioned at the boundary of a managed area where passage is managed by a management device. Each reading device wirelessly transmits a detection signal, which triggers a communication device moving with the passage to wirelessly transmit a response signal containing the passage's identification information.

[0185] The access management method has the following characteristics:

[0186] The first sending step involves sending the detection signal at a predetermined time, serving as a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices.

[0187] In the decision-making step, the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine the timing of transmitting the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal transmitted in the first transmission step;

[0188] In the second sending step, the reading device among the plurality of reading devices that performed the decision step sends the detection signal at the time determined in the decision step;

[0189] In the receiving step, any one of the plurality of reading devices receives the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices;

[0190] In the third sending step, when a secondary device (other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices) receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it wirelessly sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the primary device; and

[0191] In the fourth sending step, when the main device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or when it receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the sub-device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

[0192] (Postscript 12)

[0193] A passage management procedure is disclosed, which causes a passage management system to execute a first sending step, a decision step, a second sending step, a receiving step, a third sending step, and a fourth sending step. The passage management system has multiple reading devices positioned at the boundaries of a managed area where the passage of pedestrians is managed by the management device. Each reading device transmits a detection signal wirelessly. This detection signal causes a communication device moving with the pedestrian to transmit a response signal wirelessly containing the pedestrian's identification information.

[0194] In the first transmission step, a reference device, serving as any one of the plurality of reading devices, transmits the detection signal at a predetermined timing.

[0195] In the decision-making step, the reading devices other than the reference device among the plurality of reading devices determine when to send the detection signal based on the detection signal sent in the first sending step.

[0196] In the second transmission step, the reading device among the plurality of reading devices that performed the decision step transmits the detection signal at the timing determined in the decision step.

[0197] In the receiving step, any one of the plurality of reading devices receives a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by the reading device itself, or a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by another of the plurality of reading devices.

[0198] In the third sending step, when a secondary device (other than the master device among the plurality of reading devices) receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the master device via wireless communication.

[0199] In the fourth sending step, when the main device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or when it receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the sub-device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

Claims

1. A passage detection device, wherein, The passage detection device has multiple reading devices positioned at the boundary of a managed area where the passage of pedestrians is managed by a management device. Each reading device transmits a detection signal wirelessly, which triggers a communication device moving with the pedestrian to transmit a response signal containing the pedestrian's identification information wirelessly. As a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices, the detection signal is sent at a predetermined time. The other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine when to send the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal sent by the reference device. The plurality of reading devices respectively receive the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices. The master device of any of the plurality of reading devices will send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device. The secondary devices, other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices, transmit the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the primary device via wireless communication. The main device will send the identification information of the passerby received from the secondary device to the management device.

2. The passage detection device according to claim 1, wherein, The reference device is the main device.

3. The passage detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plurality of reading devices obtain the first position information of the communication device by using at least one of ranging and angle measurement of the response signal received from the communication device.

4. The passage detection device according to claim 3, wherein, The secondary device transmits, via wireless communication, the first location information of the communication device obtained using the response signal received from the communication device. The master device determines the second location information of the communication device for the passage management of the passerby based on at least one of the first location information of the communication device obtained using the response signal received from the communication device and the first location information of the communication device received from the slave device.

5. The passage detection device according to claim 4, wherein, The main device determines whether the communication device is within a pre-set detection zone based on the determined second location information of the communication device. If it is not determined to be within the detection zone, the main device retains the transmission of the passerby's identification information to the management device.

6. The passage detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the master device receives the response signal from the communication device, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the management device without waiting to receive the passerby's identification information from the slave device.

7. The passage detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, When the master device receives the identification information of the passerby from the slave device, it sends the identification information to the management device without waiting for the response signal received from the communication device.

8. The passage detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Each of the plurality of reading devices is assigned a timing identifier that indicates the timing of the transmission of the detection signal. The detection signal sent by the reference device includes the timing identifier of the reference device. If the detection signal received from the reference device contains the timing identifier of the reference device, the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine the timing at which they send the detection signal based on their own timing identifier.

9. The passage detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plurality of reading devices belong to groups identified based on group identifiers. The detection signal sent by each of the plurality of reading devices includes a group identifier indicating the group to which the reading device belongs. The response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal includes the group identifier contained in the detection signal. If the response signal received from the communication device contains a group identifier of the group to which it belongs, the plurality of reading devices shall respectively perform receiving processing to read the identification information contained in the response signal.

10. A passage management system in which, This access control system has the following features: A management device that manages the passage of pedestrians at the boundaries of a managed area; A communication device that moves together with the traveler; as well as Multiple reading devices are positioned at the boundary of the managed area, each transmitting a detection signal wirelessly. This detection signal triggers the communication device to transmit a response signal containing the identification information of the person passing through. As a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices, the detection signal is sent at a predetermined time. The other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine when to send the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal sent by the reference device. The plurality of reading devices respectively receive the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, and the response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices. The master device of any of the plurality of reading devices will send the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the management device. The secondary devices, other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices, transmit the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal received from the communication device to the primary device via wireless communication. The main device will send the identification information of the passerby received from the secondary device to the management device.

11. A passage management method, comprising using multiple reading devices disposed at the boundary of a managed area where a management device manages the passage of a passerby, each reading device wirelessly transmitting a detection signal, the detection signal causing a communication device moving with the passerby to wirelessly transmit a response signal containing the passerby's identification information. The access management method has the following characteristics: The first sending step involves sending the detection signal at a predetermined time, serving as a reference device for any of the plurality of reading devices. In the decision-making step, the other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices, besides the reference device, determine the timing of transmitting the detection signal themselves based on the detection signal transmitted in the first transmission step; In the second sending step, the reading device among the plurality of reading devices that performed the decision step sends the detection signal at the timing determined in the decision step. In the receiving step, any one of the plurality of reading devices receives a response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by the reading device itself, or a response signal sent by the communication device in response to the detection signal sent by other reading devices among the plurality of reading devices; In the third sending step, if a secondary device other than the main device, which is one of the plurality of reading devices, receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it sends the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the main device via wireless communication. as well as In the fourth sending step, if the main device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or if it receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the secondary device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

12. A storage medium storing a passage management program that causes a passage management system to perform a first sending step, a decision step, a second sending step, a receiving step, a third sending step, and a fourth sending step, wherein the passage management system has a plurality of reading devices disposed at the boundary of a management area where the passage of a passerby is managed by a management device, and each reading device wirelessly sends a detection signal, which causes a communication device moving with the passerby to wirelessly send a response signal containing the passerby's identification information, wherein... In the first transmission step, a reference device, serving as any one of the plurality of reading devices, transmits the detection signal at a predetermined timing. In the decision-making step, the reading devices other than the reference device among the plurality of reading devices determine when to send the detection signal based on the detection signal sent in the first sending step. In the second transmission step, the reading device among the plurality of reading devices that performed the decision step transmits the detection signal at the timing determined in the decision step. In the receiving step, any one of the plurality of reading devices receives a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by the reading device itself, or a response signal sent by the communication device in response to a detection signal sent by another of the plurality of reading devices. In the third sending step, if a secondary device (other than the primary device among the plurality of reading devices) receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, it transmits the identification information of the passerby contained in the response signal to the primary device via wireless communication. In the fourth sending step, if the main device receives the response signal from the communication device in the receiving step, or if it receives the identification information of the passerby sent from the secondary device in the third sending step, it sends the identification information of the passerby to the management device.

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