Intercom master unit, intercom system, intercom control method, and program

Abstract

To simplify confirmation work of a communication state between an intercom master unit and an intercom slave unit.SOLUTION: The intercom master unit 2 can communicate with the intercom slave unit 1, and includes a communication part 21 for transmitting a request signal to the intercom slave unit 1, and an output part 28 for outputting at least one of image information and voice information received by the communication part 21 as a response from the intercom slave unit 1 to the request signal to the outside.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an intercom master unit, an intercom system, an intercom control method, and a program, and more particularly to an intercom master unit capable of communicating with a slave unit, an intercom system, an intercom control method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an intercom master unit installed in each dwelling unit of an apartment building, and an intercom slave unit that can communicate with the intercom master unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-178363 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the intercom master unit and the intercom slave unit as described in Patent Document 1, after the intercom master unit and the intercom slave unit are installed in an apartment building, the communication status between the intercom master unit and the intercom slave unit is checked. There is a demand for simplifying the checking of the communication status between the intercom master unit and the intercom slave unit.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above reasons, and aims to provide an intercom master unit, an intercom system, an intercom control method, and a program that can simplify the process of checking the communication status between an intercom master unit and an intercom slave unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An intercom master unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure is capable of communicating with an intercom slave unit and includes a communication unit that transmits a request signal to the intercom slave unit, and an information output unit that outputs to the outside at least one of image information and audio information received by the communication unit in response to the request signal from the intercom slave unit.

[0007] An intercom system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a plurality of intercom master units and the intercom slave units.

[0008] An intercom control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a transmitting step of transmitting a request signal to an intercom handset, a receiving step of receiving at least one of image information and audio information as a response from the intercom handset to the request signal, and an output step of outputting at least one of the image information and the audio information to the outside.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the intercom control method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to simplify the task of checking the communication status between an intercom master unit and an intercom slave unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a slave control unit of an intercom slave unit included in the intercom system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a master unit control unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the intercom slave unit provided in the intercom system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front view of the intercom master unit provided in the intercom system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation of the intercom system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a home screen displayed on a display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a call menu screen displayed on the display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a call menu screen displayed on the display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a call destination selection screen displayed on the display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a first image and a second image displayed on a display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a call destination selection screen displayed on the display unit of the intercom master unit of the intercom system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] An intercom system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment and modifications. Various modifications other than the embodiment and modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not deviate from the technical concept of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the following embodiments (including modifications) may be realized in appropriate combinations.

[0013] (1) Overview The intercom system 100 according to this embodiment is an intercom system for use in a multi-family home, such as an apartment building. However, the intercom system 100 according to this embodiment may also be applied to a detached house other than a multi-family home. Alternatively, the intercom system 100 may be applied to a non-residential facility such as an office, a store, a school, or a nursing home.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the intercom system 100 includes a plurality of intercom master units 2 and an intercom slave unit 1. The ...

[0015] The intercom master unit 2 is capable of communicating with the intercom slave unit 1 and includes a communication unit (first communication unit) 21 that transmits a call signal to the intercom slave unit 1, and an information output unit 28 that outputs to the outside at least one of image information and audio information received by the first communication unit 21 as a response from the intercom slave unit 1 to the call signal.

[0016] Here, the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 are installed in the apartment building before the residents move in. Specifically, the intercom master unit 2 is installed in each dwelling unit of the apartment building, and the intercom slave unit 1 is installed outside each dwelling unit of the apartment building.

[0017] After the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 are installed in the apartment building, the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is checked.

[0018] Conventionally, in order to check the communication status between the intercom base unit 2 and the intercom handset 1, it was necessary to station a worker both inside the dwelling where the intercom base unit 2 was installed and outside the dwelling where the intercom handset 1 was installed. In other words, conventionally, each worker checked the operation of the intercom base unit 2 and the intercom handset 1 to check the communication status between the intercom base unit 2 and the intercom handset 1.

[0019] On the other hand, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, only a worker (user) located in the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit 2 is installed can check the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 by checking at least one of the image information and audio information output to the outside by the information output unit 28. In other words, according to the configuration of the present disclosure, the task of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 can be simplified.

[0020] (2) Composition The configuration of an intercom system 100 according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0021] (2.1) Overall structure As shown in Fig. 1, the intercom system 100 includes an intercom slave 1, multiple (two in Fig. 1) intercom master units 2, a management master unit 7, a control device 3, multiple (two in Fig. 1) door phones 4, and multiple (two in Fig. 1) splitters 5. The intercom system 100 also includes a gate 8 that separates the inside and outside of a common entrance in an apartment building. The gate 8 is switched between an open state and a closed state by the intercom slave 1 and the control device 3, etc. The gate 8 also includes an audio output unit 81 such as a speaker, which outputs an alarm sound such as a beep when the gate 8 changes from a closed state to an open state.

[0022] In this embodiment, the intercom slave 1 is a lobby intercom 6 installed in a common area of ​​an apartment building, such as a lobby. Note that the intercom slave 1 may also be a door phone 4 or a management base unit 7, which will be described later.

[0023] Each of the plurality of intercom master units 2 is, for example, a dwelling unit terminal installed in each dwelling unit of an apartment building.

[0024] The management base unit 7 is a terminal installed in the manager's room of the apartment complex.

[0025] The control device 3 is configured to perform call control and relay signals between the intercom handset 1 and each intercom master unit 2. The control device 3 is installed, for example, in the manager's office of an apartment building. For example, when a visitor to the apartment building calls the intercom master unit 2 using the intercom handset 1, the control device 3 relays signals transmitted and received between the intercom handset 1 and the intercom master unit 2. The control device 3 is also configured to relay signals between the intercom handset 1 and the management master unit 7. The control device 3 is also configured to relay signals between each intercom master unit 2 and the management master unit 7.

[0026] Each of the multiple intercoms 4 is installed, for example, at the outer entrance of each dwelling unit in an apartment building. The multiple intercoms 4 correspond one-to-one to the multiple intercom master units 2. Each intercom 4 is configured to communicate (for example, make calls and send image signals, etc.) with the corresponding intercom master unit 2.

[0027] (2.2) Intercom handset Next, the configuration of the intercom slave unit 1 will be described.

[0028] As described above, in this embodiment, the intercom slave unit 1 is the lobby intercom 6 that is installed (constructed) in a common area of ​​an apartment building, such as a lobby.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the intercom handset 1 (lobby intercom 6) includes an imaging unit 10, a call unit 11, a communication unit 12, a handset control unit 13, an operation unit 14, a memory unit 16, and a display unit 18. As shown in FIG. 4, the intercom handset 1 also includes a housing 15 that houses or holds the above-mentioned components. The intercom handset 1 also includes a mode selector switch 17 located at the bottom of the housing 15. The mode selector switch 17 is, for example, a slide switch, and is used to switch the operation mode of the intercom handset 1 between a normal mode and a setting mode. The normal mode is an operation mode used when communicating with the intercom master unit 2 after the intercom handset 1 has been installed in a common area of ​​the apartment building. The setting mode is an operation mode used when configuring the intercom handset 1 (such as setting the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit 10 and the intercom master unit 2 to communicate with) before the installation of the intercom handset 1 in the common area of ​​the apartment building is complete. 4, mode selector switch 17 is configured so that it cannot be operated from outside after installation of intercom slave unit 1 in the common area is completed. In other words, the operating mode of intercom slave unit 1 is switched from the setting mode to the normal mode by mode selector switch 17 before installation in the common area is completed.

[0030] The imaging unit 10 is a camera having an imaging element. In this embodiment, the imaging area (field of view) of the imaging unit 10 is set in front of the housing 15 of the intercom handset 1 so that it can capture at least the face of a visitor to the apartment building and the gate 8 when the visitor operates the intercom handset 1. In this embodiment, the imaging unit 10 is a camera that captures video. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the imaging unit 10 is a camera that captures color images. Note that the imaging unit 10 may also be a camera that captures still images. Alternatively, the imaging unit 10 may be a camera that captures monochrome images.

[0031] The imaging element is, for example, a two-dimensional image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor.

[0032] The communication unit 11 has an audio output unit 111 such as a speaker and an audio input unit 112 such as a microphone, and is configured to be able to communicate with the intercom master unit 2.

[0033] The communication unit 12 is a communication interface for communicating with the intercom master unit 2.

[0034] The communication unit 12 is connected to the control device 3 via the first trunk line L1. The communication unit 12 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the intercom master unit 2 via the control device 3. The communication unit 12 is configured to transmit communication signals to the intercom master unit 2. The communication signals include modulated audio signals, image signals, control signals, etc. The communication unit 12 receives communication signals transmitted from the intercom master unit 2 via the control device 3 and acquires audio signals, etc. by demodulating the received communication signals. The audio signals are output to the call unit 11 (audio output unit 111) via the handset control unit 13. The communication unit 12 may also be configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the management master unit 7.

[0035] The operation unit 14 is configured to accept human operations. The operation unit 14 is an input interface having, for example, a plurality of push buttons, a touch panel, etc. The plurality of push buttons include, for example, a numeric keypad of 0 to 9, an asterisk (*) button, a delete button, and a call button.

[0036] Display unit 18 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. Display unit 18 is configured to display the image captured by imaging unit 10, the room number of the visitor's destination entered by the visitor, a message for the visitor, etc. If intercom slave unit 1 is equipped with a touch panel display, the touch panel display may serve as both display unit 18 and operation unit 14.

[0037] The storage unit 16 is configured with a readable and writable memory. The storage unit 16 is, for example, a flash memory. The storage unit 16 stores data of images captured by the imaging unit 10, etc.

[0038] Handset control unit 13 is configured, for example, by a microcomputer mainly composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory. The CPU executes a program stored in the memory, causing the microcomputer to function as handset control unit 13. The program executed by the CPU is pre-recorded in the memory of the microcomputer here, but may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0039] 2, the handset control unit 13 has a communication control unit 130, a signal generation unit 131, an acquisition unit 132, and a mode switching unit 133. Note that the communication control unit 130, the signal generation unit 131, the acquisition unit 132, and the mode switching unit 133 merely indicate functions realized by the handset control unit 13, and do not necessarily indicate actual configurations.

[0040] The functions of each unit of the slave unit control unit 13 will be explained in "(3) Example of Operation."

[0041] (2.3) Intercom base unit Next, the configuration of the intercom master unit 2 will be described.

[0042] As described above, in this embodiment, the intercom master unit 2 is installed (constructed) in each dwelling unit of an apartment building.

[0043] 1, the intercom master unit 2 has a display unit 20, a first communication unit 21, a second communication unit 22, a call unit 23, an operation unit 24, a master unit control unit 26, and a memory unit 27. The intercom master unit 2 also has a housing 25 that houses or holds the above-mentioned components.

[0044] The communication unit 23 has an audio output unit 231 such as a speaker and an audio input unit 232 such as a microphone, and is configured to be able to communicate with the intercom slave unit 1 and the door phone 4, which will be described later.

[0045] The first communication unit 21 is a communication interface for communicating with the intercom slave 1. The first communication unit 21 is connected to the control device 3 via the second trunk line L2, the branch line L3, and the splitter 5. The first communication unit 21 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the intercom slave 1 via the control device 3. The first communication unit 21 is configured to transmit communication signals to the intercom slave 1. The communication signals include modulated audio signals, control signals, and the like. The first communication unit 21 also receives communication signals transmitted from the intercom slave 1 via the control device 3 and demodulates the received communication signals to obtain audio signals, image signals, and the like. The audio signals are output to the call unit 23 (audio output unit 231) via the base unit control unit 26, and the image signals are output to the display unit 20 via the base unit control unit 26.

[0046] Furthermore, the first communication unit 21 is capable of further communicating with an external device (the management base unit 7 in this embodiment) different from the intercom handset 1. The first communication unit 21 is configured to be capable of bidirectional communication with the management base unit 7 via the control device 3. The first communication unit 21 is configured to transmit communication signals to the management base unit 7. The communication signals include audio signals, control signals, etc. Furthermore, the first communication unit 21 receives communication signals transmitted from the management base unit 7 via the control device 3 and acquires audio signals, etc. by demodulating the received communication signals.

[0047] The second communication unit 22 is a communication interface for communicating with the intercom 4. The second communication unit 22 is connected to the intercom 4. The second communication unit 22 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the intercom 4. The second communication unit 22 is configured to transmit communication signals to the intercom 4. The communication signals include audio signals, control signals, etc. The second communication unit 22 also receives communication signals transmitted from the intercom 4 and demodulates the received communication signals to obtain audio signals, image signals, etc. The audio signals are output to the call unit 23 (audio output unit 231) via the base unit control unit 26, and the image signals are output to the display unit 20 via the base unit control unit 26.

[0048] The display unit 20 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 20 is configured to display images transmitted from the intercom slave unit 1 and the door phone 4. In this embodiment, the display unit 20 is a touch panel display, and displays a plurality of operation buttons B1 (see FIGS. 7 to 11) that are part of the operation unit 24 described below. The display unit 20, together with the audio output unit 231 described above, constitutes the information output unit 28. In other words, the information output unit 28 has the display unit 20 that displays a plurality of operation buttons B1.

[0049] The operation unit 24 is configured to accept operations by a user. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the operation unit 24 has a call button 242, an unlock button 243, and a plurality of operation buttons B1 displayed on the display unit 20.

[0050] When the call button 242 is pressed while the first communication unit 21 is receiving a call signal to call a resident, a voice call becomes possible between the intercom handset 1 and the intercom base unit 2. When the call button 242 is pressed while the second communication unit 22 is receiving a call signal to call a resident, a voice call becomes possible between the door phone 4 and the intercom base unit 2. When the unlock button 243 is pressed, the gate 8 of the common entrance is opened.

[0051] 7 to 11, the multiple operation buttons B1 are icons displayed on the display unit 20, which is a touch panel display. When the user operates (e.g., taps) each operation button B1 on the display unit 20, the intercom master unit 2 executes an operation associated with each operation button B1. The multiple operation buttons B1 include a test operation button BT1 (see FIG. 9), which will be described later.

[0052] The base unit control unit 26 is configured, for example, by a microcomputer mainly composed of a CPU and a memory. The CPU executes a program stored in the memory, causing the microcomputer to function as the base unit control unit 26. The program executed by the CPU is pre-recorded in the memory of the microcomputer here, but may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0053] 3, parent device control unit 26 has communication control unit 260, signal generation unit 261, display control unit 262, and audio control unit 263. Note that communication control unit 260, signal generation unit 261, display control unit 262, and audio control unit 263 merely indicate functions realized by parent device control unit 26, and do not necessarily indicate actual configurations.

[0054] The functions of each unit of the parent device control unit 26 will be explained in "(3) Example of Operation."

[0055] (2.4) Master unit for management Next, we will explain the configuration of the administrative base unit 7. The administrative base unit 7 includes a call unit 71, a communication unit 72, a display unit 73, an operation unit 74, and a control unit 75, as shown in FIG.

[0056] The communication unit 71 has a speaker and a microphone, and is configured to be able to communicate with the intercom master unit 2. The communication unit 71 may also be configured to be able to communicate with the intercom slave unit 1.

[0057] The communication unit 72 is a communication interface for communicating with the intercom master unit 2. The communication unit 72 is connected to the control device 3 via the fourth trunk line L4. The communication unit 72 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the intercom master unit 2 via the control device 3. The communication unit 72 is configured to transmit communication signals to the intercom master unit 2. The communication signals include audio signals, control signals, etc. The communication unit 72 also receives communication signals transmitted from the intercom master unit 2 via the control device 3 and acquires audio signals, etc. by demodulating the received communication signals. The audio signals are output to the call unit 71 via the control unit 75. The communication unit 72 may also be configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the intercom slave unit 1 via the control device 3.

[0058] The display unit 73 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 73 is configured to display images transmitted from the intercom master unit 2, the operating status of the management master unit 7, and the like. In this embodiment, the display unit 73 is a touch panel display, and also serves as a display switching button 741 and a mode switching button 742 (see FIG. 1 ) that are part of the operation unit 74 described below. Specifically, the display unit 73 displays the display switching button 741 and the mode switching button 742, which are icons that can be operated by a person.

[0059] The operation unit 74 is configured to accept human operations. The operation unit 74 is an input interface having, for example, a plurality of push buttons and icons displayed on a touch panel display. The plurality of push buttons include, for example, a numeric keypad of 0 to 9, an asterisk (*) button, a erase button, and a call button. In this embodiment, the operation unit 74 further has a display switching button 741 and a mode switching button 742. The display switching button 741 and the mode switching button 742 are, for example, icons displayed on the display unit 73. Note that the display switching button 741 and the mode switching button 742 may be push buttons.

[0060] The mode switching button 742 is a button for switching the operation mode of the intercom handset 1 between the normal mode and the setting mode described above. When the user taps the mode switching button 742, a signal generating unit 752 of the control unit 75, which will be described later, generates a mode switching signal. When the signal generating unit 752 generates the mode switching signal, the communication control unit 751 transmits the mode switching signal to the intercom handset 1 via the communication unit 72. When the communication unit 12 receives the mode switching signal, the mode switching unit 133 of the intercom handset 1 switches the operation mode of the intercom handset 1 between the normal mode and the setting mode. This allows the operation mode of the intercom handset 1 to be switched without using the mode switching switch 17 (see FIG. 4), and therefore the operation mode of the intercom handset 1 can be switched even after installation of the intercom handset 1 in the common area has been completed. In addition, the mode switching unit 133 may automatically switch the operating mode of the intercom handset 1 from the setting mode to the normal mode when a predetermined operation is performed on the intercom handset 1 in the setting mode (such as confirming the settings), or when no operation is performed on the intercom handset 1 for a predetermined period of time or more.

[0061] The function of the display switching button 741 will be explained in "(3) Example of operation."

[0062] The control unit 75 is configured, for example, by a microcomputer mainly composed of a CPU and a memory. The CPU executes a program stored in the memory, causing the microcomputer to function as the control unit 75. The program executed by the CPU is pre-recorded in the memory of the microcomputer here, but may also be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet.

[0063] 1, the control unit 75 has a communication control unit 751 and a signal generation unit 752. Note that the communication control unit 751 and the signal generation unit 752 merely indicate functions realized by the control unit 75, and do not necessarily indicate actual configurations.

[0064] The function of each unit of the control unit 75 will be explained in "(3) Example of Operation."

[0065] (2.5) Control Device The control device 3 has a communication interface for communicating with the intercom slave 1, the intercom master 2, and the management master 7. The control device 3 is connected to the intercom slave 1 via a first trunk line L1. The control device 3 is also connected to the intercom master 2 via a second trunk line L2, a branch line L3, and a splitter 5.

[0066] The control device 3 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave 1. The control device 3 is also configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the first communication unit 21 of the intercom master 2. That is, the control device 3 is configured to relay communication between the first communication unit 21 of the intercom master 2 and the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave 1. Therefore, the control device 3 relays communication signals transmitted from the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave 1 and transmits the signals to the multiple intercom masters 2. Here, the communication signals transmitted from the intercom slave 1 contain information (e.g., an address) for identifying the intercom master 2 to which the signals are to be transmitted. Therefore, only the intercom master 2 among the multiple intercom masters 2 whose assigned address matches the address contained in the communication signal can receive the communication signal. The control device 3 also relays communication signals transmitted from each of the multiple intercom masters 2 and transmits the signals to the intercom slave 1.

[0067] The control device 3 is also connected to the management master device 7 via a fourth trunk line L4.

[0068] The control device 3 is configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the communication unit 72 of the management base unit 7. The control device 3 is also configured to be able to communicate bidirectionally with the first communication unit 21 of the intercom base unit 2. That is, the control device 3 is configured to relay communication between the first communication unit 21 of the intercom base unit 2 and the communication unit 72 of the management base unit 7. Therefore, the control device 3 relays communication signals transmitted from the communication unit 72 of the management base unit 7 and transmits them to multiple intercom base units 2. Here, the communication signals transmitted from the management base unit 7 include information (e.g., an address) for identifying the intercom base unit 2 to which the communication signals are to be transmitted. Therefore, only intercom base units 2 whose assigned addresses match the addresses included in the communication signals can receive the communication signals. The control device 3 also relays communication signals transmitted from each of the multiple intercom base units 2 and transmits them to the intercom slave 1.

[0069] (3) Example of operation (3.1) First operation example As described in "(1) Overview," intercom base unit 2 is installed in each dwelling unit of the apartment building, and intercom handset 1 is installed outside the dwelling unit of the apartment building. After installing intercom base unit 2 and intercom handset 1 in the apartment building, the communication status between intercom base unit 2 and intercom handset 1 is checked.

[0070] Below, a first operation example of the intercom system 100 in the process of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 in this embodiment (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the communication checking process) will be described with reference to Figure 6, which is a sequence diagram, and Figures 7 to 11, which show screens displayed on the display unit 20.

[0071] First, the worker performing the communication check operation operates the management base unit 7 in the manager's room. Specifically, the worker taps the display switching button 741 displayed on the display unit 73 of the management base unit 7.

[0072] When the worker operates the display switching button 741, the signal generating unit 752 of the management master unit 7 generates a command signal (display command signal) for displaying the test operation button BT1 (see FIG. 9) on the display unit 20 of each intercom master unit 2 (step ST1). The communication control unit 751 of the management master unit 7 transmits the display command signal generated by the signal generating unit 752 to the first communication unit 21 of each intercom master unit 2 via the communication unit 72 (step ST2).

[0073] When the first communication unit 21 receives a display command signal transmitted from the management main unit 7, the display control unit 262 of each intercom main unit 2 causes the display unit 20 to display the test operation button BT1. That is, when the first communication unit 21 receives a display command signal transmitted from the management main unit 7, the display unit 20 displays the test operation button BT1. More specifically, the display control unit 262 causes the test operation button BT1 to be displayed on the call menu screen G2 (see FIG. 9) displayed on the display unit 20 (step ST3). In other words, as shown in FIG. 8, the test operation button BT1 is not displayed on the call menu screen G2 until the first communication unit 21 receives a display command signal. This reduces the possibility that a resident who moves into a dwelling unit in which each intercom main unit 2 is installed will operate the test operation button BT1.

[0074] The control unit 75 of the management master unit 7 may display on the display unit 73 of the management master unit 7 characters or the like indicating that the test operation button BT1 has been displayed on the call menu screen G2.

[0075] Next, the worker moves into the dwelling unit (target dwelling unit) for which the communication confirmation work is to be performed. The worker operates the intercom master unit 2 installed in the target dwelling unit. Specifically, the worker taps the call menu button BM1 among the multiple operation buttons B1 included in the home screen G1 (see FIG. 7) displayed on the display unit 20 of the intercom master unit 2.

[0076] When the worker taps the call menu button BM1, the screen displayed on the display unit 20 transitions from the home screen G1 to a call menu screen G2 (see FIG. 9).

[0077] The call menu screen G2 displays a plurality of operation buttons B1, including a plurality of call destination buttons, a message button, a back button, and the above-mentioned test operation button BT1.

[0078] Here, the worker taps the test operation button BT1. When the worker operates the test operation button BT1, the screen displayed on the display unit 20 transitions from the call menu screen G2 to the call destination selection screen G3 (see FIG. 10).

[0079] The call destination selection screen G3 displays a plurality of operation buttons B1, namely, test target buttons BS1 to BS6 and a call instruction button BD1.

[0080] The worker taps one of the multiple test target buttons BS1 to BS6 (for example, test target button BS1) that corresponds to the desired location to make a call (in this operation example, the common area of ​​the apartment building where the intercom sub-unit 1 is installed). When the worker taps test target button BS1, test target button BS1 becomes selected, and for example, the display color of test target button BS1 changes.

[0081] When the worker taps the call instruction button BD1 while the test target button BS1 is in the selected state, the signal generation unit 261 generates a request signal (step ST4). The communication control unit 260 transmits the request signal generated by the signal generation unit 261 to the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave 1 via the first communication unit 21 (step ST5). In other words, when the worker operates the test target button BS1 and the call instruction button BD1 displayed on the display unit 20 by tapping the test operation button BT1, the first communication unit 21 transmits a request signal to the intercom slave 1 to cause the intercom slave 1 to transmit a response signal. This allows the operation of the test operation button BT1 to start checking the communication status between the intercom master 2 and the intercom slave 1, thereby simplifying the check of the communication status between the intercom master 2 and the intercom slave 1. Note that the system may be configured to transmit a request signal to the intercom slave 1 immediately when the test operation button BT1 is operated.

[0082] When the communication unit 12 receives the request signal transmitted from the intercom master unit 2, the acquisition unit 132 of the intercom slave unit 1 acquires, from the storage unit 16, a first image P1 that has been stored in advance in the storage unit 16. In this embodiment, the first image P1 is a moving image that changes over time. For example, the first image P1 is a color bar that moves in one direction (for example, to the right).

[0083] Furthermore, when the communication unit 12 receives the request signal, the acquisition unit 132 acquires in real time a second image P2, which is a moving image captured by the imaging unit 10. Here, the second image P2 is captured so as to capture a gate 8 that separates the inside and outside of a common entrance of an apartment building.

[0084] Furthermore, when the communication unit 12 receives the request signal, the acquisition unit 132 acquires, from the storage unit 16, the first sound that is pre-stored in the storage unit 16. The first sound is, for example, a series of beeps.

[0085] Furthermore, when the communication unit 12 receives the request signal, the acquisition unit 132 acquires in real time the second audio input to the audio input unit 112. Here, the second audio is audio related to an event occurring around the audio input unit 112, and may include, for example, audio directly input to the audio input unit 112, audio output from the audio output unit 111 and indirectly input to the audio input unit 112, and an alarm sound output from the audio output unit 81 included in the gate 8.

[0086] The signal generating unit 131 of the intercom slave 1 starts generating a response signal including image information including the first image P1 and the second image P2 acquired by the acquiring unit 132, and audio information including the first audio and the second audio acquired by the acquiring unit 132 (step ST6). Note that the response signal does not necessarily need to include both image information and audio information, and it is sufficient if it includes at least one of image information and audio information.

[0087] In other words, the image information included in the response signal includes a first image P1 pre-stored in the intercom slave 1 and a second image P2 acquired in real time by the intercom slave 1. Note that the image information included in the response signal does not necessarily have to include both the first image P1 and the second image P2, but only needs to include at least one of the first image P1 and the second image P2.

[0088] Furthermore, the audio information included in the response signal includes a first audio signal pre-stored in the intercom slave 1 and a second audio signal acquired in real time by the intercom slave 1. Note that the audio information included in the response signal does not necessarily have to include both the first audio signal and the second audio signal, but may include at least one of the first audio signal and the second audio signal.

[0089] The communication control unit 130 of the intercom slave unit 1 starts transmitting a response signal to the first communication unit 21 of the intercom master unit 2 (step ST7).

[0090] 11, when the first communication unit 21 receives the response signal, the display control unit 262 of the intercom master unit 2 demodulates the response signal and displays the first image P1 and the second image P2 on the display unit 20. That is, the display control unit 262 outputs the first image P1 and the second image P2 to the outside. At this time, the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed (played) on the display unit 20 by streaming. This allows the worker to visually check the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1. The display control unit 262 also displays a test end button BE1, which is an operation button B1 for ending the communication check work, along with the first image P1 and the second image P2.

[0091] The worker checks the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 based on whether the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20, and if the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20, based on the display status. That is, if the first image P1 and the second image P2 are not displayed on the display unit 20, the worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is poor. Furthermore, even if the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20, the worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is poor if there is an abnormality such as noise or a freeze in the first image P1 or the second image P2. The worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is good if the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20 and there is no abnormality such as noise or a freeze in the first image P1 or the second image P2.

[0092] At this time, the display control unit 262 simultaneously displays the first image P1 and the second image P2 on the display unit 20, as shown in FIG. 11 . Specifically, the display control unit 262 displays the second image P2 superimposed on the first image P1, which is displayed on the entire screen of the display unit 20. The display control unit 262 may also display the first image P1 and the second image P2 side by side on the display unit 20. This allows the worker to check the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 even when there is no change in the second image P2 that the worker can recognize and it is not possible to determine whether the second image P2 was acquired in real time. In other words, when there is no change in the second image P2, this may mean that there is no change in the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit 10 that the worker can recognize, or that playback of the second image P2 has stopped. Here, as described above, the first image P1 is a moving image that changes over time. That is, if the first image P1 displayed on the display unit 20 changes over time, the worker can determine that communication has been established between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1. If the playback of the first image P1 displayed on the display unit 20 has stopped, the worker can determine that communication has not been established between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1. Therefore, the worker can check the first image P1 and determine that the first image P1 has changed over time as the former (no change that the worker can see has occurred in the imaging area of ​​the imaging unit 10), and that the second image P2 has stopped as the latter (the playback of the second image P2 has stopped) if the playback of the first image P1 has stopped.

[0093] Furthermore, the audio control unit 263 of the intercom master unit 2 demodulates the response signal and causes the audio output unit 231 to output the first audio and the second audio (step ST8). That is, the audio control unit 263 outputs the first audio and the second audio to the outside. At this time, the first audio and the second audio are output (played) from the audio output unit by streaming. This allows the worker to audibly check the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1.

[0094] The worker checks whether the first and second sounds are output from the audio output unit 231, and if the first and second sounds are output from the audio output unit 231, checks the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 based on the output status. That is, if the first and second sounds are not output from the audio output unit 231, the worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is poor. Furthermore, even if the first and second sounds are output from the audio output unit 231, the worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is poor if there are abnormalities such as noise or interruptions in the first and second sounds. If there are no abnormalities such as noise or interruptions in the first and second sounds when the first and second sounds are output from the audio output unit 231, the worker determines that the communication status between the intercom master unit 2 and the intercom slave unit 1 is good. The audio control unit 263 may cause the audio output unit 231 to output the first audio and the second audio simultaneously or alternately.

[0095] It should be noted that if the worker speaks into the audio input unit 232 during the communication check work, the worker's voice is output from the audio output unit 111 of the intercom handset 1. The worker's voice output from the audio output unit 111 is input to the audio input unit 112 of the intercom handset 1 and output from the audio output unit 231 of the intercom base unit 2. In this way, the worker can check the operation of the audio output unit 111 of the intercom handset 1 during the communication check work.

[0096] Furthermore, by pressing the unlock button 243 on the intercom slave 1, the worker can check the communication status between the intercom master 2 and the intercom slave 1 and simultaneously check the operation of the unlock button 243. Specifically, since the second image P2 shows the gate 8 that is opened by pressing the unlock button 243, by the worker pressing the unlock button 243 while the second image P2 is displayed on the display unit 20, the worker can visually confirm whether the gate 8 has been opened successfully and can check the operation of the unlock button 243. Furthermore, since the second audio is audio related to an event occurring around the audio input unit 112 of the intercom slave 1, the worker can check the operation of the unlock button 243 by pressing the unlock button 243 while the second audio is being output from the audio output unit 231. In other words, when the unlock button 243 is pressed and the gate 8 is opened normally, an alarm sound output from the audio output unit 81 provided in the gate 8 is input to the audio input unit 112 of the intercom slave unit 1, and the alarm sound is output from the audio output unit 231 of the intercom master unit 2. In this way, the worker can check the operation of the unlock button 243.

[0097] When the worker has finished checking the communication status between intercom master unit 2 and intercom slave unit 1, he or she taps on test end button BE1.

[0098] When the test end button BE1 is tapped, the signal generation unit 261 of the intercom master unit 2 generates an end signal, and the communication control unit 260 transmits the end signal to the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave unit 1 via the first communication unit 21.

[0099] When the communication unit 12 receives the end signal, the signal generation unit 131 of the intercom handset 1 stops generating the response signal. Also, when the communication unit 12 receives the end signal, the communication control unit 130 of the intercom handset 1 causes the communication unit 12 to stop transmitting the response signal to the intercom master unit 2. Also, when the test end button BE1 is tapped, the screen displayed on the display unit 20 transitions to the call destination selection screen G3.

[0100] Using the above procedure, the worker performs communication check work for each intercom master unit 2 and each intercom slave unit 1.

[0101] When the communication check work for each intercom master unit 2 and each intercom slave unit 1 is completed, the worker taps the display switch button 741 displayed on the display unit 73 of the management master unit 7 .

[0102] When the worker operates the display switching button 741, the signal generating unit 752 of the management base unit 7 generates a command signal (deletion command signal) for deleting the test operation button BT1 from the display unit 20 of each intercom base unit 2 (step ST9). The communication control unit 751 of the management base unit 7 transmits the deletion command signal generated by the signal generating unit 752 to the first communication unit 21 of each intercom base unit 2 via the communication unit 75 (step ST10).

[0103] When the first communication unit 21 receives the deletion command signal transmitted from the management base unit 7, the display control unit 262 of each intercom base unit 2 deletes the test operation button BT1 from the display unit 20 (step ST11). This prevents residents who move into each dwelling unit of the apartment building after the communication confirmation work is completed from accidentally operating the test operation button BT1.

[0104] (3.2) Second operation example Next, a second operation example of the intercom system 100 in the communication confirmation work in this embodiment will be described. Note that, in the following, a description of operations common to the first operation example will be omitted.

[0105] In this operation example, the multiple intercom base units 2 include a first intercom base unit 2A and a second intercom base unit 2B, each installed in a different dwelling unit. Also, in this operation example, as an example, two workers (a first worker and a second worker) will divide the work and perform communication confirmation work for each intercom base unit 2 and intercom handset 1.

[0106] At a certain point in time, a first worker is operating the first intercom base unit 2A to perform a communication check, and a second worker is operating the second intercom base unit 2B to perform a communication check. Here, it is assumed that the first worker is progressing with the communication check faster than the second worker.

[0107] First, when the test target button BS1 of the first intercom master unit 2A is in a selected state and the first worker taps the call instruction button BD1, the first communication unit 21 transmits a request signal to the intercom slave unit 1.

[0108] When the communication unit 12 of the intercom handset 1 receives a request signal transmitted from the first intercom base unit 2A at a first time point, the intercom handset 1 transmits a response signal including image information and audio information to the first communication unit 21 of the first intercom base unit 2A.

[0109] When the first communication unit 21 receives the response signal, the display control unit 262 of the first intercom master unit 2A demodulates the response signal and causes the display unit 20 to display the first image P1 and the second image P2 included in the image information. In addition, the audio control unit 263 of the first intercom master unit 2A demodulates the response signal and causes the audio output unit 231 to output the first sound and the second sound included in the audio information.

[0110] The first worker checks whether the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20, and, if the first image P1 and the second image P2 are displayed on the display unit 20, based on the display state. The first worker also checks whether the first sound and the second sound are output from the audio output unit 231, and, if the first sound and the second sound are output from the audio output unit 231, based on the output state.

[0111] When the first worker has finished checking the communication state between the first intercom master unit 2A and the intercom slave unit 1, he taps the test end button BE1.

[0112] When the test end button BE1 is tapped, the signal generation unit 261 generates an end signal, and the communication control unit 260 transmits the end signal to the communication unit 12 of the intercom slave 1.

[0113] When communication unit 12 receives the end signal from first intercom master unit 2A, signal generation unit 131 of intercom slave unit 1 stops generating the response signal. Also, when communication unit 12 receives the end signal from first intercom master unit 2A, communication control unit 130 causes communication unit 12 to stop transmitting the response signal to first intercom master unit 2A. Here, the point in time when communication unit 12 stops transmitting the response signal is defined as a second point in time.

[0114] Here, between the first point in time when the intercom handset 1 receives the request signal and the second point in time when the communication unit 12 of the intercom handset 1 stops sending the response signal, the second worker taps the call instruction button BD1 while the test target button BS1 of the second intercom base unit 2B is in a selected state.

[0115] When the second worker taps the call instruction button BD1 of the second intercom master unit 2B, the first communication unit 21 of the second intercom master unit 2B transmits a request signal to the intercom slave unit 1.

[0116] The communication unit 12 of the intercom slave unit 1 receives the request signal transmitted from the second intercom master unit 2B between the first time point and the second time point.

[0117] When the communication unit 12 receives a request signal transmitted from the second intercom base unit 2B, the signal generation unit 131 generates a standby signal. Here, the standby signal includes standby information. The standby information includes standby request information requesting the second worker to wait and working base unit information regarding the first intercom base unit 2A. Note that the standby information does not necessarily have to include both the standby request information and the working base unit information, and it is sufficient if it includes at least one of the standby request information and the working base unit information.

[0118] More specifically, the standby request information includes information on a character string M1 (e.g., "Please wait a moment") requesting the second worker to standby. The working base unit information includes information on a character string M2 related to the first intercom base unit 2A (e.g., "Communicating with room 101" if the first intercom base unit 2A is installed in room 101 of an apartment building).

[0119] The communication control unit 130 transmits the standby signal via the communication unit 12 to the first communication unit 21 of the second intercom master unit 2B.

[0120] When the first communication unit 21 of the second intercom master unit 2B receives the standby signal, the display control unit 262 causes the display unit 20 to display, for example, on the call destination selection screen G3, the character string M1 ("Please wait a moment.") included in the standby request information and the character string M2 ("Communicating with Room 101.") included in the working master unit information, as shown in FIG. 12. That is, the display unit 20 displays the character string M1 and the character string M2. That is, the display unit 20 outputs the character string M1 and the character string M2 to the outside. The standby information included in the standby signal received by the first communication unit 21 is notified to the second operator.

[0121] This allows the second worker to take action according to the standby request information and the working base unit information. For example, the second worker can call the first worker who is working using the first intercom base unit 2A to ask about the expected time of completion.

[0122] (4) Variations The above embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, functions similar to those of the intercom system 100 according to the above embodiment may be embodied in an intercom control method, a computer program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a computer program is recorded, which is performed by the intercom master unit 2.

[0123] An intercom control method according to one embodiment includes a transmitting step of transmitting a request signal to the intercom sub-unit 1, a receiving step of receiving at least one of image information and audio information as a response from the intercom sub-unit 1 to the request signal, and an information output step of outputting at least one of the image information and audio information to the outside.

[0124] A computer program according to one aspect is a computer program for causing one or more processors to execute the interphone control method described above.

[0125] Modifications of the above embodiment are listed below: The above embodiment and the modifications described below can be applied in appropriate combinations.

[0126] In the second operation example of the above embodiment, two workers (a first worker and a second worker) divided the work and performed the communication check work for each intercom base unit 2 and each intercom handset 1. However, three or more workers may divided the work and performed the communication check work for each intercom base unit 2 and each intercom handset 1. In this case, when the communication unit 12 of the intercom handset 1 receives a request signal transmitted from the second intercom base unit 2B, there may be an intercom base unit (a third intercom base unit) 2 that transmitted a request signal to the intercom handset 1 before the second intercom base unit 2B, in addition to the first intercom base unit 2A. In such a case, the standby information may include reserved base unit information for the third intercom base unit 2. The reserved base unit information may include a character string related to the number of third intercom base units 2 (for example, "One base unit is waiting for communication").

[0127] Intercom master unit 2 may be configured so that the imaging area and angle of view of imaging unit 10 of lobby intercom 6 are adjustable.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the intercom system 100 has been described assuming that the lobby intercom 6 is the intercom slave 1. However, the door phone 4 may also be configured to operate as the intercom slave 1. In this case, the door phone 4 only needs to have components with equivalent functions to at least the imaging unit 10, the intercom call unit 11, the communication unit 12, the slave control unit 13, the operation unit 14, the memory unit 16, and the display unit 18. The management master unit 7 may also be configured to operate as the intercom slave 1. In this case, the management master unit 7 only needs to have components with equivalent functions to at least the imaging unit 10, the intercom call unit 11, the communication unit 12, the slave control unit 13, the operation unit 14, the memory unit 16, and the display unit 18.

[0129] The intercom system 100 of the present disclosure includes a computer system, for example, in the base unit control unit 26 of the intercom base unit 2. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the computer system's memory to realize the functions of the base unit control unit 26 of the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the computer system's memory, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided in a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integrations (VLSIs), and ultra-large-scale integrations (ULSIs). Furthermore, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmable after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be used as processors. The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or distributed across multiple chips. The chips may be integrated into one device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0130] Furthermore, it is not essential for the intercom master unit 2 that multiple functions of the intercom master unit 2 are concentrated in one housing 25, and the components of the intercom master unit 2 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the intercom master unit 2, such as the master unit control unit 26, may be realized by, for example, the cloud (cloud computing). Conversely, as in the above embodiment, all of the functions of the intercom master unit 2 may be concentrated in one housing 25.

[0131] Furthermore, it is not essential for the intercom handset 1 that multiple functions are concentrated in one housing 15, and the components of the intercom handset 1 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the intercom handset 1, such as the handset control unit 13, may be realized by, for example, the cloud (cloud computing). Conversely, as in the above embodiment, all of the functions of the intercom handset 1 may be concentrated in one housing 15.

[0132] (5) Summary As described above, the intercom master unit (2) of the first aspect is capable of communicating with the intercom slave unit (1) and includes a communication unit (21) that transmits a request signal to the intercom slave unit (1), and an information output unit (28) that outputs to the outside at least one of image information and audio information received by the communication unit (21) as a response to the request signal from the intercom slave unit (1).

[0133] According to this aspect, only the user located in the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit (2) is installed can check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1) by checking at least one of the image information and the audio information output to the outside by the information output unit (28). In other words, the above configuration simplifies the task of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0134] In the intercom master unit (2) of the second aspect, in the first aspect, the information output unit (28) has a display unit (20) that displays an operation button (BT1). When the operation button (BT1) is operated by a user, the communication unit (21) transmits a request signal to the intercom slave unit (1).

[0135] According to this embodiment, the operation of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom handset (1) can be started by operating the operation button (BT1), thereby simplifying the operation of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom handset (1).

[0136] In the intercom master unit (2) of the third aspect, the communication unit (21) in the second aspect can further communicate with an external device (7) different from the intercom slave unit (1). When the communication unit (21) receives a command signal transmitted from the external device (7), the display unit (20) displays the operation button (BT1).

[0137] According to this embodiment, the display unit (20) does not display the operation button (BT1) unless the communication unit (21) receives a command signal transmitted from the external device (7), thereby reducing the possibility that a resident who moves into the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit (2) is installed will operate the operation button (BT1).

[0138] In the fourth aspect of the intercom master unit (2), in any of the first to third aspects, the image information includes at least one of a first image (P1) pre-stored in the intercom slave unit (1) and a second image (P2) acquired in real time by the intercom slave unit (1).

[0139] According to this embodiment, the user can visually check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0140] In the intercom master unit (2) of the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the information output unit (28) has a display unit (20) that simultaneously displays the first image (P1) and the second image (P2).

[0141] According to this embodiment, even when there is no change in the second image (P2) that the user can confirm and it is not possible to confirm whether the second image (P2) is an image acquired in real time, the user can still check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0142] In the intercom master unit (2) of the sixth aspect, in the fourth or fifth aspect, the first image (P1) is a moving image that changes over time.

[0143] According to this aspect, if the first image (P1) displayed on the display unit (20) changes over time, the user can determine that communication has been established between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1). If the first image (P1) displayed on the display unit (20) remains stationary, the user can determine that communication has not been established between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0144] In the seventh aspect of the intercom master unit (2), in any of the first to sixth aspects, the audio information includes at least one of a first audio pre-stored in the intercom slave unit (1) and a second audio acquired in real time by the intercom slave unit (1).

[0145] According to this embodiment, the user can audibly check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0146] An intercom system (100) of an eighth aspect includes a plurality of intercom master units (2) of any one of the first to seventh aspects and an intercom slave unit (1).

[0147] According to this aspect, only the user located in the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit (2) is installed can check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1) by checking at least one of the image information and the audio information output to the outside by the information output unit (28). In other words, the above configuration simplifies the task of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0148] In the intercom system (100) of the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the multiple intercom master units (2) include a first intercom master unit (2A) and a second intercom master unit (2B). If the intercom slave unit (1) receives a request signal transmitted from the communication unit (21) of the second intercom master unit (2B) during the period from when the intercom slave unit (1) receives a request signal transmitted from the communication unit (21) of the first intercom master unit (2A) until when the intercom slave unit (1) stops transmitting at least one of image information and audio information to the communication unit (21) of the first intercom master unit (2A), the intercom slave unit (1) transmits standby information to the communication unit (21) of the second intercom master unit (2B). The information output unit (28) of the second intercom master unit (2B) outputs the standby information received by the communication unit (21) of the second intercom master unit (2B) to the outside.

[0149] According to this aspect, it is possible to notify the user that the intercom slave unit (1) is in operation.

[0150] In the intercom system (100) of the tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, the standby information includes at least one of information requesting the user to wait and information relating to the first intercom master unit (2A).

[0151] According to this aspect, the user can take action based on at least one of the information requesting the user to wait and the information relating to the first intercom master unit (2A).

[0152] The intercom control method of the eleventh aspect includes a transmitting step of transmitting a request signal to the intercom sub-unit (1), a receiving step of receiving at least one of image information and audio information as a response from the intercom sub-unit (1) to the request signal, and an information output step of outputting at least one of the image information and audio information to the outside.

[0153] According to this aspect, only the user located in the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit (2) is installed can check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1) by checking at least one of the image information and the audio information output to the outside in the information output step. In other words, the above configuration simplifies the task of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1).

[0154] A program according to a twelfth aspect causes one or more processors to execute the interphone control method according to the eleventh aspect.

[0155] According to this aspect, only the user located in the dwelling unit in which the intercom master unit (2) is installed can check the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1) by checking at least one of the image information and the audio information output to the outside in the information output step. In other words, the above configuration simplifies the task of checking the communication status between the intercom master unit (2) and the intercom slave unit (1). [Explanation of symbols]

[0156] 1 intercom handset 2 Intercom base unit 7 External device 20 Display section 21 Communications Department 28 Information output section 100 Intercom System 2A Intercom base unit 2B intercom base unit BT1 operation button P1 1st image P2 2nd image

Claims

1. a communication unit capable of communicating with the intercom slave and transmitting a request signal to the intercom slave; an information output unit that outputs to the outside at least one of image information and audio information received by the communication unit as a response from the intercom slave unit to the request signal, Intercom base station.

2. the information output unit has a display unit that displays operation buttons, When the operation button is operated by a user, the communication unit transmits the request signal to the intercom slave. The intercom master unit according to claim 1.

3. the communication unit is capable of further communicating with an external device different from the intercom slave unit, the display unit displays the operation button when the communication unit receives a command signal transmitted from the external device. The intercom master unit according to claim 2.

4. The image information includes at least one of a first image stored in advance in the intercom slave and a second image acquired in real time by the intercom slave. The intercom master unit according to claim 1.

5. the information output unit includes a display unit that simultaneously displays the first image and the second image. The intercom master unit according to claim 4.

6. The first image is a moving image that changes over time. The intercom master unit according to claim 4.

7. The voice information includes at least one of a first voice pre-stored in the intercom slave and a second voice acquired in real time by the intercom slave. The intercom master unit according to claim 1.

8. A plurality of the intercom master units according to claim 1; The intercom handset is provided. Intercom system.

9. the plurality of intercom master units include a first intercom master unit and a second intercom master unit, If the intercom slave receives the request signal transmitted from the communication unit of the second intercom master during the period from when the intercom slave receives the request signal transmitted from the communication unit of the first intercom master until when the intercom slave stops transmitting at least one of the image information and the audio information to the communication unit of the first intercom master, the intercom slave transmits standby information to the communication unit of the second intercom master, The information output unit included in the second intercom master unit outputs the standby information received by the communication unit included in the second intercom master unit to an outside.

9. The intercom system according to claim 8.

10. The standby information includes at least one of information requesting a user to wait and information regarding the first intercom master unit.

10. The intercom system according to claim 9.

11. a transmitting step of transmitting a request signal to the intercom slave; a receiving step of receiving at least one of image information and audio information as a response from the intercom slave unit to the request signal; an information output step of outputting at least one of the image information and the audio information to an outside. Intercom control method.

12. 12. A method for causing one or more processors to execute the interphone control method of claim 11. program.

Images