Intercom system and information management system

Abstract

The objective of this disclosure is to improve convenience. [Solution] The dwelling unit terminal 20 comprises an operation unit 25 and a display unit 29. The operation unit 25 receives operations from the resident of the dwelling unit 92. When the operation unit 25 receives a request from the resident to link their mobile terminal with the intercom system 100, the display unit 29 presents authentication information for using the linking function that connects the mobile terminal and the intercom system 100 in a manner that can be obtained by the mobile terminal. The lobby intercom 10 stores the authentication information in the lobby-side memory unit, linking it with dwelling unit information related to the dwelling unit 92 where the dwelling unit terminal 20 is installed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to intercom systems and information management systems. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a collective intercom apparatus. Patent Document 1 aims to enable residents of a multi-dwelling housing to easily register and use their own smartphones as authenticated devices for unlocking automatic-locking doors such as a shared entrance.

[0003] This collective intercom apparatus (lobby intercom) has a function of unlocking an automatic-locking door at the entrance of a residential building in response to a predetermined operation performed on a dwelling unit device (dwelling unit terminal) installed in each dwelling unit.

[0004] The collective intercom apparatus includes a registration reservation information issuing unit, an antenna device, a device registration unit, and a wireless authentication unit.

[0005] Upon receiving a device registration permission signal from the dwelling unit device, the registration reservation information issuing unit issues registration reservation information for a smartphone and causes the shared entrance device to display the information. The registration reservation information is a type of authentication information that can be used by being captured by a camera built into the smartphone, and is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code. The antenna device automatically connects to a smartphone that has approached the automatic-locking door. The device registration unit receives a registration request signal based on the registration reservation information via the antenna device, and registers the identification information of the smartphone that is the transmission source of the signal.

[0006] The wireless authentication unit receives the identification information of the smartphone via the antenna device, compares the received identification information with the identification information registered in the device registration unit, and outputs an unlock signal for the automatic-locking door if the two pieces of information match. Prior Art Documents Patent Documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2015-74938 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] The collective intercom system described in Patent Document 1 has room for improvement in terms of convenience during registration, etc.

[0009] This disclosure is made in light of the reasons stated above and aims to improve convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An intercom system according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises a dwelling unit terminal and a lobby intercom. The dwelling unit terminal is installed in the lobby and in a dwelling unit of a multi-unit residential building, including multiple dwelling units. The lobby intercom is capable of communicating with the dwelling unit terminal and is installed in the lobby. The dwelling unit terminal comprises an operation unit and a display unit. The operation unit receives operations from the resident of the dwelling unit. When the operation unit receives a request from the resident to link a mobile terminal held by the resident with the intercom system, the display unit presents authentication information for using the linkage function that links the mobile terminal and the intercom system, in a manner that can be obtained by the mobile terminal. The lobby intercom stores the authentication information in a lobby-side storage unit, linked to dwelling unit information relating to the dwelling unit where the dwelling unit terminal is installed.

[0011] An information management system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises the intercom system and a management server. The management server is communicably connected to the lobby intercom. The management server includes a server-side storage unit. The lobby intercom transmits a shared notification to the management server, which includes the authentication information and the dwelling unit information stored in the lobby-side storage unit linked to each other. When the management server receives the shared notification from the lobby intercom, it stores the authentication information and the dwelling unit information included in the shared notification in the server-side storage unit, linked to each other. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to this disclosure, there is an advantage in that it becomes possible to improve convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an information management system including an intercom system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram of the lobby intercom included in the same intercom system. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the dwelling unit terminal included in the intercom system described above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating the collaborative operation in the information management system described above. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating a release operation in the same information management system. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating another release operation in the same information management system.

[0014] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation during walk-through unlocking in the information management system described above. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a block configuration diagram of a lobby intercom included in the intercom system of Modification 1. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block configuration diagram of a dwelling unit terminal included in the above intercom system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining cooperative operations in an information management system including the above intercom system. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, intercom systems and information management systems according to embodiments and modifications will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments and modifications are merely one of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. Various changes to the following embodiments and modifications can be made according to design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Further, the configuration of each modification described below may be appropriately combined with the following embodiment or other modifications. Furthermore, the drawings described in the present disclosure are schematic diagrams, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of respective constituent elements in the drawings do not necessarily reflect actual dimensional ratios.

[0016] (1) Embodiment (1.1) Overview As shown in FIG. 1, the intercom system (100) of the present embodiment includes a dwelling unit terminal (20) and a lobby intercom (10).

[0017] The dwelling unit terminal (20) is installed in a dwelling unit (92) (for example, each dwelling unit (92)) of an apartment house (9) including a lobby (91) and a plurality of dwelling units (92). In FIG. 1, the number of dwelling units (92) included in the apartment house (9) is three, but the number of dwelling units (92) included in the apartment house (9) is not particularly limited.

[0018] The lobby intercom (10) is installed in the lobby (91) of the apartment house (9). The lobby intercom (10) is capable of communicating with the dwelling unit terminal (20).

[0019] As shown in Figure 3, the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes an operation unit 25 and a display unit 29 (display unit 24).

[0020] The control unit 25 receives operations from the resident of the dwelling unit 92 where the dwelling unit terminal 20 is installed.

[0021] When the display unit 29 receives a linkage request operation at the operation unit 25, it displays authentication information. A "linkage request operation" is an operation performed on the operation unit 25 of the dwelling terminal 20, which is a predetermined procedure for linking a mobile terminal 8 (see Figures 4 to 7) owned by the resident with the intercom system 100. A "mobile terminal 8" is a portable computer that the resident can carry with them, such as a smartphone or tablet computer. The mobile terminal 8 may be capable of short-range wireless communication using communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). In addition, the mobile terminal 8 may have application software (app) installed for linking with the intercom system 100. "Authentication information" is a code (information) necessary to use the linkage function that links the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100. The authentication information may be information that indicates that the mobile terminal 8 has already been linked when the intercom system 100 executes the linkage function with the mobile terminal 8. Authentication information is transmitted between the intercom system 100 and the mobile terminal 8, for example, when the intercom system 100 performs a function to cooperate with the mobile terminal 8. As an example, the authentication information may include key information for causing the lobby intercom 10 to unlock the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91.

[0022] The presentation unit 29 presents authentication information in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8. The authentication information presented by the presentation unit 29 is acquired by the mobile terminal 8 when the resident operates the mobile terminal 8 as appropriate, and is stored in the memory unit of the mobile terminal 8.

[0023] The lobby intercom 10 stores the authentication information in the lobby-side memory unit (for example, the memory unit 16 of the lobby intercom 10), linking it with the dwelling unit information for the dwelling unit 92 where the dwelling unit terminal 20 is installed.

[0024] According to the intercom system 100 of this embodiment, the mobile terminal 8 possessed by the resident of dwelling unit 92 stores authentication information for using the linking function. Therefore, by possessing the mobile terminal 8 that holds the authentication information, the resident of dwelling unit 92 can use the linking function that connects the mobile terminal 8 with the intercom system 100. This improves the convenience for the resident.

[0025] Furthermore, according to the intercom system 100 of this embodiment, authentication information is presented via the dwelling unit terminal 20. Therefore, residents can connect their mobile terminal 8 with the intercom system 100 while remaining in their dwelling unit 92 (without having to go to the lobby 91). This further improves convenience for residents.

[0026] Furthermore, since authentication information is presented via the dwelling unit terminal 20, security may be improved compared to the case where authentication information is presented via the lobby intercom 10 installed in the lobby 91, which is accessible to a wide variety of people.

[0027] (1.2) Details (1.2.1) Overall structure The intercom system 100 and the information management system 300 including the intercom system 100 of this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 7.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the information management system 300 includes an intercom system 100 and a management server 200.

[0029] The intercom system 100 is applied to the apartment building 9. As shown in Figure 1, the apartment building 9 includes a lobby 91 and several dwelling units 92. The apartment building 9 may also include other common areas besides the lobby 91, such as corridors, stairwells, a kids' room, and a parking lot (e.g., an underground parking lot). The apartment building 9 may also include a management office 93. The management office 93 is a place where equipment for managing the apartment building 9 (e.g., a management terminal 30) is installed, and where the manager performs management duties such as receiving visitors when residents are absent.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the intercom system 100 includes a lobby intercom 10 (shared intercom device) and multiple dwelling unit terminals 20 (intercom master units). The intercom system 100 further includes a management terminal 30, multiple entrance units 40 (intercom sub-units), and a control device 50.

[0031] The lobby intercom 10 is installed in the lobby 91 (common entrance) of the apartment building 9. The lobby intercom 10 is mounted, for example, on the wall of the lobby 91. In this disclosure, "lobby 91" is a concept that is not limited to the space inside the apartment building 9, but may also include the space outside the building (such as the entrance porch).

[0032] Multiple dwelling unit terminals 20 are installed in the interior spaces of multiple dwelling units 92 in the apartment building 9. Each dwelling unit terminal 20 functions as a room master unit (intercom master unit) installed in a room or other area within the dwelling unit 92.

[0033] Each of the multiple door station units 40 is installed at the exterior entrance of a dwelling unit 92 in the apartment building 9. Each door station unit 40 is connected by a connection line 64 to a dwelling unit terminal 20 (corresponding dwelling unit terminal 20) installed in the interior space of the dwelling unit 92 where the door station unit 40 is installed. Each door station unit 40 is configured to communicate with the corresponding dwelling unit terminal 20 (for example, making phone calls, transmitting video signals, etc.).

[0034] The management terminal 30 is installed in the interior space of the management office 93. The management terminal 30 is a master unit for the management office, installed in the management facility (management office 93) as equipment for managing the apartment building 9.

[0035] The intercom system 100 may further include a management room sub-unit that can communicate (including make calls) with the management terminal 30. The management room sub-unit is an entrance sub-unit installed outside the entrance of the management office 93.

[0036] The control device 50 is installed in the common area or management office 93 of the apartment building 9. The lobby intercom 10, the multiple apartment terminals 20, and the management terminal 30 are all connected to the control device 50. The control device 50 is connected to the lobby intercom 10, the multiple apartment terminals 20, and the management terminal 30 via a communication line 60. Therefore, the lobby intercom 10, each apartment terminal 20, and the management terminal 30 can communicate with each other (including making calls) via the control device 50.

[0037] Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the communication line 60 includes a first trunk line 61, a second trunk line 62, and a third trunk line 63, and is configured as an intercom trunk line. The control device 50 is connected to the lobby intercom 10 via the first trunk line 61. The control device 50 is connected to multiple dwelling unit terminals 20 via the second trunk line 62, which includes multiple branch lines and multiple branch switches. The control device 50 is connected to the management terminal 30 via the third trunk line 63.

[0038] The lobby intercom 10 is configured to communicate with each dwelling unit terminal 20 (for example, by making calls, making calls, transmitting video signals and control signals, etc.) via the first trunk line 61, the control device 50, and the second trunk line 62. The lobby intercom 10 is also configured to communicate with the management terminal 30 (for example, by making calls, making calls, transmitting video signals and control signals, etc.) via the first trunk line 61, the control device 50, and the third trunk line 63. For example, the lobby intercom 10 transmits a call signal to the dwelling unit terminal 20 or the management terminal 30 to call the dwelling unit terminal 20 or the management terminal 30. Furthermore, the lobby intercom 10 has an imaging unit 17 (camera), and images of visitors captured by the imaging unit 17 of the lobby intercom 10 can be transmitted to the dwelling unit terminal 20 or the management terminal 30. As a result, images of visitors captured by the imaging unit 17 of the lobby intercom 10 can be displayed on the dwelling unit terminal 20 or the management terminal 30. Furthermore, the management terminal 30 is configured to communicate with each dwelling unit terminal 20 via the third trunk line 63, the control device 50, and the second trunk line 62 (for example, making calls, making phone calls, transmitting video signals and control signals, etc.).

[0039] In short, the control device 50 is configured to control communication such as calls between two of the intercom devices among the lobby intercom 10, the dwelling unit terminal 20, and the management terminal 30 of the intercom system 100.

[0040] The management server 200 is located outside the apartment building 9. The management server 200 is connected to the lobby intercom 10 via an external network NT1, such as the Internet.

[0041] The management server 200 primarily consists of a microcomputer having one or more processors and one or more memory units. In other words, the management server 200 includes a processing unit and a storage unit 201 (server-side storage unit).

[0042] (1.2.2) Lobby Intercom As shown in Figure 2, the lobby intercom 10 includes a communication unit 11, a processing unit 12, a call unit 13, a display unit 14, an operation unit 15, a storage unit 16, and an imaging unit 17.

[0043] The communications unit 11 includes a first communications unit 111, a second communications unit 112, and a third communications unit 113.

[0044] The first communication unit 111 includes a communication interface for communicating with the dwelling unit terminal 20 and the management terminal 30. The first communication unit 111 is connected to the control device 50 via the first trunk line 61. The first communication unit 111 transmits call signals, voice signals, and video signals, etc., to the dwelling unit terminal 20 and the management terminal 30 via the control device 50. Furthermore, the first communication unit 111 receives voice signals, unlock signals, and control signals, etc., from the dwelling unit terminal 20 and the management terminal 30 via the control device 50. When communicating with the dwelling unit terminal 20, the communication signal from the lobby intercom 10 includes information for identifying a specific dwelling unit terminal 20 among the multiple dwelling unit terminals 20 (for example, address information unique to the dwelling unit terminal 20). Therefore, only the dwelling unit terminal 20 that has been assigned address information matching the address information included in this communication signal can receive the communication signal.

[0045] The second communication unit 112 includes a communication interface for communicating with the management server 200. The second communication unit 112 is connected to the management server 200 via the external network NT1. The second communication unit 112 can send and receive various types of information to and from the management server 200. Alternatively, the control device 50 may be connected to the external network NT1 and the management server 200 via a gateway or the like, and the lobby intercom 10 may be connected to the management server 200 via the control device 50.

[0046] The third communication unit 113 (lobby-side communication unit) includes a communication interface for wireless communication with the mobile terminal 8. The third communication unit 113 communicates with the mobile terminal 8 using short-range wireless communication, for example, using a communication standard such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. When the mobile terminal 8 carried by a resident or the like enters the range within which wireless communication with the lobby intercom 10 is possible, and the processing unit 12 receives a request signal from the mobile terminal 8 to establish a communication connection, the processing unit 12 performs processing to establish a communication connection with the mobile terminal 8.

[0047] The processing unit 12 primarily consists of a microcomputer having one or more processors and one or more memories. In the processing unit 12, the functions of each part of the processing unit 12 are realized by one or more processors executing programs stored in memory. The programs may be pre-stored in memory, provided via telecommunication lines such as the Internet, or provided on non-temporary recording media such as memory cards.

[0048] The processing unit 12 is configured to control the operation of the communication unit 11, the call unit 13, the display unit 14, and the imaging unit 17, etc. The processing unit 12 also has various functions.

[0049] As shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 12 includes a lock control unit 121.

[0050] The lock control unit 121 performs an unlocking operation. The unlocking operation includes unlocking the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91, or opening the entrance door 911 (for example, opening the unlocked entrance door 911).

[0051] The lock control unit 121 performs an unlocking operation when, for example, the operation unit 15 receives an unlocking operation to initiate an unlocking operation. The lock control unit 121 also performs an unlocking operation when it receives an unlocking signal from the dwelling terminal 20 via the first communication unit 111. Furthermore, the lock control unit 121 receives key information from the mobile terminal 8 via the third communication unit 113, and performs an unlocking operation if it successfully authenticates the received key information. Authentication of key information may include, for example, comparing the key information received from the mobile terminal 8 with a large number of key information stored in the storage unit 16 to determine whether the received key information matches any of the key information in the storage unit 16.

[0052] Furthermore, the lock control unit 121 performs a locking operation. The locking operation includes closing the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91 and locking the entrance door 911.

[0053] The lock control unit 121 performs a locking operation at an appropriate timing. For example, the lock control unit 121 performs a locking operation when a predetermined time has elapsed since the unlocking operation and it has been confirmed that there is no person or object on the entrance door 911 based on the detection results of a motion sensor or the like.

[0054] Other functions of the processing unit 12 will be described later.

[0055] The communication unit 13 includes a speaker and a microphone and is configured to enable communication between the dwelling unit terminal 20 and the management terminal 30.

[0056] The display unit 14 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 14 is configured to display images captured by the imaging unit 17. The display unit 14 is also configured to display messages to visitors, etc. If the lobby intercom 10 is equipped with a touch panel display, the touch panel display may serve as both the display unit 14 and the operation unit 15.

[0057] The control unit 15 is configured to accept input from a person (such as a visitor or a resident of the dwelling unit 92). The control unit 15 is an input interface that includes, for example, multiple push-button switches and a touch panel.

[0058] The memory unit 16 is composed of read-write memory. For example, the memory unit 16 is flash memory. The memory unit 16 stores various types of information.

[0059] The memory unit 16 is an example of a lobby-side memory unit where authentication information is stored. The memory unit 16 stores a large amount of authentication information to correspond to multiple dwelling units 92. In the memory unit 16, the authentication information is stored linked to dwelling unit information relating to the dwelling unit 92 where the dwelling unit terminal 20 is installed. In the memory unit 16, the authentication information may be further linked to an individual number (described later) or terminal information (described later).

[0060] The imaging unit 17 is a camera equipped with an image sensor for capturing images of a subject (such as a visitor). The image sensor is a two-dimensional image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor.

[0061] The imaging unit 17 may be, for example, a camera that captures video, or a camera that captures color images. Alternatively, the imaging unit 17 may be a camera that captures still images (a still camera), or a camera that captures monochrome images. The imaging area (field of view) of the imaging unit 17 is set to include, for example, the space in front of the lobby intercom 10.

[0062] (1.2.3) Dwelling unit terminal As shown in Figure 3, the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes a communication unit 21, a processing unit 22, a call unit 23, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, and a storage unit 26.

[0063] The communications unit 21 includes a first communications unit 211, a second communications unit 212, and a third communications unit 213.

[0064] The first communication unit 211 includes a communication interface for communicating with the lobby intercom 10 and the management terminal 30. The first communication unit 211 is connected to the control device 50 via the second trunk line 62. The first communication unit 211 transmits voice signals, unlocking signals, and video signals, etc., to the lobby intercom 10 via the control device 50. Furthermore, the first communication unit 211 receives call signals, voice signals, and control signals, etc., from the lobby intercom 10 via the control device 50.

[0065] The second communication unit 212 includes a communication interface for communicating with the door station 40. The second communication unit 212 is connected to the door station 40 via a connecting line 64. The second communication unit 212 transmits voice signals and control signals to the door station 40 and receives call signals, voice signals, and video signals from the door station 40.

[0066] The third communication unit 213 includes a communication interface for wireless communication with the mobile terminal 8. The third communication unit 213 communicates with the mobile terminal 8 using short-range wireless communication, for example, using a communication standard such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

[0067] The processing unit 22 primarily consists of a microcomputer having one or more processors and one or more memories. In the processing unit 22, the functions of each part of the processing unit 22 are realized by one or more processors executing a program stored in memory. The program may be pre-stored in memory, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0068] The processing unit 22 is configured to control the operation of the communication unit 21, the call unit 23, and the display unit 24, etc. The processing unit 22 also has various functions, which will be described later.

[0069] The communication unit 23 includes a speaker and a microphone and is configured to enable communication between the lobby intercom 10 and the management terminal 30.

[0070] The display unit 24 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display. Various screens can be displayed on the display unit 24. For example, the display unit 24 is configured to display video. When the dwelling terminal 20 is in a state where it can communicate with the lobby intercom 10, the display unit 24 displays the video captured by the imaging unit 17 of the lobby intercom 10, which is the communication target. When the dwelling terminal 20 is in a state where it can communicate with the entrance unit 40, the display unit 24 displays the video captured by the entrance unit 40, which is the communication target. If the dwelling terminal 20 is equipped with a touch panel display, the touch panel display may serve as both the display unit 24 and the operation unit 25.

[0071] The display unit 24 further displays a two-dimensional code containing authentication information (key information). The two-dimensional code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). The display unit 24 is an example of a presentation unit 29 that presents authentication information in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8.

[0072] The control unit 25 is configured to accept input from a person (such as a resident of the dwelling unit 92). The control unit 25 is an input interface that includes, for example, multiple push-button switches and a touch panel.

[0073] The control unit 25 includes a call button and an end button. The call button is pressed to start a call with the caller, for example, when a call is received from the lobby intercom 10 or the entrance unit 40. The end button is pressed to end a call, for example, while a call is in progress with the lobby intercom 10 or the entrance unit 40.

[0074] Furthermore, the operation unit 25 may include an unlock button. The unlock button is used to open the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91. For example, when voice communication is being made with the lobby intercom 10 via the first communication unit 211 (communication state), if the unlock button is pressed, an unlock signal is sent from the dwelling terminal 20 to the lobby intercom 10 via the control device 50 to initiate the unlocking operation. As a result, the lock control unit 121 opens the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91, allowing the visitor to enter the lobby 91.

[0075] The storage unit 26 is composed of read-write memory. The storage unit 26 is, for example, flash memory. The storage unit 26 stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 26 stores dwelling unit information relating to dwelling unit 92 in which the dwelling unit terminal 20 is installed. The dwelling unit information may include, for example, information indicating the room number of dwelling unit 92.

[0076] (1.2.4) Integration of mobile devices and intercom system The intercom system 100 of this embodiment can provide linked functions that become available when linked with a mobile terminal 8. The linked functions include, for example, a walk-through unlocking function. The walk-through unlocking function is a function that allows a person (resident, etc.) who possesses a mobile terminal 8 linked with the intercom system 100 to pass through the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91 without performing any action at the entrance door 911 (such as operating the operation unit 15 of the lobby intercom 10 or presenting a card key to the card reader). That is, when the mobile terminal 8 linked with the intercom system 100 approaches within a distance where it can communicate with the lobby intercom 10, it communicates with the lobby intercom 10 via short-range wireless communication to transmit key information to the lobby intercom 10. The lobby intercom 10 then authenticates the received key information, and if authentication is successful, it automatically performs the unlocking operation. As a result, a resident possessing the mobile terminal 8 can pass through the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91 without performing any action at the entrance door 911 when returning to their apartment 92. This improves the convenience for residents.

[0077] In order to implement such functionality, it is necessary to link the residents' mobile devices 8 with the intercom system 100 in advance.

[0078] On the other hand, if a resident moves out of apartment 92 after their mobile device 8 has been linked to the intercom system 100, security issues may arise if the mobile device 8 remains linked. Therefore, when a resident moves out, it is necessary to disconnect the mobile device 8 from the intercom system 100.

[0079] The following describes the linking operation and disconnection operation performed in the intercom system 100 of this embodiment to link the mobile terminal 8 with the intercom system 100, as well as the configuration for realizing these operations.

[0080] (1.2.4.1) Cooperative operation The collaborative operation will be explained with reference to Figures 2 to 4.

[0081] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling terminal 20 includes a cooperation request transmission unit 221.

[0082] When the operation unit 25 of the dwelling terminal 20 receives a linkage request operation, the linkage request transmission unit 221 sends a linkage start request R1 (see Figure 4), which requests the start of linkage between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100, to the lobby intercom 10 via the communication line 60, linked to the dwelling information. As described above, the dwelling information may include, for example, information indicating the room number of dwelling unit 92.

[0083] The link-start request R1 includes dwelling unit information. Furthermore, the link-start request R1 also includes information indicating an individual number. The individual number is an identifier used to distinguish multiple mobile terminals 8 when multiple mobile terminals 8 are linked to a single dwelling unit 92 (or its dwelling unit information). That is, a single dwelling unit 92 may have multiple residents, and each of these residents may own a mobile terminal 8. Therefore, it is preferable that multiple mobile terminals 8 can be linked to a single dwelling unit 92 (or its dwelling unit information). Note that the number of mobile terminals 8 that can be linked to a single dwelling unit 92 (or its dwelling unit information) may be pre-set. The number of mobile terminals 8 that can be linked to a single dwelling unit 92 may be set, for example, according to the number of residents in the dwelling unit 92.

[0084] As shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 12 of the lobby intercom 10 includes an authentication information generation unit 122.

[0085] When the authentication information generation unit 122 receives a request to initiate communication R1 from the dwelling terminal 20 via the first communication unit 111 of the lobby intercom 10, it generates authentication information. Note that "generating authentication information" is a concept that may include reading authentication information that has been generated in advance and stored in the storage unit from the storage unit.

[0086] The authentication information generation unit 122 links the generated authentication information with the dwelling unit information and individual number included in the linkage start request R1 and stores it in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0087] Furthermore, the authentication information generation unit 122 sends a request response R2 (see Figure 4) via the communication line 60 to the dwelling terminal 20 from which the linkage start request R1 was sent. The request response R2 contains the generated authentication information. The request response R2 also contains the dwelling information of the dwelling terminal 20 to which it was sent. The request response R2 also contains the individual information contained in the linkage start request R1 that was sent to it. The request response R2 also contains property information. "Property information" refers to information that can identify this apartment building 9, or information that can identify the intercom system 100 applied to this apartment building 9. The property information may be information that can distinguish the apartment building 9 to which this intercom system 100 is applied from other buildings. The property information may be, for example, the building name and address of the apartment building 9, or a randomly generated unique string of characters.

[0088] Request response R2 may, for example, be information specifying a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code may include authentication information. The two-dimensional code may include dwelling unit information. The two-dimensional code may include individual information. The two-dimensional code may include property information.

[0089] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes an authentication information receiving unit 222.

[0090] The authentication information receiving unit 222 receives the request response R2 from the lobby intercom 10 via the first communication unit 211 of the dwelling terminal 20. The authentication information receiving unit 222 stores the authentication information contained in the request response R2 received from the lobby intercom 10 in the storage unit 26, linking it to an individual number.

[0091] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes a presentation processing unit 223.

[0092] When the presentation processing unit 223 receives the request response R2 from the lobby intercom 10, it performs a process to present authentication information. Here, the presentation processing unit 223 displays the two-dimensional code specified in the request response R2 on the display unit 24. That is, the display unit 24, acting as the presentation unit 29, presents the authentication information (displayed as a two-dimensional code) in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8. As described above, the two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit 24 further includes dwelling unit information, individual information, and property information.

[0093] The two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit 24 is read by the resident who has performed a linkage request operation to the operation unit 25 using the mobile terminal 8. By reading the two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit 24, the mobile terminal 8 stores authentication information (and dwelling unit information, individual information, and property information) in its memory.

[0094] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes a terminal information acquisition unit 224.

[0095] The terminal information acquisition unit 224 acquires terminal information relating to the mobile terminal 8 from which authentication information has been obtained.

[0096] For example, when the mobile terminal 8 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit 24, an instruction screen prompting the resident to perform a specific operation is displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal 8. Then, when the resident operates the mobile terminal 8 according to the instruction screen, the mobile terminal 8 performs short-range wireless communication with the dwelling terminal 20. As a result, terminal information of the mobile terminal 8 (e.g., MAC address, etc.) is notified to the dwelling terminal 20 and acquired by the terminal information acquisition unit 224.

[0097] Alternatively, when the mobile terminal 8 reads the two-dimensional code displayed on the display unit 24, an input screen prompting the user to enter terminal information (e.g., phone number, Bluetooth information, etc.) is displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal 8. The resident then enters the terminal information on the input screen, and this information is transmitted to the dwelling terminal 20 via short-range wireless communication, at which point the terminal information acquisition unit 224 acquires the terminal information.

[0098] Thus, terminal information may include the MAC address, telephone number, or Bluetooth information of the mobile terminal 8.

[0099] Furthermore, the means by which the terminal information acquisition unit 224 acquires terminal information is not limited to short-range wireless communication between the mobile terminal 8 and the dwelling terminal 20, but may also be communication via an external network NT1 such as the Internet.

[0100] The terminal information acquisition unit 224 stores the acquired terminal information in the storage unit 26, linking it with authentication information and individual number.

[0101] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling terminal 20 includes a registration information transmission unit 225.

[0102] The registration information transmission unit 225 transmits the registration information notification R3 (see Figure 4) to the lobby intercom 10 via the communication line 60. The registration information notification R3 includes terminal information acquired by the terminal information acquisition unit 224. The registration information notification R3 may further include dwelling unit information. The registration information notification R3 may further include authentication information. The registration information notification R3 may further include an individual number.

[0103] As shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 12 of the lobby intercom 10 includes a registration information receiving unit 123.

[0104] The registration information receiving unit 123 receives the registration information notification R3 from the dwelling terminal 20 via the first communication unit 111 of the lobby intercom 10. The registration information receiving unit 123 stores the terminal information contained in the registration information notification R3 received from the dwelling terminal 20 in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16), linking it with the dwelling information, authentication information, and individual number. If the registration information notification R3 contains dwelling information, authentication information, or an individual number, the registration information receiving unit 123 only needs to link the terminal information to the dwelling information, authentication information, or individual number contained in the registration information notification R3. If the registration information notification R3 does not contain dwelling information, authentication information, or an individual number, the registration information receiving unit 123 only needs to link the terminal information to the dwelling information contained in the starting linkage start request R1.

[0105] As shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 12 of the lobby intercom 10 includes a completion notification unit 124.

[0106] The completion notification unit 124 sends a connection completion notification R4 (see Figure 4) to the mobile terminal 8 and the dwelling terminal 20, indicating that the connection with the mobile terminal 8 has been completed.

[0107] For example, when a mobile terminal 8, whose authentication information is stored in its memory unit, performs short-range wireless communication with the lobby intercom 10 for the first time, the lobby intercom 10 performs a verification process. In one specific example, the mobile terminal 8 transmits a pair of authentication information and dwelling unit information stored in the mobile terminal 8 to the lobby intercom 10. The lobby intercom 10 determines whether the received pair of authentication information and dwelling unit information matches a pair of authentication information and dwelling unit information stored in the lobby-side memory unit (memory unit 16). If they match, the completion notification unit 124 determines that the connection with the mobile terminal 8 is complete and sends a connection completion notification R4 to the mobile terminal 8 and the dwelling unit terminal 20. For example, the completion notification unit 124 sends a connection completion notification R4 to the dwelling unit terminal 20 via the communication line 60 and sends a connection completion notification R4 to the mobile terminal 8 via short-range wireless communication.

[0108] Upon receiving the linkage completion notification R4, the dwelling terminal 20 may, for example, display a screen on the display unit 24 indicating that the linkage is complete. The same applies to the mobile terminal 8. In addition, during the confirmation process, the mobile terminal 8 may transmit a pair of authentication information and terminal information (or a pair of authentication information and individual number) to the lobby intercom 10.

[0109] As shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 12 of the lobby intercom 10 includes a shared processing unit 125.

[0110] When the sharing processing unit 125 completes communication with the mobile terminal 8, it sends a sharing notification R5 (see Figure 4) to the management server 200 via the external network NT1. The sharing notification R5 includes authentication information, dwelling unit information, and property information. The sharing notification R5 may include an individual number in place of or in addition to the authentication information. The sharing notification R5 may include terminal information in place of or in addition to the authentication information. When the management server 200 receives the sharing notification R5, it stores the information contained in the sharing notification R5 in the storage unit 201 (server-side storage unit) of the management server 200.

[0111] The flow of the coordinated operation will be explained by referring to the sequence diagram in Figure 4.

[0112] First, residents who wish to connect their mobile device 8 operate the control panel 25 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 to perform a connection request operation (ST1).

[0113] When the dwelling unit terminal 20 (cooperation request transmission unit 221) receives a cooperation request operation, it sends a cooperation start request R1 containing dwelling unit information to the lobby intercom 10 (ST2).

[0114] When the lobby intercom 10 (authentication information generation unit 122) receives the linkage start request R1, it generates authentication information (ST3), stores the authentication information, and sends a request response R2 containing the authentication information to the dwelling terminal 20 (ST4).

[0115] When the dwelling terminal 20 (presentation processing unit 223) receives the request response R2, it stores the authentication information contained in the request response R2 in the storage unit 26 and presents the authentication information (displayed as a two-dimensional code) in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8 (ST5).

[0116] In the mobile terminal 8, when the resident operates the mobile terminal 8, the presented authentication information is obtained (ST6) and stored in the memory unit of the mobile terminal 8.

[0117] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 8 transmits terminal information to the dwelling terminal 20, and the dwelling terminal 20 (terminal information acquisition unit 224) receives the terminal information (ST7).

[0118] The dwelling unit terminal 20 (registration information transmission unit 225) stores the acquired terminal information in the storage unit 26 (ST8) and transmits a registration information notification R3 containing the terminal information to the lobby intercom 10 (ST9).

[0119] The lobby intercom 10 (registration information reception unit 123) receives the registration information notification R3 from the dwelling unit terminal 20 and stores the terminal information in the storage unit 16, linking it with the dwelling unit information and authentication information (and individual number) (ST10).

[0120] Subsequently, when the mobile terminal 8 makes its first short-range wireless communication with the lobby intercom 10, the authentication information verification process is performed (ST11), and the lobby intercom 10 (completion notification unit 124) sends a linkage completion notification R4 to the mobile terminal 8 and the dwelling terminal 20 (ST12).

[0121] Additionally, the lobby intercom 10 (share processing unit 125) sends a share notification R5 to the management server 200 (ST13).

[0122] By linking the mobile device 8 and the intercom system 100 in this manner, the resident who owns the mobile device 8 will be able to use the linking function.

[0123] (1.2.4.2) Release operation In the intercom system 100 of this embodiment, there are two methods for disconnecting the connection with the mobile terminal 8 (method for performing the disconnection operation): one is by operating the dwelling terminal 20 (first disconnection method), and the other is by using the management server 200 (second disconnection method). However, the system is not limited to these two methods, and it is also possible for only one of the first or second disconnection methods to be used.

[0124] [First release method] First, the first release method will be explained with reference to Figures 2, 3, and 5.

[0125] As shown in Figure 3, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 includes a stop request transmission unit 226.

[0126] When the operation unit 25 of the dwelling terminal 20 receives a stop request operation, the stop request transmission unit 226 transmits a linkage stop request R101 (see Figure 5), which requests the cessation of the use of the linkage function, to the lobby intercom 10 via the communication line 60, linked to the dwelling information. A "stop request operation" is an operation performed on the operation unit 25 of the dwelling terminal 20, which is a predetermined procedure for stopping the linkage between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100.

[0127] For example, there are two types of stop request operations: a total stop request operation and an individual stop request operation.

[0128] A request to shut down all connections is an operation that requests the shutdown of all connections between multiple mobile devices 8 that are linked to a single dwelling unit 92 (or its dwelling unit information). A request to shut down all connections can be used, for example, when a resident moves out of dwelling unit 92.

[0129] An individual deactivation request operation is an operation that requests the deactivation of the connection of a specified mobile terminal 8 when multiple mobile terminals 8 are linked to a single dwelling unit 92 (or its dwelling unit information). An individual deactivation request operation can be used, for example, when a resident replaces their mobile terminal 8 or disposes of (deactivates) a mobile terminal 8.

[0130] Linkage termination request R101 includes at least one of authentication information and dwelling unit information. Linkage termination request R101 may include terminal information in place of or in addition to authentication information. Linkage termination request R101 may include an individual number in place of or in addition to authentication information. For example, linkage termination request R101 in response to a global termination request operation includes at least dwelling unit information. Also, linkage termination request R101 in response to an individual termination request operation includes at least authentication information.

[0131] As shown in Figure 2, the lobby intercom 10 includes a stop request receiving unit 126.

[0132] When the stop request receiving unit 126 receives a linkage stop request R101 from the dwelling terminal 20 via the first communication unit 111 of the lobby intercom 10, it deletes from the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16) the authentication information (or the authentication information included in the linkage stop request R101) that is linked to the dwelling information included in the received linkage stop request R101, from among the many authentication pieces of information stored in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16). As a result, the linkage between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100 is terminated.

[0133] Furthermore, the completion notification unit 124 of the lobby intercom 10 transmits a cancellation completion notification R102 (see Figure 5) to the dwelling terminal 20 via the communication line 60, indicating that the cancellation of the connection with the mobile terminal 8 has been completed.

[0134] Upon receiving the deactivation completion notification R102, the dwelling terminal 20 deletes the authentication information of the mobile terminal 8 whose linkage has been terminated from the storage unit 26. The dwelling terminal 20 may also, for example, display a screen on the display unit 24 indicating that the deactivation of the linkage has been completed.

[0135] Furthermore, the shared processing unit 125 of the lobby intercom 10 sends a cancellation notification R103 (see Figure 5) indicating that the mobile terminal 8 has been disconnected to the management server 200 via the external network NT1. The cancellation notification R103 includes at least one of the authentication information and dwelling unit information, and property information. The cancellation notification R103 may include an individual number in place of or in addition to the authentication information. The cancellation notification R103 may include terminal information in place of or in addition to the authentication information. When the management server 200 receives the cancellation notification R103, it deletes the authentication information contained in the cancellation notification R103 from the management server 200's storage.

[0136] Referring to the sequence diagram in Figure 5, the flow of the release operation using the first release method will be explained.

[0137] First, a resident who wishes to disconnect the mobile terminal 8 (or the building manager of the apartment complex 9 if the resident has moved out) operates the control panel 25 of the dwelling terminal 20 to perform a stop request operation (ST101).

[0138] When the dwelling terminal 20 (stop request transmission unit 226) receives a stop request operation, it transmits a linkage stop request R101 containing dwelling information or authentication information to the lobby intercom 10 (ST102).

[0139] When the lobby intercom 10 (stop request receiving unit 126) receives the linkage stop request R101, it deletes the authentication information from the storage unit 16 (ST103). The lobby intercom 10 (completion notification unit 124) also sends a deactivation completion notification R102 to the dwelling terminal 20 (ST104).

[0140] Furthermore, the lobby intercom 10 (shared processing unit 125) sends a release notification R103 to the management server 200 (ST105).

[0141] In the first deactivation method, the connection between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100 is terminated by following these steps.

[0142] [Second release method] Next, the second method of deactivation will be explained with reference to Figures 2, 3, and 6. The second method of deactivation can be used primarily when a resident vacates dwelling unit 92, etc.

[0143] When the management server 200 receives a deactivation request operation at the management server 200's operation unit, it sends a linkage termination request R111 (see Figure 6) to the lobby intercom 10 via the external network NT1. The linkage termination request R111 includes dwelling unit information and property information linked to the authentication information of one or more mobile terminals 8 that are the target of the linkage termination. The linkage termination request R111 may further include at least one of the following: authentication information, individual number, and terminal information.

[0144] When the stop request receiving unit 126 of the lobby intercom 10 receives a linkage stop request R111 from the management server 200 via the second communication unit 112 of the lobby intercom 10, it deletes from the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16) the authentication information that is linked to the dwelling unit information included in the received linkage stop request R111, from among the many authentication pieces of information stored in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16). As a result, the linkage between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100 is terminated.

[0145] Furthermore, the completion notification unit 124 of the lobby intercom 10 sends a cancellation completion notification R112 (see Figure 6) to the management server 200 via the external network NT1, indicating that the cancellation of the mobile terminal 8's connection has been completed.

[0146] Upon receiving the deactivation completion notification R112, the management server 200 deletes the authentication information of the mobile terminal 8 whose connection has been terminated from its storage unit. The management server 200 may also display a screen indicating that the deactivation of the connection has been completed on its display unit.

[0147] Furthermore, the shared processing unit 125 of the lobby intercom 10 sends a release notification R113 to the dwelling terminal 20 via the communication line 60, indicating that the connection with the mobile terminal 8 has been terminated. Upon receiving the release notification R113, the dwelling terminal 20 deletes the authentication information contained in the release notification R113 from the storage unit 26.

[0148] Referring to the sequence diagram in Figure 6, the flow of the release operation using the second release method will be explained.

[0149] First, the user of the management server 200 operates the control panel of the management server 200 to perform a release request operation (ST111).

[0150] When the management server 200 receives a release request operation, it sends a linkage stop request R111, which includes dwelling unit information and property information, to the lobby intercom 10 (ST112).

[0151] When the lobby intercom 10 (stop request receiving unit 126) receives the linkage stop request R111, it deletes the authentication information from the storage unit 16 (ST113). The lobby intercom 10 (completion notification unit 124) also sends a deactivation completion notification R112 to the management server 200 (ST114).

[0152] Furthermore, the lobby intercom 10 (completion notification unit 124) sends a cancellation notification R113 to the dwelling unit terminal 20 (ST115).

[0153] In the second deactivation method, the connection between the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100 is terminated by following these steps.

[0154] (1.2.4.3) During operation Referring to the sequence diagram in Figure 7, the operation of the information management system 300 when executing the walk-through unlocking function, which is an example of a collaborative function, will be explained.

[0155] When a resident carrying a mobile terminal 8 that is linked to the intercom system 100 approaches the lobby intercom 10, such as when returning to dwelling unit 92, the mobile terminal 8 communicates with the lobby intercom 10 via short-range wireless communication and transmits authentication information (key information) to the lobby intercom 10 (ST201).

[0156] When the lobby intercom 10 (lock control unit 121) receives authentication information, it authenticates the received authentication information, and if authentication is successful, it performs an unlocking operation including unlocking and opening the entrance door 911 (ST202). As a result, residents carrying the mobile terminal 8 can pass through the entrance door 911 of the lobby 91 without performing any action at the entrance door 911.

[0157] Furthermore, the lobby intercom 10 sends an unlocking notification R201 to the management server 200 via the external network NT1 (ST203), indicating that the entrance door 911 has been unlocked using the authentication information. The unlocking notification R201 includes authentication information and property information. The unlocking notification R201 may further include an individual number. The unlocking notification R201 may further include dwelling unit information. The unlocking notification R201 may further include terminal information.

[0158] When the unlock notification R201 is sent to the management server 200, the user of the management server 200 can, for example, manage unauthorized use of authentication information.

[0159] (1.3) Advantages In the intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of this embodiment, residents of the dwelling unit 92 can use the linked function that connects the mobile terminal 8 and the intercom system 100 by possessing a linked mobile terminal 8. This improves the convenience for residents.

[0160] Furthermore, in the intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of this embodiment, authentication information is presented via the dwelling unit terminal 20. Therefore, residents can connect their mobile terminal 8 with the intercom system 100 while remaining in their dwelling unit 92 (without having to go to the lobby 91). This further improves convenience for residents and may also enhance security.

[0161] Furthermore, in the intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of this embodiment, it is possible to disconnect the mobile terminal 8 from the intercom system 100. Therefore, for example, when a resident moves out of the dwelling unit 92, disconnecting the connection will prevent the lobby intercom 10 from unlocking even if the resident's mobile terminal 8 approaches within communication range of the lobby intercom 10. This can improve security.

[0162] Furthermore, in the intercom system 100 of this embodiment, the connection can be terminated by operating the dwelling terminal 20 (first termination method), so the connection can be easily terminated by the resident themselves, the construction company, the cleaning company, etc. by operating the dwelling terminal 20. In addition, it is unlikely that an error such as accidentally terminating the connection of a mobile terminal 8 of a resident of another dwelling unit 92 will occur.

[0163] Furthermore, in the intercom system 100 of this embodiment, the connection can be terminated by operation of the management server 200 (second termination method), so for example, a user of the management server 200 can terminate the connection without having to go to the apartment building 9 in person.

[0164] (2) Variant The following lists modifications of the above embodiment. In the description of the following modifications, elements similar to those in the above embodiment may be given the same reference numerals and their descriptions may be omitted as appropriate.

[0165] The processing units of the information management system 300 in this disclosure (lobby intercom 10, dwelling unit terminal 20, management server 200) include a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program recorded in the memory of the computer system, thereby realizing the function of the processing units of the information management system 300 in this disclosure. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system consists of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The integrated circuits such as ICs or LSIs referred to here are named differently depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, VLSIs (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSIs (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) that are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring the junction relationships or circuit compartments within the LSI, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits may be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips may be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller also consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0166] Furthermore, it is not essential that the multiple functions of the processing unit of the information management system 300 be consolidated within a single housing. The components of the processing unit may be distributed across multiple housings.

[0167] Conversely, multiple functions of the processing unit of the information management system 300 may be consolidated within a single housing. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the processing unit of the information management system 300 may be implemented by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0168] (2.1) Variation 1 The intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of Modification 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 8 to 10.

[0169] In this modified version of the intercom system 100, as shown in Figure 9, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 does not have a cooperation request transmission unit 221 (see Figure 3) and an authentication information reception unit 222 (see Figure 3). Also, as shown in Figure 8, the processing unit 12 of the lobby intercom 10 does not have an authentication information generation unit 122 (see Figure 2), and instead, the processing unit 22 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 has an authentication information generation unit 229.

[0170] The authentication information generation unit 229 of the dwelling terminal 20 generates authentication information when the operation unit 25 of the dwelling terminal 20 receives a cooperation request operation.

[0171] The authentication information generation unit 229 stores the generated authentication information in the storage unit 26.

[0172] Furthermore, the presentation processing unit 223 causes the presentation unit 29 to present (display as a two-dimensional code) the authentication information generated by the authentication information generation unit 229. The two-dimensional code includes dwelling unit information. The two-dimensional code includes individual information. The two-dimensional code includes property information.

[0173] In other words, in this modified intercom system 100, authentication information is generated by the dwelling unit terminal 20, not the lobby intercom 10, and is presented on the dwelling unit terminal 20. The presented authentication information is acquired by the mobile terminal 8, as in the above embodiment. Also, as in the above embodiment, the terminal information acquisition unit 224 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 acquires terminal information.

[0174] The registration information transmission unit 225 of the dwelling unit terminal 20 transmits a registration information notification R303 (see Figure 10) to the lobby intercom 10 via the communication line 60. The registration information notification R303 includes the generated authentication information and dwelling unit information. The registration information notification R303 includes an individual number. The registration information notification R303 includes property information. The registration information notification R303 may include terminal information.

[0175] Furthermore, the registration information receiving unit 123 of the lobby intercom 10 stores the authentication information and dwelling information contained in the registration information notification R303 received from the dwelling terminal 20 in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16), linking them together. If the registration information notification R303 includes terminal information, the registration information receiving unit 123 further links the terminal information with the dwelling information and authentication information and stores it in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0176] The following describes the flow of coordinated operations in this modified example, referring to the sequence diagram in Figure 10.

[0177] First, residents who wish to connect their mobile terminal 8 operate the control panel 25 of the dwelling terminal 20 to perform a connection request operation (ST301).

[0178] When the dwelling terminal 20 (authentication information generation unit 229) receives a linkage request operation, it generates authentication information (ST302) and presents the authentication information in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8 (displayed as a two-dimensional code) (ST303).

[0179] In the mobile terminal 8, when the resident operates the mobile terminal 8, the presented authentication information is obtained (ST304) and stored in the memory unit of the mobile terminal 8.

[0180] Furthermore, the mobile terminal 8 transmits terminal information to the dwelling terminal 20, and the dwelling terminal 20 (terminal information acquisition unit 224) receives the terminal information (ST305).

[0181] The dwelling unit terminal 20 (registration information transmission unit 225) stores the acquired terminal information in the storage unit 26 (ST306) and transmits a registration information notification R303, which includes authentication information, dwelling unit information, and terminal information, to the lobby intercom 10 (ST307).

[0182] The lobby intercom 10 (registration information receiving unit 123) receives the registration information notification R303 from the dwelling unit terminal 20, links the authentication information, dwelling unit information, and terminal information together, and stores them in the storage unit 16 (ST308).

[0183] Subsequently, when the mobile terminal 8 performs short-range wireless communication with the lobby intercom 10 for the first time, authentication information verification is performed (ST309), and the lobby intercom 10 (completion notification unit 124) sends a linkage completion notification R304 to the mobile terminal 8 and the dwelling terminal 20 (ST310). The linkage completion notification R304 may be the same as the linkage completion notification R4 in the above embodiment.

[0184] Furthermore, the lobby intercom 10 (share processing unit 125) sends a share notification R5 to the management server 200 (ST311). The share notification R305 may be the same as the share notification R5 in the above embodiment.

[0185] The same effects can be expected from the intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of this modified version as from the intercom system 100 and information management system 300 of the above embodiment.

[0186] (2.2) Other variations In one modified example, the presentation unit 29 is not limited to the display unit 24, but can present authentication information in a manner that can be acquired by the mobile terminal 8. For example, the presentation unit 29 may be the third communication unit 213.

[0187] In one modified example, the lobby-side storage unit is not limited to the storage unit 16 provided in the lobby intercom 10, but may be an external storage device connected to the lobby intercom 10, or an external device connected to the lobby intercom 10 via the external network NT1 (excluding the mobile terminal 8, the dwelling terminal 20, and the management server 200). In other words, in this disclosure, "storing authentication information in the lobby-side storage unit" is a concept that includes not only "storing authentication information in the storage unit 16 provided in the lobby intercom 10," but also "storing authentication information in an external storage device or external device."

[0188] In one modified example, the means by which the mobile terminal 8 obtains authentication information (and dwelling unit information, individual information, and property information) is not limited to directly obtaining the information contained in the two-dimensional code, but may also be to access a predetermined address specified by the two-dimensional code and obtain the information from the linked registration service page of that address. The predetermined address may be a local IP address or an address on an external network NT1 such as the Internet. In other words, in this disclosure, "the dwelling unit terminal 20 presents authentication information in a manner that can be obtained by the mobile terminal 8" is a concept that includes not only the dwelling unit terminal 20 presenting authentication information in a manner that can be directly obtained by the mobile terminal (for example, by displaying it on the display unit 24), but also presenting it in a manner that can be indirectly obtained by the mobile terminal (for example, via the external network NT1).

[0189] In one modified example, the collaborative function is not limited to the walk-through unlocking function. The collaborative function may include, for example, a collaborative notification function that notifies the mobile terminal 8 of information notified from the management server 200, etc., to the dwelling terminal 20.

[0190] In one modified example, the dwelling unit terminal 20 (or entrance unit 40) may have a function to unlock the electric lock on the entrance door of the dwelling unit 92 using authentication information, etc.

[0191] In one modified example, the dwelling terminal 20 does not need to obtain terminal information from the mobile terminal 8 during the collaborative operation.

[0192] In one modified example, the process of confirming the cooperation in the cooperative operation (ST11) may be omitted.

[0193] In one variation, the intercom system 100 does not need to notify the management server 200 of the authentication information.

[0194] In one modified example, the apartment building 9 may be a complex facility (e.g., a tenant building) that includes multiple facilities (e.g., tenants). In this case, a lobby intercom 10 may be provided at the entrance of the complex facility, and a dwelling unit terminal 20 may be provided in each facility.

[0195] (3) Appearance As is clear from the embodiments and modifications described above, the following embodiments are disclosed herein.

[0196] The first embodiment of the intercom system (100) comprises a dwelling unit terminal (20) and a lobby intercom (10). The dwelling unit terminal (20) is installed in a dwelling unit (92) of a multi-unit housing complex (9) which includes a lobby (91) and multiple dwelling units (92). The lobby intercom (10) is capable of communicating with the dwelling unit terminal (20) and is installed in the lobby (91). The dwelling unit terminal (20) comprises an operation unit (25) and a display unit (29). The operation unit (25) receives operations from residents of the dwelling unit (92). When the operation unit (25) receives a request for linking a mobile terminal (8) held by a resident with the intercom system (100), the display unit (29) displays authentication information for using the linking function that links the mobile terminal (8) with the intercom system (100) in a manner that can be obtained by the mobile terminal (8). The lobby intercom (10) stores the authentication information in the lobby-side memory unit (memory unit 16), linking it with the dwelling unit information relating to the dwelling unit (92) where the dwelling unit terminal (20) is installed.

[0197] This embodiment makes it possible to improve convenience.

[0198] In the second embodiment of the intercom system (100), in the first embodiment, the lobby intercom (10) further comprises a lock control unit (121) and a lobby-side communication unit (third communication unit 113). The lock control unit (121) performs an unlocking operation, including unlocking or opening the entrance door (911) of the lobby (91). The lobby-side communication unit communicates with a mobile terminal (8) via short-range wireless communication. The authentication information includes key information for causing the lobby intercom (10) to perform an unlocking operation. The lock control unit (121) performs an unlocking operation based on the key information received by the lobby-side communication unit from the mobile terminal (8) via short-range wireless communication.

[0199] This configuration enables the execution of a so-called walk-through unlocking function, thereby further improving convenience.

[0200] In the third embodiment of the intercom system (100), in the first or second embodiment, the dwelling unit terminal (20) is equipped with a display unit (24) as a presentation unit (29). When the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives a linkage request operation via the operation unit (25), it displays a two-dimensional code containing authentication information on the display unit (24).

[0201] According to this embodiment, the authentication information displayed on the display unit (24) can be easily obtained by the mobile terminal (8).

[0202] In the fourth embodiment of the intercom system (100), in any one of the first to third embodiments, when the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives a linkage request operation via the operation unit (25), it sends a linkage start request (R1) to the lobby intercom (10), linked to the dwelling unit information, requesting the start of linkage between the mobile terminal (8) and the intercom system (100). When the lobby intercom (10) receives the linkage start request (R1) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it generates authentication information. The lobby intercom (10) sends a request response (R2) containing the authentication information to the dwelling unit terminal (20). When the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives the request response (R2) from the lobby intercom (10), it displays the authentication information contained in the received request response using the display unit (29).

[0203] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to present the authentication information generated by the lobby intercom (10).

[0204] In the fifth embodiment of the intercom system (100), in the fourth embodiment, the dwelling unit terminal (20) obtains terminal information relating to the mobile terminal (8) that has obtained authentication information presented by the presentation unit (29) through communication with the mobile terminal (8). The dwelling unit terminal (20) transmits a registration information notification (R3, R303) containing the acquired terminal information to the lobby intercom (10). When the lobby intercom (10) receives the registration information notification (R3, R303) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it stores the terminal information contained in the received registration information notification (R3, R303) in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16), linking it with the dwelling unit information and authentication information.

[0205] According to this configuration, terminal information is further stored, making it possible to further improve convenience.

[0206] In the sixth embodiment of the intercom system (100), in any one of the first to fifth embodiments, when the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives a linkage request operation at the operation unit (25), it generates authentication information. The dwelling unit terminal (20) presents the generated authentication information using the presentation unit (29). The dwelling unit terminal (20) transmits a registration information notification (R3, R303) containing the generated authentication information and dwelling unit information to the lobby intercom (10). When the lobby intercom (10) receives the registration information notification (R3, R303) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it links the authentication information and dwelling unit information contained in the registration information notification (R3, R303) together and stores them in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0207] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to present authentication information generated by the dwelling terminal (20).

[0208] In the seventh embodiment of the intercom system (100), in the sixth embodiment, the dwelling unit terminal (20) obtains terminal information relating to the mobile terminal (8) that has obtained authentication information presented by the presentation unit (29) through communication with the mobile terminal (8). The dwelling unit terminal (20) transmits a registration information notification (R3, R303) further containing the acquired terminal information to the lobby intercom (10). When the lobby intercom (10) receives the registration information notification (R3, R303) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it links the terminal information contained in the registration information notification (R3, R303) with the dwelling unit information and authentication information contained in the registration information notification (R3, R303) and stores it in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0209] According to this configuration, terminal information is further stored, making it possible to further improve convenience.

[0210] In the eighth embodiment of the intercom system (100), in any one of the first to seventh embodiments, when the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives a stop request operation requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function via the operation unit (25), it sends a linkage stop request (R101) requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function to the lobby intercom (10) linked to the dwelling unit information. When the lobby intercom (10) receives the linkage stop request (R101) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it deletes the authentication information linked to the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0211] This configuration makes it possible to delete authentication information, thereby further improving convenience.

[0212] In the intercom system (100) of the ninth embodiment, in the fifth or seventh embodiment, when the dwelling unit terminal (20) receives a stop request operation requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function via the operation unit (25), it sends a linkage stop request (R101) requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function to the lobby intercom (10) linked to the dwelling unit information. When the lobby intercom (10) receives the linkage stop request (R101) from the dwelling unit terminal (20), it deletes the authentication information and terminal information linked to the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0213] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to delete authentication information and terminal information, thereby further improving convenience.

[0214] The tenth embodiment of the information management system (300) comprises an intercom system (100) of any one of the first to ninth embodiments and a management server (200). The management server (200) is communicably connected to the lobby intercom (10). The management server (200) includes a server-side storage unit (storage unit 201). The lobby intercom (10) transmits shared notifications (R5, R305) to the management server (200). The shared notifications (R5, R305) include authentication information and dwelling unit information that are linked together in the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16). When the management server (200) receives a shared notification (R5, R305) from the lobby intercom (10), it links the authentication information and dwelling unit information contained in the shared notification (R5, R305) together and stores them in the server-side storage unit.

[0215] This configuration makes it possible to store authentication information in the management server (200), thereby further improving convenience.

[0216] In the 11th embodiment of the information management system (300), in the 10th embodiment, the management server (200), upon receiving an operation from a user of the management server (200), sends a linkage termination request (R111) to the lobby intercom (10) linked to the dwelling unit information, requesting the termination of the use of the linkage function. When the lobby intercom (10) receives the linkage termination request (R111) from the management server (200), it deletes the authentication information linked to the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit (storage unit 16).

[0217] This configuration makes it possible to delete authentication information, thereby further improving convenience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0218] 100 Intercom System 10 Lobby Intercom 112 Second Communications Department (Lobby-side Communications Department) 121 Lock Control Unit 16. Memory Unit (Lobby-side Memory Unit) 20 dwelling unit terminals 24 Display 25 Control section 29 Presentation section 200 Management Servers 201 Storage Unit (Server-side storage unit) 300 Information Management Systems 8 Mobile devices 9 Apartment complex 91 Lobby 911 Entrance door 92 dwelling units R1 Integration Start Request R2 Request and Response R3, R303 Registration Information Notification R5.R305 Share notification R101, R111 Linkage termination request

Claims

1. A dwelling terminal installed in the lobby and in the dwelling units of an apartment building that includes multiple dwelling units, An intercom system comprising a lobby intercom installed in the lobby, which is capable of communicating with the aforementioned dwelling unit terminal, The aforementioned dwelling unit terminal is An operating unit that accepts operations from the resident of the aforementioned dwelling unit, The system includes, upon receiving a request from the resident to link their mobile device with the intercom system, a display unit that presents authentication information for using the linking function between the mobile device and the intercom system in a manner that can be obtained by the mobile device, The aforementioned lobby intercom is, The authentication information is linked to the dwelling unit information relating to the dwelling unit where the dwelling unit terminal is installed, and stored in the lobby-side storage unit. Intercom system.

2. The aforementioned lobby intercom is, A lock control unit that performs an unlocking operation, including unlocking or opening the entrance door of the lobby, The system further comprises a lobby-side communication unit that performs short-range wireless communication with the aforementioned mobile terminal, The authentication information includes key information for causing the lobby intercom to perform the unlocking operation. The lock control unit performs the unlocking operation based on the key information received by the lobby-side communication unit from the mobile terminal via short-range wireless communication. The intercom system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned dwelling unit terminal is equipped with a display unit as the presentation unit, When the dwelling terminal receives the linkage request operation via the operation unit, it displays a two-dimensional code containing the authentication information on the display unit. The intercom system according to claim 1.

4. When the dwelling unit terminal receives the linkage request operation at the operation unit, it sends a linkage start request to the lobby intercom, linked to the dwelling unit information, requesting the start of linkage between the mobile terminal and the intercom system. The aforementioned lobby intercom is, Upon receiving the request to initiate the connection from the dwelling terminal, the authentication information is generated, The request response containing the aforementioned authentication information is sent to the dwelling terminal. When the dwelling unit terminal receives the request response from the lobby intercom, it displays the authentication information included in the received request response using the display unit. The intercom system according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned dwelling unit terminal is The terminal information relating to the mobile terminal that obtained the authentication information presented by the presentation unit is obtained through communication with the mobile terminal. A registration information notification containing the acquired terminal information is sent to the lobby intercom. When the lobby intercom receives the registration information notification from the dwelling unit terminal, it stores the terminal information included in the received registration information notification in the lobby-side storage unit, linking it with the dwelling unit information and the authentication information. The intercom system according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned dwelling unit terminal is When the operation unit receives the aforementioned cooperation request operation, it generates the authentication information, The generated authentication information is presented by the presentation unit. The generated authentication information and the dwelling unit information, along with the registration information notification, are transmitted to the lobby intercom. When the lobby intercom receives the registration information notification from the dwelling unit terminal, it links the authentication information and the dwelling unit information contained in the registration information notification and stores them in the lobby-side storage unit. The intercom system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned dwelling unit terminal is The terminal information relating to the mobile terminal that obtained the authentication information presented by the presentation unit is obtained through communication with the mobile terminal. The registration information notification, which further includes the acquired terminal information, is transmitted to the lobby intercom. When the lobby intercom receives the registration information notification from the dwelling unit terminal, it stores the terminal information included in the registration information notification in the lobby-side storage unit, linking it with the dwelling unit information and authentication information included in the registration information notification. The intercom system according to claim 6.

8. When the dwelling unit terminal receives a stop request operation requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function via the operation unit, it transmits a linkage stop request requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function to the lobby intercom, linked to the dwelling unit information. When the lobby intercom receives the request to stop the connection from the dwelling unit terminal, it deletes the authentication information linked to the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit. The intercom system according to claim 1.

9. When the dwelling unit terminal receives a stop request operation requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function via the operation unit, it transmits a linkage stop request requesting the cessation of the use of the linkage function to the lobby intercom, linked to the dwelling unit information. When the lobby intercom receives the request to stop the connection from the dwelling unit terminal, it deletes the authentication information and terminal information associated with the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit. The intercom system according to claim 5 or 7.

10. The intercom system according to claim 1, The system includes a management server which is connected to the aforementioned lobby intercom and has a server-side storage unit, The lobby intercom transmits a shared notification containing the authentication information and the dwelling unit information, which are linked together in the lobby-side storage unit, to the management server. When the management server receives the shared notification from the lobby intercom, it links the authentication information and the dwelling unit information contained in the shared notification and stores them in the server-side storage unit. Information management system.

11. The management server, upon receiving an operation from a user of the management server, sends a request to stop the use of the linked function to the lobby intercom, linked to the dwelling unit information. When the lobby intercom receives the request to stop the connection from the management server, it deletes the authentication information associated with the dwelling unit information from the lobby-side storage unit. The information management system according to claim 10.

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