Intercom system

Abstract

To provide a notification device capable of performing software update for an additional function without influencing a main function of fire / gas leakage alarming.SOLUTION: A notification device 2A comprises: an alarm I / F 21 for receiving a detection signal from a sensor 8; a speaker 22a and lamp 22b for outputting alarm information; a security CPU 23 in which first software for controlling the speaker 22a and lamp 22b is built in; an external instrument I / F 31 for receiving a signal from an external instrument; and an additional CPU 33 which is provided to be independent of and communicable with the security CPU 23, and in which second software for controlling the speaker 22a, lamp 22b, and a display 32 is built in. The security CPU 23 and the additional CPU 33 are configured to be capable of updating the second software via an interface with the external instrument so that the update of the second software does not influence a function exhibited by the first software of the security CPU 23.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an intercom system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a fire receiver to which a sensor and a controlled device that is controlled in conjunction with the activation of an alarm by the sensor are connected. The fire receiver in Patent Document 1 includes an interface for communicating with the sensor, a storage unit for storing data related to the sensor and the controlled device, a display unit for displaying information related to the activation of an alarm by the sensor and information related to the operation of the controlled device, and a control unit for controlling these. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-107229 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Fire alarms like those described in Patent Document 1 may be equipped with additional functions such as a call function and a security function in addition to their main function of fire alarms. Changes in the specifications of these additional functions require an upgrade of the software running in the control unit. However, updating the software in the control unit is difficult because it may affect the main functions. Conventionally, this has required replacing the fire alarm device. However, replacing the device is expensive, and in apartment buildings, it is not practical because it requires entering every dwelling unit to perform the replacement work.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an intercom system that allows software updates for auxiliary functions without affecting the main functions of fire alarms and gas leak alarms. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the intercom system of the present invention comprises: A sensor for detecting at least one of a fire and a gas leak; a master unit connected to the sensor so as to be able to communicate with the sensor; a slave unit communicably connected to the master unit; An intercom system comprising: The parent device is a first receiving unit that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor; an output unit that outputs alarm information indicating that a fire or a gas leak has occurred; a first control unit having first software installed therein for controlling the output unit based on the detection signal; a second receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from an external device other than the sensor; a second control unit that is capable of communicating with the first control unit and is provided independently, and that has second software installed therein for controlling the output unit or a device other than the output unit based on the signal received by the second receiving unit; The second software of the second control unit can be updated via an interface with the external device, and the first control unit and the second control unit are configured so that updating the second software does not affect the functions performed by the first software of the first control unit.

[0007] According to the above configuration, it is possible to upgrade the auxiliary functions (calling and communication functions and crime prevention functions) performed by the second software of the second control unit without affecting the main functions such as fire alarm and gas leak alarm performed by the first software of the first control unit. This makes it possible to respond to changes in the specifications of the auxiliary functions without replacing the alarm device itself.

[0008] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, a predetermined communication command for communication between the first control unit and the second control unit is defined; The first control unit may be configured to, when a communication command other than the specified communication command is transmitted from the second control unit, discard the communication command or not perform processing based on the communication command.

[0009] According to the above configuration, when a new command (e.g., a malicious command) is sent from the second control unit, the command is discarded, thereby reliably preventing any impact on the main function of the alarm device performed by the first control unit.

[0010] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, the second control unit is configured to transmit a command for controlling the output unit to the first control unit when the second control unit receives a signal related to the output unit from the external device; The first control unit may be configured to prioritize control of the output unit by the first software even when the command is received from the second control unit.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the first control unit can control the main function without being affected by the command sent from the second control unit.

[0012] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may be configured to control the output unit based on the command when a second condition is satisfied.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the first control unit determines whether or not the main function needs to be controlled based on the command transmitted from the second control unit, so that the control of the main function can be given priority.

[0014] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may determine that the second condition is not satisfied when it receives the command from the second control unit while the output unit is being controlled by the first software, or when control of the output unit by the first software begins while the output unit is being controlled based on the command.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the control of the main function can be given priority through simple control.

[0016] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may be configured to block a control signal transmitted from the second control unit to the output unit when a first condition is satisfied.

[0017] The above configuration also makes it possible to reliably prevent the main function of the notification device, which is executed by the first control unit, from being affected.

[0018] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may determine that the first condition is satisfied when the control signal is sent to the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit, or when the first software starts to control the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit based on the control signal.

[0019] Under these conditions, it is preferable to cut off the first control signal from the second control section.

[0020] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The interface may be an internet line in each residence where the intercom system is installed.

[0021] According to the above configuration, the second software can be updated remotely from outside.

[0022] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The device may further include a single power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit and the second control unit.

[0023] According to the above configuration, power is supplied to the first control unit and the second control unit from a single power supply circuit, making it easier to synchronize the startup timing of both control units and reducing costs compared to providing separate power supply circuits.

[0024] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit; The power supply circuit may further include a second power supply circuit that is provided separately from the first power supply circuit and that supplies power to the second control unit.

[0025] According to the above configuration, the first control unit and the second control unit are supplied with power separately, which makes it less likely that interference will occur between the functions of the two control units and is also desirable from the viewpoint of fail-safe. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an intercom system that allows software updates for auxiliary functions without affecting the main functions of fire alarms and gas leak alarms. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram of a room master unit (alarm device) according to a first embodiment included in an intercom system. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the intercom system. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a room master unit according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a room master unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Hereinafter, an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of an intercom system 50. As shown in Fig. 1, the intercom system 50 includes a room master unit 2 (an example of an alarm device), a collective entrance unit 4 (an example of an external device), a control device 6 (an example of an external device), and a sensor 8. The intercom system 50 is a system installed in a multi-family dwelling M such as an apartment building. The room master unit 2 in this embodiment is a comprehensive information device that, in addition to the basic functions of an intercom master unit, is equipped with various functions such as an automatic fire alarm system, alarm systems such as a gas leak sensor or a security sensor, and an emergency reporting function, and is sometimes called a home information panel.

[0029] The room master unit 2 is installed in a room or the like in each dwelling unit S of the apartment building M. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the control device 6 via an intercom line L. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the collective entrance unit 4 via the control device 6. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to a sensor 8. Furthermore, the room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the Internet (Internet line) N via a router 11 and a HUB 12.

[0030] The room master unit 2 functions as a communication device that allows the resident to respond to a call from the collective entrance unit 4. Furthermore, the room master unit 2 functions as an alarm device that notifies, for example, alarm information transmitted from a sensor 8 (for example, fire information, gas leak information, etc.).

[0031] The collective entrance device 4 is used by visitors to call and talk to residents of the apartment complex M. The collective entrance device 4 is equipped with a numeric keypad for inputting room numbers, a camera for capturing images of visitors, and the like. The collective entrance device 4 is installed in the collective entrance or common space of the apartment complex M. Although not shown in the figure, each dwelling unit S of the apartment complex M is provided with a door sub-unit at the entrance that is communicably connected to the room main unit 2 of each dwelling unit S.

[0032] The control device 6 controls communication between the room master unit 2 and the collective entrance unit 4, which are connected via an intercom line L. The control device 6 is also connected to the Internet N via a router 11 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0033] The sensor 8 is installed, for example, at the collective entrance or common space of the apartment building M. The sensor 8 may also be installed in each dwelling unit S of the apartment building M. The sensor 8 includes, for example, a fire detector that detects smoke generated in the area where the sensor 8 is installed, a gas leak sensor that detects generated gas, etc.

[0034] (First embodiment) Next, the room master unit 2A will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the room master unit 2A includes an alarm interface 21 (an example of a first receiving unit) that receives detection signals transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b (an example of an output unit) that output alarm information, and a security CPU (Central Processing Unit) 23 (an example of a first control unit) that controls the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. Hereinafter, the interface will be referred to as I / F. The room master unit 2A also includes external device I / Fs 31a and 31b (an example of a second receiving unit, hereinafter also referred to as external device I / F 31) that receive external signals transmitted from external devices, a display 32 (an example of a second output unit) that displays external information, and an auxiliary CPU 33 (an example of a second control unit) that controls the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. Furthermore, the room master unit 2A has a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0035] The alarm I / F 21 is connected to the security CPU 23. The alarm I / F 21 transmits detection signals received from the sensors 8, such as a fire detection signal received from a fire detector or a gas leak detection signal received from a gas leak alarm, to the security CPU 23. In addition to the alarm I / F 21, the security CPU 23 is also connected to a service I / F 24 that can receive call signals transmitted from call buttons installed in, for example, a bathroom, a toilet, a kitchen, etc.

[0036] The speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are connected to the security CPU 23. The speaker 22a is connected to the security CPU 23 via an alarm sound source 25 and a power amplifier 26. The speaker 22a outputs a predetermined alarm sound selected according to the type of detection signal received from the sensor 8. Furthermore, the speaker 22a outputs a predetermined sound (e.g., a ring tone or a call sound) selected according to a control signal for controlling the speaker 22a transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33 to the security CPU 23. The lamp 22b is composed of, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and outputs alarm light of a predetermined color and a predetermined light emission pattern selected according to the type of detection signal received from the sensor 8. Furthermore, the lamp 22b outputs light of a predetermined color and a predetermined light emission pattern selected according to a control signal for controlling the lamp 22b transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33 to the security CPU 23.

[0037] The security CPU 23 is a control unit for controlling the operation of each unit of the room master unit 2A, and may include, for example, at least one microcontroller including one or more processors, and other electronic circuits including active elements such as transistors and passive elements. The security CPU 23 may be configured with multiple CPU cores. The security CPU 23 may be, for example, an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and / or a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit). The GPU may be configured with multiple GPU cores. The security CPU 23 may also be configured with hardware resources consisting of integrated circuits such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The security CPU 23 may also be configured with a combination of at least one microcontroller and an integrated circuit.

[0038] The auxiliary CPU 33 is a control unit provided separately from the security CPU 23 to control the operation of each part of the room master unit 2A. Like the security CPU 23, the auxiliary CPU 33 may include, for example, at least one microcontroller including one or more processors, and other electronic circuits including active elements such as transistors and passive elements.

[0039] The security CPU 23 has first software installed therein for controlling output units such as the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8 and received by the alarm I / F 21. The security CPU 23 controls the alarm sound source 25 and the speaker 22a so that a predetermined alarm sound is output from the speaker 22a based on the type of detection signal received from the alarm I / F 21, for example. The security CPU 23 also controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined alarm light is output from the lamp 22b based on the type of detection signal received from the alarm I / F 21, for example.

[0040] The security CPU 23 controls the alarm sound source 25 and the speaker 22a so that a predetermined sound (e.g., a ring tone, a call tone) is output from the speaker 22a based on the control signal received from the auxiliary CPU 33. Furthermore, the security CPU 23 controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined light (e.g., a call light) is output from the lamp 22b based on the control signal received from the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0041] In this example, the security CPU 23 is configured to determine whether to accept or reject a communication command transmitted from the attached CPU 33. For example, the security CPU 23 is configured to define a predetermined communication command for communication with the attached CPU 33, and if a communication command other than that communication command is transmitted from the attached CPU 33, to discard the communication command.

[0042] Even when the security CPU 23 receives a predetermined communication command from the auxiliary CPU 33, it determines whether or not it is necessary to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the control signal from the auxiliary CPU 33, depending on the control state of the security CPU 23. The method of determining whether or not it is necessary to control each output unit (speaker 22a and lamp 22b) based on the control signal from the auxiliary CPU 33 will be described later.

[0043] Furthermore, the security CPU 23 is configured to be able to turn off the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 or the output from the power amplifier 26 input to the speaker 22a by switching the switches 27a and 27b.

[0044] The external device I / Fs 31a and 31b are connected to the attached CPU 33. The external device I / Fs 31a and 31b transmit to the attached CPU 33 external signals received from external devices, such as a call signal received from the collective entrance device 4 via the control device 6, call data between a visitor and a resident, and video data of a visitor.

[0045] The display 32 is connected to the attached CPU 33. The display 32 displays images of visitors captured by the collective entrance device 4 and information transmitted via the Internet N. The display 32 is configured as a touch panel 32a.

[0046] A ROM (Read Only Memory) 34a in which a control program for controlling the room master unit 2A is stored, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 34b in which the control program, control data, etc. are temporarily stored are connected to the attached CPU 33. The attached CPU 33 is configured to load a program designated from the various control programs stored in the ROM 34a onto the RAM 34b and to execute various processes in cooperation with the RAM 34b.

[0047] The auxiliary CPU 33 is equipped with second software for controlling the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, the display 32, etc., based on signals transmitted from external devices and received by the external device I / Fs 31a and 31b. As described above, the auxiliary CPU 33 is provided independently of the security CPU 23 and is communicatively connected to the security CPU 23. The auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to be able to communicate with the security CPU 23 based on predetermined communication commands defined between the security CPU 23 and the security CPU 23.

[0048] When the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a signal related to an output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, it converts the signal into a predetermined communication command (control signal) for controlling the output unit and transmits the converted signal to the security CPU 23. Furthermore, the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits a control signal for controlling the display 32 to the display 32 based on the signal received from the external device. For example, when the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, it converts the call signal into a predetermined communication command and transmits the communication command to the security CPU 23 as a control signal for controlling the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b. Furthermore, the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits call data between the visitor who operated the collective entrance device 4 and the called resident to the security CPU 23 using the predetermined communication command. Furthermore, when the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, it transmits video data of the visitor captured by the collective entrance device 4 to the display 32.

[0049] The second software embedded in the auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to be updateable via an interface with an external device. For example, the second software can be updated via the external device I / F 31 connected to the control device 6. The update can be performed from a personal computer connected to the control device 6. The second software can also be updated via the external device I / F 31 connected to the Internet N. When updating the second software via the Internet N, the external device is a server, a cloud, or the like. As described above, communication between the auxiliary CPU 33 and the security CPU 23 is regulated by a predetermined communication command. Therefore, when updating the second software embedded in the auxiliary CPU 33, an external device is connected to the auxiliary CPU 33, which is provided independently from the security CPU 23, and the update process is performed using a communication command other than the predetermined communication command between the external device and the auxiliary CPU 33. This prevents the update process of the second software from affecting the functions of the first software of the security CPU 23.

[0050] The power supply circuit 39 is a single power supply circuit that supplies a predetermined voltage to both the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33. The power supply of the power supply circuit 39 is configured so that either a normal power supply (e.g., AC 100 V) or an emergency power supply can be selected by switching a switch 39a. However, there are cases where an emergency power supply is not required, in which case the switching of the switch 39a is not necessary.

[0051] Next, an example of the operation of the room master unit 2A will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. For example, a visitor to an apartment building M operates the operation unit of the collective entrance unit 4 to input a room number to call a specific resident. The input room number is transmitted from the collective entrance unit 4 to the control device 6 via the intercom line L. Based on the received room number, the control device 6 transmits a call signal to call the resident of that room number via the intercom line L to the room master unit 2A installed in the dwelling unit S of that resident.

[0052] The attached CPU 33 of the room master unit 2A receives the call signal via the external device I / F 31 (step S10).

[0053] When the auxiliary CPU 33 determines that the received signal is a call signal, it generates a predetermined communication command for communicating with the security CPU 23 (step S11).

[0054] The auxiliary CPU 33 transmits the generated predetermined communication command to the security CPU 23 (step S12). The communication command is a control signal for causing the speaker 22a to output a call sound (e.g., "ping pong") and the lamp 22b to output a call light.

[0055] When the security CPU 23 receives a communication command from the auxiliary CPU 33, it determines whether or not an alarm operation is currently being performed using the speaker 22a and / or the lamp 22b, based on, for example, a fire detection signal received from a fire detector or a gas leak detection signal received from a gas leak alarm (step S13).

[0056] In step S13, if it is determined that an alarm operation is in progress based on a fire detection signal or a gas leak detection signal (Yes in step S13), the security CPU 23 discards the communication command received from the auxiliary CPU 33 and continues the alarm operation based on the detection signal (step S14). That is, the security CPU 23 gives priority to the alarm operation (main function) based on the detection signal currently being processed, and does not process the call operation (auxiliary function) based on a control signal requested in the middle.

[0057] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that an alarm operation based on the detection signal has not been performed (No in step S13), the security CPU 23 determines whether the communication command received from the auxiliary CPU 33 is a predetermined communication command (step S15).

[0058] In step S15, if it is determined that the communication command received from the attached CPU 33 is not a specified communication command (No in step S15), the security CPU 23 discards the communication command received from the attached CPU 33 and does not execute the call operation and subsequent call operation processing based on the control signal from the attached CPU 33 (step S16).

[0059] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S15 that the communication command received from the attached CPU 33 is a predetermined communication command (Yes in step S15), the security CPU 23 starts processing the call operation using the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the control signal received from the attached CPU 33 (step S17).

[0060] In addition, if a detection signal for performing an alarm operation is received while a call operation is being performed using the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b in step S17, or during a conversation between a visitor and a resident that is performed after the call operation, the security CPU 23 interrupts or stops the call operation that is being performed, and prioritizes performing the alarm operation using the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b.

[0061] As described above, the room master unit 2A included in the intercom system 50 according to this embodiment is communicatively connected to the sensor 8 that detects at least one of a fire and a gas leak, and includes an alarm I / F 21 that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b that output alarm information indicating the occurrence of a fire or a gas leak, and a security CPU 23 that has first software installed for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the detection signal. The room master unit 2A also includes an external device I / F 31 that receives signals transmitted from external devices other than the sensor 8, and an auxiliary CPU 33 that is an independent control unit that can communicate with the security CPU 23 and has second software installed for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b or devices other than the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the signal received by the external device I / F 31. The security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 are configured so that the second software of the auxiliary CPU 33 can be updated via the interface with the external device, and so that updates to the second software do not affect the functions performed by the first software of the security CPU 23. With this configuration, the auxiliary CPU 33 is provided independently from the security CPU 23, and the second software is updated by connecting an external device to the external device I / F 31 of the auxiliary CPU 33. Therefore, in the room master unit 2A as an alarm device, it is possible to upgrade the auxiliary functions (calling and security functions) performed by the second software of the auxiliary CPU 33 without affecting the main functions, such as fire alarms and gas leak alarms, performed by the first software of the security CPU 23. This makes it possible to respond to specification changes of the auxiliary functions and ensure security (vulnerability response) without replacing the room master unit 2A itself.

[0062] Furthermore, the room master unit 2A defines predetermined communication commands for communication between the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33. When a communication command other than the predetermined communication command is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33, the security CPU 23 discards the communication command or does not execute the processing required by the communication command. Therefore, even if the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits a new command to the security CPU 23, such as a malicious command, the operation required by the malicious command will not be executed. This reliably prevents adverse effects on the operation of the main functions of the security CPU 23.

[0063] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2A, when the auxiliary CPU 33 receives signals related to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b from an external device such as the collective entrance unit 4, the auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to transmit a command for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b to the security CPU 23, and the security CPU 23 is configured to determine whether or not to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the command transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33. In this way, the security CPU 23 determines whether or not control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b (i.e., control related to the main function) is necessary based on the signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33, and therefore, it is possible to prioritize control of the main function according to the control status in the security CPU 23, without being influenced by the command (control signal) transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0064] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2A, the security CPU 23 is configured to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on a command transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33 when a predetermined condition (an example of a first condition) is satisfied. For example, when the security CPU 23 receives a command from the auxiliary CPU 33 while controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using first software incorporated in the security CPU 23, or when the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the first software is initiated while controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the command, the security CPU 23 determines that the predetermined condition is not satisfied. In other words, when the security CPU 23 receives a command from the auxiliary CPU 33 while controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the first software, or when the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the first software is initiated while controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the command, the security CPU 23 determines that the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b will not be controlled based on the command from the auxiliary CPU 33. According to this configuration, it is possible to give priority to the control of the main function by the security CPU 23 over the control of the auxiliary CPU 33 through simple control depending on the control status of the security CPU 23 .

[0065] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2A, the Internet N of each residence where the room master unit 2A is installed can be used as an interface for updating the second software incorporated in the attached CPU 33. Therefore, for example, in an apartment building M, the second software of the attached CPU 33 of each room master unit 2A can be updated remotely from outside without visiting the site or even entering each residence.

[0066] In addition, the intercom system 50 further includes a control device 6 as an external device communicatively connected to the room master unit 2A and the collective entrance unit 4 so as to relay between the room master unit 2A and the collective entrance unit 4, and the second software can also be updated via the control device 6. With this configuration, the second software built into the accessory CPU 33 can be easily updated even at the site where the intercom system 50 is installed (in the apartment building M).

[0067] The room master unit 2A also includes a single power supply circuit 39 for supplying power to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33. With this configuration, power is supplied to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 by the single power supply circuit 39, making it easier to synchronize the startup timing of both CPUs and reducing costs compared to having separate power supply circuits.

[0068] The power supply circuit supplying voltage to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 may be multiple rather than a single one. For example, a security power supply circuit (first power supply circuit) for supplying voltage to the security CPU 23 and an auxiliary power supply circuit (second power supply circuit) separate from the security power supply circuit for supplying voltage to the auxiliary CPU 33 may be provided. This configuration provides separate power supplies to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33, reducing interference between their functions and providing a fail-safe. Multiple power supply circuits may be arranged in series, and these multiple power supply circuits may serve as a common power supply circuit for both CPUs. For example, an AC / DC converter, which is a power supply circuit for AC-DC conversion, and a DC / DC converter, which is a power supply circuit for voltage adjustment, may be arranged in series. By providing a common power supply to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 via the AC / DC converter and the DC / DC converter, the operating voltage range requirements of the room master unit 2A are met, and the startup timing of both CPUs can be more easily synchronized.

[0069] Second Embodiment Next, the room master unit according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the room master unit (alarm device) 2B according to the second embodiment. Components having the same functions as those of the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 4, the room master unit 2B differs from the room master unit 2A of the first embodiment in that the attached CPU 133 is configured to directly control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b without going through the security CPU 123. Other configurations are the same as those of the room master unit 2A. The room master unit 2B includes an alarm I / F 21 that receives detection signals transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b that output alarm information, and a security CPU 123 that controls the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. The room master unit 2B also includes external device I / Fs 31a and 31b that receive external signals transmitted from external devices (the common entrance unit 4 and the control device 6), a display 32 that outputs external information, and an attached CPU 133 that controls the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. The room master unit 2B also includes a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 123 and the attached CPU 133.

[0071] When the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a signal related to an output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, it transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 notifying that the output unit will be controlled. Furthermore, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a signal related to an output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, it transmits a control signal for controlling the output unit directly to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. In this way, the auxiliary CPU 133 is configured to be able to directly control not only the display 32 but also the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the signal received from the external device.

[0072] For example, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance unit 4, it sends a notification signal to the security CPU 123 by a prescribed communication command notifying that the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b will be controlled. Also, the auxiliary CPU 133 sends a notification signal to the security CPU 123 by a prescribed communication command notifying that a call will be started between the visitor who operated the collective entrance unit 4 and the called resident.

[0073] Furthermore, when a call signal is received from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a control signal to the speaker 22a to control the speaker 22a, and controls the speaker 22a so that a predetermined sound (for example, a ring tone or a call tone) is output from the speaker 22a. When a call signal is received from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a control signal to the lamp 22b to control the lamp 22b, and controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined light (for example, a call light) is output from the lamp 22b. When a call signal is received from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a control signal to the display 32 to control the display 32, and controls the display 32 to display an image of the visitor captured by the collective entrance device 4.

[0074] The security CPU 123 blocks the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b in accordance with the control state of the security CPU 123.

[0075] For example, when the security CPU 123 receives a notification signal for executing call processing from the auxiliary CPU 133 while the security CPU 123 is executing alarm processing by controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the first software, it turns off switch 27c to block the control signal for executing call processing that is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a. Also, when the security CPU 123 receives a notification signal for executing call processing from the auxiliary CPU 133 while the security CPU 123 is executing alarm processing by controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b using the first software, it turns off switch 27d to block the control signal for executing call processing that is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b.

[0076] Furthermore, when alarm processing is started by control of the speaker 22a by the first software while the speaker 22a is being controlled based on a control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a, the security CPU 123 turns off switch 27c to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a, and interrupts or stops control of the speaker 22a by the auxiliary CPU 133. When alarm processing is started by control of the lamp 22b by the first software while the lamp 22b is being controlled based on a control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b, the security CPU 123 turns off switch 27d to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b, and interrupts or stops control of the lamp 22b by the auxiliary CPU 133.

[0077] Thus, in the room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment, when a predetermined condition (an example of a second condition) is satisfied, the security CPU 123 is configured to block the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. This configuration also makes it possible to prevent adverse effects on the operation of the main functions, such as fire alarms and gas leak alarms, performed by the first software of the security CPU 123.

[0078] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2B, the predetermined condition for blocking the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 is when a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 is transmitted while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled by the first software, or when control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software of the security CPU 123 is started while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled based on a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133. It is preferable to block the control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 under these conditions. This allows the security CPU 123 to prioritize control of the main function over control by the auxiliary CPU 133 with simple control, depending on the control status of the security CPU 123.

[0079] In the second embodiment, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 notifying that the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b will be controlled, but this is not limiting. Instead of transmitting a notification signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the security CPU 123, when alarm processing is started by the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software, the security CPU 123 may always turn off the switches 27c and 27d regardless of whether a control signal is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b.

[0080] (Third embodiment) Next, a room master unit according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a room master unit (alarm device) 2C according to the third embodiment. Components having the same functions as those of the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment or the room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 5 , the living room master unit 2C according to the third embodiment differs from the living room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment in that a switch 27a for supplying power voltage to the power amplifier 26 and a switch 27b for inputting the output of the power amplifier 26 to the speaker 22a are switched by a control signal from the security CPU 223 and a control signal from the accessory CPU 233, which are input to OR circuits 28a and 28b. The remaining configuration is the same as that of the living room master unit 2B. That is, the living room master unit 2C includes an alarm I / F 21 that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b that output alarm information, and a security CPU 223 that controls the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. The living room master unit 2B also includes external device I / Fs 31a and 31b that receive external signals transmitted from external devices, a display 32 that outputs external information, and an accessory CPU 233 that controls the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. Furthermore, the room master unit 2B has a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233.

[0082] The security CPU 223 is configured to be able to turn on / off the output from the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 by switching the switch 27a. Furthermore, the security CPU 223 is configured to be able to turn on / off the output from the power amplifier 26 that is input to the speaker 22a by switching the switch 27b. Similarly, the auxiliary CPU 233 is configured to be able to turn on / off the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 or the output from the power amplifier 26 that is input to the speaker 22a by switching the switches 27a and 27b.

[0083] According to the room master unit 2C of the third embodiment, when the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233 attempt to operate the speaker 22a under their respective control, the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233 input control signals to the OR circuits 28a and 28b, thereby turning on the switches 27a and 27b. This ensures that the speaker 22a operates when necessary. In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5, OR circuits 28a and 28b are provided for both the switch 27a for supplying a power supply voltage to the power amplifier 26 and the switch 27b for inputting the output of the power amplifier 26 to the speaker 22a, but an OR circuit may be provided for only one of them.

[0084] (Variation) Next, a modified example of the intercom system will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system 60 according to a modified example. As shown in Fig. 6, the intercom system 60 includes a control room master unit 302 installed in a control room of an apartment building M, and a control room slave unit 304 for calling the control room master unit 302. The control room master unit 302 is communicatively connected to the control device 6 (see Fig. 1) via an intercom line L. The control room master unit 302 is also communicatively connected to the Internet N via a router 11.

[0085] The control room master unit 302 is configured to function as an alarm device, similar to the room master units 2A to 2C described above in the intercom system 50. The control room master unit 302 has components such as an alarm I / F 21, a speaker 22a, a lamp 22b, a security CPU 23, external device I / Fs 31a and 31b, a display 32, an accessory CPU 33, and a power supply circuit 39, similar to the room master unit 2A shown in Fig. 2, for example. A sensor 8 is connected to the control room master unit 302.

[0086] The second software incorporated in the auxiliary CPU 33 of the control room master unit 302 is configured to be able to be updated via an interface with an external device. For example, the second software can be updated via the control device 6 connected to the external device I / F 31. The second software can also be updated via the Internet N connected to the external device I / F 31.

[0087] In the case of the intercom system 60 having such a configuration, the same effects as those of the intercom system 50 can be obtained.

[0088] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be freely modified, improved, etc. The material, shape, dimensions, numerical values, form, number, location, etc. of each component in the above-described embodiments are arbitrary and not limited as long as the present invention can be achieved.

[0089] In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the living room master unit 2 and the management room master unit 302 provided in the intercom system 50, 60 have a security CPU 23, 123, 223 and an auxiliary CPU 33, 133, 233 provided separately from the security CPU 23, 123, 223, and the software of the auxiliary CPU 33, 133, 233 can be updated without affecting the function of the security CPU 23, 123, 223. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the configurations of the above-described embodiments may be adopted in general fire alarm systems or gas leak alarm systems. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 2 (2A to 2C): living room main unit (an example of an alarm device), 4: collective entrance unit (an example of an external device), 6: control device (an example of an external device), 8: sensor, 11: router, 12: hub, 21: alarm interface (an example of a first receiving unit), 22a: speaker (an example of an output unit), 22b: lamp (an example of an output unit), 23, 123, 223: security CPU (an example of a first control unit), 25: alarm sound source, 26: power amplifier, 28a, 28b: OR circuit, 31a, 31b: external device I / F (an example of a second receiving unit), 32: display (an example of a second output unit), 33, 133, 233: attached CPU (an example of a second control unit), 39: power circuit, 50, 60: intercom system, 302: management room main unit, 304: management room sub unit, L: intercom line, N: Internet, M: apartment building, S: dwelling unit

Claims

1. a sensor for detecting at least one of a fire and a gas leak; a parent device communicatively connected to the sensor; a slave unit communicably connected to the master unit; An intercom system comprising: The parent device is a first receiving unit that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor; an output unit that outputs alarm information indicating that a fire or a gas leak has occurred; a first control unit having first software installed therein for controlling the output unit based on the detection signal; a second receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from an external device other than the sensor; a second control unit that is capable of communicating with the first control unit and is provided independently, and that has second software installed therein for controlling the output unit or a device other than the output unit based on the signal received by the second receiving unit; An intercom system in which the second software of the second control unit can be updated via an interface with the external device, and the first control unit and the second control unit are configured so that updating the second software does not affect the functions performed by the first software of the first control unit.

2. a first communication command that is a predetermined communication command for communication between the first control unit and the second control unit is defined; the update of the second software is executed by connecting the external device to the second control unit and using a second communication command, which is a communication command other than the first communication command, between the second control unit and the external device; The intercom system of claim 1, wherein the first control unit is configured to discard the second communication command or not perform processing based on the second communication command when the second communication command is sent from the second control unit.

3. The intercom system according to claim 2 , wherein the second control unit converts, upon receiving a signal related to the output unit from the external device, the signal into the first communication command.

4. the second control unit is configured to, when receiving a signal related to the output unit from the external device, transmit the first communication command to the first control unit to control the output unit; The intercom system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the first control unit is configured to prioritize control of the output unit by the first software even when the first communication command is received from the second control unit.

5. The intercom system according to claim 4 , wherein the first control unit is configured to control the output unit based on the first communication command when a first condition is satisfied.

6. The intercom system described in claim 5, wherein the first control unit determines that the first condition is not satisfied when it receives the first communication command from the second control unit while controlling the output unit using the first software, or when control of the output unit using the first software begins while controlling the output unit based on the first communication command.

7. An intercom system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first control unit is configured to block the control signal transmitted from the second control unit to the output unit when a second condition is met.

8. The intercom system described in claim 7, wherein the first control unit determines that the second condition is satisfied when the control signal is sent to the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit, or when the first software starts to control the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit based on the control signal.

9. The intercom system according to claim 1 , wherein the interface is an internet line in each residence in which the intercom system is installed.

10. The intercom system according to claim 1 , further comprising a single power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit and the second control unit.

11. a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit; 10. The intercom system according to claim 1, further comprising: a second power supply circuit provided separately from the first power supply circuit for supplying power to the second control unit.

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