Control system, control method, and program

Abstract

To enhance security.SOLUTION: A control system 10 includes an acquisition unit 131 and a voice control unit 134. The acquisition unit 131 acquires an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor located in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside an entrance of a facility. The voice control unit 134 has a voice control function for controlling a target device in accordance with voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function for controlling the target device in accordance with a voice emitted from the visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function between an enabled state and a disabled state on the basis of the authentication result.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a control system, a control method, and a program, and more particularly to a control system, a control method, and a program that control a target device in response to voice. [Background technology]

[0002] The intercom system described in Patent Document 1 comprises an input means, an authentication means, a storage means, a determination means, and an output means. The input means is provided in a front door device and acquires input information. The authentication means identifies personal identification information given to each individual from the input information acquired by the input means. The determination means determines output content associated with the personal identification information identified by the authentication means. The output means is provided in an in-home intercom and converts the output content determined by the determination means into voice and outputs it. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-213086 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a control system, a control method, and a program that can improve security. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit and a voice control unit. The acquisition unit acquires an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance to a facility. The voice control unit has a voice control function that controls a target device in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function that controls the target device in response to voice emitted by the visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control unit switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result. The control system further includes a display unit that displays whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled, and the display unit includes a pilot lamp that switches its illumination state between enabled and disabled states of the specific control function, thereby displaying whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled.

[0006] A control method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition process and a voice control process. The acquisition process is a process for acquiring an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance of a facility. The voice control process is a process having a voice control function for controlling a target device in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function for controlling the target device in response to voice emitted by the visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control process switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result. The control method further includes a presentation process for distinguishing between an enabled state and an disabled state of the specific control function by a presentation unit, the presentation unit including a pilot lamp, and the presentation process for distinguishing between an enabled state and an disabled state of the specific control function by switching the illumination state of the pilot lamp depending on whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled.

[0007] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the control method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present disclosure has the advantage of improving security. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an intercom system including a control system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the state of use of the control system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a control flow by the control system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A control system, a control method, and a program according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiment described below is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiment described below can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, each figure described in the embodiment described below is a schematic diagram, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the figures do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0011] (overview) The control system 10 of this embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is installed and used in a facility. The facility may be a residential facility or a non-residential facility. Examples of residential facilities are detached houses and apartment buildings. Examples of non-residential facilities are stores, office buildings, schools, welfare facilities, commercial complexes, hospitals, factories, etc. The facility may also be an outdoor facility such as a baseball stadium, parking lot, ground, or park.

[0012] When the control system 10 is installed in an apartment building, each of the multiple dwelling units in the apartment building may be considered a "facility," or the entire apartment building may be considered a "facility." Furthermore, when the control system 10 is installed in, for example, an office building that includes multiple sections that can accommodate multiple businesses, each of the multiple sections that are rented or sold may be considered a "facility," or the entire office building may be considered a "facility." In this embodiment, it is assumed that the control system 10 is installed in an apartment building, and the description will be given assuming that each of the multiple dwelling units in the apartment building is considered a "facility."

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the control system 10 of this embodiment includes an acquisition unit 131 and a voice control unit 134. The acquisition unit 131 acquires an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance / exit of the facility. The voice control unit 134 has a voice control function that controls target devices in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function that controls target devices in response to voice emitted by a visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result.

[0014] According to this embodiment, the voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result for the visitor. Therefore, compared to when the specific control function is always enabled, the possibility of a malicious person using the specific control function can be reduced. This can improve security. Also, the possibility of the specific control function being executed when the voice or other sounds of a person who does not intend to use the specific control function are recognized can be reduced. In other words, it is possible to suppress malfunction of the target device due to the specific control function.

[0015] In this disclosure, the term "visitor" refers to anyone who visits a facility (dwelling unit). The term "visitor" is not limited to guests who visit a facility (dwelling unit), but is a concept that includes residents of the facility (dwelling unit). In other words, residents of the facility (dwelling unit) can also use the specific control function.

[0016] The control system 10 is used, for example, for the following purposes. A resident of a dwelling unit makes a voice input to the door phone 2 (see FIG. 2) installed near the front door D1 (see FIG. 2), causing the door phone 2 to establish communication for a call with another resident inside the dwelling unit. The resident of the dwelling unit also makes a voice input to the door phone 2 to unlock or lock the front door D1. The resident of the dwelling unit also controls an intercom master unit (dwelling unit terminal 1) installed in the dwelling unit by making a voice input to the door phone 2.

[0017] Furthermore, functions similar to those of the control system 10 can be embodied as a control method or program. A control method according to one embodiment includes an acquisition process and a voice control process. The acquisition process is a process for acquiring an authentication result based on the authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance / exit of the facility. The voice control process is a process having a voice control function for controlling target equipment in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function for controlling target equipment in response to voice emitted by a visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control process switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result.

[0018] A program according to one aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the above control method. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium.

[0019] (detail) (1) Overall structure 1, the control system 10 is applied to an intercom system 100. The intercom system 100 includes a plurality of control systems 10, a management terminal 3, a lobby intercom 4, a plurality of branch switches 5, a main line L1, a plurality of branch lines L2, and a plurality of loads 6. The intercom system 100 also communicates with a server 7.

[0020] In this embodiment, each of the multiple control systems 10 includes a dwelling terminal 1 and an intercom 2 (intercom slave). The dwelling terminal 1 is a home information panel that has an alarm function in addition to the function of an intercom master. The alarm function includes, for example, a fire alarm function, a gas leak alarm function, a water leak alarm function, and a function to warn of open window and door states.

[0021] The intercom system 100 is installed in an apartment building. A dwelling unit terminal 1 and a door phone 2 are installed in each of the multiple dwelling units in the apartment building. More specifically, the multiple dwelling unit terminals 1 correspond one-to-one to the multiple dwelling units. Each dwelling unit terminal 1 is installed inside the corresponding dwelling unit (private area). The multiple door phones 2 correspond one-to-one to the multiple dwelling unit terminals 1. Each door phone 2 is installed in front of the entrance (common area) of the dwelling unit in which the corresponding dwelling unit terminal 1 is installed (see Figure 2).

[0022] The management terminal 3 is installed in the manager's room of the apartment building. The lobby intercom 4 is installed at the common entrance of the apartment building.

[0023] When intercom system 100 is installed in a detached house, the number of dwelling unit terminals 1 and door phones 2 may be one each, and management terminal 3 and lobby intercom 4 may be omitted.

[0024] The dwelling terminal 1 includes a communication IF (interface) 11, an operation unit 12, a processing device 13, a microphone 14, a speaker 15, and a display unit 16.

[0025] The intercom 2 includes a communication IF (interface) 21, an operation unit 22, a processing unit 23, a microphone 24, a speaker 25, a presentation unit 27, and a camera .

[0026] The management terminal 3 includes a communication IF (interface) 31 and a processing device 33.

[0027] The lobby intercom 4 includes a communication IF (interface) 41, an operation unit 42, a processing unit 43, a microphone 44, a speaker 45, a display unit 46, and a camera 48.

[0028] (2) Basic operation A visitor to an apartment building first operates the lobby intercom 4 to specify the dwelling unit number of the dwelling unit they wish to visit. The lobby intercom 4 then transmits a signal containing information about the specified dwelling unit number to the management terminal 3. The management terminal 3 then transmits a first call signal to the dwelling terminal 1 of the dwelling unit having that dwelling unit number. The first call signal contains identification information for the dwelling terminal 1. If the dwelling terminal 1 determines that the identification information contained in the first call signal matches its own identification information, it authenticates that the first call signal is addressed to it. When the dwelling terminal 1 receives the first call signal, it calls the resident, for example, by sound. When the resident performs a specified operation on the dwelling terminal 1, the dwelling terminal 1 establishes communication for a call with the lobby intercom 4. This allows the visitor and resident to talk to each other.

[0029] Furthermore, a visitor (person H1 in Figure 2) arrives at the entrance to the dwelling unit and operates the door phone 2 installed adjacent to the front door D1 to call the resident. Specifically, when the door phone 2 receives a predetermined operation, it sends a second call signal to the corresponding dwelling terminal 1. When the dwelling terminal 1 receives the second call signal, it calls the resident, for example, by sound. When the resident performs a predetermined operation on the dwelling terminal 1, the dwelling terminal 1 establishes communication for a call with the door phone 2. This allows the visitor and resident to talk to each other.

[0030] In addition, if the visitor has the authority to use a specific control function, the visitor can also establish communication for a call between the door phone 2 and the dwelling terminal 1 by making voice input to the door phone 2.

[0031] The communication mode for communication between the dwelling terminal 1 and the intercom 2 may be a two-way communication mode or a one-way communication mode. The two-way communication mode is a communication mode in which the visitor and the resident can communicate with each other. The one-way communication mode is a communication mode in which only one of the visitor and the resident can communicate with the other. The two-way communication mode and the one-way communication mode may also be switchable. For example, when a specific control function is enabled, the two-way communication mode and the one-way communication mode may be switchable in response to audio input.

[0032] (3) Communication Interface The dwelling unit terminal 1, the intercom 2, the management terminal 3, and the lobby intercom 4 are provided with communication IFs 11, 21, 31, and 41, respectively.

[0033] The dwelling terminal 1 and the intercom 2 can communicate with each other via the communication IFs 11 and 21. In this disclosure, "capable of communication" means that signals can be exchanged directly or indirectly via a network or a repeater, using an appropriate communication method such as wired or wireless communication. In this embodiment, the dwelling terminal 1 and the intercom 2 exchange signals via a wired communication path.

[0034] The dwell terminal 1 and the management terminal 3 can communicate with each other via the communication IFs 11 and 31. In this embodiment, the dwell terminal 1 and the management terminal 3 exchange signals via a wired communication path.

[0035] The management terminal 3 and the lobby intercom 4 can communicate with each other via the communication IFs 31 and 41. In this embodiment, the management terminal 3 and the lobby intercom 4 exchange signals via a wired communication path.

[0036] The lobby intercom 4 and the dwelling unit terminal 1 can communicate with each other via the management terminal 3. In other words, the management terminal 3 relays communication between the lobby intercom 4 and the dwelling unit terminal 1.

[0037] The main trunk line L1 and each of the plurality of branch lines L2 are made of, for example, a twisted pair cable. In Fig. 1, the main trunk line L1 and each of the plurality of branch lines L2 are shown by a single line.

[0038] A main trunk line L1 extends from the management terminal 3. The main trunk line L1 branches into multiple branch lines L2. Each of the multiple branch lines L2 extends to a corresponding dwelling unit terminal 1. In other words, the management terminal 3 and the multiple dwelling unit terminals 1 are electrically connected via the main trunk line L1 and the multiple branch lines L2. A switch 5 is provided at the branch point between the main trunk line L1 and each branch line L2.

[0039] Preferably, amplifiers for amplifying signals are installed between the plurality of branching devices 5 and the management terminal 3 on the main trunk line L1.

[0040] (4)Operation section The dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, and the lobby intercom 4 are each equipped with an operation unit 12, 22, 42, respectively. The operation units 12, 22, 42 accept user operations. When an operation is performed on the operation units 12, 22, 42, the processing devices 13, 23, 43 respond according to the operation. Therefore, for example, communication between the dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, and the lobby intercom 4 can be established or disconnected according to the operation on the operation units 12, 22, 42. Furthermore, by operating the operation units 12, 22, 42, for example, various settings of the intercom system 100 can be configured.

[0041] The operation unit 12, 22, 42 includes, for example, one or more buttons, a touch panel (or a touch panel display), or a combination thereof. The one or more buttons include, for example, a numeric keypad with numbers 0 to 9, an asterisk (*) button, a cancel button, and a call button. When a visitor wants to call a resident of a certain dwelling unit number, he or she presses the numeric keypad on the operation unit 42 of the lobby intercom 4 to enter the dwelling unit number. Finally, when the visitor presses the call button, the entry of the dwelling unit number is confirmed and a call is made to the dwelling unit terminal 1 of the dwelling unit with that dwelling unit number.

[0042] (5) Processing equipment The dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, the management terminal 3, and the lobby intercom 4 are each equipped with a processing device 13, 23, 33, and 43. The processing devices 13, 23, 33, and 43 each include a computer system having one or more processors and memory. At least some of the functions of the dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, the management terminal 3, and the lobby intercom 4 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program stored in the memory of the computer system. The program may be stored in memory, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be provided recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card.

[0043] The processing device 13 performs overall control of the dwelling terminal 1. Details of the processing device 13 will be described later.

[0044] The processor 23 performs overall control of the door phone 2. The processor 33 performs overall control of the management terminal 3. The processor 43 performs overall control of the lobby intercom 4.

[0045] (6) Microphone The dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, and the lobby intercom 4 are respectively equipped with microphones 14, 24, and 44. The microphones 14, 24, and 44 convert surrounding sounds into electrical signals.

[0046] (7) Speaker The dwelling terminal 1, the door phone 2, and the lobby intercom 4 are respectively equipped with speakers 15, 25, and 45. The speakers 15, 25, and 45 convert sound data into sound (air vibrations) and output the sound.

[0047] (8) Display section The dwelling terminal 1 and the lobby intercom 4 are each equipped with a display unit 16, 46. The display units 16, 46 are displays that display images. The display unit 16 displays, for example, an image captured by a camera 48 of the lobby intercom 4. The display units 16, 46 also display, for example, various setting information for the intercom system 100.

[0048] (9) Presentation section The intercom 2 includes a presentation unit 27. The presentation unit 27 presents a distinction between an enabled state and an disabled state of the specific control function. The presentation unit 27 includes, for example, a pilot lamp. The presentation unit 27 presents (displays) a distinction between an enabled state and an disabled state of the specific control function by switching the lighting state of the pilot lamp depending on whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled.

[0049] (10) Camera The door phone 2 and the lobby intercom 4 are equipped with cameras 28 and 48, respectively. The cameras 28 and 48 are visible light cameras. The cameras 28 and 48 have two-dimensional image sensors, such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. The camera 28 captures images of visitors standing in front of the entrance to the dwelling unit. The camera 48 captures images of visitors standing in the shared entrance of the apartment building.

[0050] Camera 28 may be provided independently of other components in door phone 2. In other words, intercom system 100 may include camera 28 and door phone 2 that does not include camera 28.

[0051] Furthermore, the camera 48 may be provided independently of other components in the lobby intercom 4. In other words, the intercom system 100 may include a lobby intercom 4 that does not include a camera 48, and a lobby intercom 4.

[0052] (11) Load Each of the multiple dwelling units is equipped with one or more loads 6. FIG. 1 illustrates four loads 6 installed in one dwelling unit. The four loads 6 are a lighting fixture 61, an air conditioner 62, an electric lock 63, and an electric shutter 64. However, the types of loads 6 are not limited to these.

[0053] When focusing on a certain dwelling unit, the dwelling unit terminal 1 and one or more loads 6 installed in this dwelling unit correspond to each other. Each load 6 is electrically connected to the corresponding dwelling unit terminal 1. Each load 6 is controlled by the voice control function of the corresponding dwelling unit terminal 1.

[0054] (12) Server The server 7 is installed at a location remote from the facility where the control system 10 and the intercom system 100 are installed. The server 7 communicates with the control system 10 via a network NT1.

[0055] (13) Processing device for residential terminal 1, the processing device 13 of the dwelling terminal 1 has an acquisition unit 131, a registration unit 132, an authentication unit 133, and a voice control unit 134. Note that these merely indicate the functions realized by the processing device 13 and do not necessarily indicate any actual configuration.

[0056] (13-1) Acquisition department The acquisition unit 131 acquires an authentication result based on the authentication information of a visitor who is in a predetermined area outside the entrance of the facility (dwelling unit). In this embodiment, the entrance is provided with a front door D1 (see FIG. 2), and the predetermined area is the area in front of the door phone 2 installed adjacent to the front door D1.

[0057] In this embodiment, the dwell terminal 1 acquires authentication information of the visitor. The acquisition unit 131 acquires the authentication result generated by the authentication unit 133 based on the authentication information.

[0058] (13-2) Registration Department The registration unit 132 performs a process of registering the registration information of users who are permitted to use specific control functions. The registration information is compared with the visitor's authentication information in order to authenticate the visitor. When the user operates the operation unit 12, the registration unit 132 performs a process of registering the registration information. The registration information registered by the registration unit 132 is stored in the memory of the dwelling terminal 1.

[0059] For example, when registering a user's voice information as registration information, when the user operates the operation unit 12, the sound picked up by the microphone 14 is converted into an electrical signal to generate voice information, and the registration unit 132 registers the voice information as registration information.

[0060] The registration unit 132 also performs a process of registering registration information of users who are permitted to use the normal control function, which will be described later.

[0061] (13-3) Authentication section The authentication unit 133 authenticates the visitor based on the authentication information acquired by the dwell terminal 1. Specifically, if the match rate between any of the one or more pieces of registration information registered by the registration unit 132 and the authentication information newly acquired by the dwell terminal 1 is equal to or greater than a threshold, the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a pre-registered user. In other words, in this case, the authentication unit 133 allows the visitor to use the specific control function. On the other hand, if the match rate is less than the threshold, the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is not a pre-registered user. In other words, in this case, the authentication unit 133 does not allow the visitor to use the specific control function.

[0062] As an example, the authentication information includes voice information of the visitor. In this case, the dwell terminal 1 acquires the voice information acquired from the visitor by the microphone 24 of the door phone 2 via the communication IF 11 and uses this information as authentication information. The authentication unit 133 performs voiceprint authentication on the voice information acquired from the visitor. That is, the registration unit 132 registers features of the user's voice in advance, and if the matching rate between any one or more registered voice features and the features of the voice information newly acquired by the dwell terminal 1 is equal to or greater than a threshold, the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a pre-registered user.

[0063] As another example, the authentication information includes image information of at least a portion of the visitor's body part. The at least a portion of the visitor's body part is, for example, the visitor's face. That is, as one example, the authentication information includes image information of the visitor's face. In this case, the dwell terminal 1 acquires image information acquired by capturing an image of the visitor's face with the camera 28 of the door phone 2 via the communication IF 11, and uses this image information as authentication information. The authentication unit 133 performs image authentication on the image information acquired from the visitor. That is, the registration unit 132 registers image features of the user in advance, and the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a previously registered user if the match rate between the feature of one or more registered images and the feature of image information newly acquired by the dwell terminal 1 is equal to or greater than a threshold.

[0064] In this way, the dwelling terminal 1 (communication IF 11) communicates with a communication device (door phone 2) installed in a specified area that acquires authentication information from the visitor, and acquires the authentication information. The dwelling terminal 1 as the target device authenticates the visitor based on the authentication information acquired by the dwelling terminal 1. More specifically, the authentication unit 133 of the dwelling terminal 1 authenticates the visitor. The authentication unit 133 outputs the authentication result to the acquisition unit 131.

[0065] The following description will be made on the assumption that the authentication unit 133 authenticates the visitor by voiceprint authentication.

[0066] (13-4) Audio control unit The audio control unit 134 has an audio control function. The audio control function is a function for controlling a target device in response to audio. The audio control function includes a normal control function and a specific control function.

[0067] (13-4-1) Normal control function The normal control function is a function that controls target devices in response to voices emitted by people in the area surrounding the dwelling terminal 1. In other words, the normal control function is a function that controls target devices by voice input inside the dwelling. The normal control function is used, for example, by a resident of the dwelling. The resident speaks a predetermined command to activate the normal control function into the dwelling terminal 1. The voice emitted by the resident is picked up by the microphone 14 of the dwelling terminal 1 and converted into voice information. The voice information is an electrical signal.

[0068] The registration unit 132 performs a process of registering registration information (voice) of users who are permitted to use the normal control function. The registration information is compared with the user's authentication information for user authentication. The registration information registered by the registration unit 132 is stored in the memory of the dwelling terminal 1. The one or more users who are permitted to use the normal control function may or may not match the one or more users who are permitted to use the specific control function. As an example, the one or more users who are permitted to use the normal control function may include residents of the dwelling unit and their acquaintances, and the one or more users who are permitted to use the specific control function may include only residents of the dwelling unit.

[0069] The authentication unit 133 performs voiceprint authentication on the voice information. The authentication unit 133 determines whether the person who uttered the predetermined command is a pre-registered user. If it is determined that the person who uttered the predetermined command is a pre-registered user, the voice control unit 134 enables the normal control function.

[0070] When the normal control function is enabled and a command for controlling a target device is input by voice to the microphone 14 of the dwelling terminal 1, the voice control unit 134 executes control corresponding to the command on the target device.

[0071] The voice control unit 134 switches the normal control function to the disabled state when a predetermined condition is satisfied after switching the normal control function from the disabled state to the enabled state. The predetermined condition includes, for example, at least one of a condition (first condition) that a predetermined time has elapsed since the voice control unit 134 switched the normal control function from the disabled state to the enabled state, and a condition (second condition) that the voice control unit 134 has executed a predetermined control on a target device in response to a voice uttered by the user. The second condition is, for example, a condition that the voice control unit 134 has executed one or more controls on one or more target devices.

[0072] Note that authentication may be omitted for the normal control function, meaning that anyone in the dwelling unit may be able to use the normal control function.

[0073] (13-4-2) Specific control functions Next, the specific control function will be described.

[0074] The specific control function is a function that controls target devices in response to voices emitted by people in the area surrounding the door phone 2. The specific control function is used by visitors to the residence. The visitor speaks a predetermined command to the door phone 2 to activate the specific control function. The voice emitted by the visitor is picked up by the microphone 24 of the door phone 2 and converted into voice information. The voice information is an electrical signal.

[0075] The authentication unit 133 performs voiceprint authentication on the voice information. The authentication unit 133 determines whether the person who uttered the predetermined command is a pre-registered user. If it is determined that the person who uttered the predetermined command is a pre-registered user, the voice control unit 134 enables the specific control function. In other words, when the specific control function is disabled, the acquisition unit 131 acquires an authentication result, and if the authentication result is positive, the voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function to an enabled state.

[0076] When a command for controlling a target device is input by voice to microphone 24 of intercom 2 while the specific control function is enabled, voice control unit 134 executes control corresponding to the command on the target device.

[0077] The voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function back to the disabled state when a predetermined condition is satisfied after switching the specific control function from the disabled state to the enabled state. The predetermined condition includes at least one of a condition (third condition) that a predetermined time has elapsed since the voice control unit 134 switched the specific control function from the disabled state to the enabled state, and a condition (fourth condition) that the voice control unit 134 has executed a predetermined control on a target device in response to a voice emitted by a visitor. The fourth condition is, for example, a condition that the voice control unit 134 has executed one or more controls on one or more target devices.

[0078] The enable / disable setting of the specific control function is independent of the enable / disable setting of the normal control function. For example, even if the specific control function is switched between enable and disable, the enable / disable setting of the normal control function is maintained.

[0079] (13-4-3) Control of target devices When the voice control function (normal control function or specific control function) is enabled, the user can input commands for controlling the target device by voice. The voice control unit 134 executes control corresponding to the commands on the target device.

[0080] The target devices include devices installed in the facility (dwelling unit). Specifically, the target devices include, for example, at least one of a plurality of loads 6. The target devices also include, for example, a dwelling unit terminal 1 and a door phone 2. When the target devices controlled by the specific control function include the dwelling unit terminal 1, a visitor can remotely operate the dwelling unit terminal 1 by speaking into the door phone 2.

[0081] Examples of control of target devices by voice input are listed below. However, among the multiple controls for the target devices, some controls may be realized only by the normal control function. Furthermore, among the multiple controls for the target devices, other controls may be realized only by the specific control function.

[0082] For example, when the user voice-inputs the command "Turn on the lights," voice control unit 134 turns on lighting device 61. When the user voice-inputs the command "Turn off the lights," voice control unit 134 turns off lighting device 61. When the user voice-inputs the command "Make the room brighter," voice control unit 134 increases the brightness of lighting device 61. When the user voice-inputs the command "Make the room darker," voice control unit 134 decreases the brightness of lighting device 61.

[0083] For example, when the user inputs a command such as "Raise the room temperature" by voice, the voice control unit 134 raises the set temperature of the air conditioner 62. When the user inputs a command such as "Lower the room temperature" by voice, the voice control unit 134 lowers the set temperature of the air conditioner 62.

[0084] For example, when the user inputs the command "unlock" by voice, the voice control unit 134 transmits a command signal to the electric lock 63 provided on the front door D1, and the electric lock 63 unlocks the front door D1 in accordance with the command signal. Also, when the user inputs the command "lock" by voice, the voice control unit 134 transmits a command signal to the electric lock 63 provided on the front door D1, and the electric lock 63 locks the front door D1 in accordance with the command signal.

[0085] For example, in the specific control function, when a visitor voice-inputs the command "I'm home" into the door phone 2, the voice control unit 134 causes the speaker 15 of the dwelling terminal 1 to output a call tone. Furthermore, the voice control unit 134 establishes communication for a call between the dwelling terminal 1 and the door phone 2. The resident can talk to the visitor and, if necessary, unlock the front door D1 by voice input or manually. In this way, the specific control function may include a function for establishing communication for a call between the target device (the door phone 2) and a communication device (the dwelling terminal 1) installed in the facility (the dwelling). After the call tone is output from the speaker 15 of the dwelling terminal 1, communication for a call between the dwelling terminal 1 and the door phone 2 may be established by performing a predetermined operation on the operation unit 12 of the dwelling terminal 1. Alternatively, after a call tone is output from speaker 15 of dwelling terminal 1, a predetermined command may be input by voice into microphone 14 of dwelling terminal 1, thereby establishing communication for a call between dwelling terminal 1 and intercom 2. Omitting the operation of operation unit 12 has the advantage that a call can be initiated even if the resident is unable to use their hands due to other tasks.

[0086] For example, the electric shutter 64 includes a shutter body and a drive device that raises and lowers the shutter body. When the user inputs the command "Raise the shutter" by voice, the voice control unit 134 transmits a command signal to the drive device, and the drive device winds up the shutter body in accordance with the command signal. When the user inputs the command "Lower the shutter" by voice, the voice control unit 134 transmits a command signal to the drive device, and the drive device lowers the shutter body in accordance with the command signal.

[0087] For example, when the user inputs a command such as "Tell me the weather today," the voice control unit 134 communicates with the server 7 via the communication IF 11 and acquires weather information from the server 7. Furthermore, the voice control unit 134 displays the weather information on the display unit 16 of the dwelling terminal 1.

[0088] For example, the dwelling unit terminal 1 acquires data on the amount of electricity used by the dwelling unit from a smart meter installed in the dwelling unit. When the user inputs a command such as "Tell me the amount of electricity used" by voice, the voice control unit 134 displays the data on the amount of electricity used by the dwelling unit on the display unit 16 of the dwelling unit terminal 1.

[0089] The operation modes of the intercom 2 include an away mode and an at-home mode. For example, if the user inputs the command "set to away mode" by voice, the voice control unit 134 switches the operation mode of the intercom 2 to away mode. In other words, the specific control function includes a function for controlling the operation mode of the target device. When the operation mode of the intercom 2 is away mode, if a visitor operates the operation unit 22 of the intercom 2 to call the resident, the intercom 2 records the sound picked up by the microphone 24 and the image captured by the camera 28. When the operation mode of the intercom 2 is at-home mode, if a visitor operates the operation unit 22 of the intercom 2 to call the resident, the dwelling terminal 1 calls the resident, for example, by sound. After that, if the resident performs a predetermined operation on the dwelling terminal 1, the dwelling terminal 1 establishes communication for a call with the intercom 2. This allows the visitor and the resident to talk to each other.

[0090] If the normal control function or the specific control function is enabled and the input voice is different from any of the predetermined commands, an error notification may be issued. The error notification may be issued, for example, by changing the lighting state of a pilot lamp constituting the display unit 27. Alternatively, the error notification may be issued by a screen display on the display unit 16. Alternatively, the error notification may be issued by a voice output from the speaker 15 or 25.

[0091] (14) Control Flow Next, a series of flows of a method for controlling a target device using a specific control function will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Note that the flowchart shown in Fig. 3 is merely an example of a control method according to the present disclosure, and the order of processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or omitted as appropriate.

[0092] First, in an initial state, the specific control function is disabled (step ST1). When the visitor speaks a predetermined command to the door phone 2 to input the visitor's authentication information (voice information) (step ST2: Yes), the authentication unit 133 performs authentication processing (step ST3).

[0093] As a result of the authentication process, if the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a pre-registered user (step ST4: Yes), the voice control unit 134 enables the specific control function (step ST5). When a command for controlling the target device is input by voice to the microphone 24 of the door phone 2 while the specific control function is enabled (step ST6: Yes), the voice control unit 134 executes control corresponding to the command on the target device (step ST8). Thereafter, the voice control unit 134 disables the specific control function (step ST1).

[0094] Furthermore, if a predetermined time has passed since the specific control function was enabled without a command being input (step ST7: Yes), the voice control unit 134 disables the specific control function (step ST1).

[0095] (15) Advantages According to this embodiment, the voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result for the visitor. Therefore, compared to when the specific control function is always enabled, the possibility of a malicious person using the specific control function can be reduced. This can improve security. Also, the possibility of the specific control function being executed when the voice or other sounds of a person who does not intend to use the specific control function are recognized can be reduced. In other words, it is possible to suppress malfunction of the target device due to the specific control function.

[0096] Furthermore, visitors can provide authentication information to a device (interface phone 2) installed in the facility without contacting it. For example, the visitor's authentication information can consist of voice information, image information, or a combination of these. Because visitors do not need to touch the operation unit 22 of the intercom 2, even children who cannot reach the intercom 2 can control the target device by voice. This also reduces the risk of infection caused by touching the operation unit 22, which is touched by many people.

[0097] Furthermore, authentication unit 133 has a function of authenticating a person who has made a sound in the normal control function and a function of authenticating a person who has made a sound in the specific control function. Therefore, compared to a case where an authentication unit that performs authentication in the normal control function and an authentication unit that performs authentication in the specific control function are separately provided, the initial cost of intercom system 100 can be reduced.

[0098] (Variation 1) The following describes the control system 10 according to Modification 1. The same components as those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0099] In this embodiment, the dwell terminal 1 has a function as the authentication unit 133, and the dwell terminal 1 acquires authentication information from the intercom 2, and the authentication unit 133 generates an authentication result based on the authentication information.

[0100] However, it is not essential that the function of the authentication unit 133 be provided in the dwell terminal 1. The function of the authentication unit 133 may be provided in, for example, the door phone 2. In this case, the door phone 2 generates an authentication result based on the authentication information, and the acquisition unit 131 acquires the authentication result from the door phone 2. The voice control unit 134 of the dwell terminal 1 simply switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result.

[0101] In other words, the control system 10 includes a first communication device (door phone 2) and a second communication device (dwelling unit terminal 1), where the first communication device is installed in a specified area and acquires authentication information from a visitor, and the second communication device communicates with the first communication device and acquires the authentication information or authentication results.

[0102] Alternatively, the function of the authentication unit 133 may be provided in the server 7. In other words, visitor authentication information acquired using the microphone 24 or camera 28 of the door phone 2 may be transmitted to the server 7, which may then generate an authentication result based on the authentication information and transmit the authentication result to the dwell terminal 1. The voice control unit 134 of the dwell terminal 1 may simply switch between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result.

[0103] (Other Modifications of the Embodiments) Other variations of the embodiment are listed below. The following variations may be implemented in appropriate combination. The following variations may also be implemented in appropriate combination with the above-described variation 1.

[0104] The control system 10 only needs to have the functions of at least the acquisition unit 131 and the voice control unit 134. Therefore, for example, the control system 10 may be configured by the dwelling terminal 1 alone.

[0105] In the embodiment, the presentation unit 27 visually indicates whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled by changing the lighting state of the pilot lamp. Alternatively, the presentation unit 27 may use a sound (including a voice) to distinguish between the enabled and disabled states of the specific control function. In this case, the speaker 15 or 25 may be used as the presentation unit 27. For example, each time the authentication unit 133 attempts to authenticate a visitor, the presentation unit 27 may use a sound (including a voice) to distinguish between the enabled and disabled states of the specific control function.

[0106] The authentication result based on the authentication information may include the result of the process of identifying the visitor. That is, the voice control unit 134 may switch between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the result of the process of identifying the visitor. For example, a visitor may be permitted to control only some of the multiple controls on the target devices via voice input, while another visitor may be permitted to control all of the multiple controls on the target devices via voice input. Furthermore, if the result of the process of identifying the visitor is that the visitor has not been identified, the specific control function may be disabled. Furthermore, the voice control unit 134 may present information such as the visitor's name or attributes. For example, the voice control unit 134 may cause the speaker 15 to output information such as the visitor's name or attributes.

[0107] The authentication information used to authenticate a visitor is not limited to the information described in the embodiment, and may be, for example, image information of the visitor's iris, image information of the visitor's fingerprint, a password entered by the visitor, or handwriting information of the visitor.

[0108] Furthermore, the authentication information is not limited to information obtained directly from the visitor, but may be information obtained from the visitor's belongings. For example, read information read from an IC tag or card key carried by the visitor may be used as the authentication information. The read information includes identification information associated with the visitor. If the identification information matches any of one or more pieces of identification information previously registered in the registration unit 132, the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a previously registered user.

[0109] Furthermore, a set of multiple types of authentication information may be used to authenticate a visitor. For example, if authentication is successful using both the first authentication information (such as voice information) and the second authentication information (such as a password), the voice control unit 134 may switch the specific control function from an invalid state to an valid state. On the other hand, if authentication is unsuccessful using at least one of the first authentication information and the second authentication information, the voice control unit 134 may disable the specific control function.

[0110] The registration information registered by the registration unit 132 is not limited to information generated by the control system 10 using the camera 28 or the like, but may be information acquired from outside the control system 10 .

[0111] A specific command for activating a specific control function may also serve as a command for controlling a target device. For example, when the specific control function is disabled and a visitor voice-inputs the command "I'm home" into the intercom 2, the authentication unit 133 authenticates the visitor through voiceprint authentication based on this command. If the authentication unit 133 determines that the visitor is a pre-registered user, the voice control unit 134 executes control corresponding to the command on the target device. For example, the voice control unit 134 causes the speaker 15 of the dwelling terminal 1 to output a ring tone. Furthermore, the voice control unit 134 establishes communication for a call between the dwelling terminal 1 and the intercom 2.

[0112] When the specific control function is enabled, the target device to which the visitor inputs voice is not limited to the door phone 2, but may also be, for example, the lobby intercom 4. In this case, the visitor specifies the dwelling unit number in advance and then speaks a command into the lobby intercom 4. The lobby intercom 4 transfers the command to the dwelling unit terminal 1 corresponding to the specified dwelling unit number. The voice control unit 134 of the dwelling unit terminal 1 controls the target device in accordance with the received command.

[0113] In the voice control function, it is not essential to adopt a method of checking control contents from commands, and a free word method of checking control contents from spontaneous speech may be adopted.

[0114] It is not essential that the control system 10 have communication capabilities to enable telephone calls.

[0115] The control system 10 and intercom system 100 of the present disclosure include a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. At least a portion of the functions of the control system 10 and intercom system 100 of the present disclosure are realized by the processor executing a program stored in the memory of the computer system. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided in a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits, including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integrations (VLSIs), or ultra-large-scale integrations (ULSIs). Furthermore, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices that allow the reconfiguration of internal connections or internal circuit partitions of the LSI, can also be used as processors. The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or distributed across multiple chips. The chips may be integrated into one device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0116] Furthermore, in the configurations of the control system 10 and the intercom system 100, it is not essential that multiple functions are integrated into one device, and multiple functions may be distributed among multiple devices. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the control system 10 and the intercom system 100, for example, at least some of the functions of the authentication unit 133, may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0117] Conversely, in an embodiment, at least some of the functions of the control system 10 and the intercom system 100 that are distributed across multiple devices may be integrated into one device.

[0118] (summary) The above-described embodiments and the like disclose the following aspects.

[0119] The control system (10) according to the first aspect includes an acquisition unit (131) and a voice control unit (134). The acquisition unit (131) acquires an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance / exit of the facility. The voice control unit (134) has a voice control function that controls target devices in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function that controls target devices in response to voice emitted by a visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control unit (134) switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result.

[0120] According to the above configuration, the voice control unit 134 switches the specific control function between enabled and disabled based on the authentication result of the visitor. Therefore, compared to when the specific control function is always enabled, the possibility of a malicious person using the specific control function can be reduced. This improves security. Also, the possibility of the specific control function being executed when the voice or other sounds of a person who does not intend to use the specific control function are recognized can be reduced. In other words, it is possible to suppress malfunction of the target device due to the specific control function.

[0121] In the control system (10) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, when the specific control function is disabled, the acquisition unit (131) acquires an authentication result, and if the authentication result is positive, the voice control unit (134) switches the specific control function to an enabled state.

[0122] According to the above configuration, only visitors who have received a positive authentication result can use the specific control function, thereby improving security.

[0123] In the control system (10) according to the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the voice control unit (134) switches the specific control function back to the disabled state when a predetermined condition is satisfied after switching the specific control function from the disabled state to the enabled state. The predetermined condition includes at least one of a condition that a predetermined time has elapsed since the voice control unit (134) switched the specific control function from the disabled state to the enabled state, and a condition that the voice control unit (134) has executed a predetermined control on the target device in response to a voice uttered by a visitor.

[0124] According to the above configuration, if a specific control function is left in an enabled state, the possibility that the specific control function will be used by a malicious person or that the voice or other sounds of a person who has no intention of using the specific control function will be recognized and the specific control function will be executed can be reduced.

[0125] In addition, in the control system (10) according to a fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the authentication information includes voice information of the visitor.

[0126] According to the above configuration, the visitor can provide authentication information in a contactless manner.

[0127] In addition, in the control system (10) according to a fifth aspect, in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the authentication information includes image information of at least a part of the visitor's body part.

[0128] According to the above configuration, the visitor can provide authentication information in a contactless manner.

[0129] In the control system (10) according to the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the authentication information includes image information of the face of the visitor.

[0130] According to the above configuration, highly accurate authentication is possible.

[0131] In addition, in the control system (10) according to a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the authentication result includes the result of a process for identifying the visitor.

[0132] According to the above configuration, the residents and the control system (10) can use information to identify the visitor, thereby improving convenience.

[0133] In the control system (10) according to an eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the target devices include devices installed in the facility.

[0134] According to the above configuration, a visitor can control devices installed in the facility by voice.

[0135] In addition, in the control system (10) according to the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the specific control function includes a function of establishing communication for a call between the target device and a communication device installed in the facility.

[0136] According to the above configuration, the visitor can start communication for a call by voice input.

[0137] In addition, in the control system (10) according to a tenth aspect, in any one of the first to ninth aspects, the specific control function includes a function of controlling the operation mode of the target device.

[0138] According to the above configuration, the visitor can control the operation mode of the target device.

[0139] In the control system (10) according to an eleventh aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the target device authenticates the visitor based on the authentication information and outputs the authentication result to the acquisition unit (131).

[0140] According to the above configuration, authentication can be performed on the target device.

[0141] Furthermore, a control system (10) according to a twelfth aspect is any one of the first to eleventh aspects and includes a first communication device (door phone 2) and a second communication device (dwelling unit terminal 1). The first communication device is installed in a predetermined area and acquires authentication information from a visitor. The second communication device communicates with the first communication device and acquires the authentication information or the authentication result.

[0142] According to the above configuration, it is sufficient that at least the first communication device is installed in the predetermined area, and therefore the number of devices to be installed in the predetermined area can be reduced.

[0143] In addition, the control system (10) according to a thirteenth aspect is any one of the first to twelfth aspects, and further includes a presentation unit (27). The presentation unit (27) presents the enabled state and the disabled state of the specific control function in a distinguished manner.

[0144] According to the above configuration, the user can distinguish between the enabled and disabled states of the specific control function.

[0145] The configurations other than the first aspect are not essential for the control system (10) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0146] Furthermore, a control method according to a fourteenth aspect includes an acquisition process and a voice control process. The acquisition process is a process for acquiring an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor in a predetermined area. The predetermined area is an area outside the entrance / exit of the facility. The voice control process is a process having a voice control function for controlling target devices in response to voice. The voice control function includes a specific control function for controlling target devices in response to voice emitted by a visitor in the predetermined area. The voice control process switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result.

[0147] According to the above configuration, security can be improved.

[0148] A program according to a fifteenth aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the control method according to the fourteenth aspect.

[0149] According to the above configuration, security can be improved.

[0150] Not limited to the above-described aspects, various configurations (including modified examples) of the control system (10) according to the embodiment can be embodied as a control method, a (computer) program, or a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 1. Residential terminal (second communication device) 2. Door phone (first communication device) 10. Control System 27 Presentation section 131 Acquisition Department 134 Audio control unit

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor who is in a predetermined area outside the entrance of the facility; a voice control unit having a voice control function for controlling a target device in response to voice, the voice control function includes a specific control function that controls the target device in response to a voice emitted by the visitor in the predetermined area; the voice control unit switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result; a presentation unit that presents a valid state and a invalid state of the specific control function in a distinguished manner; the indicator includes a pilot lamp; the pilot lamp switches its lighting state between when the specific control function is enabled and when it is disabled, thereby distinguishing between when the specific control function is enabled and when it is disabled. Control system.

2. When the specific control function is disabled, the acquisition unit acquires the authentication result, and if the authentication result is positive, the voice control unit switches the specific control function to an enabled state. The control system of claim 1 .

3. the voice control unit switches the specific control function from an invalid state to an valid state, and then switches the specific control function back to the invalid state when a predetermined condition is satisfied; The predetermined condition includes at least one of a condition that a predetermined time has elapsed since the voice control unit switched the specific control function from an inactive state to an active state, and a condition that the voice control unit has executed a predetermined control on the target device in response to a voice uttered by the visitor.

3. A control system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The authentication information includes voice information of the visitor. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the authentication information includes image information of at least a portion of the visitor's body part; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The authentication information includes image information of the visitor's face. The control system of claim 5 .

7. the authentication result includes a result of a process for identifying the visitor; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The target equipment includes equipment installed in the facility. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the specific control function includes a function of establishing communication for a call between the target device and a communication device installed in the facility; The control system of claim 8.

10. the specific control function includes a function for controlling an operation mode of the target device; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The target device authenticates the visitor based on the authentication information and outputs the authentication result to the acquisition unit. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. a first communication device that is installed in the predetermined area and that acquires the authentication information from the visitor; a second communication device that communicates with the first communication device and acquires the authentication information or the authentication result; A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. An acquisition process for acquiring an authentication result based on authentication information of a visitor who is in a predetermined area outside the entrance of the facility; a voice control process having a voice control function for controlling a target device in response to voice; the voice control function includes a specific control function that controls the target device in response to a voice emitted by the visitor in the predetermined area; the voice control process switches between enabling and disabling the specific control function based on the authentication result; a presentation unit that presents the specific control function in a distinguished manner between an enabled state and an disabled state; the indicator includes a pilot lamp; the presentation process switches the lighting state of the pilot lamp depending on whether the specific control function is enabled or disabled, thereby distinguishing between the enabled state and the disabled state of the specific control function. Control method.

14. For causing one or more processors to execute the control method according to claim 13, program.

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