Intercom system
The intercom system automates the transition from setup to operation mode, enhancing convenience and security by automatically unlocking doors for visitors, addressing the inefficiencies of manual switching in existing systems.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024087835
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-05-30
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-11
AI Technical Summary
Existing intercom systems for apartment buildings require manual switching from setting mode to operation mode, which is inconvenient and may compromise security when unlocking doors for visitors.
An intercom system with a control unit that automatically switches from setting mode to operation mode upon meeting predetermined conditions, allowing for seamless unlocking of doors without manual intervention.
Enhances convenience by automating the transition from setup to operation, improving security and efficiency in door unlocking processes.
Smart Images

Figure 2025180476000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present disclosure relates to intercom systems. [Background technology]
[0002] In recent years, there has been an increase in a delivery method known as drop-off delivery, in which delivery is completed by leaving the package at a designated location when the recipient of the package is not at the delivery destination residence, etc. In delivery services using drop-off delivery, various technologies have been proposed for automatically unlocking auto-lock doors installed at the entrances of apartment buildings, etc., for visitors who are permitted to enter the apartment buildings, etc. (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-14729 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-53047 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] As disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, in order to enable an auto-lock door to be unlocked by a visitor alone, without any operation by the resident, certain setting work must be performed, but there is room for improvement in terms of convenience and security.
[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an intercom system that can improve convenience. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the intercom system of the present disclosure comprises: An intercom system comprising: a handset for a visitor to call a resident and talk to the visitor; a room base unit for the resident to respond to a call from the handset; a control unit for controlling the operation of the handset and the room base unit; and a server for storing service information associated with a service provider; the slave unit has a display unit capable of displaying at least a call operation unit for calling the resident and an information input unit for inputting the service information, the control unit is capable of communicating with a door control device that controls locking and unlocking of a door installed at an entrance of an apartment building in which the slave unit and the living room master unit are installed; the control unit is capable of executing a setting mode in which an administrator executes a setting operation for associating the service information with the door control device, and an operation mode in which communication with the door control device is executed based on the setting operation, The control unit is configured to send an unlocking instruction to the door control device and automatically switch from the setting mode to the operation mode when predetermined conditions are met after the setting work is completed.
[0007] According to the above configuration, under predetermined conditions, the setting mode is automatically switched to the operation mode when an unlock command is sent to the door control device, which eliminates the need to manually switch from the setting mode to the operation mode, thereby improving convenience. [Effects of the Invention]
[0008] According to the present disclosure, an intercom system that can improve convenience can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an intercom system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the collective entrance unit, server, room master unit, and controller of the intercom system. [Figure 3]FIG. 3 is an example of a data table stored in the storage unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for setting up an intercom system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the setting guidance screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of information registered in the initial setting operation. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the setting mode input operation screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure for the transmission test. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen displayed on the display unit of the entrance collective device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a service selection screen displayed on the display unit. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a package information input screen displayed on the display unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a call operation screen displayed on the display unit. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an authentication success screen displayed on the display unit. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of switching from the setting mode to the operation mode. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the unlocking operation screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Hereinafter, an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an intercom system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the intercom system 1 includes a collective entrance unit 10 (an example of a slave unit), a server 20, a room master unit 30, an entrance slave unit 40, a management room master unit 50, and a controller 60 (an example of a control unit). The intercom system 1 is an intercom system that is applied to, for example, an apartment building or other collective housing complex.
[0011] The collective entrance unit 10, server 20, room master unit 30, and management room master unit 50 are connected to the control unit 60 via an intercom line L, which communicates according to a general-purpose protocol. The entrance slave unit 40 is also connected to the room master unit 30 via the intercom line L. In this example, the intercom line L is configured with a LAN (Local Area Network) cable. However, the intercom line L may also be configured with a dedicated line.
[0012] The collective entrance device 10 is installed at the collective entrance (entrance), which is a common space of the apartment building. The collective entrance device 10 includes a display unit 11, a communication unit 12, and a camera 13 (an example of an imaging means).
[0013] The server 20 has a function of creating a data table based on the received data. For example, the server 20 receives data such as package information set by a service provider from an external server 70 (described later), and creates a data table based on the package information. The package information and the data table will be described in detail later.
[0014] The room master unit 30 is installed in each dwelling unit in the apartment building where the intercom system 1 is installed. The room master unit 30 is equipped with a display unit 31, an operation unit 32, and a call unit 33. The display unit 31 is capable of displaying various information and accepting user operations, and may be a touch display, for example. The display unit 31 displays images of visitors captured by the camera 13 of the collective entrance unit 10. The operation unit 32 is operated when responding to a call from the collective entrance unit 10 or the management room master unit 50, or when calling the management room master unit 50. The operation unit 32 is composed of, for example, operation buttons displayed on the touch display that is the display unit 31. The call unit 33 is used by residents to make calls to the collective entrance unit 10 or the management room master unit 50, and includes a microphone and speaker.
[0015] The entrance slave unit 40 is installed at the entrance of each dwelling unit. The entrance slave unit 40 is equipped with a call button 41 that allows a visitor to call the resident, a communication unit 42 that allows the visitor to talk to the resident, and a camera 43 that can capture an image of the visitor. The image of the visitor captured by the camera 43 is displayed on the display unit 31 of the room master unit 30.
[0016] The control room master unit 50 is installed in the control room of the apartment building. The control room master unit 50 includes a display unit 51 that displays images captured by the camera 13 of the apartment building entrance unit 10, an operation unit 52 that is operated to call a specific room, and a communication unit 53 that allows the manager to communicate with residents or visitors.
[0017] The control unit 60 controls the operation of the collective entrance unit 10, the server 20, the room master unit 30, the management room master unit 50, etc. For example, the control unit 60 controls the call status from the collective entrance unit 10 to the room master unit 30. The control unit 60 is connected to an external server 70 and a door control device 80 via a network N.
[0018] The controller 60 may include, for example, at least one microcontroller including one or more processors and other electronic circuits including active and passive elements such as transistors. The controller 60 may be configured with multiple CPU cores. The controller 60 may be, for example, a microprocessing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and / or a tensor processing unit (TPU). The GPU may be configured with multiple GPU cores. The controller 60 may also be configured with hardware resources including integrated circuits such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The controller 60 may also be configured with a combination of at least one microcontroller and an integrated circuit.
[0019] The external server 70 is, for example, a server installed at a business office of a service provider. An example of a service provider is a delivery company. The external server 70 has a function of collecting package information set by the service provider. Package information is, for example, information for identifying a delivery item. Examples of package information include a tracking number, a control number, and a waybill (slip) number of the delivery item. In this example, the package information is described as a tracking number.
[0020] When the service provider receives a delivery addressed to a resident from a third party (sender), it determines a tracking number. The service provider informs the sender of the tracking number that it has set. The sender then informs the resident, who is the destination (recipient), of the tracking number. The resident then transmits the tracking number to an external server 70 together with a resident ID that identifies the resident. Upon receiving the resident ID and tracking number, the external server 70 transmits this information via network N to the controller 60 of the intercom system 1 of the apartment building that corresponds to the resident ID.
[0021] The door control device 80 is a device for controlling the locking and unlocking of a door 90 installed at the entrance of the apartment building to which the intercom system 1 is applied. The door control device 80 unlocks the door 90 based on an unlock request signal transmitted from the controller 60.
[0022] Information terminals T owned by, for example, a construction company, a manager, or a service provider may be connected to the network N. The information terminal T may be capable of transmitting information related to the intercom system 1 through the network N. The controller 60 may also be configured to transmit an unlock request signal to the door control device 80 by communicating with the information terminal T of a service provider such as a delivery company.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the collective entrance unit 10, the server 20, the room master unit 30, and the controller 60 of the intercom system 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the collective entrance unit 10 includes a display unit 11, a communication unit 12, a camera 13, a collective entrance unit CPU (Central Processing Unit) 14, and a communication interface (IF) 15.
[0024] The display unit 11 is configured to be able to display a call operation unit 11a and an information input unit 11b. That is, the display unit 11 also functions as an input unit for receiving various operations from a user (for example, a visitor).
[0025] The call operation unit 11a is an operation unit that a visitor operates when calling a resident, and is configured with, for example, a numeric keypad and call buttons displayed on the display unit 11.
[0026] The information input unit 11b is configured to allow delivery information and room information to be input.
[0027] The delivery information includes package information. Package information is information that identifies packages delivered by a service provider. Package information may be a slip number assigned to packages delivered by a service provider or product tracking information assigned by an online e-commerce service.
[0028] The delivery information may include at least one of service information associated with the service provider and provider information identifying the service provider. The service information may be information identifying whether the delivery is made using a delivery service supported by the intercom system 1. The provider information may be the name of the service provider that delivers the package using the delivery service or a code identifying the service provider.
[0029] The room information may include the address of the resident who will be using the delivery service to receive delivery services.
[0030] The information input unit 11b is allowed to change its display to accommodate the input of each piece of information. For example, when receiving service information, the information input unit 11b may be displayed as buttons for selecting the type of service provider. When receiving provider information, the information input unit 11b may be displayed as buttons indicating which service provider the service provider belongs to.
[0031] The collective entrance device CPU 14 performs processing to control each part of the collective entrance device 10. The communication IF 15 forms a bidirectional signal transmission path between the collective entrance device CPU 14 and the intercom line L. This forms a signal transmission path between the collective entrance device CPU 14 and the control device 60 via the communication IF 15.
[0032] The room master unit 30 includes a display unit 31, an operation unit 32, and a call unit 33, as well as a master unit CPU 34, a communication IF 35, and a memory unit 36. The master unit CPU 34 performs processing to control each unit of the room master unit 30. The communication IF 35 forms a bidirectional signal transmission path between the master unit CPU 34 and the intercom line L. This forms a signal transmission path between the master unit CPU 34 and the control unit 60. The memory unit 36 stores control information and the like for the room master unit 30. The memory unit 36 also stores image data captured by the camera 13 of the collective entrance unit 10 or the camera 43 of the entrance slave unit 40 and transmitted from the collective entrance unit 10 or the entrance slave unit 40.
[0033] The control unit 60 includes a control unit 61 and a memory unit 62. The control unit 61 is capable of communicating with the collective entrance unit 10, server 20, room master unit 30, etc., which are connected to the control unit 60, and controls the transmission of signals between each unit and the connection to the network N, etc. The memory unit 62 stores communication information, control information, etc. In this example, the memory unit 62 stores a call table 62a in which the room number of each dwelling unit in the apartment building is recorded in association with a room master unit ID that can identify the room master unit 30 of each dwelling unit.
[0034] The control unit 61 receives a signal including information about the room number input via the call operation unit 11a of the multiple entrance unit 10. The control unit 61 then refers to the call table 62a in the storage unit 62 to identify the room master unit 30 of the dwelling unit associated with the room number input via the call operation unit 11a. The control unit 61 then transmits a call signal to the identified room master unit 30.
[0035] Furthermore, the control unit 61 receives information including a resident ID and package information (tracking number) linked to the resident ID from the external server 70, stores this information in the memory unit 62, and transmits it to the server 20. Note that the control unit 61 may transfer the information received from the external server 70 to the server 20 without storing it in the memory unit 62.
[0036] The server 20 includes a generating unit 21 and a storage unit 22. The generation unit 21 is capable of generating a predetermined data table 22a based on information including a resident ID and a tracking number received from the external server 70 via the control device 60. The storage unit 22 stores the data table 22a generated by the generation unit 21.
[0037] In addition, if it is determined based on the service information included in the delivery information provided by the external server 70 that the delivery was not made using a delivery service, the memory unit 22 does not need to store the delivery information for the package.
[0038] FIG. 3 shows an example of a data table 22a stored in the storage unit 22. As shown in FIG. 3, the data table 22a records a resident ID, a room management number, a business ID, a deliverer ID, and a slip ID based on delivery information transmitted from the external server 70. The resident ID, the room management number, the business ID, the deliverer ID, and the slip ID are associated with each package delivered by the delivery service. For example, a business ID: A and a tracking number: 101-***-*** are stored in association with a resident ID: U1 and a room management number: 101 corresponding to the resident ID: U1. Furthermore, a business ID: B, a deliverer ID: A123, and a tracking number: 105-***-*** are stored in association with a resident ID: U2 and a room number: 201 corresponding to the resident ID: U2.
[0039] (Intercom System 1 Operation) Next, we will explain the operation of the intercom system 1 when a visitor, a service provider, visits an apartment building to which the intercom system 1 is applied to deliver a package addressed to a resident of the apartment building. The control unit 61 is configured to be able to execute a setting mode and an operation mode. The setting mode is a mode in which an administrator performs setting work to associate service information with the door control device 80. The operation mode is a mode in which communication with the door control device 80 is performed based on the setting work in the setting mode.
[0040] 4 is a flowchart relating to the setup of the intercom system 1. After the setting mode has started, the control unit 61 hides notifications when displaying an initial screen on the display unit 11. When the intercom system 1 is powered on, the control unit 61 determines whether the setting mode has been executed (step S111). If the setting mode has been executed (Yes in step S111), the control unit 61 executes step S116.
[0041] When the initial screen is first displayed on display 11 of front door slave unit 40, control unit 61 displays a predetermined notification on the initial screen to start execution of the setting mode. If the setting mode is not being executed (No in step S111), control unit 61 transmits a display signal for setting prompt screen 110 to collective front door unit 10 (step S112). Setting prompt screen 110 is an example of the initial screen.
[0042] Having received the display signal relating to the setting prompting screen 110, the collective entrance device CPU 14 of the collective entrance device 10 causes the display unit 11 to display the setting prompting screen 110 (step S113).
[0043] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the setting guidance screen 110. The setting guidance screen 110 displays a message urging the installer to perform the registration work and a serial number, which is an example of information required for the registration work. In addition, a two-dimensional code 111 may be displayed, which can lead to a web page or application required for the initial setup of the registration work.
[0044] The contractor can open a web page or application required for the initial setup by reading the two-dimensional code 111 with the information terminal T. The contractor performs the initial setup operation on the opened web page or application (step S114). When the initial setup operation is completed, the information entered by the initial setup operation is transmitted to the external server 70 via the network N.
[0045] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of information registered during the initial setup operation. The contractor enters the apartment building name, address, and number of units on a web page or application, and also enters the serial number displayed on the setup guidance screen 110. As shown in Fig. 6, the apartment building name, address, number of units, and serial number are linked to the registration date, which is the date on which the registration work was performed, and are stored in the external server 70. This makes it possible to associate service information with the door control device 80.
[0046] When the control unit 61 determines that the initial settings have been completed in the external server 70 (step S115), the control unit 61 executes the setting mode. The control unit 61 transmits a display signal for the setting mode input operation screen 120 to the multiple entrance device 10 (step S116).
[0047] Having received the display signal relating to the setting mode input operation screen 120, the collective entrance apparatus CPU 14 of the collective entrance apparatus 10 causes the display unit 11 to display the setting mode input operation screen 120 (step S117).
[0048] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the setting mode input operation screen 120. Display fields 121A to 121C (an example of the information input section 11b) for selecting various settings are displayed on the setting mode input operation screen 120. By operating the display fields 121A to 121C, it is possible to move to various setting screens for the intercom system 1.
[0049] The intercom system 1 in the setting mode may be configured so that the setting mode input operation screen 120 is displayed on the display unit 11 by performing a predetermined operation, even after the various settings have been completed.
[0050] Next, the transmission test in the setting mode will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure for the transmission test. The transmission test is a test to confirm whether an unlock command is sent correctly to the door control device 80. The setting mode is a mode in which the transmission test can be performed, while the operation mode is a mode in which the transmission test cannot be performed. When performing the transmission test, at least one of dummy service information, business information, room number, and package information is given to the tester, such as a construction worker or manager, who performs the transmission test. The dummy service information, business information, room number, and package information given to the tester are referred to as temporary authentication information.
[0051] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a reception screen 200 displayed on the display unit 11 of the collective entrance device 10. As shown in FIG. 9, when no operations such as various settings have been performed, the reception screen 200 is displayed on the display unit 11 of the collective entrance device 10. The reception screen 200 displays a "Room Call" button 201 for calling each dwelling unit in the apartment building, a "Control Room Call" button 202 for calling the control room, a "Resident Service" button 203 for executing various services for residents, and a "Delivery Service" button 204 for executing services for service providers such as delivery companies. The "Delivery Service" button 204 is an example of a display mode of the information input unit 11b, as it allows service information to be input. Whether or not the "Delivery Service" button 204 is operated is an example of whether or not service information has been input.
[0052] Assume that the tester operates the "Delivery Service" button 204 displayed on the display unit 11 of the collective entrance device 10. When the operation of the "Delivery Service" button 204 is accepted (step S201), the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal to the control device 60 (step S202). The control unit 61 of the control device 60 that has received the operation acceptance signal transmits a display signal relating to the service selection screen 210 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S203).
[0053] Upon receiving the display signal for the service selection screen 210, the collective entrance device CPU 14 of the collective entrance device 10 causes the display unit 11 to display the service selection screen 210 (step S204). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the service selection screen 210 displayed on the display unit 11. The service selection screen 210 is configured to allow input of business operator information, and is therefore an example of a display mode of the information input unit 11b. As shown in FIG. 10, the service selection screen 210 displays display fields 211A to 211E for, for example, the company names or service names of service operators, and an "End" button 212.
[0054] Next, the tester selects a predetermined display field corresponding to the company (service) assigned for the transmission test from among the multiple display fields 211A-211E displayed on the service selection screen 210, and then operates the "End" button 212. For example, the tester selects the display field 211A from among the display fields 211A-211E by touch operation. When each of the display fields 211A-211E receives an operation by the tester on the display fields 211A-211E (information input unit 11b) (step S205), the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information on the selected display field to the control device 60 (step S206). For example, when the tester selects the display field 211A by touch operation, the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information corresponding to "Company: A" to the control device 60. The control unit 61, which has received the operation acceptance signal, transmits a display signal for the package information input screen 220 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S207).
[0055] Upon receiving the display signal related to the package information input screen 220, the collective entrance device CPU 14 displays the package information input screen 220 on the display unit 11 (step S208). FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the package information input screen 220 displayed on the display unit 11. As shown in FIG. 11, the package information input screen 220 displays, for example, a numeric keypad button 221 for inputting a slip number, a "Decide" button 222, an "End" button 223, and the like. These buttons 221 to 223 included in the package information input screen 220 function as the information input unit 11b.
[0056] Next, the tester uses the numeric keypad buttons 221 on the package information input screen 220 to input a dummy slip number or the like as package information, and then operates the "OK" button 222. Upon receiving the input of package information and the operation of the "OK" button 222 (step S209), the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including the input package information to the control device 60 (step S210). For example, if the service provider inputs a slip number of "101-***-***" in step S209, the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including "101-***-***" to the control device 60. Upon receiving the operation acceptance signal, the control unit 61 of the control device 60 transmits a display signal for the call operation screen 230 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S211).
[0057] Upon receiving the display signal related to the call operation screen 230, the collective entrance device CPU 14 causes the display unit 11 to display the call operation screen 230 (step S212). FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the call operation screen 230 displayed on the display unit 11. As shown in FIG. 12, the call operation screen 230 displays, for example, a numeric keypad button 231 for inputting the room number of each dwelling unit, a "Call" button 232, and the like. These buttons 231 and 232 included in the call operation screen 230 function as the call operation unit 11a. The numeric keypad button 231 is configured to allow input of room information, and therefore also functions as the information input unit 11b.
[0058] Next, the tester inputs the room number of a dummy room using numeric keypad buttons 231 displayed on call operation screen 230, and then operates "Call" button 232. Upon receiving the input of the room number using numeric keypad buttons 231 and the operation of "Call" button 232 (step S213), collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information about the input room number to control device 60 (step S214). For example, if the service provider inputs room number "101" on call operation screen 230 and then operates "Call" button 232, collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information corresponding to room number "101" to control device 60.
[0059] Next, the control device 60 determines whether the input service information, business information, room number, and package information match the temporary authentication information (step S215). The temporary authentication information may be stored in the storage unit 22 or the external server 70.
[0060] If the entered service information, business operator information, room number, and package information do not match the temporary authentication information (NO in step S215), the control unit 61 determines that the authentication has failed, returns the process to before step S201, and sends a display signal for the reception screen 200 to the collective entrance device 10. At this time, the collective entrance device 10 that has received the display signal for the reception screen 200 may display a notification screen on the display unit 11, before displaying the reception screen 200, as notification information that the authentication has failed, such as "Authentication has failed. Please try again by clicking the 'Delivery Service' button." If the delivery information does not match, the control unit 61 may send an authentication failure signal to the collective entrance device 10.
[0061] If the input service information, business information, room number, and package information match the temporary authentication information (YES in step S215), the control unit 61 determines that the transmission test was successful and generates an authentication success signal (step S216). Then, based on the authentication success signal, the control unit 61 transmits a display signal for the authentication success screen 240 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S217).
[0062] Upon receiving the display signal for the authentication success screen 240, the collective entrance device CPU 14 causes the display unit 11 to display the authentication success screen 240 (step S218). Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the authentication success screen 240 displayed on the display unit 11. The authentication success screen 240 displays a message indicating that temporary authentication has been completed.
[0063] Next, another example of the transmission test will be described with continued reference to Fig. 8. Since the controller 60 of the intercom system 1 is configured to be able to communicate with the information terminal T of a service provider such as a delivery company, the transmission test can also check whether provisional authentication can be performed through communication with the information terminal T.
[0064] The tester executes a temporary release operation using the information terminal T (step S219). The temporary release operation is accepted by an application or the like associated with the intercom system 1. When the temporary release operation is executed, the information terminal T transmits an operation acceptance signal to the control device 60, which includes dummy service information, business information, room number, and package information.
[0065] The control device 60 determines whether the operation acceptance signal including the service information, business information, room number, and baggage information matches the temporary authentication information (step S215). If the input service information, business information, room number, and baggage information match the temporary authentication information (YES in step S215), the control unit 61 determines that the transmission test was successful and transmits a display signal for an authentication success screen to the information terminal T (step S220). The information terminal T displays the authentication success screen including an indication that temporary authentication has been completed (step S221).
[0066] Next, switching from the setting mode to the operation mode will be described. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of switching from the setting mode to the operation mode. The control unit 61 is configured to send an unlock instruction to the door control device 80 and automatically switch from the setting mode to the operation mode when a predetermined condition is met after the setting work is completed. The predetermined condition for switching from the setting mode to the operation mode is that when an unlock request including service information is received from the entrance slave unit 40, the storage unit 22 has successfully authenticated the service information, or when an unlock request including service information is received from the information terminal T, the service information has successfully authenticated.
[0067] When switching from the setting mode to the operation mode, steps S201 to S204 are performed in the same manner as the transmission test in the setting mode. That is, the service provider operates the "Delivery Service" button 204 on the reception screen 200, and in response to the operation of the "Delivery Service" button 204, the service selection screen 210 is displayed.
[0068] Next, the service provider selects a predetermined display field corresponding to the company (service) to which the service provider belongs from among the multiple display fields 211A-211E displayed on the service selection screen 210, and then operates the "End" button 212. When each of the display fields 211A-211E receives an operation by the service provider on one of the display fields 211A-211E (information input unit 11b) (step S305), the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information on the selected display field to the control device 60 (step S306). For example, when the service provider selects the display field 211A by a touch operation, the collective entrance device CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information corresponding to "Company: A" to the control device 60. The control unit 61, which has received the operation acceptance signal, transmits a display signal related to the package information input screen 220 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S307).
[0069] Upon receiving the display signal relating to the package information input screen 220, the collective entrance machine CPU 14 causes the display unit 11 to display the package information input screen 220 (step S308).
[0070] Next, the service provider uses the numeric keypad buttons 221 on the package information input screen 220 to input the slip number and other information as package information, and then operates the "OK" button 222. Upon receiving the input of package information and the operation of the "OK" button 222 (step S309), the collective entrance machine CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including the input package information to the control unit 60 as an unlock request (step S310). The slip number used at this time is not a dummy slip number, but the slip number stored in the data table 22a illustrated in FIG. 3. For example, if the service provider inputs the slip number "101-***-***" in step S310, the collective entrance machine CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including "101-***-***" to the control unit 60.
[0071] Next, upon receiving the operation acceptance signal, the control unit 61 verifies whether the delivery information entered by the visitor at the collective entrance device 10 matches the delivery information contained in the data table 22a stored in the memory unit 22 of the server 20 (step S311). For example, if the visitor enters "Company: A" (step S305) and "Invoice number: 101-***-***" (step S309), the data table 22a in the example of Fig. 3 stores data corresponding to "Company: A" and "Invoice number: 101-***-***", so the control unit 61 determines that the respective delivery information matches.
[0072] Next, if the delivery information included in the operation acceptance signal does not match the service number included in data table 22a (NO in step S311), control unit 61 determines that authentication has failed and sends a display signal for reception screen 200 to collective entrance machine 10. At this time, collective entrance machine 10 that has received the display signal for reception screen 200 may display a notification screen on display unit 11, before displaying reception screen 200, as notification information that authentication has failed, such as "Authentication has failed. Please try again by clicking the 'Delivery Service' button." If the delivery information does not match, control unit 61 may send an authentication failure signal to collective entrance machine 10.
[0073] If the delivery information contained in the operation acceptance signal matches the delivery information contained in the data table 22a (YES in step S311), the control unit 61 determines that authentication of the delivery information entered up to this point has been successful, and sends a display signal regarding the call operation screen 230 to the collective entrance device 10 (step S312).
[0074] Upon receiving the display signal relating to the call operation screen 230, the collective entrance device CPU 14 causes the display unit 11 to display the call operation screen 230 (step S313).
[0075] Next, the service provider inputs the room number of the room to which the delivery is to be made using the numeric keypad buttons 231 displayed on the call operation screen 230, and then operates the "Call" button 232. The room number used here is not a dummy room number, but a room number stored in the data table 22a illustrated in FIG. 3. Upon receiving the input of the room number using the numeric keypad buttons 231 and the operation of the "Call" button 232 (step S314), the collective entrance machine CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information about the input room number to the control unit 60 (step S315). For example, if the service provider inputs the room number "101" on the call operation screen 230 and then operates the "Call" button 232, the collective entrance machine CPU 14 transmits an operation acceptance signal including information corresponding to the room number "101" to the control unit 60.
[0076] Next, the control unit 61 identifies the room master unit 30 associated with the room number included in the received operation acceptance signal from among the multiple room master units 30 installed in the apartment building, and generates a call signal for calling the identified room master unit 30 (step S316). The control unit 61 then transmits the call signal to the identified room master unit 30 (step S317). For example, the control unit 61 identifies the room master unit 30 in room 101 based on the information on the room number "101" included in the received operation acceptance signal, and generates a call signal for calling the room master unit 30. The call signal is then transmitted to the identified room master unit 30 in room 101.
[0077] Next, the room master unit 30 in Room 101, which has received the call signal from the control unit 61, outputs a call tone to notify that a visitor is calling from the common entrance (step S318). The operation of outputting a call tone in response to the call signal from the control unit 61 is referred to as a call operation.
[0078] Door 90 is unlocked when the resident answers the call and agrees to allow the visitor through. For example, when a call tone is being output from room master unit 30 in room 101 and the resident of room 101 uses room master unit 30 to answer the call, a response signal is sent from room master unit 30 to control unit 60. However, in this example, it is assumed that the service provider unlocks door 90 and performs delivery to a parcel because the resident is absent or does not answer, so a description of the operation of collective entrance unit 10 and control unit 60 when the resident answers the call will be omitted.
[0079] Next, the control unit 61 determines whether a certain time has elapsed since the room master unit 30 started to output a ring tone (step S319). This certain time may be, for example, 10 to 20 seconds, and preferably 15 to 17 seconds. The certain time may be changed depending on which of the display fields 211A to 211E was selected on the service selection screen 210 in step S305. For example, the certain time may be different when the display field 211A is selected from among the plurality of display fields 211A to 211E and when the display field 211B is selected. The control unit 61 stores information about the certain time individually set for each service provider in the storage unit 62, and can change the certain time based on the information in accordance with the type of the information input unit 11b that accepted the operation in step S305. Note that the starting point for counting the elapsed time is not limited to the start of the ring tone output from the room master unit 30. For example, the time when the "call" button 232 is operated or when a call signal is sent to the specified room master unit 30 may be set as the starting point for counting the passage of a certain period of time.
[0080] If it is determined in step S319 that a certain time has not elapsed since the room master unit 30 started to output a ring tone (NO in step S319), the control unit 61 repeats the operation of step S319 until the certain time has elapsed. If it is determined in step S319 that a certain time has elapsed since the room master unit 30 started to output a ring tone (YES in step S319), the control unit 61 generates a release signal to be sent to the door control device 80 and automatically switches to the operation mode (step S320).
[0081] In step S320, the control unit 61 may transmit a display signal for an unlocking operation screen 360 to the front door slave unit 40 before transmitting an unlocking signal to the door control device 80. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the unlocking operation screen 360. Upon receiving the display signal for the unlocking operation screen 360, the multiple front door unit CPU 14 displays the unlocking operation screen 360 on the display unit 11. As shown in FIG. 15, the unlocking operation screen 360 displays, for example, an "Unlock" button 361 and a message urging the user to press the "Unlock" button 361, such as "The resident is currently not present. Please press the unlock button to enter the door." The "Unlock" button 361 is an example of an unlocking operation unit.
[0082] Next, when the service provider operates the "Unlock" button 361 displayed on the unlocking operation screen 360, the collective entrance device CPU 14 sends an operation acceptance signal to the control device 60. The control unit 61, which has received the operation acceptance signal, generates an unlock instruction signal based on the operation acceptance signal and sends it to the door control device 80. Then, the door control device 80, which has received the unlock instruction signal, unlocks the door 90. This allows the service provider to enter the collective entrance through the door 90 and perform delivery work.
[0083] Next, another example of switching from the setting mode to the operation mode will be described. Since the controller 60 of the intercom system 1 is configured to be able to communicate with the information terminal T of a service provider such as a delivery company, switching from the setting mode to the operation mode can also be performed by authentication through communication with the information terminal T.
[0084] The service provider executes a cancellation operation using the information terminal T (step S321). The cancellation operation is accepted by an application or the like associated with the intercom system 1. When the cancellation operation is carried out, the information terminal T transmits an operation acceptance signal to the control device 60, which includes non-dummy service information, business information, room number, and package information. For example, the operation acceptance signal includes the room management number "201," business ID "B," deliverer ID "A123," and slip ID "105-***-***."
[0085] The control unit 60 determines whether the operation acceptance signal including the service information, business information, room number, and baggage information matches the service information, business information, room number, and baggage information stored in the data table 22a. If the received service information, business information, room number, and baggage information matches the service information, business information, room number, and baggage information stored in the data table 22a, the control unit 61 determines that the authentication has been successful, and generates a release signal to be sent to the door control device 80, and automatically switches to the operation mode (step S320). The control unit 61 may cause the information terminal T to display an authentication success screen including a message indicating that authentication has been completed.
[0086] According to the intercom system 1 of this embodiment, under predetermined conditions, the setting mode is automatically switched to the operation mode together with sending an unlock command to the door control device. This eliminates the need to manually switch from the setting mode to the operation mode, improving convenience.
[0087] According to the intercom system 1 of this embodiment, after the setup work is completed, the system automatically switches from setup mode to operation mode when successful authentication of the service information entered by a service provider such as a delivery company through the entrance unit 40 is triggered, thereby improving convenience with a simple configuration.
[0088] According to the intercom system 1 of this embodiment, after the setup work is completed, the system automatically switches from setup mode to operation mode when successful authentication of the service information received from the information terminal T carried by a service provider such as a delivery company is triggered, thereby improving convenience with a simple configuration.
[0089] According to the intercom system 1 of this embodiment, switching to operation mode makes it impossible to perform a transmission test, thereby preventing unexpected automatic unlocking of the door due to the execution of a transmission test after switching to operation mode, thereby improving security.
[0090] According to the intercom system 1 of this embodiment, a predetermined notification (e.g., a two-dimensional code) for executing the setting mode is displayed on the initial screen only when the initial screen is displayed for the first time, thereby preventing the predetermined notification from being displayed at unnecessary times and further improving convenience.
[0091] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and may 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 disclosure can be achieved.
[0092] For example, in the intercom system 1 according to the present embodiment, the delivery information includes all of the service information, business information, and room information. However, the delivery information only needs to include information that proves that the service business has delivered the package, and at least one or all of the service information, business information, and room information may not need to be input.
[0093] The configurations listed below also form part of this disclosure. (1): An intercom system comprising: a handset for a visitor to call a resident and talk to the visitor; a room base unit for the resident to respond to a call from the handset; a control unit for controlling the operation of the handset and the room base unit; and a server for storing service information associated with a service provider; the slave unit has a display unit capable of displaying at least a call operation unit for calling the resident and an information input unit for inputting the service information, the control unit is capable of communicating with a door control device that controls locking and unlocking of a door installed at an entrance of an apartment building in which the slave unit and the living room master unit are installed; the control unit is capable of executing a setting mode in which an administrator executes a setting operation for associating the service information with the door control device, and an operation mode in which communication with the door control device is executed based on the setting operation, The control unit is configured to send an unlock instruction to the door control device and automatically switch from the setting mode to the operation mode when a predetermined condition is met after the setting work is completed. Intercom system. (2): The predetermined condition includes that, when an unlocking request including the service information is received from the slave device, authentication of the service information is successful. The intercom system according to (1). (3): the control unit is capable of communicating with an information terminal carried by the service provider, The predetermined condition includes that, when an unlocking request including the service information is received from the information terminal, authentication of the service information is successful. The intercom system according to (1). (4): The setting mode is a mode in which a transmission test of an unlock instruction to the door control device can be performed, and the operation mode is a mode in which the transmission test cannot be performed. An intercom system according to any one of (1) to (3). (5): The control unit When an initial screen is first displayed on the display unit of the slave device, a predetermined notification for starting execution of the setting mode is displayed on the initial screen; When the initial screen is displayed on the display unit after the execution of the setting mode is started, the notification is hidden. An intercom system according to any one of (1) to (4). [Explanation of symbols]
[0094] 1. Intercom System 10 Collective entrance machine 11 Display section 11a Call operation section 11b Information input section 12 Call section 13 Camera 14 Collective entrance machine CPU 15 Communication Interface (IF) 20 servers 21 Generation part 22 Memory section 22a Data Table 30 Room base unit 31 Display section 32 Operation section 33 Telephone section 36 Memory section 40 Entrance door unit 41 Call button 42 Telephone section 43 Camera 50 Control room main unit 51 Display section 52 Operation section 53 Telephone section 60 Controller 61 Control Unit 62 Storage section 62a Call Table 70 External Servers 80 Door control device 90 Doors 110 Setting guidance screen 111 QR Code 120 Setting mode input operation screen 121A~121C, 211A~211E Display field 200 Reception screen 201~204,221~223,231~232,241,361 buttons 210 Service selection screen 220 Baggage information input screen 230 Call operation screen 240 Authentication success screen 360 unlocking operation screen L Intercom line N Network T Information terminal
Claims
1. An intercom system comprising: a handset for a visitor to call a resident and talk to the visitor; a room base unit for the resident to respond to a call from the handset; a control unit for controlling the operation of the handset and the room base unit; and a server for storing service information associated with a service provider; the slave unit has a display unit capable of displaying at least a call operation unit for calling the resident and an information input unit for inputting the service information, the control unit is capable of communicating with a door control device that controls locking and unlocking of a door installed at an entrance of an apartment building in which the slave unit and the living room master unit are installed; the control unit is capable of executing a setting mode in which an administrator executes a setting operation for associating the service information with the door control device, and an operation mode in which communication with the door control device is executed based on the setting operation, The control unit is configured to send an unlocking instruction to the door control device and automatically switch from the setting mode to the operation mode when predetermined conditions are met after the setting work is completed, in an intercom system.
2. The predetermined condition includes that, when an unlocking request including the service information is received from the slave device, authentication of the service information is successful.
2. The intercom system according to claim 1.
3. the control unit is capable of communicating with an information terminal carried by the service provider, The predetermined condition includes that, when an unlocking request including the service information is received from the information terminal, authentication of the service information is successful.
2. The intercom system according to claim 1.
4. The setting mode is a mode in which a transmission test of an unlock instruction to the door control device can be performed, and the operation mode is a mode in which the transmission test cannot be performed.
4. An intercom system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
5. The control unit When an initial screen is first displayed on the display unit of the slave device, a predetermined notification for starting execution of the setting mode is displayed on the initial screen; When the initial screen is displayed on the display unit after the execution of the setting mode is started, the notification is hidden.
4. An intercom system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Automatic door control server
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