Signage management system and signage management method

Abstract

To provide a signage management system and a signage management method capable of making the display contents of a signage unit more flexible and complex than ever before, and of easily operating the signage unit even in a situation where it is difficult to make a wired connection. [Solution] A signage management system 1 includes a signage unit 2 including a display section 20 for visually displaying, a signage control program 27, and a processor 26, a stationary content server 5, an interruption server 6, a relay device 3, and an operation device 7. When the signage control program 27 is executed by the processor, the signage unit 2 causes the display section 20 to constantly display stationary content, and causes the display section 20 to temporarily display interruption content in place of the stationary content displayed on the display section 20.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a signage management system and a signage management method. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There is a known signage unit, for example, as shown in Patent Document 1. The signage unit includes a display unit for displaying images, and can be installed indoors or outdoors, for example, at a construction site or underwater. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2024-8267 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, conventional signage units only play back fixed images, called stationary content, in a loop, and therefore have the disadvantage that the displayed content is monotonous and lacks flexibility.

[0005] The inventors have discovered that when a signage unit is displaying stationary content, it is useful to temporarily display other content as interruption content on the signage unit. For example, it is useful to display an alarm on the signage unit for the purpose of notifying an emergency. It is also useful to simultaneously display content suitable for morning assemblies on multiple signage units during morning assemblies.

[0006] In addition, for example, when a signage unit is underwater, the signage unit is sealed. Also, signage units installed in public places are sealed for security reasons. Therefore, there is also the problem that it is not possible to access the signage unit from outside by connecting a wired keyboard.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a signage management system and a signage management method that can make the display content of a signage unit more flexible and complex than before, and that can easily operate a signage unit even in situations where it is difficult to make a wired connection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A signage management system of a first invention is a signage management system comprising: a signage unit including a display unit for visually displaying, a signage control program, and a processor; a constant content server for providing constant content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; an interrupt server for providing interrupt content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; a relay device pre-connected to the signage unit; and an operation device for performing operations on the signage unit via the relay device by wireless communication, wherein the relay device comprises a communication unit that enables communication between the constant content server and the signage unit, communication between the interrupt server and the signage unit, and communication between the operation device and the signage unit, and wherein, when the signage control program is executed by the processor, the signage unit is configured to cause the display unit to constantly display the constant content and to temporarily display the interrupt content in place of the constant content displayed on the display unit.

[0009] According to this configuration, since the display unit can constantly display the stationary content and can temporarily display the interruption content as necessary, the display content of the signage unit can be made more flexible and complex than before. Also, since the signage unit can be wirelessly operated from the operation device via the relay device, the signage unit can be easily operated even in a situation where it is difficult to connect to the signage unit by wire.

[0010] Preferably, the interrupt server is configured to be able to send an interrupt instruction to the signage unit, and when the signage control program is executed by the processor, it is configured to cause the display unit to display interrupt content in response to the interrupt instruction received from the interrupt server.

[0011] According to this configuration, the interrupt content is displayed on the display unit in response to an interrupt instruction received from the interrupt server, so that the display content of the signage unit can be made more flexible and complex than before.

[0012] Preferably, the operation device and the interrupt server are configured to be able to communicate with each other, and the interrupt server is configured to send an interrupt instruction to the signage unit so as to cause the display unit to display the interrupt content selected on the operation device.

[0013] According to this configuration, the interruption content selected on the operation device is displayed on the display unit, so that the display content of the signage unit can be made more flexible and complex than ever before.

[0014] Preferably, the operation device stores identification information, the interrupt server stores identification information of operation devices that are permitted to access the signage unit, and the relay device is configured to detect whether or not the operation device is attempting to access the signage unit, and when the operation device attempts to access the signage unit, inquire of the interrupt server as to whether or not the operation device is permitted to access the signage unit, and allow only operation devices that are permitted to access the signage unit to access the signage unit.

[0015] According to this configuration, the relay device is configured to allow only operation devices that are permitted to access the signage unit to access the signage unit, thereby preventing unintended and unauthorized access to the signage unit.

[0016] Preferably, the signage management system is equipped with an external alarm device for issuing an alarm, the relay device is configured to be able to control the operation of the external alarm device, the interrupt instruction includes an alarm directed to the relay device or the signage unit, and the relay device or the signage unit is configured to respond to the alarm by causing the display unit of the signage unit to display a display corresponding to the alarm and to activate the external alarm device.

[0017] According to this configuration, the relay device or signage unit responds to an alarm by causing the display unit of the signage unit to display a message corresponding to the alarm and by activating an external alarm device, thereby making the operation of the signage management system flexible and complex.

[0018] Preferably, the relay device is configured to be able to switch the power of the signage unit from off to on.

[0019] According to this configuration, the power supply of the signage unit can be switched from off to on, so that necessary information can be displayed on the display unit even when the signage unit is in an off state.

[0020] Preferably, at least one of the signage unit and the relay device includes a rechargeable battery, and the at least one of the devices is configured to measure a charging current of the battery, interrupt charging when the charging current is equal to or less than a threshold, and charge when the charging current is greater than the threshold.

[0021] According to this configuration, charging is interrupted when the charging current is below a threshold value, thereby preventing excessive current from flowing when the battery is close to being fully charged, thereby making it possible to conserve power for charging.

[0022] A signage management method of a second invention is a signage management method implemented in a signage management system, the signage management system comprising: a signage unit including a display unit for visually displaying, a constant content server for providing the signage unit with constant content to be displayed on the display unit, an interrupt server for providing the signage unit with interrupt content to be displayed on the display unit, a relay device pre-connected to the signage unit, and an operation device for performing operations on the signage unit via the relay device by wireless communication, the relay device comprising a communication unit enabling communication between the constant content server and the signage unit, communication between the interrupt server and the signage unit, and communication between the operation device and the signage unit, and the signage management method including the signage unit causing the display unit to constantly display the constant content, and the signage unit causing the signage unit to temporarily display the interrupt content instead of the constant content displayed on the display unit. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a signage management system and a signage management method that can make the display content of a signage unit more flexible and complex than before, and that can easily operate a signage unit even in situations where it is difficult to make a wired connection. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a signage management system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a signage management method implemented in the signage management system shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the data acquisition and transmission process of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the content update process of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the external control process of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the warning process of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the signage display process of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the power reception management process performed in the signage management system shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0025] (Signage Management System 1) A signage management system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below. Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of the signage management system 1. The signage management system 1 includes a signage unit 2, a relay device 3, an external operation device 4, a steady content server 5, an interrupt server 6, an operation device 7, a power controller 8, and an external alarm device 9 for issuing an alarm. The relay device 3, the external operation device 4, the steady content server 5, the interrupt server 6, and the operation device 7 can communicate with each other via a network 10 such as the Internet.

[0026] (Signage unit 2) The signage unit 2 has a function of displaying images, and is installed in various locations, outdoors or indoors, such as, but not limited to, construction sites, underwater, public facilities, private land, or businesses. There may be multiple signage units 2. When there are multiple signage units 2, the display contents may be the same or different.

[0027] The signage unit 2 comprises a display unit 20 for visually displaying information, a speaker 21 for outputting sound, a timer 22 for measuring time, a communication unit 23 for communicating with the outside world, a power supply 24 for supplying power to operate the signage unit 2, a memory device 25, and a processor 26.

[0028] In this example, the display unit 20 is a liquid crystal display. In other examples, the display unit 20 may be a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, or the like, but is not limited to these.

[0029] The communication unit 23 enables the processor 26 to communicate with other devices. The communication unit 23 communicates with the relay device 3 through a wired communication function based on the USB standard. In other examples, the communication unit 23 may have a wired or wireless communication function based on other standards. The communication unit 23 may be capable of communicating with devices other than the relay device 3.

[0030] Power source 24 is a rechargeable battery. In other examples, power source 24 may be a non-rechargeable power source.

[0031] Storage device 25 can store signage control program 27 and signage storage information 28, and can further store various information necessary for the operation of processor 26. Signage control program 27 is configured to realize at least a part of a signage management method. Signage storage information 28 includes, for example, regular content and interruption content to be displayed on display unit 20.

[0032] Processor 26 is connected to each component of signage unit 2 and controls the operation of each component. Processor 26 can communicate with relay device 3 via communication unit 23. Processor 26 operates as signage control unit 29 by reading and executing signage control program 27. If there is no interrupt instruction, signage control unit 29 causes display unit 20 to constantly display stationary content by loop playback. In response to an interrupt instruction received from interrupt server 6, signage control unit 29 causes display unit 20 to temporarily display interruption content instead of the stationary content. The processing performed by signage control unit 29 will be described later.

[0033] (Repeater device 3) The relay device 3 is connected to the signage unit 2 in advance, and relays communication between various components included in the signage management system 1 and the signage unit 2. At least one relay device 3 is connected to each signage unit 2.

[0034] The relay device 3 includes a timer 30 for measuring time, a communication unit 31 for communicating with the outside, a storage device 32, and a processor 33.

[0035] The communication unit 31 enables the processor 33 to communicate with other devices. For example, the communication unit 31 has a function of communicating with the signage unit 2 and the external operation device 4 by a wired communication function based on the USB standard. Furthermore, the communication unit 31 has a function of communicating with the operation device 7 at short distances by a wireless communication function based on the Bluetooth standard. Furthermore, the communication unit 31 has a function of communicating with the regular content server 5 and the interrupt server 6 via the Internet by a wireless communication function such as the 4G standard or the 5G standard. Note that in other examples, the communication unit 31 may be configured to communicate with each component by a communication function based on another wired or wireless standard.

[0036] Under the control of the processor 33, the communication unit 31 enables communication between the regular content server 5 and the signage unit 2, enables communication between the interrupt server 6 and the signage unit 2, and enables communication between the operating device 7 and the signage unit 2.

[0037] The storage device 32 can store a relay control program 34 and relay storage information 35, and can further store various information necessary for the operation of the processor 33. The relay control program 34 is configured to realize at least a part of a signage management method. The processor 33 functions as a relay control unit 36 ​​by reading and executing the relay control program 34. The processing executed by the relay control unit 36 ​​will be described later.

[0038] (External operation device 4) The external operation device 4 includes, for example, a camera 40, various sensors 41 such as a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, and a GPS 42 for acquiring location information. The external operation device 4 may include other devices. The external operation device 4 is connected to the communication unit 31 of the relay device 3 by a wired communication function based on the USB standard. The external operation device 4 may be capable of wired or wireless communication based on other communication standards. The data acquired by the external operation device 4 is used by the relay control unit 36 ​​or the signage control unit 29. The acquired data may be used by other components of the signage management system 1.

[0039] In this example, the signage unit 2, the relay device 3, and the external operation device 4 are arranged so as not to be easily accessible from the outside. For example, the signage unit 2, the relay device 3, and the external operation device 4 are sealed or placed in a locked case, and configured so that input / output devices such as a wired keyboard and mouse cannot be easily connected from the outside.

[0040] (Static Content Server 5) The constant content server 5 is a device for providing the constant content displayed on the display unit 20 to the signage unit 2. The constant content server 5 includes a communication unit 50, a storage device 51, and a processor 52. The communication unit 50 enables the processor 52 to communicate with various devices including the relay device 3 via the Internet using a wireless communication function such as the 4G standard or the 5G standard. Note that in other examples, the communication unit 50 may be configured to communicate with each component using a communication function based on another wired or wireless standard.

[0041] The storage device 51 stores a routine management program 53 and routine content information 54, and can further store various information necessary for the operation of the processor 52. The routine management program 53 is configured to realize at least a part of a signage management method. The routine content information 54 includes routine content that is regularly displayed on the display unit 20. The processor 52 functions as a routine management unit 55 by reading and executing the routine management program 53. The operation of the routine management unit 55 will be described later.

[0042] (Interrupt Server 6) The interrupt server 6 is a device for providing the signage unit 2 with interrupt content to be displayed on the display unit 20. The interrupt server 6 includes a communication unit 60, a storage device 61, and a processor 62. The communication unit 60 enables the processor 62 to communicate with various devices including the relay device 3 via the Internet using a wireless communication function such as the 4G standard or the 5G standard. Note that in other examples, the communication unit 60 may be configured to communicate with each component using a communication function based on another wired or wireless standard.

[0043] The storage device 61 stores an interruption management program 63 and interruption information 64, and can further store various information necessary for the operation of the processor 62. The interruption management program 63 is configured to realize at least a part of a signage management method. The interruption information 64 includes interruption content that is displayed on the display unit 20 by interrupting the regular content. The interruption information 64 includes identification information of the operation device 7 that is permitted to access the signage unit 2.

[0044] The processor 62 functions as an interrupt management unit 65 by reading and executing the interrupt management program 63. The interrupt management unit 65 can transmit an interrupt instruction to the relay device 3 or the signage unit 2 to cause the display unit 20 to display the interrupt content selected on the operation device 7. If an alarm needs to be issued, the interrupt instruction includes an alarm. The operation of the interrupt management unit 65 will be described later.

[0045] Examples of interruption content include, but are not limited to, an alarm for notifying the signage unit 2 of information such as danger, and an image of a morning meeting held simultaneously within the company.

[0046] (Operation device 7) The operation device 7 is a device for performing operations on the signage unit 2 via the relay device 3 by wireless communication. The operation device 7 includes a communication unit 70, an input / output unit 71, a storage device 72, and a processor 73. The operation device 7 may be, for example, a general-purpose portable device such as a smartphone, or may be a dedicated portable device. The operation device 7 basically realizes operations on one selected signage unit 2, but may be capable of operating multiple signage units 2 simultaneously. Multiple operation devices 7 may be present.

[0047] The communication unit 70 enables the processor 73 to communicate with various devices including the steady content server 5, the interrupt server 6, and the relay device 3 via the Internet using a wireless communication function such as the 4G standard or the 5G standard. Furthermore, the communication unit 70 has a function of communicating with the relay device 3 at short distances using a wireless communication function based on the Bluetooth standard. Note that in other examples, the communication unit 70 may be configured to communicate with each component using a communication function based on another wired or wireless standard.

[0048] The input / output unit 71 is a liquid crystal touch panel mounted on a smartphone. In other examples, the input / output unit 71 may include other components, such as, but not limited to, another touch panel, a speaker, a microphone, a physical keyboard, a mouse, a touch pen, a light-emitting device, and the like. The input / output unit 71 can be configured with various devices capable of input by a user and output to a user.

[0049] The storage device 72 stores an operation program 74 and operation information 75, and can further store various information necessary for the operation of the processor 73. The operation program 74 is configured to realize at least a part of a signage management method. The operation information 75 stores unique identification information that can identify each operation device 7.

[0050] The processor 73 functions as an operation unit 76 by reading and executing the operation program 74. The operation unit 76 realizes the operation of the signage unit 2 via the relay device 3. Furthermore, the operation unit 76 realizes the operation of the signage unit 2 by cooperating with the regular content server 5 and the interruption server 6. For example, the operation unit 76 instructs the regular content server 5 and the interruption server 6 to operate the signage unit 2. The operation of the signage unit 2 is realized, for example, by downloading dedicated software. In another example, the operation of the signage unit 2 is realized by operating software running on the cloud from a web browser. The operation of the signage unit 2 may be realized by other methods.

[0051] (Power Controller 8) The power supply controller 8 controls the on and off of the power supplied to the power supply 24 of the signage unit 2 and the external alarm device 9. The power supply controller 8 receives power from an external AC power supply or a solar panel. The power supply source is not limited to these. The relay device 3 is configured to be able to switch the power supply of the signage unit 2 from off to on and from on to off by controlling the power supply controller 8.

[0052] (External alarm device 9) The external alarm device 9 includes, for example, a rotating light 90 and a siren 91. The relay device 3 is configured to be able to control the operation of the external alarm device 9 via the power supply controller 8. For example, the relay device 3 controls the power supply controller 8 to control the on and off of the power supplies of the rotating light 90 and the siren 91.

[0053] (Signage management method) Fig. 2 is a flowchart of a part of a signage management method carried out by signage control unit 29, relay control unit 36, steady-state management unit 55, interrupt management unit 65, and operation unit 76 in Fig. 1 in cooperation with each other. The signage management method will be described below. To the extent that no inconsistency occurs, some or all of the processing carried out by any of signage control unit 29, relay control unit 36, steady-state management unit 55, interrupt management unit 65, and operation unit 76 may be carried out by the remaining other components. The order of the processing that constitutes the signage management method may be changed or may be carried out simultaneously to the extent that no inconsistency occurs.

[0054] STEP ST101: In step ST101, the relay control section 36 performs a data acquisition and transmission process, which will be described later.

[0055] STEP ST102: Next, in step ST102, signage control unit 29 performs a content update process, which will be described later.

[0056] STEP ST103: Next, in step ST103, the relay control section 36 performs an external control process, which will be described later.

[0057] STEP ST104: Next, in step ST104, the relay control section 36 executes an alarm process, which will be described later.

[0058] STEP ST105: Next, in step ST105, signage control unit 29 performs a signage display process, which will be described later. Steps ST101 to ST105 are repeated as necessary.

[0059] (Data acquisition and transmission processing) FIG. 3 is a flowchart of the data acquisition and transmission process in step ST101 of FIG.

[0060] Step ST201: In step ST201, relay control unit 36 ​​acquires various data from camera 40, sensor 41, GPS 42, power supply controller 8, and timer 30. For example, a still image or video of the surroundings of signage unit 2 is acquired from camera 40. The surrounding temperature or humidity of signage unit 2 is acquired from sensor 41. Position information of signage unit 2 is acquired from GPS 42. Whether each device connected to power supply controller 8 is on or off is acquired from power supply controller 8. The time since timing started is acquired from timer 30.

[0061] Step ST202: Next, in step ST202, relay control section 36 transmits the acquired data to signage control section 29, steady-state management section 55, interruption management section 65, and operation section 76 as necessary.

[0062] Step ST203: Next, in step ST203, the relay control unit 36 ​​judges whether or not there is an event corresponding to the time acquired from the timer 30. If there is an event, the process proceeds to step ST204. If there is no event, the data acquisition and transmission process ends.

[0063] Step ST204: Next, in step ST204, the relay control section 36 executes an event corresponding to the time acquired from the timer 30, and the data acquisition and transmission process ends.

[0064] (Content update process) FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the content update process in step ST102 of FIG.

[0065] STEP ST301: In step ST301, signage control unit 29 inquires of routine management unit 55 as to whether or not the routine content needs to be updated. Routine management unit 55 checks routine content information 54 and returns to signage control unit 29 whether or not the routine content needs to be updated. For example, but not limited to, when the routine content stored in routine content information 54 is newer than the routine content included in signage storage information 28, or when an instruction is received from operation device 7, it is determined that the routine content needs to be updated. If the routine content needs to be updated, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST302, and if the routine content does not need to be updated, proceeds to step ST303.

[0066] STEP ST302: In step ST302, signage control unit 29 updates the regular content included in signage storage information 28 in accordance with an instruction from regular management unit 55, and proceeds to step ST303. For example, the regular content included in signage storage information 28 is rewritten by the regular content received from regular management unit 55.

[0067] STEP ST303: In step ST303, signage control unit 29 inquires of interrupt management unit 65 as to whether or not it is necessary to update the interrupt content. Interrupt management unit 65 checks interrupt information 64 and returns to signage control unit 29 whether or not it is necessary to update the interrupt content. For example, but not limited to, if the interrupt content stored in interruption information 64 is newer than the interruption content included in signage storage information 28, or if an instruction is received from operation device 7, it is determined that the interruption content needs to be updated. If it is necessary to update the interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST304, and if it is not necessary to update the interruption content, it proceeds to step ST305.

[0068] STEP ST304: In step ST304, signage control unit 29 updates the interruption content included in signage storage information 28 in accordance with an instruction from interruption management unit 65, and proceeds to step ST305. For example, the interruption content included in signage storage information 28 is rewritten by the interruption content received from interruption management unit 65.

[0069] STEP ST305: In step ST305, signage control unit 29 inquires of operation unit 76 as to whether or not it is necessary to update the interruption content. Operation unit 76 replies to signage control unit 29 as to whether or not it is necessary to update the interruption content based on, for example, a user operation. If it is necessary to update the interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST306, and if it is not necessary to update the interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST307.

[0070] STEP ST306: In step ST306, signage control unit 29 updates the interruption content included in signage stored information 28 in accordance with an instruction from operation unit 76, and proceeds to step ST307. For example, operation unit 76 presents several interruption contents to the user in a selectable manner, and the interruption content included in signage stored information 28 is updated based on the interruption content selected by the user. Similarly, stationary content may be updated in accordance with an instruction from operation unit 76.

[0071] STEP ST307: In step ST307, signage control unit 29 determines whether or not it is necessary to update the interruption content based on the time acquired from timer 22. For example, it is preset to update the interruption content according to the time. If it is necessary to update the interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST308, and if it is not necessary to update the interruption content, it ends the content update process.

[0072] STEP ST308: In step ST308, signage control section 29 updates the interruption content included in signage storage information 28 according to a predetermined setting, and ends the content update process.

[0073] (External control processing) FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the external control process in step ST103 of FIG.

[0074] STEP ST401: In step ST401, the relay device 3 determines whether or not there is an access request to the signage unit 2 from the stationary content server 5 or the interruption server 6. If there is an access request, the relay device 3 proceeds to step ST402, and if there is no access request, the relay device 3 proceeds to step ST403.

[0075] STEP ST402: In step ST402, the relay device 3 permits the steady content server 5 or the interruption server 6 making the access request to access the signage unit 2. The steady content server 5 or the interruption server 6 that has been permitted access can perform various operations such as setting the signage unit 2, operating the operating system, and operating various programs.

[0076] STEP ST403: In step ST403, the relay device 3 detects whether or not the operation device 7 is attempting to access the signage unit 2. If the operation device 7 is attempting to access, the relay device 3 proceeds to step ST404, and if the operation device 7 is not attempting to access, the external control process ends.

[0077] STEP ST404: In step ST404, the relay device 3 inquires of the interrupt server 6 as to whether or not the access by the operation device 7 to the signage unit 2 is permitted. In the inquiry, the relay device 3 acquires unique identification information from the operation device 7 and transmits it to the interrupt management unit 65. The identification information of the operation device 7 permitted to access each signage unit 2 is stored in advance in the interrupt information 64. The interrupt management unit 65 determines whether or not the access by the operation device 7 to the signage unit 2 is permitted based on the stored identification information and the received identification information, and transmits the determination result to the relay device 3. If the access is permitted, the relay device 3 proceeds to step ST405, and if the access is not permitted, the relay device 3 proceeds to step ST406.

[0078] STEP ST405: In step ST405, the relay device 3 permits the operation device 7 to access the signage unit 2, thereby allowing only the operation device 7 permitted to access the signage unit 2 to access the signage unit 2. The operation device 7 permitted to access can perform various operations such as setting the signage unit 2, operating the operating system, operating various programs, updating regular content, and updating interruption content. In particular, the operations that can be performed by the operation device 7 located close to the signage unit 2 may include operations that cannot be performed from the regular content server 5 or interruption server 6 accessed remotely via the Internet due to restrictions imposed by the operating system. After step ST405, the external control process ends.

[0079] STEP ST406: In step ST406, the relay device 3 denies access to the signage unit 2 by the operation device 7, and the external control process ends.

[0080] (Alarm processing) FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the warning process in step ST104 of FIG.

[0081] STEP ST501: In step ST501, the relay device 3 judges whether or not an interrupt instruction including an alarm has been received. In this example, the interrupt instruction including an alarm is received from the interrupt server 6. The operation of including an alarm in the interrupt instruction is instructed, for example, from the operation device 7. In another example, the interrupt instruction including an alarm may be transmitted by the stationary content server 5 or the operation device 7, or may be transmitted by another device. If the relay device 3 receives an alarm, it proceeds to step ST502, and if it does not receive an alarm, it ends the alarm processing. For example, the stationary content server 5, the interrupt server 6, or the operation device 7 may judge whether or not to transmit an alarm based on the received data. For example, the interrupt server 6 detects a disaster based on an image captured by the camera 40 and transmits an alarm.

[0082] STEP ST502: In step ST502, in response to the received alarm, the relay device 3 causes the display unit 20 of the signage unit 2 to display a display corresponding to the alarm instead of the stationary content, and activates the external alarm device 9. When the external alarm device 9 is activated, for example, an alarm is issued to the surroundings by turning on the power of the rotating light 90 or the siren 91. After the alarm is issued, the alarm processing ends.

[0083] (Signage display processing) FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the signage display process in step ST104 of FIG.

[0084] STEP ST601: In step ST601, signage control unit 29 checks whether or not there is interruption content in signage storage information 28. If there is interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST602, and if there is no interruption content, signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST605.

[0085] STEP ST602: In step ST602, the signage control unit 29 checks whether or not it is necessary to start a specific application. If it is necessary to start a specific application, the signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST603, and if it is not necessary to start a specific application, the signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST604.

[0086] STEP ST603: In step ST603, signage control section 29 starts a specific application to display the interruption content, and ends the signage display process.

[0087] STEP ST604: In step ST604, signage control section 29 displays the interruption content, and ends the signage display process.

[0088] STEP ST605: In step ST605, signage control section 29 displays the stationary content, and ends the signage display process.

[0089] (Charging management processing) 8 is a flowchart of a power receiving management process performed as a part of the signage management method. The power receiving management process manages a charging current of a rechargeable battery used as the power source 24 of the signage unit 2. Note that in other examples, the power receiving management process may be performed in other devices such as the relay device 3, the steady content server 5, the interrupt server 6, the operation device 7, or other devices.

[0090] STEP ST701: In step ST701, signage control unit 29 measures the receiving current flowing through power supply 24.

[0091] STEP ST702: Next, in step ST702, the signage control unit 29 determines whether or not the measured receiving current is equal to or less than the threshold value. If the receiving current is greater than the threshold value, the signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST703, and if the receiving current is equal to or less than the threshold value, the signage control unit 29 proceeds to step ST704.

[0092] STEP ST703: In step ST703, signage control section 29 causes a charging current from power supply controller 8 to flow to power supply 24, which is a rechargeable battery, thereby charging the rechargeable battery, and returns to step ST701. The charging current continues to flow until it is interrupted.

[0093] STEP ST704: In step ST704, signage control section 29 interrupts charging, operates timer 22, and then proceeds to step ST705.

[0094] STEP ST705: In step ST705, signage control unit 29 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed by checking timer 22. If the predetermined time has elapsed, signage control unit 29 returns to step ST701, and if the predetermined time has not elapsed, repeats step ST705.

[0095] (summary) According to the present embodiment, since the display unit 20 can constantly display stationary content and can temporarily display interruption content as necessary, the display content of the signage unit 2 can be made more flexible and complex than ever before. Also, since the signage unit 2 can be wirelessly operated from the operation device 7 via the relay device 3, the signage unit 2 can be easily operated even in a situation where it is difficult to connect to the signage unit 2 by wire.

[0096] According to this embodiment, interrupt content is displayed on the display unit 20 in response to an interrupt instruction received from the interrupt server 6, so that the display content of the signage unit 2 can be made more flexible and complex than in the past.

[0097] According to the present embodiment, the interruption content selected on the operation device 7 is displayed on the display unit 20, so that the display content of the signage unit 2 can be made more flexible and complex than in the past.

[0098] According to this embodiment, the relay device 3 is configured to allow only the operation device 7 that is permitted to access the signage unit 2 to access the signage unit 2, thereby preventing unintended and unauthorized access to the signage unit 2.

[0099] According to this embodiment, in response to an alarm, the relay device 3 or the signage unit 2 causes the display unit 20 of the signage unit 2 to display information corresponding to the alarm and activates the external alarm device 9, thereby making the operation of the signage management system 1 flexible and complex.

[0100] According to this embodiment, the power supply of signage unit 2 can be switched from off to on, so that necessary information can be displayed on display section 20 even when signage unit 2 is in an off state.

[0101] According to this embodiment, charging is interrupted when the charging current is below a threshold value, thereby preventing excessive current from flowing when the battery is close to being fully charged, thereby making it possible to conserve power for charging.

[0102] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. That is, a person skilled in the art may make various modifications, combinations, subcombinations, and substitutions of the components of the above-described embodiments within the technical scope of the present invention or an equivalent scope. [Industrial Applicability]

[0103] The present invention is applicable to various situations in which a signage unit is used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0104] 1...signage management system, 2...signage unit, 3...relay device, 4...external operation device, 5...stationary content server, 6...interrupt server, 7...operation device, 8...power controller, 9...external alarm device, 10...network, 20: display unit, 21: speaker, 22: timer, 23: communication unit, 24: power supply, 25... storage device, 26... processor, 27... signage control program, 28: Signage storage information, 29: Signage control unit, 30: Timer, 31: Communication unit, 32 storage device, 33 processor, 34 relay control program, 35 relay stored information, 36: relay control unit, 40: camera, 41: sensor, 42: GPS, 50: communication unit, 51...storage device, 52...processor, 53...routine management program, 54... regular content information, 55... regular management unit, 60... communication unit, 61... storage device, 62 ... processor, 63 ... interrupt management program, 64 ... interrupt information, 65... interrupt management unit, 70... communication unit, 71... input / output unit, 72... storage device, 73...processor, 74...operation program, 75...operation information, 76...operation unit, 90... rotating light, 91... siren

Claims

1. A signage management system, The signage management system, a signage unit including a display unit for visually displaying, a signage control program, and a processor; a constant content server for providing constant content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; an interruption server for providing interruption content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; A relay device that is pre-connected to the signage unit; an operation device for performing an operation on the signage unit via the relay device by wireless communication; Equipped with the relay device includes a communication unit that enables communication between the stationary content server and the signage unit, communication between the interrupt server and the signage unit, and communication between the operation device and the signage unit; When the signage control program is executed by the processor, the signage unit: causing the display unit to constantly display the constant content; temporarily displaying the interruption content in place of the stationary content displayed on the display unit; [0023] The present invention is configured to the interrupt server is configured to transmit an interrupt instruction to the signage unit; When the signage control program is executed by the processor, the signage control program is configured to cause the display unit to display the interrupt content in response to the interrupt instruction received from the interrupt server, The operation device and the interrupt server are configured to be able to communicate with each other, The interrupt server is configured to transmit the interrupt instruction to the signage unit so as to cause the display unit to display the interrupt content selected on the operation device. Signage management system.

2. The operation device stores identification information, the interrupt server stores the identification information of the operating devices that are authorized to access the signage unit; The relay device, Detecting whether the operating device is attempting to access the signage unit; When the operation device is attempting to access the signage unit, inquiring of the interrupt server as to whether or not the operation device is permitted to access the signage unit; allowing only the operation device that is permitted to access the signage unit to access the signage unit; is configured to run The signage management system according to claim 1 .

3. the signage management system includes an external alarm device for issuing an alarm; The relay device is configured to be capable of controlling an operation of the external alarm device, the interrupt indication includes the alert directed to the relay device or the signage unit; the relay device or the signage unit is configured to, in response to the alarm, cause the display unit of the signage unit to display a message corresponding to the alarm and activate the external alarm device. The signage management system according to claim 2 .

4. the relay device is configured to switch the power of the signage unit from off to on; The signage management system according to claim 3 .

5. At least one of the signage unit and the relay device includes a rechargeable battery; The at least one device is Measuring a charging current of the battery; interrupting charging when the charging current is below a threshold; charging when the charging current is greater than the threshold; 4. The method according to claim 1, The signage management system according to claim 1 .

6. A signage management method implemented in a signage management system, comprising: The signage management system, a signage unit including a display unit for visually displaying, a signage control program, and a processor; a constant content server for providing constant content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; an interruption server for providing interruption content to be displayed on the display unit to the signage unit; A relay device that is pre-connected to the signage unit; an operation device for performing an operation on the signage unit via the relay device by wireless communication; Equipped with the relay device includes a communication unit that enables communication between the stationary content server and the signage unit, communication between the interrupt server and the signage unit, and communication between the operation device and the signage unit; the interrupt server is configured to transmit an interrupt instruction to the signage unit; The operation device and the interrupt server are configured to be able to communicate with each other, The signage management method includes: The signage unit causes the display unit to constantly display the constant content, the signage unit temporarily displays the interruption content in place of the stationary content displayed on the display unit; When the signage control program is executed by the processor, in response to the interrupt instruction received from the interrupt server, the signage control program causes the display unit to display the interrupt content; the interrupt server transmits the interrupt instruction to the signage unit so as to cause the display unit to display the interrupt content selected on the operation device; Signage management methods.

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