Power supply control terminal, terminal control device and terminal control method

Abstract

To provide a device which can restrict use of an apparatus, a device, and a facility, etc. supplied by accompanying obligations such as a lease sale by a creditor when no obligation is fulfilled for the apparatus, the device, and the facility, etc. and a method thereof.SOLUTION: A terminal control device 50 can control a power supply control terminal 10 for controlling power supply to a supply destination by communicating with the power supply control terminal and has: a normal mode for causing the power supply control terminal with a communication unit for communicating with the terminal control device, an interruption control unit for controlling power supply, a notification unit, a release switch, and a control unit to supply power from a supply source to the supply destination; a supply stop mode for causing the power supply control terminal to perform notification from the notification unit to stop power supply to the supply destination by the interruption control unit; and a restoration mode for restoring power supply to the supply destination by waiting for an operation of the release switch.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply control terminal, a terminal control device, and a terminal control method, and is particularly suitable for use in a device and method that allows a creditor to restrict the power supply to a property that is the subject of a debt due to default on a debt such as a loan or lease. [Background technology]

[0002] Several techniques have been proposed that allow a creditor to restrict the use of the property that is the subject of a loan, lease, or other obligation due to default.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an information processing device that allows users who cannot obtain a loan due to lack of credit, or who would like to rent a mobility vehicle but cannot due to insufficient credit, to use the mobility vehicle without undergoing credit checks, while protecting the assets of the mobility provider. In the event of default on loan repayments or lease fees, the creditor temporarily disables the activation of the vehicle, such as the automobile that is the subject of the loan or lease. For example, the creditor may restrict the activation of the automobile's engine.

[0004] Patent document 2 discloses an automatic service suspension monitoring system that is a network management system for operating and maintaining subscriber telephone exchanges, and is capable of automatically detecting non-paying subscribers and suspending service for a certain period of time.

[0005] Patent Document 3 discloses a power transmission restoration method that can safely and quickly restore power transmission that has been stopped due to non-payment of electricity charges. Using a smart meter installed in the customer's premises, the method confirms that fire prevention measures have been taken, and then controls the suspension and restoration of power transmission. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2016 / 167350 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-210191 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-128974 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The inventor has conducted extensive research into a device and method that allows a creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied under obligations, such as through lease sales, when the obligations are not fulfilled, and has discovered the following new problem.

[0008] The information processing device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is limited to controlling mobility, and cannot be applied as is to devices, equipment, facilities, etc. that are fixed and used within buildings, etc. Patent Document 2 deals with non-payment of telephone charges, and restricts the use of subscriber telephones using a switching system, so the entity that can restrict use is limited to the telephone company that provides the service.

[0009] On the other hand, the inventor realized that since most modern devices, equipment, and facilities function on the premise that they are supplied with power, it would be effective to urge the debtor to fulfill his / her debt by issuing a warning that the final measure would be to cut off the power supply in the event of default. However, while the technology described in Patent Document 3 can stop and restore power transmission in the event of non-payment of electricity charges, the entity that can control the power transmission is limited to the electric power company that manages the smart meter, and the creditor cannot restrict the use of the devices, equipment, and facilities.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide a device and method that allows a creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with a debt, such as through lease sales, when the debt is not fulfilled.

[0011] The means for solving these problems will be described below, but other problems and novel features will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the following is true.

[0013] That is, the terminal control device is capable of controlling a power supply control terminal that controls the supply of power from a power supply source to a power supply destination by communicating with the power supply control terminal, and is configured as follows.

[0014] The power supply control terminal includes a communication unit that communicates with the terminal control device, a cutoff control unit that controls the power supply, a notification unit, a release switch, and a control unit.

[0015] The terminal control device has a normal mode in which the power supply control terminal supplies power from the supply source to the supply destination, a supply stop mode in which the power supply control terminal issues an alarm from the alarm unit and the cutoff control unit stops the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination, and a recovery mode in which the power supply control terminal operating in the supply stop mode waits for the operation of a release switch to restore the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] The effects obtained by the embodiment are briefly described below.

[0017] In other words, it is possible to provide a device and method that allows the creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with debts, such as through lease sales, when the debts are not fulfilled. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power supply control terminal. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an embodiment in which a terminal control device controls a plurality of power supply control terminals. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the configuration of the cutoff control unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing another example of the configuration of the cutoff control unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of the power supply control terminal. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a terminal control method for a power supply control terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of mode processing in a terminal control method. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the notification mode (prompt mode). [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of the supply cutoff mode. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating another embodiment of the supply cutoff mode. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of the recovery mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] 1. Overview of the embodiment First, an outline of the exemplary embodiments disclosed in the present application will be described. In the outline of the exemplary embodiments, reference numerals in parentheses in the drawings merely illustrate components included in the concept of the components to which the reference numerals are attached.

[0020] [1] Normal mode + supply stop mode + recovery mode (Figures 1, 2, 7, 9 to 11) A representative embodiment disclosed in the present application is a terminal control device (50) capable of controlling a power supply control terminal (10) that controls the power supply from a power supply source to a power supply destination by communicating with the power supply control terminal (10), and is configured as follows:

[0021] The power supply control terminal includes a communication unit (4) that communicates with the terminal control device, a cutoff control unit (2) that controls the power supply, an alarm unit (8), a release switch (6), and a control unit (1).

[0022] The terminal control device (50) has a normal mode in which the power supply control terminal supplies power from the supply source to the supply destination, a supply stop mode in which the power supply control terminal issues an alarm from the alarm unit and the cutoff control unit stops the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination, and a recovery mode in which the power supply control terminal operating in the supply stop mode waits for the release switch to be operated and then restores the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination.

[0023] This makes it possible to provide a device that allows the creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with debts, such as through lease sales, when the debts are not fulfilled.

[0024] [2] + Dunning mode (Figures 7 and 8) The terminal control device of [1] further has an alarm mode (prompt mode) that causes the power supply control terminal to issue an alarm from the alarm unit, waits for the release switch to be operated, stops the alarm, and continues supplying power from the source to the destination.

[0025] This allows for a reminder to fulfill the debt. The notification mode can be executed by the power supply control terminal, for example, before cutting off the power supply, and can be positioned as a reminder to the debtor. In such a case, the notification mode may be called a "reminding mode."

[0026] [3] Multiple power supply control terminals (Figure 2) In [1] or [2], the terminal control device is configured to be able to control a plurality of power supply control terminals in their respective modes.

[0027] This allows a creditor to use a single terminal control device (50) to manage and control the power supply to multiple debtors.

[0028] [4] Canceling the usage restriction mode outside of specific time periods (Figure 6) The terminal control device of [1] transitions a power supply control terminal among the plurality of power supply control terminals that has been operating in a supply stop mode to the recovery mode (S6) at a first predetermined time (time 2), and resumes control of the plurality of power supply control terminals in their respective modes (S5) at a second predetermined time (time 1).

[0029] This allows creditors to demand payment of debts only during specific hours and disable the usage restriction mode at other times.Even if a debt is legitimate, repeated demands for debt payment at any time of the day or night may go beyond the scope of what is considered appropriate in society, so debt demands can be limited to appropriate hours.

[0030] [5] Power supply control terminal (Figures 1-5) A representative embodiment disclosed in the present application is a power supply control terminal (10) that controls the supply of power from a source to a destination, and includes a cutoff control unit (2), a communication unit (4), an alarm unit (8), a release switch (6), and a control unit (1), and is configured as follows:

[0031] The power supply control terminal (10) is capable of communicating with the terminal control device (50) via the communication unit.

[0032] When the control unit of the power supply control terminal (10) receives a shutdown instruction via the communication unit, it issues a warning from the alarm unit and then controls the shutdown control unit to shut off the power supply (stop mode).

[0033] After receiving the cutoff release via the communication unit, the control unit of the power supply control terminal (10) waits for the release switch to be operated, and then controls the cutoff control unit to resume the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination (recovery mode).

[0034] This makes it possible to provide a device that allows the creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with debts, such as through lease sales, when the debts are not fulfilled.

[0035] [6] Main power supply terminal (Fig. 1, 5) The power supply control terminal [5] further comprises a main power supply terminal (13), and outputs power from the power supply source from the main power supply terminal regardless of the control of the cutoff control unit by the control section.

[0036] This allows the creditor to provide the debtor with a power source that can be used even after the power supply has been cut off. This power source can be, for example, the minimum amount of power necessary for the debtor to maintain their lifestyle, and it can prevent the creditor's demands for payment from becoming unexpectedly harsh.

[0037] [7] Lighting unit (Fig. 1, 5) The power supply control terminal of [5] further includes a lighting unit (3), and the control unit is configured to control the cut-off control unit to cause the lighting unit to emit light when the power supply is cut off.

[0038] This allows the creditor to provide the debtor with lighting around the distribution board even after the power supply has been cut off, allowing the debtor to safely operate the distribution board.

[0039] [8] Door opening unit (Fig. 1, 5) The power supply control terminal [5] further includes a door-opening unit (5), and the control unit is configured to notify the terminal control device of the door-opening state via the communication unit when the door-opening unit detects that the door (19) of the housing of the power supply control terminal has been opened.

[0040] This allows for taking measures to prevent unauthorized modifications, for example, when the door (19) of the housing of the power supply control terminal (10) is opened in order to carry out unauthorized modifications.

[0041] [9] Reset unit (Figure 1) The power supply control terminal of [5] preferably further comprises a reset unit (9). When a predetermined condition is met, the reset unit turns off the power to the control unit and the communication unit for a predetermined time and then restores the power.

[0042] As a result, if the control unit (1) or the communication unit (4) stops functioning, for example, due to freezing (stuck), the power supply to those units can be temporarily stopped, and they can be restarted from the initialization process at power-on, thereby resolving the function stoppage.

[0043]

[10] Terminal control method for power supply control terminal (Figs. 6-11) A representative embodiment disclosed in the present application is a terminal control method for controlling a power supply control terminal (10) that includes a cutoff control unit (2), a communication unit (4), an alarm unit (8), a release switch (6), and a control unit (1) and controls the supply of power from a power source to a power destination, by communicating with the power supply control terminal via the communication unit, and the terminal control method has at least the following modes:

[0044] Normal mode: The power supply control terminal supplies power from the power supply source to the power supply destination.

[0045] Supply stop mode: The power supply control terminal causes the notification unit to issue a notification, and stops the supply of power from the power source to the power destination.

[0046] Restoration mode: The power supply control terminal operating in the supply stop mode waits for the release switch to be operated and then restores the power supply from the power supply source to the power supply destination.

[0047] This provides a method by which the creditor can restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with a debt, such as through lease sales, when the debt is not fulfilled.

[0048]

[11] + Notification mode (prompt mode) (Figures 7 and 8) The terminal control method of

[10] further includes a notification mode.

[0049] Notification mode: The power supply control terminal causes the notification unit to issue a notification, waits for the release switch to be operated, stops the notification, and continues supplying power from the power source to the power destination.

[0050] This makes it possible to urge the debtor to fulfill his / her debt. The notification mode can be called the "demand mode" because it can be executed by the power supply control terminal before cutting off the power supply, for example, as in [2].

[0051]

[12] Control of multiple power supply control terminals (Figure 2) The terminal control method of

[10] or

[11] controls a plurality of power supply control terminals (10-1, 10-2) in their respective modes.

[0052] This allows the creditor to use a single terminal control device (50) to manage and control the power supply to multiple debtors, similar to [3].

[0053]

[13] Canceling the usage restriction mode outside of specific time periods (Figure 6) In the terminal control method of

[12] , at a first predetermined time (time 2), a power supply control terminal among the plurality of power supply control terminals that is operating in a supply stop mode is transitioned to the recovery mode (S6), and at a second predetermined time (time 2), control of the plurality of power supply control terminals in their respective modes (S5) is resumed.

[0054] This allows the creditor to demand the performance of the debt only during specific time periods, and disable the usage restriction mode during other times, similar to [4].

[0055] 2. Details of the embodiment The embodiment will be described in further detail.

[0056] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a power supply control terminal 10. The power supply control terminal 10 is installed in the middle of a path that supplies power from a power supply source to a target device 40 via a distribution board 11, by being inserted into the primary side (input side) of the distribution board 11. The power supply control terminal 10 includes a shutdown control unit 2, a communication unit 4, a notification unit 8, a release unit 6, and a control unit 1.

[0057] The tripping control unit 2 is connected to a power supply source at the terminal "in" and to the primary side (input side) of the distribution board 11 at the terminal "out," and can control the power supply from the power supply source to the distribution board 11. FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example configuration of the tripping control unit 2. The terminals "in" and "out" are illustrated as three terminals for three-phase AC, but may be two terminals for single-phase AC. The power supply circuit from the terminal "in" to the terminal "out" is controlled on / off by an electromagnetic switch 20. A relay 21 driven by a driver 22 is connected to the coil side (control side) of the electromagnetic switch 20, and is controlled by the control unit 1. The terminal "out" does not necessarily have to be connected to the distribution board 11, and may be directly connected to the target device 40.

[0058] 4 is a circuit diagram showing another example of the configuration of the tripping control unit 2. The tripping control unit 2 is configured to include two electromagnetic switches 20-1 and 20-2, two relays 21-1 and 21-2, and two drivers 22-1 and 22-2, and to be able to control two channels between the terminal in and the two terminals out1 and out2. It may also be configured to be able to control an even larger number of channels. Note that the terminal out does not necessarily have to be connected to the distribution board 11, and may be directly connected to the target device 40.

[0059] The communication unit 4 communicates with the terminal control device 50 (described later with reference to FIG. 2). The notification unit 8 is implemented using, for example, a voice integrated circuit (IC) and a speaker, and generates a predetermined voice (announcement) or a warning sound based on instructions from the terminal control device 50. The release unit 6 is implemented using, for example, a release switch 6 that is a push button switch, and detects switch operation (e.g., pressing the push button switch) as some kind of reaction by the debtor. The control unit 1 is implemented using, for example, a microcontroller, and controls the entire power supply control terminal 10 by running firmware. Other components shown in FIG. 1 will be described later.

[0060] The power supply control terminal 10 has at least a supply stop mode and a restoration mode, in addition to a normal mode in which power is supplied from the supply source to the supply destination as normal. The supply stop mode is a mode in which the shutdown control unit 2 stops the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination. The power supply is usually stopped after a warning is issued from the notification unit 8. The restoration mode is an operating mode in which the power supply from the supply source to the supply destination is restored after the power supply has been stopped. The notification unit 8 announces that power has been restored, and the power supply from the supply source to the supply destination is restored after the release switch 6 is operated (for example, by pressing a push button switch). This allows the debtor to safely restore the power supply after confirming that it is safe to resume the power supply.

[0061] This makes it possible to provide a device that allows the creditor to restrict the use of equipment, devices, facilities, etc. that have been supplied in connection with debts, such as through lease sales, when the debts are not fulfilled.

[0062] The three modes described above are the minimum required operating modes, and various other operating modes can be added. For example, there is the alarm mode. In the alarm mode, the alarm unit 8 issues an alarm, and the alarm is stopped only when the release switch 6 is operated, while the power supply from the supply source to the supply destination continues. This will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 7 and 8. This allows for a demand for the performance of a debt. For example, the above alarm mode can be executed by the power supply control terminal 10 before the power supply is cut off, and can be positioned as a demand for the debtor. In such a case, the alarm mode may be called a "demand mode."

[0063] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the power supply control terminal 10. Please also refer to FIG. 1. The power supply control terminal 10 is installed, for example, below the distribution board 11 and fixed to the wall. The release button 6, which is the release unit 6, and the speaker of the notification unit 8 are arranged on the surface of the housing. It is preferable that the release method and instructions for operating the release button 6 are written on the surface of the housing. It is even more preferable that contact information is written on the surface.

[0064] It is more preferable to mount an LED (light-emitting diode) as a display unit 7 below the release button 6. This can provide a simple and supplementary display of the power supply status. For example, it can be made to flash as a warning before the power is cut off by the cutoff control unit 2, and to remain lit when the power is cut off.

[0065] The power supply control terminal 10 preferably further includes a main power supply terminal 13. The power supply control terminal 10 outputs power from the power source through the main power supply terminal 13 regardless of the control of the shutdown control unit 2 by the control unit 1. More specifically, the main power supply terminal 13 is connected to the terminal in via the breaker 12 without passing through the shutdown control unit 2. Therefore, even if the power supply to the target device 40 is stopped, power is supplied from the main power supply terminal 13. This allows the creditor to provide the debtor with a usable power source even after the power supply is stopped. This power source can be the minimum power necessary for the debtor to maintain their lifestyle, preventing the creditor's demands from becoming unexpectedly harsh. For example, if the debt is for interior construction work in a restaurant, it may be permissible to cut off the power supply to the restaurant's interior lighting and ventilation fans as target devices 40 in the event of default, but it would be too harsh to cut off the power supply to the refrigerator and allow already purchased food to spoil. Therefore, the refrigerator can be connected to the main power supply terminal 13 to maintain a minimum power supply. Also, for example, in an embodiment where the debt is rent for a residential or rental office, even if the power supply to home appliances such as lighting and televisions, and office equipment is stopped due to default, the power supply to the air conditioner can be connected to the main power supply terminal 13 to maintain a minimum power supply. This is a relief measure in cases where it is considered too harsh to stop the air conditioner, putting the debtor, the resident, or the people working in the rental office, at risk of heatstroke.

[0066] The power supply control terminal 10 may further include a lighting unit 3. The control unit 1 can be configured to cause the lighting unit 3 to emit light when it controls the cutoff control unit 2 to cut off the power supply. This provides illumination around the distribution board 11, allowing the debtor to safely operate the distribution board, even after the power supply is stopped. As in the above example, in an embodiment where the debt is rent for a residential or rental office, or when the debt is lease fees for machine tools, even if the lights in a room or factory are turned off and it becomes dark due to the power supply being stopped, illumination is provided by the lighting unit 3, allowing the debtor to safely approach the power supply control terminal 10 to perform release or restoration operations.

[0067] The power supply control terminal 10 may further include a door-opening unit 5. The control unit 1 is configured so that when the door-opening unit 5 detects that the door 19 of the housing of the power supply control terminal 10 has been opened, it can notify the terminal control device 50 of the door-open state via the communication unit 4. The housing door 19 is preferably configured to be secured with a lock such as a padlock (the lock itself is not shown), as illustrated in FIG. 5, to prevent the debtor from opening it without permission. Even in this case, if the housing door 19 is forcibly opened, for example by destroying the lock, this is detected by the door-opening unit 5 and a notification is sent to the creditor or administrator via the communication unit 4. This allows the creditor or administrator, for example, to take measures to prevent unauthorized modifications.

[0068] The power supply control terminal 10 may further include a reset unit 9. When a predetermined condition is met, the reset unit 9 halts power to at least the control unit 1 and the communication unit 4 for a predetermined period of time and then restores power. This allows the power supply to the control unit 1 or the communication unit 4 to be temporarily stopped and then restarted from the power-on initialization process, thereby resolving the malfunction if the control unit 1 or the communication unit 4 freezes (stuck) or communication is interrupted. The predetermined condition may be, for example, a periodic interval, such as several hours. Alternatively, the reset unit 9 may be implemented as a timer, and the microcontroller-based control unit 1 may periodically reset the reset unit 9 timer. If the microcontroller-based control unit 1 ceases to periodically reset, the control unit 1 may determine that the control unit 1 has stopped functioning and execute the power-on initialization process. If the microcontroller-based control unit 1 monitors communication failures in the communication unit 4 and includes the failure as a condition for determining whether to perform a periodic reset, the control unit 1 may detect a loss of connection with the terminal control device 50 due to a communication failure or other reason, execute the power-on initialization process, and attempt to reconnect.

[0069] 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an embodiment in which a terminal control device 50 controls multiple power supply control terminals 10-1 and 10-2. The terminal control device 50 is configured to be able to independently control one or more power supply control terminals 10. The terminal control device 50 is made up of, for example, a server 51 and an administrator terminal 52. The server 51 operates constantly to monitor and control the status of each of the power supply control terminals 10-1 and 10-2, and the administrator terminal 52 can be made active by connecting or logging in when a need arises for a mode change or the like.

[0070] The power supply control terminal 10-1 is connected to a target device 40-1 via a distribution board 11-1, and a core device 41-1 is connected to the emergency power supply unit 13-1. The target device 40-1 is, for example, a leased device that is the subject of a debt, and is subject to power supply control, while the core device 41-1 is not subject to power supply control for safety reasons, etc. The power supply control terminal 10-2 is also installed with a similar external connection, and is controlled by the same terminal control device 50.

[0071] The communication between the server 51 and each of the power supply control terminals 10-1 and 10-2 is performed by mobile wireless such as 4G or 5G, but other communication means such as wireless LAN or wired LAN may also be used.

[0072] A detailed description will now be given of a terminal control method for the power supply control terminal 10. This terminal control method is implemented by software executed in the server 51, which is a computer in the terminal control device 50, and software executed in the control unit 1, which is a computer in the power supply control terminal 10, operating in cooperation with each other.

[0073] The power supply control terminal 10 transmits the status of the cutoff control unit 2 (power supply / cutoff), the status of the release unit 6 (whether the push button switch is pressed or not), the status of the door-opening unit 5 (door open / closed), etc. to the terminal control device 50, which manages these as flags. The terminal control device 50 monitors these flags and executes processing of the mode specified by, for example, the administrator terminal 51 on the target power supply control terminal 10. Even if there are multiple power supply control terminals 10 (FIG. 2), the terminal control device 50 can control them in their respective modes, allowing a creditor to manage and control the power supply to multiple debtors using a single terminal control device 50.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of a method for controlling the power supply control terminal 10 by the terminal control device 50. The terminal control device 50 can limit the mode processing for transitioning the power supply control terminal 10 to each of the above-mentioned modes to a predetermined time period. The creditor can demand payment of the debt only during a specific time period and cancel the usage restriction mode during other time periods. Since such a power supply stop or warning before the stop can be considered as a debt collection activity, it is possible to consider not issuing a notification or restricting the power supply from late at night to early in the morning (for example, from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM). Naturally, it is also possible to restrict the power supply at all times.

[0075] At a predetermined time 2 (S2), among the plurality of power supply control terminals 10, a power supply control terminal 10 that has been operating in the supply stop mode is shifted to the recovery mode (S6). At a predetermined time 1 (S1), control is resumed for each of the plurality of power supply control terminals 10 in their respective modes (S5). During the time period between time 1 and time 2 (S3), a mode process is executed (S4) for a power supply control terminal 10 whose mode has been changed to change it to a new mode (S5).

[0076] As a variation of the control method shown in FIG. 6, multiple times 1 may be provided and the mode process (S5) may be performed multiple times in one day. As will be described later, depending on the mode, a flow may be adopted in which the notification (demand announcement) is stopped or the power supply cutoff is avoided by pressing the cancel button. According to the flow of FIG. 6, once the notification (demand announcement) is stopped by pressing the cancel button, it may be assumed that the notification (demand announcement) will not be made again that day. Similarly, once the power supply cutoff is avoided by pressing the cancel button, it may be assumed that the power supply cutoff warning will not be made again that day. If multiple times 1 (for example, time 1-1: 8:00 AM, 1-2: 10:00 AM, 1-3: 12:00 PM, 1-4: 3:00 PM, ...) are set and the mode processing (S5) is implemented multiple times in one day, the debtor will be forced to stop notifications (demand announcements) or take action to avoid power supply cuts multiple times in one day, resulting in more severe demands.

[0077] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the overall mode processing in the terminal control method of the present invention, and FIGS. 8 to 11 are flowcharts showing embodiments of processing in each mode. Each power supply control terminal 10 executes a processing procedure (FIGS. 8 to 11) determined for the mode to be set. In the case of the alarm mode (demanding mode), (S7) executes the alarm mode (demanding mode) processing (S11, FIG. 8). In the case of the supply stop mode, (S8) executes the supply stop mode processing (S12, FIG. 9). In the case of the recovery mode, (S9) executes the recovery mode processing (S13, FIG. 11). The number and types of modes that can be implemented can be changed as appropriate. For example, there may be a power supply control terminal 10 that implements the alarm mode (demanding mode) but not the supply stop mode, or conversely, there may be a power supply control terminal 10 that implements the supply stop mode without implementing the alarm mode (demanding mode), or these may be mixed. Furthermore, multiple alarm modes (demanding modes) and / or multiple supply stop modes with different specific processing procedures and contents may be provided. In order to represent the flowchart in Figure 7, the mode decisions are drawn in order, but the decision order is arbitrary, and in addition to the sequential software implementation shown in the figure, an event-driven or data-driven type may also be adopted.

[0078] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing one embodiment of the notification mode (demand mode). In the notification mode (demand mode), the target power supply control terminal 10 first issues a payment reminder (S21). For example, a payment reminder announcement, such as "Please pay the lease fee," is played from the speaker of the notification unit 8. An alarm sound such as a buzzer may be used instead of a voice announcement, or both. If an LED (light-emitting diode) is implemented as the display unit 7, the LED may also flash in conjunction with the announcement. The payment reminder notification (S21) is repeated, and when the release switch of the release unit 6 detects operation, for example, pressing the release button (S22), the notification is stopped (S23). In this mode, the power supply is not stopped. The detailed flow can be modified in various ways. For example, the notification may be stopped once the release button is pressed, and then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the payment reminder notification (S21) is resumed.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the power supply stop mode. In the power supply stop mode, the target power supply control terminal 10 first issues a power stop warning (S31). For example, a warning announcement such as "Power supply will be stopped" is played from the speaker of the notification unit 8. An audible alarm such as a buzzer may be used instead of a voice announcement, or both. The power stop warning (S31) is repeated, and when the release switch of the release unit 6 detects operation, e.g., pressing of the release button (S32), the warning stops (S33) and the power supply is not stopped. On the other hand, if a predetermined time has passed without the release button being pressed (S32), the cutoff control unit 2 cuts off the power supply and stops the warning (S35). If an LED (light-emitting diode) is implemented as the display unit 7, the LED may be flashed in conjunction with the announcement and switched to a constant light when the power supply is stopped. The display may be enhanced by shortening the blinking interval as the power cutoff approaches.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing another embodiment of the supply stop mode. The previous supply stop mode will be referred to as the first supply stop mode, and this supply stop mode will be referred to as the second supply stop mode. In the second supply stop mode, as in the first supply stop mode, the target power supply control terminal 10 first issues a power stop warning (S31). The power stop warning (S31) is repeated, and when the release switch of the release unit 6 detects operation, e.g., pressing of the release button (S32), the warning is stopped (S33). In this case, the power supply is not cut off in the first supply stop mode. However, in the second supply stop mode, the cutoff control unit 2 is used to stop the power supply (S35), just as in the case where a predetermined time has passed without the release button being pressed (S32) (S34). This mode is stricter than the first supply stop mode, and any operation method is possible, such as gradually tightening the power supply restrictions by using a notification mode (reminding mode) in combination with the first and second supply stop modes.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the recovery mode. In the recovery mode, the target power supply control terminal 10 first issues a power restoration notification (S41). For example, the speaker of the notification unit 8 issues an announcement urging users to prepare for the power restoration, such as, "Power supply will be resumed. Please make sure that no electrical devices are connected or switched off, and then press the release button." Instead of a voice announcement, an alarm such as a buzzer may be used alone or in combination with the voice announcement. This announcement (S41) is repeated until the release switch of the release unit 6 detects an operation, e.g., the release button has been pressed (S42), at which point the announcement is stopped (S43), and the power supply is resumed using the cutoff control unit 2 (S44).

[0082] In this way, by having the user of the target device 40 unplug the target device 40 or confirm that the switch is off, and then operate the release switch 4 (press the release button 4) after confirmation, it is possible to prevent an accident caused by power being inadvertently resumed to the target device 40. For example, if the target device 40 is an electric heater and power supply is resumed without waiting for the user's confirmation, there is a risk of the user being burned or a fire caused by heating the heater empty. In addition, in the case of a machine tool, there is a risk of the user being injured by sudden operation. By employing this embodiment of the recovery mode, such risks can be avoided.

[0083] Here, the terminal control method has been described assuming an implementation in which the terminal control device 50 finely controls the power supply control terminal 10, but it may also be configured so that the terminal control device 50 sends only a macro command, such as an identification code for the mode to be implemented, and the power supply control terminal 10 operates autonomously. In the former case, it is possible to flexibly respond to changes in the control flow, but it has the problem of being vulnerable to sudden communication interruptions. On the other hand, in the latter case, changes in the control flow are handled by updating the firmware for the power supply control terminal 10, but processing can be completed even if there is a sudden communication interruption.

[0084] While the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described above based on an embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto and can, of course, be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the power supply control terminal 10 may be connected directly to the target device 40 without the use of the distribution board 11. Furthermore, in addition to or instead of the power supply control terminal 10 itself issuing a notification or warning using the notification unit 8, the power supply control terminal 10 may be configured to call or send an email to the mobile phone of the debtor or the user or manager of the target device 40. [Industrial Applicability]

[0085] The present invention relates to a power supply control terminal, a terminal control device, and a terminal control method, and is particularly suitable for use in a device and method that allows a creditor to restrict the power supply to a property that is the subject of a debt, such as a loan or lease, due to default in the debt. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1. Control section 2. Shut-off control unit 3 Lighting Unit 4 Communication Unit 5 Door opening detection unit 6 Release unit, release switch 7 Display unit, LED 8 Notification unit, speaker 9 Reset Unit 10 Power supply control terminal 11 Distribution board 12 Breaker 13 Emergency power supply unit 19 Door 20. Shut-off control unit 21 Relay 22 Drivers 40 Target Devices 41 Core Equipment 50 Terminal control device 51 servers 52 Administrator terminal

Claims

1. A terminal control device capable of controlling a power supply control terminal that controls power supply from a power supply source to a power supply destination by communicating with the power supply control terminal, the power supply control terminal includes a communication unit that communicates with the terminal control device, a cutoff control unit that controls the power supply, a notification unit, a release switch, and a control unit; a normal mode in which the power supply control terminal supplies power from a power source to a power destination; a supply stop mode in which the power supply control terminal causes the notification unit to issue a notification and the cutoff control unit to stop the supply of power from the supply source to the supply destination; a recovery mode in which the power supply control terminal operating in the supply stop mode waits for the release switch to be operated and restores the power supply from the power supply source to the power supply destination; Terminal control device.

2. The terminal control device of claim 1 further comprises: The power supply control terminal has a notification mode in which the notification unit issues a notification, waits for the release switch to be operated, stops the notification, and continues supplying power from the power source to the power destination. Terminal control device.

3. In claim 1 or claim 2, the terminal control device can control a plurality of power supply control terminals in their respective modes. Terminal control device.

4. The terminal control device of claim 1 comprises: At a first predetermined time, among the plurality of power supply control terminals, a power supply control terminal that has been operating in a supply stop mode is shifted to the recovery mode; At a second predetermined time, the control of the plurality of power supply control terminals is resumed in each mode. Terminal control device.

5. A power supply control terminal that controls the supply of power from a power source to a power destination, The device includes a cutoff control unit, a communication unit, a notification unit, a release switch, and a control unit, A terminal control device can communicate with the terminal control device via the communication unit. When receiving a cutoff instruction via the communication unit, the control unit controls the cutoff control unit to cut off the power supply after issuing a warning from the notification unit, and After receiving the cutoff release via the communication unit, the control unit waits for the release switch to be operated, and controls the cutoff control unit to resume the supply of power from the power supply source to the power supply destination. Power supply control terminal.

6. The power supply control terminal of claim 5 further comprises a trunk power supply terminal, power supply from the power supply source is output from the main power supply terminal regardless of control of the cutoff control unit by the control unit; Power supply control terminal.

7. The power supply control terminal of claim 5 further comprises a lighting unit, the control unit controls the cutoff control unit to cause the lighting unit to emit light when the power supply is cut off; Power supply control terminal.

8. The power supply control terminal of claim 5 further comprises a door opening unit, When the door-opening unit detects that the door of the housing of the power supply control terminal is opened, the control unit notifies the terminal control device of the door-open state via the communication unit. Power supply control terminal.

9. The power supply control terminal of claim 5 further comprises a reset unit, the reset unit, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, turns off the power supply to the control unit and the communication unit for a predetermined time and then restores the power supply; Power supply control terminal.

10. A terminal control method for controlling a power supply control terminal, which includes a cutoff control unit, a communication unit, a notification unit, a release switch, and a control unit, and controls a supply of power from a supply source to a supply destination, by communicating with the power supply control terminal via the communication unit, comprising: a normal mode in which the power supply control terminal supplies power from a power source to a power destination; a supply stop mode in which the power supply control terminal causes the notification unit to issue a notification and stops the supply of power from the power supply source to the power supply destination; a recovery mode in which the power supply control terminal operating in the supply stop mode waits for the release switch to be operated and restores the power supply from the power supply source to the power supply destination; Terminal control methods.

11. In claim 10, further comprising: The power supply control terminal has a notification mode in which the notification unit issues a notification, waits for the release switch to be operated, stops the notification, and continues supplying power from the power source to the power destination. Terminal control methods.

12. According to claim 10 or 11, a plurality of power supply control terminals are controlled in respective modes. Terminal control methods.

13. In claim 12, At a first predetermined time, among the plurality of power supply control terminals, a power supply control terminal that has been operating in a supply stop mode is shifted to the recovery mode; At a second predetermined time, the control of the plurality of power supply control terminals is resumed in each mode. Terminal control methods.

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