Disaster response support system, disaster response support method, and disaster response support program

Abstract

To accurately track the location of individuals heading to areas at risk of getting lost, supporting rescue operations in the event of an accident and assisting in the prevention of accidents. [Solution] The system comprises a plurality of first devices installed in and around a place with a risk of getting lost or a route to such a place, capable of acquiring their own location information, and a second device to be carried by a person going to a place with a risk of getting lost, and includes distance calculation means for calculating the distance between each of the plurality of first devices 1 and the second device 2 based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the plurality of first devices 1 and the second device 2, and location identification means for identifying the location of the second device 2 based on the distance between each of the plurality of first devices 1 and the second device 2 calculated by the distance calculation means, and the location information of each of the first devices 1.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a distress rescue activity support system, a distress rescue activity support method, and a distress rescue activity support program that support rescue activities in places with high distress risks and also support distress prevention.

Background Art

[0002] In places with high distress risks such as mountainous areas where sudden weather changes are likely to occur, places with many steep slopes and rocky areas where there is a risk of landslides, places with a risk of hypothermia such as high mountains and cold regions, and places where it is easy to get lost such as places with few signs and many branches, distress rescue activities are extremely difficult because it is difficult to identify the position of the distressed person. Therefore, conventionally, methods such as attaching a rescue tag having a GPS receiver, a communication device, a processing device, and a power source to a lifesaving tool (see Patent Document 1), automatically transmitting the position information of a GPS portable radio carried by a climber to a base radio so that the position of the climber can be constantly grasped on the base radio side (see Patent Document 2), and using a mobile phone normally held by climbers and rescue teams to significantly shorten the time required for rescue (see Patent Document 3) have been studied.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in mountainous areas, trees and terrain can block radio waves, making it difficult for GPS and cell phone signals to reach their destination. Furthermore, bad weather and avalanches can worsen visibility, making searches even more challenging. In addition, the complex terrain of mountainous areas and vast natural environments means that the search area is enormous, making it difficult to pinpoint the location. As a result, it can take time for rescue teams to locate missing persons, potentially leading to serious situations. Furthermore, since rescue workers are often dispatched to areas prone to accidents, it is necessary to accurately locate their positions and provide appropriate support.

[0005] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its main objective is to provide a search and rescue support system, a search and rescue support method, and a search and rescue support program that can accurately determine the location of people who go to places with a risk of getting lost, such as mountain climbers, hikers, adventurers, explorers, and rescue team members, and support rescue operations in the event of an accident, as well as support the prevention of accidents. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a distress response support system that utilizes a plurality of first devices installed in and around a location with a risk of distress or a route leading thereto, and capable of acquiring its own location information, and a second device to be carried by a person going to the location with a risk of distress, to support rescue operations or prevention of distress accidents when a person going to the location with a risk of distress is distressed, Distance calculation means for calculating the distance between each of the plurality of first devices and the second device based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the plurality of first devices and the second device, A position identification means that identifies the position of the second device based on the distance between each of the first and second devices calculated by the distance calculation means, and the position information of each of the first devices. It is characterized by having [this feature].

[0007] Here, the first device capable of acquiring its own location information includes not only cases where the location information of the first device has been acquired and identified in advance, but also cases where it has been acquired and identified retrospectively by some means. Furthermore, the identified location information of the first device may be stored in a readable format in its own memory, or it may be stored in a database on another storage device. In addition, those who go to places with a risk of getting lost are mainly assumed to be mountain climbers, hikers, adventurers, explorers, etc., but may also include rescue team members and various staff working in places with a risk of getting lost.

[0008] The location information of the first device is preferably three-dimensional location information, and may be determined using a geocentric Cartesian coordinate system, a geodetic coordinate system, or a coordinate system independently established for locations with a risk of distress or routes leading thereto, and their surrounding areas. Furthermore, the installation method of the first device is not particularly limited, and it may be installed on the surface of artificial or natural fixed objects in or around places where there is a risk of getting lost or routes leading there, or it may be embedded in such fixed objects.

[0009] Having the user carry the second device includes cases where the second device is lent to the user for them to carry, or where the user purchases it in advance and carries it. Furthermore, it includes not only cases where the second device is attached to a wristband, belt, hat, clothing, etc., and worn, but also cases where it is embedded in such wearable items for the user to carry. Furthermore, the second device may be substituted by installing the application of this system on a device (such as a mountaineering electronic watch) carried by a person going to a place where there is a risk of getting lost (a potential person who is likely to get lost).

[0010] Here, it is desirable to intentionally make the height positions on which the first device is installed different, and by managing the height position of the first device, it becomes possible to more accurately determine the three-dimensional position information of the second device.

[0011] Therefore, the distance calculation means calculates the distance between each of the multiple first devices and the second device carried by the person going to the location at risk of getting lost (potential missing person), and the location identification means makes it possible to identify the location of the second device, that is, the location of the person going to the location at risk of getting lost (potential missing person), based on the distance between each of the multiple first devices and the second device, and the location information of each first device.

[0012] Here, the distance calculation means is: The difference between the time on the first device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the second device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the first device, The difference between the time on the second device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the first device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the second device, The propagation time of the information or signal between the first device and the second device may be calculated based on this propagation time, and the distance between the first device and the second device may be calculated based on this propagation time. In this configuration, the distance between the first and second devices can be accurately calculated even if time synchronization is not maintained between the first and second devices, by calculating the distance between the first and second devices based on the transmission and reception times of information or signals in both directions between the first and second devices.

[0013] Furthermore, the distress response support system includes a time difference calculation means that calculates the time difference between the clocks of the first devices and the second devices based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the multiple first devices and the second device. Based on the aforementioned time difference, the device time synchronization means synchronizes the time of the second device with the time of the first device which is synchronized with the reference time, It may also be possible to further incorporate this feature.

[0014] Here, the device time synchronization means uses the difference between the time on the first device's clock when it transmits information or a signal from the first device and the time on the second device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the first device. The difference between the time on the second device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the first device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the second device, Based on this, the time difference between the clock of the first device and the clock of the second device may be calculated, and the time of the clock of the second device may be synchronized with the time of the clock of the first device based on this time difference.

[0015] This synchronization method makes it possible to synchronize the clock of the second device with the clock of the first device, even when time synchronization using GPS or the internet is not possible. This makes it possible to accurately track the locations of multiple potential missing persons in real time, and to accurately locate any of them if they become missing.

[0016] In particular, from the perspective of supporting the prevention of accidents involving potential victims, A route deviation determination means that determines whether or not a person carrying the second device has deviated from a predetermined route, based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, An altitude determination means that determines, based on the location information of the second device identified by the location determination means, that the person carrying the second device has reached an altitude above a predetermined altitude, Based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, a high-risk area determination means determines that the device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of distress, A separation determination means that determines that the second device has been separated from another group of second devices based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, The system comprises at least one of the determination means, When it is determined by the route deviation determination means that the person carrying the second device has deviated from the route, when it is determined by the altitude determination means that the person carrying the second device has reached a predetermined altitude or higher, when it is determined by the high-risk area determination means that the person carrying the second device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of distress, or when it is determined by the separation determination means that the person carrying the second device has separated from another group of second devices, an alarm is transmitted and the position information of the relevant person is provided, and an alarm issuing means; It is preferably further provided. According to such a configuration, based on the position information of the second device specified by the position specifying means, the determination of various determination means functions accurately, so that the effect of preventing distress can be further enhanced.

[0017] Furthermore, a learning model memory unit that stores a learning model obtained by machine learning the correlation between input data including distress data including the attributes of past distress victims, weather data at the time of distress occurrence, and terrain data of the distress location, and output data including risk assessments at each location; A distress location estimation means for estimating a location or area with a high risk of distress using the learning model based on current or future weather data and the attributes of the carrier of the second device; A distress high-risk location display means for displaying the location or area with a high risk of distress estimated by the distress location estimation means; It may further be provided with. By providing such a learning model, locations and areas with a high risk of distress for potential distress victims can be estimated and displayed, so that it can be utilized in the planning of mountaineering and hiking, and can also be utilized in the rescue plans of rescue team members.

[0018] In particular, by further including an evacuation notification means that sends an evacuation notice to the person carrying the second device when the location of the second device identified by the location identification means is a high-risk location or area estimated by the distress area estimation means, or when it is approaching within a predetermined distance, it becomes possible to reduce the risk of distress for people who actually go to a place with a distress risk. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] As described above, according to the distress response support system, distress response support method, and distress response support program of the present invention, the distance between each of the multiple first devices and the second device is calculated based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the multiple first devices and the second device. From the calculated distance between each of the multiple first devices and the second device, and the position information of each first device, the location of each person carrying the second device can be identified. This makes it possible to accurately grasp the location of a person going to an area with a risk of distress, thereby supporting rescue operations in the event of distress and supporting the prevention of distress accidents. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of applying the mountain rescue support system according to the present invention to high-altitude mountains, which are areas with a high risk of accidents. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of applying the disaster prevention support system according to the present invention to a hiking trail, which is a location with a risk of getting lost. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the disaster relief support system according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the first device. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the second device. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the server device. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing the distance calculation process. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the location identification process. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the operation process that monitors the location of the second device and issues an alarm when the risk of distress is high. [Figure 10] (a) is a block diagram showing the configuration of a machine learning device, and (b) is a flowchart showing an example of an action process for preventing distress using a learned model. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] As examples of locations with a risk of accidents where the rescue support system S according to the present invention can be used, Figure 1 shows an example of high-altitude mountain climbing such as alpine climbing. Figure 2 shows examples of wetland hiking and mountain hiking.

[0023] As shown in Figure 3, the search and rescue support system S comprises a first device 1 installed in and around locations with a risk of accidents and routes leading to them, a second device 2 carried by persons P going to locations with a risk of accidents (mountain climbers, hikers, adventurers, explorers, rescue team members, etc.), and a server device 3. In the following, persons P going to locations with a risk of accidents may be referred to as potential accident victims or persons carrying the second device 2.

[0024] The first device 1 may be installed on the surface of artificial fixed objects such as transmission towers, utility poles, streetlights, dedicated mounting poles, radio towers, observation decks, mountain huts, observatories, rest areas, bridges, stairs, signposts, and information boards, or on the surface of natural fixed objects such as mountains and rocks, if the location where there is a risk of getting lost is a high-altitude mountain climbing site, or it may be embedded in such fixed objects. Furthermore, in the case of wetland hiking or mountain hiking, signs may be installed on artificial fixed structures such as signposts, benches and rest areas, bridges, toilets, utility poles and lampposts, dedicated poles, and buildings, or on the surface of natural fixed structures such as mountains and rocks, or they may be embedded in such fixed structures.

[0025] These first devices 1 acquire their own 3D position information by some means. The three-dimensional position information of the first device 1 may be acquired in advance and stored in a readable format inside the first device, or it may be acquired retrospectively by some means after the system has been started. Furthermore, the three-dimensional position information of the first device 1 may be compiled into a database and stored in the storage unit (storage unit 33, described later) of the server device 3. Here, the three-dimensional position information may be represented, for example, by latitude, longitude, and ellipsoidal height in the WGS8 coordinate system, or by a unique three-dimensional coordinate system set up for each area indoors.

[0026] The first device 1 and the second device 2 can communicate directly with each other. Furthermore, the first device 1 can be connected to the server device 3 via the communication network 4, and the second device 2 can also be connected to the server device 3 via the communication network 4. Each of the first device 1 and the second device 2 has an internal clock, which can be synchronized to a reference time using a method described later.

[0027] Furthermore, the first device 1 can also function as the first device 1 for multiple second devices 2, and when multiple second devices 2 exist, each of these second devices 2 may be configured to function as the first device for multiple other second devices. In other words, if the precise location of a second device can be determined, the distance between that second device and other second devices can be calculated and used to determine the location of the other second devices. In this embodiment, we will describe a case where only the first device is used to locate the second device.

[0028] (Regarding the first device) As shown in Figure 4, the first device 1 comprises a control unit 11, an RF chip 12, and an oscillator 13, each connected by a bus. It also includes a RAM 14 and a storage unit 15, each connected to the control unit 11 by a bus.

[0029] The control unit 11 consists of a CPU and ROM, and executes programs stored in ROM to control the first device 1. The RF chip 12 is equipped with at least a clock 16, but may also be equipped with a phase detector. The RF chip 12 also has the function of processing the transmission and reception of wireless signals, and the data received by the RF chip 12 is subject to calculation processing by the control unit 11. The RAM 14 is the work area of ​​the control unit 11, and the storage unit 15 is a storage area for saving programs, data, etc.

[0030] The oscillator 13 oscillates at a predetermined frequency and outputs a signal to provide the operating timing for each part of the device. A crystal oscillator or an atomic oscillator can be used as the oscillator 13. The clock 16 keeps time using the output signal of the oscillator 13 as the source oscillation and outputs the time. The time kept by the clock 16 is controlled by the control unit 11 to be transmitted to the second device 2 via the RF chip 12. If a phase detector is also provided, it detects the phase of the carrier wave that constitutes the information received from the second device 2, and also detects the phase of the signal transmitted by the oscillator 13 of the first device 1.

[0031] The RF chip 12 is capable of sending and receiving data with other computer devices. Data received by the RF chip 12 is stored in the RAM 14 or storage unit 15 and is subject to calculation processing by the control unit 11. When the 3D position information of the first device 1 is received via the RF chip 12, it is stored in the RAM 14 or storage unit 15 and controlled by the control unit 11 to be transmitted to the second device 2 via the RF chip 12.

[0032] In this search and rescue support system S, the installation location of the first device 1 is not particularly limited, but since it is used to identify the current location of persons P (carriers of the second device, described later) who are going to places with a risk of getting lost (mountainous areas, swamps, wetlands, etc.), it is preferable to install it in a location that is visible to as many persons P as possible. For example, on mountain climbing routes, it is best to install the devices in locations where radio waves can directly reach many climbers, such as near the summit, on top of transmission towers, or on top of dedicated mounting poles. Furthermore, in wetland hiking and mountain hiking routes, it is advisable to install them at high positions such as the tops of observation decks and shelters, as well as on top of trail markers and specially designated balls. These installation locations should be selected appropriately according to the infrastructure conditions along each route and its surrounding areas.

[0033] In order to obtain the three-dimensional position information of the person carrying the second device 2, the first device 1 does not need to be installed on the same plane, and it is preferable that adjacent first devices 1 be installed at different heights. For example, even when the first device 1 is attached to a nearby fixed object, it is preferable to make the mounting height of the first device different for each fixed object. Furthermore, it is desirable that the first device 1 be installed comprehensively in places where there is a risk of getting lost, in and around such places, and along and around routes leading to places where there is a risk of getting lost.

[0034] Furthermore, the location information of the installation site of the first device 1 may be stored in its own storage unit 15, associated with identification information that can identify the first device 1, or stored in the storage unit 33 of the server device 3, or it may be made available via the communication network 4 from another management server that manages location information.

[0035] (Regarding the second device) Next, the second device 2 will be described. This second device 2 is to be carried by a potential victim P when going to a place with a risk of getting lost (high mountains, wetlands, mountainous areas, etc.). It may be fixed to clothing, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, a watch, or other items that the potential victim P wears directly, or it may be embedded in these items. The second device may also be attached to or embedded in equipment that the potential victim P carries, such as a backpack, communication equipment, safety equipment such as a headlamp, or mountaineering equipment such as trekking poles, crampons, or ice axes. Alternatively, the application of this system may be installed on an electronic device carried by the potential victim P (such as a waterproof electronic watch), and this electronic device may be used as a substitute.

[0036] As shown in Figure 5, the second device 2 comprises a control unit 21, an RF chip 22, and an oscillator 23, each connected by a bus. It also includes a RAM 24 and a storage unit 25, each connected to the control unit 21 by a bus.

[0037] The RF chip 22 includes at least a clock 26, but may also include a phase detector if necessary.

[0038] The control unit 21 is configured with a CPU and ROM, and executes programs stored in the storage unit 25 to control the second device 2. The RAM 24 is the work area of ​​the control unit 21, and the storage unit 25 is a storage area for saving programs and data. The control unit 21 performs calculation processing based on programs and data read from the RAM 24 and the storage unit 25, as well as data input from an input unit (not shown).

[0039] The RF chip 22 is capable of sending and receiving data with other computer devices. The data received by the RF chip 22 is loaded into the RAM 24 and subjected to calculation processing by the control unit 21.

[0040] The oscillator 23 oscillates at a predetermined frequency and outputs a signal to provide the operating timing for each part of the device. A crystal oscillator or an atomic oscillator can be used as the oscillator 23. The clock 26 keeps time using the output signal of the oscillator 23 as the source oscillation and outputs the time. The time kept by the clock is controlled by the control unit 21 to be transmitted to the first device 1 via the RF chip 22. If a phase detector is also present, it detects the phase of the carrier wave that constitutes the information received from the first device 1, and also detects the phase of the signal oscillated by the oscillator 23 of the second device 2.

[0041] (Regarding server equipment) Next, the server device 3 of the present invention will be described. The server device 3 can acquire location information from the second device 2.

[0042] The acquired location information is stored in server device 3 as the location information of the potential missing person (second device 2). The location information of the potential missing person P (second device 2) is transmitted from second device 2 to server device 3, for example, by associating identification information that can identify second device 2 with the time the location information was identified. Server device 3 may also enable communication between first device 1 and second device 2 via smart meters installed in houses, electrical equipment, etc., located around the mining site.

[0043] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a server device 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The server device 3 comprises at least a control unit 31, a RAM 32, a storage unit 33, and a communication interface 34, each connected by an internal bus. It also includes a database 35 for storing information received from the first device 1 and the second device 2. The location information of the first device 1 may also be stored in this database 35 after being compiled into the database.

[0044] The control unit 31 consists of a CPU, ROM, etc., and executes programs stored in the storage unit 33 to control the server device 3. The control unit 31 also has an internal timer for measuring time. The RAM 32 is the work area of ​​the control unit 31. The storage unit 33 is a storage area for saving programs and data. The control unit 31 reads programs and data from the storage unit 33 and RAM 32, and, based on information received from the first device 1 or the second device 2, executes various control processes in the control unit according to the program.

[0045] (Distance calculation process) Using the above configuration, the process for calculating the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2 will now be described.

[0046] This distance calculation process calculates the distance between each of the first devices 1 and the second device 2, based on the propagation time Tp of the information or signal between each of the first devices 1 and the second device 2, provided that the first devices 1 and the second device 2 are within a distance range where they can mutually send and receive information or signals.

[0047] The distance calculation process is performed at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 10 seconds) or whenever predetermined conditions are met, and the process is carried out in steps S1 to S16 as shown in Figure 7. For convenience, here we will explain the case of calculating the distance between one first device 1 and one second device 2.

[0048] First, information or a signal is transmitted from the first device 1 to the second device 2 (step S1). The information or signal transmitted from the first device 1 to the second device 2 is not particularly limited.

[0049] In the first device 1, the time (T11) when information or a signal is transmitted in step S1 is recorded (step S2), and this recorded time is stored in the memory or storage unit 15 within the control unit 11 (step S3).

[0050] Subsequently, the second device 2 receives the information or signal from the first device 1 (step S4). The second device 2 records the time (T21) when the information or signal was received in step S4 (step S5). The recorded time (including the measured phase, if one is measured) is then stored in the memory or storage unit 25 of the control unit 21 (step S6).

[0051] Next, the second device 2 transmits information or a signal to the first device 1 (step S7). The information or signal transmitted from the second device 2 to the first device 1 is not particularly limited. The second device 2 records the time (T22) when the information or signal was transmitted in step S7 (step S8). Then, the recorded time is stored in the memory or storage unit 25 of the control unit 21 (step S9).

[0052] The first device 1 receives the information or signal transmitted in step S7 (step S10). The first device 1 records the time (T12) when it received the information or signal in step S10 (step S11). The recorded time (including the measured phase if the phase is measured) is then stored in the memory or storage unit 15 of the control unit 11 (step S12).

[0053] Subsequently, the first device 1 transmits to the second device 2 via its RF chip 12 the information stored in step S3 regarding the time (T11) when the signal was transmitted in step S1, and the information stored in step S12 regarding the time (T12) when the signal was received in step S10 (step S13). At this time, the position information of the first device 1 is also transmitted to the second device 2.

[0054] Then, in step S1, the second device 2 receives information regarding the time (T11) when the first device 1 transmitted information or a signal, and information regarding the time (T12) when the first device received information or a signal in step S10 (step S14).

[0055] Next, the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2 is calculated using the second device 2 (step S15). This distance is calculated in the following manner.

[0056] Information regarding the time of the first device's clock (T11) is transmitted to the second device 2 via radio waves. The difference between this time and the time of the second device 2's clock (T21) when the second device 2 receives this information is recorded as ΔTa on the second device 2 side. In other words, if we define the time of the first device's clock when it transmits information or a signal from the first device 1 to the second device 2 as T11, and the time of the second device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the first device 1 and sets time as T21, and the difference between them as ΔTa, then this ΔTa (the difference in transmission and reception times when information or a signal is transmitted from the first device 1 to the second device 2) is the difference between the time of the first device 1's clock and the second device 2's clock (time difference: T20-T10) plus the propagation time (propagation delay) Tp, resulting in the relationship shown in Equation 1. This time difference (T20-T10) would be zero if the clocks of the first device 1 and the second device 2 were synchronized, but here we assume that a time difference (T20-T10) exists (they are not synchronized). [Formula 1] ΔTa=T21-T11=(T20-T10)+Tp

[0057] To determine this propagation time Tp, the second device 2 also sends information about the time of this clock (T22) to the first device 1, and the difference between this time and the time of the first device 1's clock (T12) when the first device 1 receives it is recorded as ΔTb on the first device side. That is, if we define the time of the second device's clock when the second device 2 transmits information or a signal to the first device 1 as T22, and the time of the first device 1's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the second device 2 as T12, and the difference between them as ΔTb, then this ΔTb (the difference in transmission and reception times when the second device 2 transmits information or a signal to the first device 1) is the difference between the time of the first device 1's clock and the second device 2's clock (time difference: T10-T20) plus the propagation time (propagation delay) Tp, resulting in the relationship shown in Equation 2. Here, the time difference (T10-T20) would be zero if the clocks of the first device 1 and the second device 2 were synchronized, but here we assume that a time difference (T10-T20) exists (they are not synchronized). [Formula 2] ΔTb=T12−T22=(T10−T20)+Tp

[0058] The time differences between the two clocks, (T20-T10) and (T10-T20), are added when transmitting from the first device to the second device, and the same amount of time difference is subtracted when transmitting from the second device to the first device. Therefore, to find the propagation time Tp, we add equations 1 and 2, which cancels out the terms for the time differences (T20-T10) and (T10-T20), resulting in the relationship in equation 3. [Formula 3] Tp=(ΔTa+ΔTb) / 2 =((T21-T11)+(T12-T22)) / 2

[0059] Therefore, the propagation time Tp can be calculated based only on the time read by the clock of the first device 1 and the time read by the clock of the second device 2.

[0060] Incidentally, the time difference (T10-T20) between the clock of the first device 1 and the clock of the second device 2 is given by the relationship in Equation 4, obtained by [Equation 1] - [Equation 2]. [Formula 4] (T10-T20)=(ΔTa−ΔTb) / 2

[0061] Subsequently, the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2 is calculated by multiplying the propagation time calculated using Equation 3 by the propagation speed of the information or signal (e.g., high speed) (step S15).

[0062] Then, the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2 calculated in step S15 is stored in the memory or storage unit 25 of the control unit 21 and transmitted to the server device 3 (step S16). By executing step S16, the distance calculation process is completed.

[0063] Therefore, since equation (3) for calculating the propagation time Tp does not include a term for the time difference (time difference: T20-T10) between the clocks of the first device 1 and the second device 2, the propagation time for information or signals to propagate between the first device 1 and the second device 2 can be calculated regardless of whether there is a time difference between the clocks of the first device 1 and the second device 2 (independent of the time difference (time difference: T10-T20) between the clocks of the first device 1 and the second device 2).

[0064] [Location identification process] Next, we will explain the process of identifying the location of the potential missing person P who is carrying the second device 2. This location identification process identifies the location of the second device 2 based on the distances between each of the multiple first devices 1 and the second device 2, which were calculated in the distance calculation process. Since the second device 2 is carried by the potential missing person P, this can be said to be a process of identifying the location of the potential missing person P (the missing person in the event of an accident).

[0065] This positioning process should preferably be performed immediately after the distance calculation process is completed. Furthermore, in order to determine the position of the second device 2, it is assumed that the distance calculation device has calculated the distance to each of the multiple first devices 1 for each of the second devices 2.

[0066] In other words, when obtaining three-dimensional positional information of a potential missing person P (i.e., obtaining x, y, and z coordinates), the position of the second device 2 can be determined by using a well-known multi-point surveying calculation method, based on the distance between one second device 2 and at least four first devices 1, and the positional information of each of the four first devices 1 used to calculate this distance. Therefore, this system can determine the three-dimensional position of the second device 2 if four or more distance data points are available between the first device 1 and the second device 2. Thus, even if the second device 2 (potential missing person P) moves, it is advisable to appropriately distribute the first devices 1 so that the second device 2 can send and receive information or signals with at least four first devices 1. In particular, in locations where positional accuracy is required, it is necessary to pre-adjust the number and three-dimensional position of the first device 1 to achieve the required accuracy.

[0067] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of the location identification process according to an embodiment of the present invention. This location identification process can be performed on either the first device 1, the second device 2, or the server device 3. When the location identification process is performed on the first device 1 or the server device 3, the distance between each of the multiple first devices 1 and the second device 2, as well as the location information of the first device 1, can be associated with the identification information of the second device 2, transmitted to the first device 1 or the server device 3, and used. Here, an example of performing the location identification process on the server device will be described.

[0068] First, the positioning process requires that distance information for at least four different first devices 1 and second devices 2 be obtained at the same time or close together. Here, "close together" means that the time at which the distances between the four first devices 1 and second devices 2 used to determine the position of second device 2 are calculated is within a range that does not hinder the capture of the movement of the second device. If the distances are not calculated at the same time or close together (for example, if the time at which the propagation time of information or signals between each of the multiple first devices 1 and second device 2 is measured is the same time or close together), it becomes difficult to accurately determine the position of second device 2 (potential missing person P) assuming that it is moving.

[0069] Therefore, first, it is determined whether four or more data points of the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2 have been acquired within a predetermined time range (step S21).

[0070] If four or more distance data points between the first device 1 and the second device 2 are not acquired within a predetermined time range, accurate three-dimensional positional information cannot be obtained using this positioning method. Therefore, the system waits until four or more distance data points are obtained within the predetermined time range. In contrast, if four or more distance data points between the first device 1 and the second device 2 can be obtained within a predetermined time range, accurate three-dimensional position information can be obtained using this position determination method utilizing wireless bidirectional time comparison. Then, the current position of the second device 2 is determined using the multi-point surveying calculation method described above (step S22), and display processing is performed such as displaying the current position of the potential missing person P (second device 2) on a display screen (not shown) of the server device 3 (step 23). At the same time, it is preferable to store the position information of the second device 2 along with the time it was calculated in the storage unit 33 of the server device 3 for use in subsequent processing.

[0071] Therefore, if there are four or more second devices 2 carried by potential missing persons and first devices 1 capable of transmitting and receiving signals, within a predetermined time range, the three-dimensional position of the second device 2 is determined by a position identification process based on the distance between each first device 1 and the second device 2 calculated by the distance calculation process, and the position information of each first device 1 used in this distance calculation. As a result, the position of the second device 2 can be continuously tracked as the four first devices 1 from which distance calculations are possible switch sequentially as the potential missing person (carryer of the second device) P moves. Thus, if there are four or more first devices 1 capable of calculating distance, it becomes possible to determine the three-dimensional position of the second device 2. By adjusting the objects to which the first devices are attached and their mounting heights to ensure they are appropriately scattered, it becomes possible to track the position of the displaced second device (potential missing person P) in real time.

[0072] By performing the above processing for all potential missing persons P (users carrying the second device 2), accurate three-dimensional positional information for each moving potential missing person (carryer of the second device) can be obtained. By monitoring potential missing persons P based on this positional information, it becomes possible to accurately determine the location of each potential missing person (carryer of the second device) without error, even if there are multiple potential missing persons (carryers of the second device). Furthermore, even if some potential missing persons P become lost, their locations can be accurately tracked.

[0073] Conventional distance measurement systems calculate propagation time based on the difference between the transmission time of a transmitter (corresponding to the first device) and the reception time of a receiver (corresponding to the second device), and then calculate distance based on this time. However, in this method, unless the transmitter and receiver are time-synchronized, if there is a time difference between the two devices, the calculated propagation time will differ from the actual propagation time. In other words, if the receiver is different, the calculated propagation time may differ. In contrast, this system calculates the propagation time based on the transmission and reception times in both directions between the first device 1 and the second device 2, and then calculates the distance between the first device 1 and the second device 2. Therefore, even if there is a time difference between the first device 1 and the second device 2, there is no inconvenience in that the calculated propagation time will differ.

[0074] Furthermore, if the second device 2, which is to be carried by the potential distressed person P, is not time-synchronized, the location information of each potential distressed person P recorded on the server side at a certain time will become inaccurate (a discrepancy will occur between the location known on the server side at a certain time and the actual location of the potential distressed person P at that time). When attempting to monitor multiple potential distressed persons, the data recorded with the same timestamp will differ from the actual location of the potential distressed person P, making it impossible to give appropriate instructions or conduct rescue operations. For this reason, in order to collect accurate location information known with the same timestamp, all first devices 1 and second devices 2 must be time-synchronized with the server device 3.

[0075] Therefore, by synchronizing the time of the second device 2 with the time of the first device based on the time difference in equation (4), and synchronizing multiple first devices with the server device 3 to a reference time at a predetermined timing, it becomes possible to synchronize all second devices 2 with the first device 1 and the server device 3. This makes it possible to accurately collect the simultaneous location of all potential distressed persons P going to locations with a risk of distress, thus enabling accurate monitoring.

[0076] (Examples of using this system) Using the above-described search and rescue support system S, it is possible to monitor potential missing persons P (carriers of the second device 2) who are heading to locations at risk of distress, and to ensure their safety, a monitoring process as shown in Figure 9 is possible. This monitoring process may be performed by the server device 3 or by other control devices. First, the location of the second device, i.e., the location of the potential distressed person P (the person carrying the second device 2), is calculated using the method described above, and the location of the second device (the location of each potential distressed person P) is monitored (step S40).

[0077] Subsequently, based on the position of the second device 2, i.e., the position of the potential missing person P (the person carrying the second device 2), it is determined whether the potential missing person P has deviated from a pre-set climbing or hiking route (step S41). Also, since the risk of altitude sickness, hypothermia, dehydration, falls, and slips increases above a predetermined altitude α, it is determined, based on the position of the potential missing person P (the person carrying the second device 2), whether they have reached an altitude above a predetermined level (step S42). Furthermore, based on the position of the potential missing person P (the person carrying the second device 2), it is determined whether they have entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a high-risk location or area described later (step S43). In addition, if a group is heading to a high-risk location, it is determined whether some of the potential missing persons P (the people carrying the second device 2) have deviated from the group (step S44).

[0078] Based on the determination of the location of the potential distressed person P (carrier of the second device 2), if it is determined that they have deviated from the predetermined route (step S41), if they have reached an altitude above a predetermined level (step S42), if it is determined that the potential distressed person P (carrier of the second device 2) has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a high-risk location or area (step S43), or if it is determined that some of the potential distressed persons P (carriers of the second device 2) have become separated from the group (step S44), then in any of these cases the risk of distress increases, and an alert is issued to the potential distressed person P (carrier of the second device 2) (step S45), an alert is also issued to the mobile terminals of the monitors and rescue team members (step S46), and the ID and location information of the corresponding second device 2 is provided to the mobile terminals to notify the monitors and rescue team members that the potential distressed person P (carrier of the second device 2) is in a high-risk state (step S47).

[0079] Therefore, with the above system, the precise location information of each potential person P heading to a location at risk of distress can be captured in real time, and the safety status of each potential person P can be constantly monitored. If the safety status of a potential person P is compromised, the system will notify monitors and rescue teams that the person is in danger, along with their identification information and location, allowing monitors and rescue teams to take appropriate action based on that location information.

[0080] In the above-described configuration, the devices connected by the communication network 4 are listed as the first device 1, the second device 2, and the server device 3, but are not limited to these. As shown in Figure 10(a), a machine learning device 5 may be provided, which is connected to a communication network 4 and includes an input data acquisition unit 51 that acquires data sets as input data, including accident data (location, date and time of the accident, cause, attributes of the accident (age, gender, experience, etc.)), weather data at the time of the accident (temperature, precipitation, wind speed, humidity, atmospheric pressure, snow depth, etc.), and topographic data of the accident site (altitude, slope, direction, geological information, etc.); a label acquisition unit 52 that acquires data sets as labels, including risk assessments (presence or absence of an accident (binary classification) or risk level (e.g., a numerical value from 0 to 1)) at each point or area to which the person carrying the second device 2 goes; and a learning model construction unit 53 that constructs a learning model 55 by performing supervised learning using the input data and label pairs as training data.

[0081] Furthermore, based on current or future weather data (weather forecast data) and the attributes of potential distressed persons P (carriers of the second device 2) who are heading to a place at risk of distress, a constructed learning model 55 may be used to estimate locations or areas with a high risk of distress (distress location estimation means), and these estimated locations or areas with a high risk of distress may be displayed. For example, as shown in Figure 10(b), the server device 3 acquires the current location of the second device 2 (the location of the potential distressed person P (the person carrying the second device 2)) and the current weather data of the place where the potential distressed person P (the person carrying the second device 2) is going (step S50). Using this information as input data, the learning model 55 is used to estimate locations or areas with a high risk of distress (step S51). These estimated locations or areas with a high risk of distress are then visually displayed on a map shown on the server device 3 or a display unit (not shown) of the second device 2 using a predetermined method (such as notation of symbols or color coding) (step S52). By combining this data with past accident data and weather data, it becomes possible to predict locations and areas with a high risk of accidents, which can then be used in planning mountain climbing and rescue operations.

[0082] Furthermore, if the person carrying the second device 2 is in a location or area with a high estimated risk of distress, or approaches a location or area with a high risk of distress within a predetermined distance (step S53), the device may be configured to send an evacuation notice to the person carrying the second device 2 via emergency alert email, SNS notification, voice alarm, etc. (step S54). This makes it possible to effectively support the avoidance of accidents for those who go to locations or areas with a high risk of getting lost (not only mountain climbers, hikers, adventurers, and explorers, but also rescue workers).

[0083] Furthermore, the aforementioned distress response support system S can also be provided in the form of a program (distress response support program) that causes a computer to execute each step of the distress response support method described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0084] 1 1st device 2 Second device 3 Server equipment 5 Machine Learning Devices 51 Input data acquisition unit 52 Label acquisition unit 53 Learning Model Construction Department S Disaster Relief Support System P Potential missing person (carrying the second device)

Claims

1. A disaster response support system that uses multiple first devices installed in and around locations or routes leading to locations with a risk of getting lost, which are capable of acquiring their own location information, and a second device to be carried by a person going to the location with a risk of getting lost, to support rescue operations or prevention of accidents when a person going to the location with a risk of getting lost gets lost, Distance calculation means for calculating the distance between each of the plurality of first devices and the second device based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the plurality of first devices and the second device, A position identification means that identifies the position of the second device based on the distance between each of the first and second devices calculated by the distance calculation means, and the position information of each of the first devices. A disaster relief support system characterized by having the following features.

2. A time difference calculation means calculates the time difference between the clock of the first device and the clock of the second device based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the plurality of first devices and the second device. Based on the aforementioned time difference, the device time synchronization means synchronizes the time of the second device with the time of the first device which is synchronized to a reference time, The disaster relief support system according to claim 1, further comprising the features described above.

3. The distance calculation means is The difference between the time on the first device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the second device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the first device, The difference between the time on the second device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the first device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the second device, The distress response support system according to claim 1, characterized in that it calculates the propagation time of the information or signal between the first device and the second device based on this propagation time, and calculates the distance between the first device and the second device based on this propagation time.

4. The aforementioned device time synchronization means is The difference between the time on the first device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the second device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the first device, The difference between the time on the second device's clock when it transmits information or a signal and the time on the first device's clock when it receives the information or signal transmitted from the second device, The distress response support system according to claim 2, characterized in that, based on this, the time difference between the clock of the first device 1 and the clock of the second device 2 is calculated, and the time of the clock of the second device is synchronized with the time of the clock of the first device based on this time difference.

5. A route deviation determination means that determines whether or not a person carrying the second device has deviated from a predetermined route based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, An altitude determination means that determines, based on the location information of the second device identified by the location determination means, that the person carrying the second device has reached a predetermined altitude or higher, Based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, a high-risk area determination means determines whether the device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of distress, A separation determination means that determines that the second device has been separated from another group of second devices based on the location information of the second device identified by the location identification means, The system comprises at least one of the determination means, An alarm issuing means transmits an alarm and provides location information of the person concerned when the route deviation determination means determines that the person carrying the second device has deviated from the route, when the altitude determination means determines that the person carrying the second device has reached an altitude above a predetermined altitude, when the high-risk area determination means determines that the person carrying the second device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of getting lost, or when the separation determination means determines that the person carrying the second device has separated from another group of second devices. The disaster relief support system according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

6. A learning model storage unit stores a learning model that has been machine-learned to store the correlation between input data, which includes accident data including the attributes of past accident victims, weather data at the time of the accident, and topographic data of the accident location, and output data, which includes risk assessments at each location. A means for estimating locations of distress that uses the learning model to estimate locations or areas with a high risk of distress, based on current or future weather data and the attributes of the person carrying the second device. A means for displaying high-risk locations for distress, which displays a location or area with a high risk of distress estimated by the means for estimating the location of distress, The disaster relief support system according to claim 1, characterized by having the following features.

7. An evacuation notification means transmits an evacuation notification to the person carrying the second device when the location of the second device identified by the location identification means is a location or area with a high risk of distress estimated by the distress location estimation means, or when it is approaching within a predetermined distance. The distress response support system according to claim 6, further comprising the above.

8. A method for supporting rescue operations or preventing accidents involving persons going to places with a risk of getting lost, using multiple first devices installed in and around places with a risk of getting lost or routes leading thereto, which are capable of acquiring their own location information, and a second device to be carried by persons going to the places with a risk of getting lost, the method being used to support rescue operations or prevention of accidents involving persons going to the places with a risk of getting lost. A distance calculation step that calculates the distance between each of the multiple first devices and the second device based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the multiple first devices and the second device, A position determination step in which the position of the second device is determined based on the distance between each of the first and second devices calculated in the distance calculation step, and the position information of each of the first devices, A method for supporting disaster relief, characterized by having the following features.

9. A time difference calculation step that calculates the time difference between the clock of the first device and the clock of the second device based on the bidirectional transmission and reception times of information or signals between each of the multiple first devices and the second device, A device time synchronization step is performed to synchronize the time of the second device with the time of the first device which is synchronized to a reference time, based on the aforementioned time difference. The method for assisting in disaster response according to claim 8, further characterized by having the following features.

10. A route deviation determination step, which determines whether or not the person carrying the second device has deviated from a predetermined route based on the location information of the second device identified in the location identification step, An altitude determination step, based on the location information of the second device identified in the location identification step, determines that the person carrying the second device has reached a predetermined altitude or higher. A high-risk area determination step, based on the location information of the second device identified in the location identification step, determines that the device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of distress. A separation determination step, which determines that the second device has been separated from another group of second devices based on the location information of the second device identified in the location identification step, The determination step comprises at least one of the following: An alarm issuance step is performed when the route deviation determination step determines that the person carrying the second device has deviated from the route, when the altitude determination step determines that the person carrying the second device has reached a predetermined altitude or higher, when the high-risk area determination step determines that the person carrying the second device has entered or approached within a predetermined distance of a location or area with a high risk of getting lost, or when the separation determination step determines that the person carrying the second device has separated from another group of second devices, and an alarm is transmitted and the location information of the person concerned is provided. The method for assisting in disaster response according to claim 8, further comprising the following:

11. A learning model storage step involves storing a learning model that has been machine-trained to store the correlation between input data, which includes accident data including the attributes of past accident victims, weather data at the time of the accident, and topographic data of the accident location, and output data, which includes risk assessments at each location. A distress location estimation step in which the learning model is used to estimate locations or areas with a high risk of distress, based on current or future weather data and the attributes of the person carrying the second device, A high-risk location display step that displays the location or area with a high risk of getting lost, which was estimated by the aforementioned accident location estimation step, The method for assisting in disaster response according to claim 8, characterized by having the following features.

12. If the location of the second device identified by the location identification step is a location or area with a high risk of distress estimated by the distress location estimation step, or is approaching within a predetermined distance, an evacuation notification step is performed to send an evacuation notification to the person carrying the second device. The method for assisting in disaster response according to claim 11, further comprising the above.

13. A distress response support program for causing a computer to perform each step of the distress response support method described in any one of claims 8 to 12.

Images