Monitoring system, monitoring device, and monitoring method

Abstract

To provide a new and improved monitoring system, monitoring device, and monitoring method that is simpler and more energy-efficient. [Solution] A monitoring system is provided, comprising: a sensor for detecting contact with an object; a determination unit for determining at least the passage of a vehicle based on the detection result from the sensor; an imaging unit for starting imaging when the determination unit determines that a vehicle has entered; and an output unit for outputting information captured by the imaging unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a monitoring system, a monitoring device, and a monitoring method.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the demand for monitoring systems has been increasing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that detects suspicious vehicles or the like based on an image captured by a camera.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the system disclosed in Patent Document 1 requires a power supply facility that continuously supplies power to the camera in order to constantly capture images with the camera.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a novel and improved monitoring system, monitoring device, and monitoring method that are simpler and more power-saving.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring system including: a sensor that detects contact of an object; a determination unit that determines at least the passage of a vehicle based on a detection result of the sensor; an imaging unit that starts imaging when it is determined by the determination unit that a vehicle has entered; and an output unit that outputs information imaged by the imaging unit.

[0007] The output unit may notify the administrator terminal of the information captured by the imaging unit.

[0008] The determination unit may determine that a vehicle has passed if the sensor detects a value exceeding a threshold.

[0009] If the determination unit determines that a vehicle has passed, the imaging unit may perform imaging at a shorter interval than the predetermined interval at which imaging is performed when it is not determined that a vehicle has passed.

[0010] The determination unit may determine that a vehicle has passed if a value exceeding a threshold is detected by multiple sensors.

[0011] The aforementioned sensor may detect the impact caused by the vehicle coming into contact with a step or uneven surface.

[0012] The aforementioned step may be provided on the path.

[0013] The imaging unit may image a predetermined range that includes at least the path.

[0014] The aforementioned sensor may be an acceleration sensor.

[0015] The determination unit may determine that a vehicle has passed if the acceleration sensor detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold in the vertical direction.

[0016] The determination unit may determine the direction of the vehicle's passage based on the detection results from the multiple sensors.

[0017] The determination unit may determine whether a vehicle has entered a predetermined area based on the direction of the vehicle's passage.

[0018] The determination unit may determine whether a vehicle has entered a predetermined area based on the time the vehicle passed through.

[0019] Further, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring device including a determination unit that determines at least the passage of a vehicle based on a detection result by a sensor that detects contact of an object, and a control unit that controls an imaging device to image a predetermined range when the determination unit determines that the vehicle has entered.

[0020] Further, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring method implemented by a computer, including detecting contact of an object by a sensor, determining at least the passage of a vehicle based on a detection result by the sensor, starting imaging when it is determined that the vehicle has entered, and outputting the imaged information.

[0021] Further, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a monitoring method implemented by a monitoring system. When the monitoring system detects an impact exceeding a threshold value, it transmits a detection signal, performs imaging based on the detection signal, and outputs the captured image data.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a novel and improved monitoring system, monitoring device, and monitoring method that are simpler and more power-saving.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a diagram for explaining a functional configuration example of a monitoring system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of a sensor 10 according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of a monitoring device 20 according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of an administrator terminal 50 according to the embodiment. [Figure 5]This figure shows an example of a definition file according to the same embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure illustrates the relationship between acceleration detected by the sensor 10 according to the same embodiment and the threshold value. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the sensor 10 when it is set up according to the same embodiment. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the operation flow of the sensor 10 according to the same embodiment. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the monitoring device 20 according to the same embodiment. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the administrator terminal 50 according to the same embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows the hardware configuration of the information processing device 900 according to the same embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0025] Furthermore, in this specification and drawings, when describing multiple identical components to distinguish them, letters or other symbols may be added to the end of the reference numerals. On the other hand, when there is no need to distinguish multiple identical components, the letters or other symbols may be omitted, and a description common to all identical components may be provided.

[0026] <1. Embodiments> <1.1. Example of Functional Configuration> First, with reference to Figure 1, an example of the functional configuration of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0027] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] As mentioned above, if cameras are to be operated continuously for surveillance purposes, a large-scale power supply system is required to keep the cameras powered. This results in high costs for both system construction and operation.

[0029] Furthermore, depending on the location where the system is to be applied, it may be difficult to carry out construction work such as laying the power supply equipment described above (for example, in mountainous areas).

[0030] In contrast, monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention achieves power saving without requiring large-scale power supply equipment, while also ensuring security.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the monitoring system 1 includes a sensor 10.

[0032] (Sensor 10) Sensor 10 detects contact with an object. Sensor 10 also transmits a signal (also called a detection signal) containing information about the detected object contact to the monitoring device 20.

[0033] The communication path between the sensor 10 and the monitoring device 20 may be autonomously generated by a wireless multi-hop environment as defined by, for example, IEEE 802.15.4, ZigBee®, etc.

[0034] In the example shown in Figure 1, the monitoring system 1 includes sensors 10A, 10B, and 10C. Sensors 10A, 10B, and 10C are time-synchronized with the monitoring device 20 as the master.

[0035] Sensors 10A and 10B are connected to steps 65A and 65B, respectively, which are provided on the path leading to a predetermined area 80.

[0036] The designated area 80 may be any area where, for example, a business office, house, warehouse, or fields exist.

[0037] Sensors 10A and 10B each detect when the vehicle 70 comes into contact with the step 65A or 65B and transmit a detection signal to the monitoring device 20.

[0038] According to this, the monitoring device 20 can determine, based on the detection signal, that the vehicle 70 has passed through a path leading to a predetermined area 80.

[0039] The step 65 may, for example, be integrally formed on the metal plate 60. Alternatively, the step 65 may, for example, be embedded in the ground. The installation method, shape, height, number, material, and connection method of the step 65 to the sensor 10 may be appropriately designed in consideration of the threshold value described later.

[0040] Furthermore, the sensor 10C is attached to the object 85 to be monitored, which is located in a predetermined area 80.

[0041] The monitored object 85 may be any important object, such as an ATM (Automatic Teller machine), a vending machine, or a safe.

[0042] Sensor 10C detects contact between an object and the object to be monitored 85 and transmits a detection signal to the monitoring device 20.

[0043] According to this, the monitoring device 20 can determine, based on the detection signal, that a suspicious person has come into contact with the object being monitored 85.

[0044] (Monitoring device 20) As shown in Figure 1, the monitoring system 1 includes a monitoring device 20. The monitoring device 20 determines the passage of at least one vehicle 70 based on the detection signal received from the sensor 10.

[0045] Furthermore, the monitoring device 20 starts imaging when it determines that vehicle 70 has passed.

[0046] The monitoring device 20 also outputs the captured information (also referred to as image information).

[0047] In other words, the monitoring device 20 takes an image when it receives a detection signal from the sensor 10 and outputs the image information.

[0048] According to this, power consumption can be significantly reduced compared to when imaging is performed continuously.

[0049] The final output destination for the imaging information includes the administrator terminal 50.

[0050] The imaging information may be output to the administrator terminal 50 via, for example, a base station 30, a computer 40 installed on the cloud, etc.

[0051] (Administrator terminal 50) As shown in Figure 1, the monitoring system 1 includes an administrator terminal 50. The administrator terminal 50 is a device such as a PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, or tablet used by the administrator.

[0052] The administrator uses the administrator terminal 50 to check the image information, determine whether it is a suspicious vehicle or person, and take appropriate action such as rushing to the scene or canceling the alert.

[0053] Next, with reference to Figure 2, an example of the functional configuration of the sensor 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0054] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a sensor 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the sensor 10 comprises a sensor unit 110, a control unit 120, and a communication unit 130.

[0056] (Sensor unit 110) The sensor unit 110 is equipped with a sensor capable of detecting contact with an object.

[0057] Examples of the above-mentioned sensors include acceleration sensors, inertia sensors, pressure sensors, or switches that are pressed by a load exceeding a predetermined level.

[0058] In the following explanation, the case in which the sensor unit 110 is equipped with an acceleration sensor will be used as the main example. In this case, the sensor unit 110 detects the impact caused by the vehicle 70 coming into contact with the step 65 as acceleration.

[0059] (Control unit 120) The control unit 120 controls the operation of the sensor unit 110 and the communication unit 130.

[0060] For example, if the control unit 120 detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold in the sensor unit 110, it may cause the communication unit 130 to send a detection signal.

[0061] The detection signal may indicate the value of the detected acceleration, or it may indicate that an acceleration exceeding a threshold has been detected. Furthermore, the detection signal may include information indicating the detection time.

[0062] By only transmitting a detection signal when acceleration exceeding a threshold is detected, the power consumption required for wireless communication can be reduced.

[0063] However, the control unit 120 can also cause the communication unit 130 to transmit a detection signal indicating the value of the detected acceleration, regardless of whether the acceleration exceeds a threshold. In this case, whether the detected acceleration exceeds a threshold can be determined by the monitoring device 20 that receives the detection signal.

[0064] (Communications Section 130) The communication unit 130 transmits a detection signal in accordance with the control unit 120.

[0065] Next, with reference to Figure 3, an example of the functional configuration of the monitoring device 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0066] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a monitoring device 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the monitoring device 20 includes an imaging unit 210, a control unit 220, a communication unit 230, and a power supply unit 240.

[0068] (Imaging unit 210) The imaging unit 210 performs imaging according to the control of the control unit 220. For this purpose, the imaging unit 210 is equipped with an imaging sensor.

[0069] (Control unit 220) The control unit 220 controls the operation of each component of the monitoring device 20.

[0070] Furthermore, the control unit 220 operates as a determination unit that determines whether a vehicle has passed based on the detection signal received by the communication unit 230.

[0071] For example, the control unit 220 may determine that the vehicle 70 has passed through a path leading to a predetermined region 80 if the sensor 10 connected to the step 65 detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold.

[0072] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 1, if multiple steps 65 and sensors 10 are provided, the control unit 220 may determine that the vehicle 70 has passed through the path when acceleration exceeding a threshold is detected by the multiple sensors.

[0073] In this way, by using the detection results from multiple sensors 10, it is expected that the accuracy of determining when a vehicle 70 is passing will be improved.

[0074] Furthermore, if multiple steps 65 and sensors 10 are provided, the control unit 220 can also determine the direction of passage of the vehicle 70 based on the detection results from the multiple sensors 10.

[0075] Furthermore, the control unit 220 may determine whether the vehicle 70 has entered a predetermined area 80 based on the direction in which the vehicle 70 is passing.

[0076] In this specification, "passage" simply refers to the vehicle 70 traveling along a route, and does not necessarily mean whether it is illegal or not. On the other hand, "intrusion" refers to the illegal entry of a vehicle 70 or a person into a designated area 80.

[0077] For example, in the configuration example shown in Figure 1, if sensor 10A detects acceleration exceeding a threshold, and then sensor 10B detects acceleration exceeding a threshold within a predetermined time, the control unit 220 may determine that the vehicle 70 has entered a predetermined area 80.

[0078] On the other hand, if, after sensor 10B detects acceleration exceeding a threshold, sensor 10A detects acceleration exceeding a threshold within a predetermined time, the control unit 220 may determine that the vehicle 70 has left the predetermined area 80.

[0079] Alternatively, for example, the control unit 220 may determine that a vehicle has passed only when the sensor 10 detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold in the vertical direction.

[0080] Since horizontal acceleration is susceptible to influences from wind, contact with animals, etc., limiting the acceleration used for detection to the vertical direction is expected to improve the accuracy of vehicle 70 passage detection. Furthermore, improved accuracy in passage detection makes it possible to take images only when vehicle 70 has passed, preventing unnecessary power consumption through image capture.

[0081] Furthermore, one of the features of the control unit 220 is that when it determines that the vehicle 70 has passed, it instructs the imaging unit 210 to start imaging.

[0082] With the control described above, power consumption can be significantly reduced compared to continuous imaging.

[0083] Furthermore, if the control unit 220 determines that the vehicle 70 has passed, it may cause the imaging unit 210 to image a predetermined area including at least the path.

[0084] According to the control described above, it is possible to image the vehicle 70 as it passes through the route, and to determine whether or not the vehicle 70 is a suspicious vehicle based on the image information.

[0085] Furthermore, if the control unit 220 determines that the vehicle 70 has passed, it may cause the imaging unit 210 to take images at shorter intervals than when it has not determined that the vehicle 70 has passed.

[0086] With the control described above, it is expected that vehicle 70 can be imaged more reliably.

[0087] The control unit 220 may also control the field of view of the imaging unit 210.

[0088] For example, if the control unit 220 detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold by sensor 10A or 10B, it may cause the imaging unit 210 to image a predetermined range including at least the path, and if the sensor 10C detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold, it may cause the imaging unit 210 to image a predetermined range including at least the installation location of the object to be monitored 85.

[0089] (Communications Section 230) The communication unit 230 transmits imaging information in accordance with the control unit 220. The communication unit 230 is an example of an output unit that outputs imaging information.

[0090] More specifically, the communication unit 230 notifies the administrator terminal of the imaging information. This notification may be implemented via the base station 30 and the computer 40 on the cloud, as described above. The communication unit 230 may also transmit the imaging information to the base station 30, for example, via a 4G line.

[0091] (Power supply section 240) The power supply unit 240 supplies power to each component of the monitoring device 20.

[0092] The power supply unit 240 is equipped with an element that converts natural energy into electricity.

[0093] For example, the power supply unit 240 may be equipped with solar panels or the like for generating solar power.

[0094] This configuration allows for energy savings and low-cost system construction and operation without requiring large-scale power supply equipment. The power supply unit 240 may also be equipped with a battery to store the generated electricity, in addition to solar panels. By equipping the power supply unit 240 with a battery, it becomes possible to supply power to each component of the monitoring device 20 and continue monitoring even in situations such as prolonged rainy weather that makes power generation difficult.

[0095] Next, with reference to Figure 4, an example of the functional configuration of the administrator terminal 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail.

[0096] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an administrator terminal 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] As shown in Figure 4, the administrator terminal 50 includes a control unit 510, a display unit 520, a notification unit 530, an operation reception unit 540, and a communication unit 550.

[0098] (Control unit 510) The control unit 510 controls the operation of each component of the administrator terminal 50.

[0099] (Display section 520) The display unit 520 displays various information in accordance with the control unit 510. For this purpose, the display unit 520 is equipped with a display.

[0100] For example, the display unit 520 displays the imaging information received by the communication unit 550, in accordance with the control of the control unit 510.

[0101] (News Department 530) The notification unit 530 performs various notifications in accordance with the control unit 510.

[0102] Examples of the above notifications include sending alerts via email, illuminating warning lights such as Patlite®, and sounding alarms.

[0103] (Operation reception unit 540) The operation reception unit 540 receives operations from the administrator. For this purpose, the operation reception unit 540 is equipped with a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, buttons, levers, etc.

[0104] (Communications Department 550) The communication unit 550 performs information communication with other devices.

[0105] For example, the communication unit 550 receives imaging information from a computer 40 on the cloud via the internet.

[0106] Furthermore, for example, the communications unit 550 may, in cooperation with the notification unit 530, send alerts via email or other means.

[0107] The above describes an example of the functional configuration of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Note that the above functional configuration, described with reference to Figures 1 to 4, is merely an example, and the functional configuration of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this example.

[0108] For example, the above example illustrates a case where the monitoring device 20 includes an imaging unit 210, but the imaging unit 210 may be provided separately from the monitoring device 20. In this case, the monitoring system 1 may also include multiple imaging units 210. Communication between the monitoring device 20 and the imaging unit 210 may be implemented using a method equivalent to the communication between the monitoring device 20 and the sensor 10.

[0109] The functional configuration of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention can be flexibly modified according to specifications, operation, etc.

[0110] <<1.2. Example of Operation>> Next, an example of the operation of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0111] Each of the sensors 10, monitoring device 20, and administrator terminal 50 operates, for example, based on a definition file.

[0112] Figure 5 shows an example of a definition file according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] In the example shown in Figure 5, the definition file defines, for each sensor 10, the monitoring time period, the target of monitoring, the monitoring threshold, the imaging interval in case of anomalies, the imaging interval during normal operation, whether or not to send alerts, the recipient of alert notifications, and whether or not the patrol light control is enabled or disabled.

[0114] The monitoring period is the time period during which the sensor 10 detects acceleration. The monitoring period includes, for example, time periods during which it is not expected that a vehicle 70 will pass through the path leading to the predetermined area 80, or time periods during which it is not expected that there will be people in the predetermined area 80 (for example, the time period from the end of business hours to the start of business hours).

[0115] In environments where it can be assumed that no vehicle 70 passes through the route during the monitoring period and that there are no people in the designated area 80 during the monitoring period, the monitoring device 20 may determine that a vehicle 70 or a person has entered the designated area based on the sensor 10 detecting an acceleration exceeding a threshold during the monitoring period.

[0116] The monitoring target is information that indicates what is being monitored. In the example shown in Figure 5, sensors 10A and 10B monitor the vehicle 70, and sensor 10C monitors the equipment. The equipment is an example of the monitored object 85.

[0117] A monitoring threshold (also simply called a threshold) is a value used for determining whether or not to send a detection signal, determining passage, determining intrusion, etc.

[0118] For example, in the case shown in Figure 5, a threshold of 1.0G is defined for sensors 10A and 10B, and a threshold of 0.5G is defined for sensor 10C.

[0119] The threshold value for the sensor 10 connected to the step 65 can be determined according to the height of the step 65, etc. For example, if the step 65 is 20 mm high and it is assumed that the vehicle 70 will come into contact with the step at a speed of 20 km / h, setting the threshold value to 1.0G will allow for highly accurate detection of the vehicle 70 coming into contact with the step 65, i.e., the vehicle 70 passing over it.

[0120] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the acceleration detected by sensor 10 and the threshold value.

[0121] Figure 6 shows an example of acceleration detected by sensor 10.

[0122] In this example, sensors 10A and 10B may transmit a detection signal to the monitoring device 20 when they detect an acceleration exceeding +1.0G or an acceleration below -1.0G based on the definition file.

[0123] As mentioned above, sensors 10A and 10B may process only acceleration in the vertical direction, and discard acceleration in directions other than vertical.

[0124] On the other hand, sensor 10C may transmit a detection signal to monitoring device 20 when it detects an acceleration exceeding +0.5G or an acceleration below -0.5G based on a definition file.

[0125] Sensor 10C processes acceleration in all three axes, and may transmit a detection signal to monitoring device 20 if any of the accelerations in the three axes exceeds a threshold. This allows for highly accurate detection of equipment being moved by an intruder.

[0126] As mentioned above, the sensor 10 may transmit a detection signal to the monitoring device 20 regardless of the threshold. In this case, the monitoring device 20 performs pass-through and intrusion detection based on the threshold.

[0127] Let's continue the explanation of the definition file by referring to Figure 5 again.

[0128] The abnormal imaging interval indicates the imaging interval performed when passage or intrusion is detected (abnormal). On the other hand, the normal imaging interval indicates the imaging interval performed when passage or intrusion is not detected (normal).

[0129] In this example, the control unit 220 of the monitoring device 20 controls the imaging unit 210 to take images at 30-minute intervals under normal circumstances, and controls the imaging unit 210 to take images at 2-minute intervals in the event of an abnormality.

[0130] Alert notifications and notification destinations are defined as whether or not an alert is enabled (ON / OFF) and the recipient's email address.

[0131] In this example, the administrator terminal 50 performs a process to send an alert to the address defined as the notification destination when an abnormality originating from any of the sensors 10 is detected.

[0132] "Patrol light control" defines whether to enable or disable patrol light control.

[0133] In this example, the administrator terminal 50 controls the patrol light to turn on when an abnormality originating from any of the sensors 10 is detected.

[0134] Next, an example of the operation of the sensor 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following, an example of operation will be shown when the sensor 10 operates based on the definition file illustrated in Figure 5.

[0135] First, we will explain an example of operation when setting up the sensor 10. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of operation when setting up the sensor 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] In the example shown in Figure 7, the sensor 10 first determines whether to start or stop the monitoring operation (S101).

[0137] If sensor 10 determines that it should stop monitoring (S101: Stop), it stops monitoring (S102).

[0138] On the other hand, when sensor 10 determines to start monitoring operation (S101: Start), it determines whether the object to be monitored is a vehicle 70 or equipment (S103).

[0139] If sensor 10 determines that the object being monitored is vehicle 70, it sets the threshold to 1.0G (S104).

[0140] On the other hand, if sensor 10 determines that the object being monitored is a device, it sets the threshold to 0.5G (S105).

[0141] Next, we will explain the operation flow of the sensor 10. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation flow of the sensor 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] In the example shown in Figure 8, when sensor 10 detects acceleration exceeding a threshold (event: threshold exceeded), it determines whether the detected acceleration is to be transmitted (S201).

[0143] As described above, when the monitored object is a vehicle 70, the sensor 10 may transmit only the acceleration in the vertical direction. On the other hand, when the monitored object is a device, the sensor 10 transmits all of the acceleration in all three axes.

[0144] If sensor 10 determines that the detected acceleration is to be transmitted (S201:YES), it transmits a detection signal to monitoring device 20, including the value of the acceleration to be transmitted and the detection time (S202).

[0145] If sensor 10 determines that the detected acceleration is not to be transmitted (S201: NO), it skips step S202.

[0146] Furthermore, the sensor 10 may wake up when it detects acceleration exceeding a threshold, and sleep when it detects acceleration below the threshold. This can reduce power consumption.

[0147] Next, we will describe an example of the operation of the monitoring device 20. In the following, we will show an example of operation when the monitoring device 20 operates based on the definition file illustrated in Figure 5. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the monitoring device 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] In the example shown in Figure 9, the monitoring device 20 first sets the imaging interval to 30 minutes (S300), and then operates according to each detected event.

[0149] First, let's describe the operation related to [Event: Sensor Operation Start / Stop].

[0150] The monitoring device 20 determines whether to start or stop the operation of the sensor 10 (S301).

[0151] When the monitoring device 20 determines that the sensor 10 should start operating (S301: Start), it sends a start command to the sensor 10 (S302) and causes the sensor 10 to start operating.

[0152] On the other hand, if the monitoring device 20 determines that the operation of the sensor 10 should be stopped (S301: Stop), it sends a stop command to the sensor 10 (S303) and causes the sensor 10 to stop operating.

[0153] Next, we will describe the operation related to [Event: Impact Detection].

[0154] When the monitoring device 20 detects an impact using the sensor 10 (i.e., when it receives a detection signal from the sensor 10 that includes acceleration exceeding a threshold), it starts imaging (S311) and changes the imaging interval to 2 minutes (S312).

[0155] When the monitoring device 20 completes the imaging process within a predetermined time, it transmits the imaging information (S313).

[0156] Next, we will describe the operation related to [Event: Imaging Timer].

[0157] The monitoring device 20 starts imaging according to the imaging timer corresponding to the set imaging interval (S321) and transmits imaging information (S322).

[0158] Furthermore, the monitoring device 20 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the impact was detected (S323).

[0159] If the monitoring device 20 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the impact was detected (S323:YES), that is, if it determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the imaging interval was changed to 2 minutes in the impact detection, it performs the process of returning the imaging interval to 30 minutes (S324).

[0160] On the other hand, if the monitoring device 20 determines that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the impact was detected (S323: NO), it skips step S324.

[0161] Next, we will describe the operation related to [in-device monitoring].

[0162] The monitoring device 20 performs various monitoring functions, such as voltage monitoring and temperature monitoring within the device (S331).

[0163] Next, we will describe an example of the operation of the administrator terminal 50. In the following, we will show an example of operation when the administrator terminal 50 operates based on the definition file illustrated in Figure 5. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the administrator terminal 50 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] In the example shown in Figure 10, when the administrator terminal 50 detects an event, that is, when it receives imaging information based on the detection of acceleration exceeding a threshold, it sends an alert (S401) and performs notification such as turning on a patrol light (S402).

[0165] Furthermore, the administrator terminal 50 displays the received imaging information (S403).

[0166] The administrator visually inspects the displayed image information and determines whether the subject included in the image information is a suspicious vehicle or a suspicious person.

[0167] In this case, the administrator may determine whether a vehicle is suspicious or not by comparing the images and vehicle numbers of vehicles 70 that are not registered as suspicious vehicles, such as commercial vehicles, with the image information. In this case, the images and vehicle numbers of vehicles 70 that are not registered as suspicious vehicles may be stored on the administrator terminal 50, or on a separate server, etc.

[0168] Furthermore, the administrator terminal 50 or monitoring device 20 may automatically determine whether or not the subject included in the image information is a suspicious vehicle based on the images and vehicle numbers of vehicles 70 that are not registered as suspicious vehicles.

[0169] Such determinations can be achieved, for example, by recognition systems generated using neural networks.

[0170] Furthermore, when the monitoring device 20 uses the above-mentioned recognition device to determine if a vehicle is suspicious, the monitoring device 20 may control the system so that the image information is transmitted to the administrator terminal 50 only when it determines that the subject included in the image information is a suspicious vehicle.

[0171] Furthermore, when recognition is performed using the above-mentioned recognition device, the results of various recognitions (such as the area of ​​the recognized vehicle 70, the vehicle number, and the result of determining whether it is a suspicious vehicle) may be presented to the administrator via the administrator terminal 50.

[0172] On the other hand, when the administrator terminal 50 detects an event: cancellation operation, that is, when it detects an operation by the administrator instructing the cancellation of the notification, it cancels the notification, such as by turning off the patrol light (S411).

[0173] The above describes an example of the operation of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. However, the operation described above is merely an example, and the operation of the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this example.

[0174] For example, the monitoring system 1 can also determine a suspicious vehicle based on the magnitude of its acceleration.

[0175] Vehicles 70 that commit illegal acts such as theft and illegal dumping are assumed to be large vehicles such as trucks and heavy machinery.

[0176] Furthermore, it is assumed that the acceleration detected when a large vehicle 70 comes into contact with a step 65 will be greater than the acceleration detected when a typical passenger car 70 comes into contact with a step 65.

[0177] Therefore, the monitoring system 1 can also determine that there is a high probability that vehicle 70 is a suspicious vehicle if the detected acceleration exceeds a second threshold that is greater than the threshold mentioned above.

[0178] Furthermore, in cases of illegal acts such as theft or illegal dumping, the weight of the cargo will differ when entering the designated area 80 and when exiting the designated area 80, and therefore the acceleration of the vehicle 70 when it comes into contact with the step 65 will also be different.

[0179] Therefore, the monitoring system 1 can also determine that an illegal act has occurred if the acceleration detected when a vehicle 70, which it has identified as the same vehicle based on the imaging information, comes into contact with a step 65 differs significantly depending on the direction of passage.

[0180] <2. Hardware Configuration Example> Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 900 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The information processing device 900 is a device that has the same hardware configuration as the monitoring device 20 and the administrator terminal 50.

[0181] The hardware configuration example of the information processing device 900 described below is merely one example. Therefore, the hardware configuration of the monitoring device 20 and the administrator terminal 50 may be modified by removing unnecessary components from the hardware configuration of the information processing device 900 described below, or by adding new components.

[0182] Figure 11 shows the hardware configuration of an information processing device 900 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The information processing device 900 includes a processor 901, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 902, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 903, a host bus 904, a bridge 905, an external bus 906, an interface 907, an input device 908, an output device 909, a storage device 910, and a communication device 911.

[0183] The processor 901 functions as both an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, controlling the overall operation of the information processing unit 900 according to various programs. The ROM 902 stores programs and arithmetic parameters used by the processor 901. The RAM 903 temporarily stores programs used in the execution of the processor 901 and parameters that change as needed during its execution. These are interconnected by the host bus 904, which consists of a CPU bus and the like.

[0184] The host bus 904 is connected to an external bus 906, such as a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect / Interface) bus, via a bridge 905. It is not always necessary to configure the host bus 904, bridge 905, and external bus 906 separately; these functions may be implemented on a single bus.

[0185] The input device 908 consists of input means for the user to input information, such as a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, buttons, microphone, switches, and levers, and an input control circuit that generates input signals based on the user's input and outputs them to the processor 901. By operating this input device 908, the user can input various types of data to the information processing device 900 or instruct it to perform processing operations.

[0186] The output device 909 includes, for example, display devices such as CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display devices, liquid crystal display (LCD) devices, OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) devices, lamps, and audio output devices such as speakers.

[0187] The storage device 910 is a device for storing data. The storage device 910 may include a storage medium, a recording device for recording data on the storage medium, a reading device for reading data from the storage medium, and a deletion device for deleting data recorded on the storage medium. The storage device 910 is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). This storage device 910 drives the hard disk and stores programs executed by the processor 901 and various data.

[0188] The communication device 911 is a communication interface composed of, for example, a communication device for connecting to a network. The communication device 911 may support either wireless or wired communication.

[0189] <3. Conclusion> As described above, the monitoring system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor 10 for detecting contact with an object, a control unit 220 for determining at least the passage of a vehicle 70 based on the detection result from the sensor 10, an imaging unit 210 for starting imaging when the control unit 220 determines that a vehicle has entered, and a communication unit 230 for outputting information captured by the imaging unit 210.

[0190] The above configuration makes it possible to provide a simpler and more energy-efficient novel and improved monitoring system, monitoring device, and monitoring method.

[0191] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the attached drawings, the present invention is not limited to these examples. It is clear to any person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, and these are also understood to fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0192] Furthermore, each step of the processing described in this disclosure does not necessarily have to be processed chronologically in the order shown in the flowchart or sequence diagram. For example, each step of the processing for each device may be processed in an order different from the order described, or may be processed in parallel.

[0193] Furthermore, the series of processes performed by each device described in this disclosure may be implemented by a program stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Each program is, for example, loaded into RAM when executed by a computer and executed by a processor such as a CPU. The storage medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or flash memory. Alternatively, the program may be distributed without using a storage medium, for example, via a network. [Explanation of symbols]

[0194] 1. Monitoring System 10 sensors 110 Sensor unit 110 120 Control Unit 130 Communications Department 20 Monitoring equipment 210 Imaging Unit 220 Control Unit 230 Communications Department 240 Power supply section 50 Administrator terminals 510 Control Unit 520 Display section 530 Hochi Department 540 Operation Reception Unit 550 Communications Department 65 steps 70 vehicles 80 Predetermined area 85. Objects under surveillance

Claims

1. A sensor that detects contact between objects, Based on the detection results from the aforementioned sensors, a determination unit determines at least the passage of a vehicle, If the determination unit determines that a vehicle has entered, the imaging unit starts imaging, An output unit that outputs information captured by the imaging unit, Equipped with, A monitoring system.

2. The output unit notifies the administrator terminal of the information captured by the imaging unit. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

3. The determination unit determines that a vehicle has passed if the sensor detects a value exceeding a threshold. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

4. When the determination unit determines that a vehicle has passed, the imaging unit takes images at a shorter interval than the predetermined interval at which imaging is performed when it is not determined that a vehicle has passed. The monitoring system according to claim 2.

5. The determination unit determines that a vehicle has passed if a value exceeding a threshold is detected by the multiple sensors. The monitoring system according to claim 3.

6. The aforementioned sensor detects the impact caused when the vehicle comes into contact with a step. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned step is provided on the path, The monitoring system according to claim 6.

8. The imaging unit images a predetermined range including at least the path, The monitoring system according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned sensor is an acceleration sensor. The monitoring system according to claim 6.

10. The determination unit determines that a vehicle has passed if the acceleration sensor detects an acceleration exceeding a threshold in the vertical direction. The monitoring system according to claim 9.

11. The determination unit determines the direction of the vehicle's passage based on the detection results from the multiple sensors. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

12. The determination unit determines whether a vehicle has entered a predetermined area based on the direction of the vehicle's passage. The monitoring system according to claim 11.

13. The determination unit determines whether a vehicle has entered a predetermined area based on the time the vehicle passed through. A monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A determination unit that determines at least whether a vehicle is passing, based on the detection result from a sensor that detects contact with an object, When the determination unit determines that a vehicle has entered, the control unit controls the imaging device to image a predetermined area, Equipped with, monitoring equipment.

15. The sensor detects contact between objects, Based on the detection results from the aforementioned sensor, at least the determination of the vehicle's passage is made. If a vehicle is detected to have entered the system, imaging will begin. Outputting the captured information, including, A monitoring method performed by computer.

16. A monitoring method implemented by a monitoring system, The aforementioned monitoring system transmits a detection signal when it detects an impact exceeding a threshold. Based on the aforementioned detection signal, imaging is performed. Output the captured image data. Monitoring method.

Images