Intercom System

Abstract

To provide an intercom system capable of updating additional functional software without any influence on fire / gas leak alarm main functions.SOLUTION: An intercom system comprises: a sensor which detects one of a fire and a gas leak; a master unit 2A which can communicate with the sensor; and a slave unit which can communicate with the master unit. The intercom system further has: a first reception part 21 which receives a detection signal sent from the sensor; output parts 22a, 22b which output alarm information indicative of occurrence of a fire or gas leak; a first control part 23 in which first software for controlling the output parts based upon the detection signal is incorporated; second reception parts 31a, 31b which receive a signal sent from the slave unit; and a second control part which is provided communicably with and independently of the first control part, and in which second software for controlling the output part on the basis of the signal received by the second reception part is incorporated. The second software can be updated through an interface for the slave unit, and the update of the second software exerts no influence on functions of the first software.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an intercom system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a fire receiver to which a sensor and a controlled device that is controlled in conjunction with the sensor's alarm are connected. The fire receiver in Patent Document 1 includes an interface for communicating with the sensor, a storage unit for storing data related to the sensor and the controlled device, a display unit for displaying information related to the sensor's alarm and information related to the operation of the controlled device, and a control unit for controlling these. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2020-107229 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In some cases, fire receivers such as those described in Patent Document 1 are equipped with additional functions such as a call function and a crime prevention function in addition to the main function of a fire alarm. Due to changes in the specifications of these additional functions, it becomes necessary to upgrade the software executed in the control unit. However, since updating the software in the control unit is difficult because it may affect the main functions, it has traditionally been necessary to deal with this by replacing the equipment in the fire receiver. However, equipment replacement is expensive, and in an apartment building, it is not realistic because it requires entering every dwelling unit to perform the replacement work.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT An object of the present invention is to provide an intercom system that allows software updates for auxiliary functions without affecting the main functions of fire alarm and gas leak alarm. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the intercom system of the present invention comprises: A sensor for detecting at least one of a fire and a gas leak; A parent device communicatively connected to the sensor; A child device connected to the parent device so as to be able to communicate with the parent device; An intercom system comprising: The parent unit is A first receiving unit that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor; an output unit that outputs alarm information indicating that a fire or a gas leak has occurred; a first control unit having first software installed therein for controlling the output unit based on the detection signal; A second receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the slave unit or an external device other than the sensor and the slave unit; A second control unit that is capable of communicating with the first control unit and is provided independently, and in which second software is installed to control the output unit or a device other than the output unit based on the signal received by the second receiving unit; having The second software of the second control unit can be updated via an interface with the child device or the external device, and the first control unit and the second control unit are configured so that the update of the second software does not affect the function performed by the first software of the first control unit.

[0007] According to the above configuration, it is possible to upgrade the additional functions (call function and crime prevention function) performed by the second software of the second control unit without affecting the main functions such as fire alarm and gas leak alarm performed by the first software of the first control unit. This makes it possible to respond to changes in the specifications of the additional functions without replacing each device of the intercom system.

[0008] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, A predetermined communication command for communication between the first control unit and the second control unit is defined; The first control unit may be configured, when a communication command other than the specified communication command is transmitted from the second control unit, to discard the communication command or not perform processing based on the communication command.

[0009] According to the above configuration, when a new command (e.g., a malicious command) is sent from the second control unit, the command is discarded, thereby reliably preventing any impact on the main function of the intercom system implemented by the first control unit.

[0010] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, the second control unit is configured to transmit a command for controlling the output unit to the first control unit when a signal related to the output unit is received from the child device or the external device; The first control unit may be configured to prioritize control of the output unit by the first software even when the command is received from the second control unit.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the first control unit can control the main function without being affected by the command transmitted from the second control unit.

[0012] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may be configured to control the output unit based on the command when a second condition is satisfied.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the first control unit determines whether or not it is necessary to control the main function based on the command transmitted from the second control unit, so that the control of the main function can be given priority.

[0014] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may determine that the second condition is not satisfied when the command is received from the second control unit while the output unit is being controlled by the first software, or when control of the output unit by the first software begins while the output unit is being controlled based on the command.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the control of the main function can be preferentially performed with simple control.

[0016] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may be configured to block a control signal transmitted from the second control unit to the output unit when a first condition is satisfied.

[0017] The above-described configuration also makes it possible to reliably prevent the main function of the intercom system executed by the first control unit from being affected.

[0018] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The first control unit may determine that the first condition is satisfied when the control signal is sent to the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit, or when control of the output unit by the first software begins while the first control unit is controlling the output unit based on the control signal.

[0019] Under these conditions, it is preferable to cut off the first control signal from the second control section.

[0020] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The interface may be an internet line in each residence in which the intercom system is installed.

[0021] According to the above configuration, the second software can be updated remotely from outside.

[0022] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The device may further include a single power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit and the second control unit.

[0023] According to the above configuration, power is supplied to the first control unit and the second control unit from a single power supply circuit, making it easier to synchronize the startup timing of both control units and reducing costs compared to providing separate power supply circuits.

[0024] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit; The power supply device may further include a second power supply circuit provided separately from the first power supply circuit for supplying power to the second control unit.

[0025] According to the above configuration, the first control unit and the second control unit are supplied with power separately, which makes it difficult for interference between the functions of the two control units to occur and is also desirable from the standpoint of fail-safe.

[0026] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, The second control unit is configured to generate a control signal using the second software for controlling the output unit or a second output unit provided in the base unit separately from the output unit when a call signal is received from the handset.

[0027] According to the above configuration, even in an intercom system equipped with a fire and gas alarm function, software can be updated in response to changes in the specifications of the call function (a general intercom function) without affecting the control of the alarm function, which is the main function.

[0028] In addition, in the intercom system of the present invention, a control device as the external device connected to the parent device and the child device so as to be communicable with the parent device and the child device so as to relay between the parent device and the child device; The second software may be updateable via the control device.

[0029] According to the above configuration, software updates can be easily performed at the site, such as in an apartment building, where the intercom system is installed. Effect of the Invention

[0030] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an alarm device and an intercom system equipped with an alarm device that allow software updates for auxiliary functions without affecting the main functions of fire alarm and gas leak alarm. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a block diagram of a room master unit (alarm device) according to a first embodiment included in an intercom system. [Diagram 3] 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the intercom system. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a room master unit according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a room master unit according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] Hereinafter, an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of an intercom system 50. As shown in Fig. 1, the intercom system 50 includes a room master unit 2 (an example of an alarm device), a collective entrance unit 4 (an example of an external device), a control device 6 (an example of an external device), and a sensor 8. The intercom system 50 is a system installed in a collective housing M such as an apartment building. The room master unit 2 in this embodiment is a comprehensive information device equipped with various functions such as an automatic fire alarm system, a gas leak sensor, a crime prevention sensor, or other alarm system, and an emergency reporting function in addition to the basic functions of an intercom master unit, and is sometimes called a home information panel.

[0033] The room master unit 2 is installed in a room or the like in each dwelling unit S of the apartment building M. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the control device 6 via an intercom line L. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the collective entrance unit 4 via the control device 6. The room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to a sensor 8. Furthermore, the room master unit 2 is communicatively connected to the Internet (Internet line) N via a router 11 and a HUB 12.

[0034] The room master unit 2 functions as a communication device for the resident to respond to a call from the collective entrance unit 4. Furthermore, the room master unit 2 functions as an alarm device for notifying, for example, alarm information transmitted from a sensor 8 (for example, fire information, gas leak information, etc.).

[0035] The collective entrance device 4 is used by visitors to call and talk to residents of the apartment complex M. The collective entrance device 4 is equipped with a numeric keypad for inputting room numbers, a camera for capturing images of visitors, and the like. The collective entrance device 4 is installed in the collective entrance or common space of the apartment complex M. Although not shown in the figure, each dwelling unit S of the apartment complex M is provided with an entrance slave unit at each entrance that is communicably connected to the room master unit 2 of each dwelling unit S.

[0036] The control device 6 controls communication between the room master unit 2 and the collective entrance unit 4, which are connected via an intercom line L. The control device 6 is also connected to the Internet N via a router 11 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0037] The sensor 8 is installed, for example, at a collective entrance or a common space of the apartment building M. The sensor 8 may also be installed in each dwelling unit S of the apartment building M. Examples of the sensor 8 include a fire detector that detects smoke generated in the area where the sensor 8 is installed, a gas leak sensor that detects generated gas, and the like.

[0038] First embodiment Next, the room master unit 2A will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the room master unit 2A has an alarm interface 21 (an example of a first receiving unit) that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b (an example of an output unit) that output alarm information, and a security CPU (Central Processing Unit) 23 (an example of a first control unit) that controls the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. Hereinafter, the interface is expressed as I / F. The room master unit 2A also has external device I / Fs 31a and 31b (an example of a second receiving unit, sometimes referred to as external device I / F 31) that receive an external signal transmitted from an external device, a display 32 (an example of a second output unit) that displays external information, and an auxiliary CPU 33 (an example of a second control unit) that controls the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. Furthermore, the room master unit 2A has a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0039] The alarm I / F 21 is connected to the security CPU 23. The alarm I / F 21 transmits detection signals received from the sensors 8, such as a fire detection signal received from a fire detector or a gas leak detection signal received from a gas leak alarm, to the security CPU 23. In addition to the alarm I / F 21, the security CPU 23 is connected to a service I / F 24 capable of receiving call signals transmitted from call buttons installed in, for example, a bathroom, a toilet, a kitchen, etc.

[0040] The speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are connected to the security CPU 23. The speaker 22a is connected to the security CPU 23 via an alarm sound source 25 and a power amplifier 26. The speaker 22a outputs a predetermined alarm sound selected according to the type of detection signal received from the sensor 8. Furthermore, the speaker 22a outputs a predetermined sound (e.g., a ring tone, a telephone call sound) selected according to a control signal for controlling the speaker 22a transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33 to the security CPU 23. The lamp 22b is composed of, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), and outputs alarm light of a predetermined color and a predetermined light emission pattern selected according to the type of detection signal received from the sensor 8. Furthermore, the lamp 22b outputs light of a predetermined color and a predetermined light emission pattern selected according to a control signal for controlling the lamp 22b transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33 to the security CPU 23.

[0041] The security CPU 23 is a control unit for controlling the operation of each part of the room master unit 2A, and may include, for example, at least one microcontroller including one or more processors, and other electronic circuits including active elements such as transistors and passive elements. The security CPU 23 may be configured with multiple CPU cores. The security CPU 23 may be, for example, a micro-processing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and / or a tensor processing unit (TPU). The GPU may be configured with multiple GPU cores. The security CPU 23 may also be configured with hardware resources consisting of integrated circuits such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The security CPU 23 may also be configured with a combination of at least one microcontroller and an integrated circuit.

[0042] The auxiliary CPU 33 is a control unit provided separately from the security CPU 23 in order to control the operation of each part of the room master unit 2A. Like the security CPU 23, the auxiliary CPU 33 may include at least one microcontroller including one or more processors, and other electronic circuits including active elements such as transistors and passive elements.

[0043] The security CPU 23 incorporates first software for controlling output units such as the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8 and received by the alarm I / F 21. The security CPU 23 controls the alarm sound source 25 and the speaker 22a so that a predetermined alarm sound is output from the speaker 22a based on the type of detection signal received from the alarm I / F 21, for example. The security CPU 23 also controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined alarm light is output from the lamp 22b based on the type of detection signal received from the alarm I / F 21, etc.

[0044] The security CPU 23 controls the alarm sound source 25 and the speaker 22a so that a predetermined sound (e.g., a ring tone, a call tone) is output from the speaker 22a based on a control signal received from the auxiliary CPU 33. Furthermore, the security CPU 23 controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined light (e.g., a call light, etc.) is output from the lamp 22b based on a control signal received from the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0045] In this example, the security CPU 23 is configured to determine whether or not to accept a communication command transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33. For example, the security CPU 23 is configured to define a predetermined communication command for communicating with the auxiliary CPU 33, and, if a communication command other than the defined communication command is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33, to discard the communication command.

[0046] Even when the security CPU 23 receives a predetermined communication command from the auxiliary CPU 33, the security CPU 23 determines whether or not it is necessary to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 33, depending on the control state of the security CPU 23. A method of determining whether or not it is necessary to control each output unit (the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b) based on a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 33 will be described later.

[0047] Furthermore, the security CPU 23 is configured to be able to turn off the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 or the output from the power amplifier 26 input to the speaker 22a by switching the switches 27a and 27b.

[0048] The external device I / Fs 31a and 31b are connected to the auxiliary CPU 33. The external device I / Fs 31a and 31b transmit to the auxiliary CPU 33 external signals received from external devices, such as a call signal received from the collective entrance device 4 via the control device 6, call data between a visitor and a resident, and video data of a visitor.

[0049] The display 32 is connected to the auxiliary CPU 33. The display 32 displays images of visitors captured by the collective entrance device 4 and information transmitted from the Internet N. The display 32 is configured as a touch panel 32a.

[0050] A ROM (Read Only Memory) 34a in which a control program for controlling the room master unit 2A is stored, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 34b in which the control program, control data, etc. are temporarily stored are connected to the auxiliary CPU 33. The auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to load a program designated from the various control programs stored in the ROM 34a onto the RAM 34b and execute various processes in cooperation with the RAM 34b.

[0051] The auxiliary CPU 33 incorporates second software for controlling the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, the display 32, etc., based on signals transmitted from an external device and received by the external device I / Fs 31a and 31b. As described above, the auxiliary CPU 33 is provided independent of the security CPU 23 and is communicatively connected to the security CPU 23. The auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to be able to communicate with the security CPU 23 based on a predetermined communication command defined between the auxiliary CPU 33 and the security CPU 23.

[0052] When the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a signal related to the output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, the auxiliary CPU 33 converts the signal into a predetermined communication command (control signal) for controlling the output unit and transmits the converted signal to the security CPU 23. Furthermore, the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits a control signal for controlling the display 32 based on the signal received from the external device to the display 32. For example, when the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 33 converts the call signal into a predetermined communication command and transmits the communication command to the security CPU 23 as a control signal for controlling the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b. Furthermore, the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits call data between the visitor who operated the collective entrance device 4 and the called resident to the security CPU 23 by a predetermined communication command. Furthermore, when the auxiliary CPU 33 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits video data of the visitor captured by the collective entrance device 4 to the display 32.

[0053] The second software incorporated in the accessory CPU 33 is configured to be updated via an interface with an external device. For example, the second software can be updated via an external device I / F 31 connected to the control device 6. The update work can be performed from a personal computer for work connected to the control device 6. The second software can also be updated via an external device I / F 31 connected to the Internet N. When the second software is updated via the Internet N, the external device is a server, a cloud, or the like. The communication between the accessory CPU 33 and the security CPU 23 is regulated by a predetermined communication command as described above. For this reason, when updating the second software incorporated in the accessory CPU 33, an external device is connected to the accessory CPU 33 provided independently of the security CPU 23, and an update process is performed between the external device and the accessory CPU 33 using a communication command other than the predetermined communication command, so that the update process of the second software does not affect the function exhibited by the first software of the security CPU 23.

[0054] The power supply circuit 39 is a single power supply circuit that supplies a predetermined voltage to both the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33. The power supply of the power supply circuit 39 is configured so that a normal power supply (e.g., AC 100V) or an emergency power supply can be selected by switching a switch 39a. However, there are cases where an emergency power supply is not required, in which case the switching of the switch 39a is not necessary.

[0055] Next, an example of the operation of the room master unit 2A will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. For example, a visitor to an apartment building M operates the operation unit of the collective entrance unit 4 to input a room number to call a specific resident. The input room number is transmitted from the collective entrance unit 4 to the control device 6 via the intercom line L. Based on the received room number, the control device 6 transmits a call signal to call the resident of that room number via the intercom line L to the room master unit 2A installed in the dwelling unit S of that resident.

[0056] The auxiliary CPU 33 of the room master unit 2A receives the call signal via the external device I / F 31 (step S10).

[0057] When the auxiliary CPU 33 determines that the received signal is a call signal, it generates a predetermined communication command for communicating with the security CPU 23 (step S11).

[0058] The auxiliary CPU 33 transmits the generated predetermined communication command to the security CPU 23 (step S12). The communication command is a control signal for outputting a ring tone (e.g., "ping pong") from the speaker 22a and outputting a ring light from the lamp 22b.

[0059] When the security CPU 23 receives a communication command from the auxiliary CPU 33, it determines whether or not an alarm operation is currently being performed using the speaker 22a and / or the lamp 22b, for example, based on a fire detection signal received from a fire detector or a gas leak detection signal received from a gas leak alarm (step S13).

[0060] In step S13, if it is determined that an alarm operation is in progress based on a fire detection signal or a gas leak detection signal (Yes in step S13), the security CPU 23 discards the communication command received from the auxiliary CPU 33 and continues the alarm operation based on the detection signal (step S14). That is, the security CPU 23 gives priority to the alarm operation (main function) based on the detection signal currently being processed, and does not process the call operation (auxiliary function) based on a control signal requested in the middle.

[0061] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that an alarm action based on a detection signal has not been executed (No in step S13), the security CPU 23 determines whether the communication command received from the auxiliary CPU 33 is a predetermined communication command (step S15).

[0062] If it is determined in step S15 that the communication command received from the associated CPU 33 is not a specified communication command (No in step S15), the security CPU 23 discards the communication command received from the associated CPU 33 and does not execute the call operation based on the control signal from the associated CPU 33 and the subsequent call operation (step S16).

[0063] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S15 that the communication command received from the associated CPU 33 is a specified communication command (Yes in step S15), the security CPU 23 starts processing the call operation by the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the control signal received from the associated CPU 33 (step S17).

[0064] In addition, if a detection signal for performing an alarm operation is received while a call operation is being performed using the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b in step S17, or during a conversation between a visitor and a resident that is performed after the call operation, the security CPU 23 interrupts or stops the call operation being performed and prioritizes performing the alarm operation using the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b.

[0065] As described above, the room master unit 2A included in the intercom system 50 according to this embodiment is connected to the sensor 8 that detects at least one of a fire and a gas leak so as to be able to communicate with it, and includes an alarm I / F 21 that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b that output alarm information indicating the occurrence of a fire or a gas leak, and a security CPU 23 in which first software for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the detection signal is built in. Furthermore, the room master unit 2A includes an external device I / F 31 that receives a signal transmitted from an external device other than the sensor 8, and an accessory CPU 33 that is a control unit that is capable of communicating with the security CPU 23 and is provided independently, and in which second software for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b or a device other than the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the signal received by the external device I / F 31 is built in. The security CPU 23 and the accessory CPU 33 are configured so that the second software of the accessory CPU 33 can be updated via an interface with an external device, and the update of the second software does not affect the function performed by the first software of the security CPU 23. According to this configuration, the auxiliary CPU 33 is provided independently of the security CPU 23, and the second software is updated by connecting an external device to the external device I / F 31 of the auxiliary CPU 33. Therefore, in the room master unit 2A as an alarm device, it is possible to upgrade the auxiliary functions (calling and crime prevention functions) performed by the second software of the auxiliary CPU 33 without affecting the main functions such as fire alarm and gas leak alarm performed by the first software of the security CPU 23. This makes it possible to respond to specification changes of the auxiliary functions and security assurance (vulnerability response) without replacing the room master unit 2A itself.

[0066] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2A, a predetermined communication command for communication between the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 is defined, and the security CPU 23 is configured to discard a communication command other than the predetermined communication command when the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits the communication command, or not execute processing according to the communication command. Therefore, when the auxiliary CPU 33 transmits a new command, for example, a malicious command, to the security CPU 23, the operation according to the malicious command is not executed. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent adverse effects on the operation of the main function of the security CPU 23.

[0067] Moreover, according to the room master unit 2A, the auxiliary CPU 33 is configured to transmit a command for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b to the security CPU 23 when it receives a signal related to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b from an external device such as the collective entrance unit 4, and the security CPU 23 is configured to determine whether or not to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on the command transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33. In this manner, the security CPU 23 determines whether or not control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b (i.e., control related to the main function) is required based on the signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33, and therefore can prioritize control of the main function according to the control status in the security CPU 23 without being influenced by the command (control signal) transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 33.

[0068] Also, according to the room master unit 2A, the security CPU 23 is configured to control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on a command sent from the auxiliary CPU 33 when a predetermined condition (an example of a first condition) is satisfied. For example, when a command is received from the auxiliary CPU 33 while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled by the first software incorporated in the security CPU 23, or when the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software is started while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled based on the command, the security CPU 23 determines that the predetermined condition is not satisfied. That is, when a command is received from the auxiliary CPU 33 while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled by the first software, or when the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software is started while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled based on the command, the security CPU 23 determines that the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are not to be controlled based on the command from the auxiliary CPU 33. According to this configuration, control of the main function by the security CPU 23 can be given priority over control by the auxiliary CPU 33 through simple control depending on the control status of the security CPU 23 .

[0069] Furthermore, according to the room master unit 2A, the Internet N of each residence in which the room master unit 2A is installed can be used as an interface for updating the second software incorporated in the auxiliary CPU 33. Therefore, for example, in an apartment building M, the second software of the auxiliary CPU 33 of each room master unit 2A can be updated remotely from outside without visiting the site or entering each residence.

[0070] In addition, the intercom system 50 further includes a control device 6 as an external device communicatively connected to the room master unit 2A and the collective entrance unit 4 so as to relay between the room master unit 2A and the collective entrance unit 4, and the second software can also be updated via the control device 6. With this configuration, the second software built into the accessory CPU 33 can be easily updated even at the site where the intercom system 50 is installed (in the apartment building M).

[0071] The room master unit 2A further includes a single power supply circuit 39 for supplying power to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33. With this configuration, power is supplied to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 from the single power supply circuit 39, making it easier to synchronize the startup timing of both CPUs and reducing costs compared to having separate power supply circuits.

[0072] The power supply circuit supplying voltage to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 may be a multiple circuit configuration, not a single circuit. For example, a security power supply circuit (first power supply circuit) for supplying voltage to the security CPU 23 and an auxiliary power supply circuit (second power supply circuit) for supplying voltage to the auxiliary CPU 33, which is provided separately from the security power supply circuit, may be provided. With this configuration, power is supplied to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 separately, so that interference between the functions of the two CPUs is unlikely to occur, and this is also desirable from the viewpoint of fail-safe. A plurality of power supply circuits may be arranged in series, and the plurality of power supply circuits may be configured to be a common power supply circuit for both CPUs. For example, an AC / DC converter, which is a power supply circuit for AC-DC conversion, and a DC / DC converter, which is a power supply circuit for voltage adjustment, may be arranged in series, and the AC / DC converter and the DC / DC converter may be used to supply power to the security CPU 23 and the auxiliary CPU 33 in common, thereby making it easier to synchronize the start-up timing of both CPUs while satisfying the requirements for the operating voltage range of the room master unit 2A.

[0073] Second Embodiment Next, the room master unit according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the room master unit (alarm device) 2B according to the second embodiment. Components having the same functions as the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 4, the room master unit 2B is different from the room master unit 2A of the first embodiment in that the attached CPU 133 is configured to directly control the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b without going through the security CPU 123. The other configurations are the same as those of the room master unit 2A, and the room master unit 2B has an alarm I / F 21 that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b that output alarm information, and a security CPU 123 that controls the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. Furthermore, the room master unit 2B has external device I / Fs 31a and 31b that receive external signals transmitted from external devices (the collective entrance unit 4, the control device 6), a display 32 that outputs external information, and an attached CPU 133 that controls the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. Furthermore, the room master unit 2B has a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 123 and the attached CPU 133.

[0075] When the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a signal related to an output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, it transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 to notify that the output unit will be controlled. When the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a signal related to an output unit such as the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b from an external device, it transmits a control signal for controlling the output unit directly to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. In this way, the auxiliary CPU 133 is configured to be able to directly control not only the display 32 but also the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b based on a signal received from an external device.

[0076] For example, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance unit 4, it transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 by a prescribed communication command to notify that the speaker 22a or the lamp 22b will be controlled. Also, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 by a prescribed communication command to notify that a call will be started between the visitor who operated the collective entrance unit 4 and the called resident.

[0077] Furthermore, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, it transmits a control signal for controlling the speaker 22a to the speaker 22a, and controls the speaker 22a so that a predetermined sound (e.g., a ring tone, a call tone) is output from the speaker 22a. When the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, it transmits a control signal for controlling the lamp 22b to the lamp 22b, and controls the lamp 22b so that a predetermined light (e.g., a call light, etc.) is output from the lamp 22b. When the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, it transmits a control signal for controlling the display 32 to the display 32, and controls the display 32 to display an image of the visitor captured by the collective entrance device 4.

[0078] The security CPU 123 blocks the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b in accordance with the control state of the security CPU 123.

[0079] For example, when the security CPU 123 receives a notification signal for executing call processing from the auxiliary CPU 133 while the first software is controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b to execute alarm processing, the security CPU 123 turns off the switch 27c to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a while the first software is controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b to execute alarm processing. Also, when the security CPU 123 receives a notification signal for executing call processing from the auxiliary CPU 133 while the first software is controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b to execute alarm processing, the security CPU 123 turns off the switch 27d to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b.

[0080] Furthermore, when alarm processing is started by the control of the speaker 22a by the first software while the speaker 22a is being controlled based on a control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a, the security CPU 123 turns off the switch 27c to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a, and interrupts or stops the control of the speaker 22a by the auxiliary CPU 33. Furthermore, when alarm processing is started by the control of the lamp 22b by the first software while the lamp 22b is being controlled based on a control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b, the security CPU 123 turns off the switch 27d to block the control signal for executing call processing transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the lamp 22b, and interrupts or stops the control of the lamp 22b by the auxiliary CPU 133.

[0081] Thus, in the room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment, the security CPU 123 is configured to block the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b when a predetermined condition (an example of the second condition) is satisfied. This configuration also makes it possible to prevent adverse effects on the operation of the main functions, such as the fire alarm and gas leak alarm, performed by the first software of the security CPU 123.

[0082] Also, according to the room master unit 2B, the predetermined condition for blocking the control signal transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 is when a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 is transmitted while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled by the first software, or when control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software of the security CPU 123 is started while the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b are being controlled based on a control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133. It is preferable to block the control signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 under these conditions. This makes it possible to give priority to control of the main functions by the security CPU 123 over control by the auxiliary CPU 133 with simple control, depending on the control status of the security CPU 123.

[0083] In the second embodiment, when the auxiliary CPU 133 receives a call signal from the collective entrance device 4, the auxiliary CPU 133 transmits a notification signal to the security CPU 123 to notify that the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b will be controlled, but this is not limited to the configuration. Instead of transmitting a notification signal from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the security CPU 123, when alarm processing is started by the control of the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b by the first software, the security CPU 123 may always turn off the switches 27c and 27d regardless of whether a control signal is transmitted from the auxiliary CPU 133 to the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b.

[0084] Third embodiment Next, the room master unit according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a room master unit (alarm device) 2C according to the third embodiment. Components having the same functions as the room master unit 2A according to the first embodiment or the room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 5, the room master unit 2C according to the third embodiment differs from the room master unit 2B according to the second embodiment in that the switch 27a for supplying a power supply voltage to the power amplifier 26 and the switch 27b for inputting the output of the power amplifier 26 to the speaker 22a are switched by a control signal of the security CPU 223 and a control signal of the accessory CPU 233 input to the OR circuits 28a and 28b. The other configurations are the same as those of the room master unit 2B. That is, the room master unit 2C has an alarm I / F 21 for receiving a detection signal transmitted from the sensor 8, a speaker 22a and a lamp 22b for outputting alarm information, and a security CPU 223 for controlling the speaker 22a and the lamp 22b. The room master unit 2B also has external device I / Fs 31a and 31b for receiving an external signal transmitted from an external device, a display 32 for outputting external information, and an accessory CPU 233 for controlling the speaker 22a, the lamp 22b, and the display 32. Furthermore, the room master unit 2B has a power supply circuit 39 that supplies voltage to the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233.

[0086] The security CPU 223 is configured to be able to turn on / off the output from the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 by switching the switch 27a. Furthermore, the security CPU 223 is configured to be able to turn on / off the output from the power amplifier 26 input to the speaker 22a by switching the switch 27b. Similarly, the auxiliary CPU 233 is configured to be able to turn on / off the power supply voltage supplied to the power amplifier 26 or the output from the power amplifier 26 input to the speaker 22a by switching the switches 27a and 27b.

[0087] According to the room master unit 2C of the third embodiment, when the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233 attempt to operate the speaker 22a by their respective controls, the switches 27a and 27b are turned on by inputting control signals from the security CPU 223 and the auxiliary CPU 233 to the OR circuits 28a and 28b. This ensures that the speaker 22a operates when necessary. In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the OR circuits 28a and 28b are provided in both the switch 27a for supplying a power supply voltage to the power amplifier 26 and the switch 27b for inputting the output of the power amplifier 26 to the speaker 22a, but an OR circuit may be provided in only one of them.

[0088] (Modification) Next, a modified example of the intercom system will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an intercom system 60 according to a modified example. As shown in Fig. 6, the intercom system 60 includes a management room master unit 302 installed in a management room of an apartment building M, and a management room slave unit 304 for calling the management room master unit 302. The management room master unit 302 is communicatively connected to the control device 6 (see Fig. 1) via an intercom line L. In addition, the management room master unit 302 is communicatively connected to the Internet N via a router 11.

[0089] The control room master unit 302 is configured to function as an alarm device, similar to the room master units 2A to 2C described above in the intercom system 50. The control room master unit 302 has components such as an alarm I / F 21, a speaker 22a, a lamp 22b, a security CPU 23, external device I / Fs 31a and 31b, a display 32, an auxiliary CPU 33, and a power supply circuit 39, similar to the room master unit 2A shown in Fig. 2, for example. A sensor 8 is connected to the control room master unit 302.

[0090] The second software incorporated in the auxiliary CPU 33 of the management room master unit 302 is configured to be able to be updated via an interface with an external device. For example, the second software can be updated via the control device 6 connected to the external device I / F 31. Also, the second software can be updated via the Internet N connected to the external device I / F 31.

[0091] In the case of the intercom system 60 having such a configuration, the same effects as those of the intercom system 50 can be obtained.

[0092] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be freely modified, improved, etc. as appropriate. The material, shape, size, numerical value, form, number, location, etc. of each component in the above-described embodiment are arbitrary and not limited as long as the present invention can be achieved.

[0093] In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the living room master unit 2 and the management room master unit 302 provided in the intercom system 50, 60 have a security CPU 23, 123, 223 and an auxiliary CPU 33, 133, 233 provided separately from the security CPU 23, 123, 223, and the configuration is described in which the software of the auxiliary CPU 33, 133, 233 can be updated without affecting the function of the security CPU 23, 123, 223, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the configuration of the above-described embodiment may be adopted in a general fire alarm system or gas leak alarm system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 2 (2A to 2C): living room parent unit (an alarm device, an example of a parent unit), 4: collective entrance unit (an example of an external device), 6: control device (an example of an external device), 8: sensor, 11: router, 12: HUB, 21: alarm interface (an example of a first receiving unit), 22a: speaker (an example of an output unit), 22b: lamp (an example of an output unit), 23, 123, 223: security CPU (an example of a first control unit), 25: alarm sound source, 26: power amplifier, 28a, 28b: OR circuit, 31a, 31b: external device I / F (an example of a second receiving unit), 32: display (an example of a second output unit), 33, 133, 233: attached CPU (an example of a second control unit), 39: power circuit, 50, 60: intercom system, 302: management room parent unit, 304: management room child unit, L: intercom line, N: Internet, M: apartment building, S: dwelling unit

Claims

1. A sensor for detecting at least one of a fire and a gas leak; A parent device communicatively connected to the sensor; A child device connected to the parent device so as to be able to communicate with the parent device; An intercom system comprising: The parent unit is A first receiving unit that receives a detection signal transmitted from the sensor; an output unit that outputs alarm information indicating that a fire or a gas leak has occurred; a first control unit having first software installed therein for controlling the output unit based on the detection signal; a second receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the slave unit or an external device other than the sensor and the slave unit; A second control unit that is capable of communicating with the first control unit and is provided independently, and in which second software is installed to control the output unit or a device other than the output unit based on the signal received by the second receiving unit; having The second software of the second control unit can be updated via an interface with the child device or the external device, A first communication command is defined as a predetermined communication command for communication between the first control unit and the second control unit; The first control unit is When the first communication command is transmitted from the second control unit, the first communication command is processed according to a priority level. when a second communication command, which is a communication command other than the first communication command, is transmitted from the second control unit, discarding the second communication command or not executing a process according to the second communication command. It is configured as follows: An intercom system, wherein the second communication command includes a communication command added by updating the second software.

2. the second control unit is configured to transmit a command for controlling the output unit to the first control unit when a signal related to the output unit is received from the child device or the external device; The intercom system of claim 1 , wherein the first control unit is configured to prioritize control of the output unit by the first software even when the command is received from the second control unit.

3. The intercom system according to claim 2 , wherein the first control unit is configured to control the output unit based on the command when a first condition is satisfied.

4. The intercom system of claim 3, wherein the first control unit determines that the first condition is not satisfied when it receives the command from the second control unit while controlling the output unit by the first software, or when control of the output unit by the first software begins while controlling the output unit based on the command.

5. The intercom system according to claim 1 , wherein the first control unit is configured to block the control signal transmitted from the second control unit to the output unit when a second condition is satisfied.

6. The intercom system of claim 5, wherein the first control unit determines that the second condition is satisfied when the control signal is sent to the output unit while the first software is controlling the output unit, or when control of the output unit by the first software begins while the output unit is being controlled based on the control signal.

7. The intercom system according to claim 1 , wherein the interface is an Internet line in each residence in which the intercom system is installed.

8. The intercom system according to claim 1 , further comprising a single power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit and the second control unit.

9. a first power supply circuit for supplying power to the first control unit; a second power supply circuit provided separately from the first power supply circuit for supplying power to the second control unit; The intercom system according to claim 1 , further comprising:

10. An intercom system as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second control unit is configured to generate a control signal by the second software for controlling the output unit or a second output unit provided in the parent unit separately from the output unit when a call signal is received from the child unit.

11. a control device as the external device connected to the parent device and the child device so as to be communicable with the parent device and the child device so as to relay between the parent device and the child device; The intercom system according to claim 1 , wherein the second software is updateable via the control device.

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