Intercom device

Abstract

To provide an intercom device capable of suppressing an influence of noise caused by home electric appliances and the like on communication between a master unit and a slave unit.SOLUTION: An intercom device includes a master unit and a slave unit connected to the master unit through a two-wire cable. The master unit includes a power supply unit and a first PLC communication unit. The power supply unit is configured to convert AC power supplied from a commercial power source into DC power and supply the DC power to the slave unit through the two-wire cable. The first PLC communication unit is configured to superimpose data on a carrier wave by a method in accordance with a PLC (Power Line Communication) standard, and transmit the data to the slave unit through the two-wire cable. The slave unit includes a second PLC communication unit. The second PLC communication unit is configured to superimpose data on the carrier wave by the method in accordance with the PLC standard, and transmit the data to the master unit through the two-wire cable. The frequency band of the carrier wave is 2-30 MHz.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2003-46654 (Patent Document 1) discloses a home intercom system that uses PLC (Power Line Communication) technology. That is, communication is carried out between a master unit and a slave unit using the in-home wiring as a transmission path (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-46654 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the home intercom disclosed in Patent Document 1, a signal is superimposed on AC power for communication between a master unit and a slave unit. However, because home appliances and the like are connected to the wiring within the home, the AC power used for communication may be affected by noise caused by the home appliances and the like. As a result, communication between the master unit and the slave unit may be affected by noise caused by the home appliances and the like.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and its purpose is to provide an intercom device that can suppress the impact of noise caused by home appliances, etc. on communication between a base unit and a handset. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An intercom device according to the present invention includes a base unit and a slave unit connected to the base unit via a two-wire cable. The base unit includes a power supply unit and a first PLC communication unit. The power supply unit is configured to convert AC power supplied from a commercial power source into DC power and supply the DC power to the slave unit via the two-wire cable. The first PLC communication unit is configured to superimpose data on a carrier wave in a manner conforming to the PLC (Power Line Communication) standard and transmit the data to the slave unit via the two-wire cable. The slave unit includes a second PLC communication unit. The second PLC communication unit is configured to superimpose data on a carrier wave in a manner conforming to the PLC standard and transmit the data to the base unit via the two-wire cable. The frequency band of the carrier wave is 2 to 30 MHz.

[0007] In this intercom device, a high-frequency signal generated in accordance with the PLC standard is superimposed on DC power and transmitted between the master unit and the slave unit. If a high-frequency signal conforming to the PLC standard were transmitted superimposed on AC power, the high-frequency signal could be affected by noise caused by other home appliances that use AC power. With the intercom device of the present invention, the high-frequency signal is transmitted superimposed on DC power, making it possible to prevent the high-frequency signal from being affected by noise caused by home appliances. Furthermore, with the intercom device of the present invention, a carrier frequency band of 2 to 30 MHz is used, enabling high-speed, high-capacity communication between the master unit and the slave unit.

[0008] In the above intercom device, the slave unit further includes a camera configured to generate image data, a microphone configured to generate audio data, and an analog communication unit configured to transmit the audio data generated by the microphone to the master unit via analog communication, and the second PLC communication unit is configured to transmit the image data generated by the camera to the master unit, and the frequency band used in the analog communication does not have to overlap with the frequency band of the carrier wave.

[0009] In this intercom device, image data is transmitted in accordance with the PLC standard, making it possible to transmit large volumes of image data from the slave unit to the master unit.

[0010] In the above intercom device, the base unit may further include a memory unit configured to store multiple image data each showing a person's face, and an authentication unit configured to authenticate the person shown in the image data received from the sub-unit by comparing the image data received from the sub-unit with the multiple image data stored in the memory unit.

[0011] According to this intercom device, the person (visitor) photographed by the slave unit can be authenticated by the master unit, thereby improving the security level.

[0012] In the above intercom device, the parent unit may further include a communication unit configured to communicate with a server that authenticates the person indicated by the image data, and a display unit configured to display the image, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit the image data received from the child unit to the server and receive the result of the authentication at the server, and the display unit is configured to display the result of the authentication.

[0013] With this intercom device, visitor authentication is performed by the server, which makes it possible to perform authentication processing that places a greater burden on the user. As a result, authentication can be performed with higher accuracy. Furthermore, with this intercom device, the authentication result is displayed on the display, allowing the user to easily determine whether or not there are any problems with the visitor. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an intercom device that can suppress the influence of noise caused by home appliances and the like on communication between a master unit and a slave unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration of an intercom device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating registration information. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a preparation procedure for starting a call in the base unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration of an intercom device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 11 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of an intercom system including an intercom device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a block diagram schematically showing a configuration of an intercom device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a server. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a preparation procedure for starting a call in the intercom system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, an embodiment according to one aspect of the present invention (hereinafter also referred to as "the present embodiment") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are given the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated. Furthermore, for ease of understanding, each drawing is drawn schematically with objects appropriately omitted or exaggerated.

[0017] [1. Embodiment 1] <1-1. Configuration of intercom device> FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of intercom device 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, intercom device 10 includes a base unit 100 and a handset 200. Base unit 100 and handset 200 are connected via a two-wire cable L1. Two-wire cable L1 is a two-wire transmission path, and is formed of, for example, a twisted pair wire. Bidirectional communication is possible between base unit 100 and handset 200, and calls can be made between base unit 100 and handset 200.

[0018] For example, the base unit 100 is installed in a work area such as a living space or workplace of the user (defined as indoors), and the slave unit 200 is installed outside the work area such as a living space or workplace of the user (defined as outdoors). The base unit 100 is operated, for example, by the user, and the slave unit 200 is operated, for example, by a visitor who comes to the user's home or workplace. When a visitor comes to the user's home, the user and the visitor can talk to each other through the base unit 100 and the slave unit 200, respectively. Note that although an example in which the base unit 100 is installed indoors and the slave unit 200 is installed outdoors has been shown, both the base unit 100 and the slave unit 200 may be installed indoors.

[0019] The master unit 100 includes a first control unit 110 , a storage unit 120 , a microphone 130 , a speaker 140 , a display 150 , an operation unit 160 , a first PLC communication unit 170 , and a power supply unit 180 .

[0020] The first control unit 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory (not shown), and is configured to control each component of the parent device 100. For example, various functions of the parent device 100 are realized by the CPU executing a control program for the parent device 100 stored in the memory.

[0021] The storage unit 120 is configured to store various data, and is configured by at least a part of, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a hard disk drive, and a solid-state drive.

[0022] The storage unit 120 stores, for example, image data showing a UI (User Interface) to be displayed on the display 150, image data of visitors photographed in the past, and audio data showing a ring tone to be output from the speaker 140. For example, a plurality of types of ring tones are stored in the storage unit 120. In the base unit 100, for example, face authentication of the visitor is performed, and a ring tone corresponding to the visitor is output from the speaker 140. To realize such a function, the storage unit 120 stores registration information 50.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating the registration information 50. As shown in FIG. 2, in the registration information 50, image data showing a person's face, information for identifying the person (person information), and audio data showing a ringtone associated with the person are associated with each other. The "image data showing a person's face" is image data of a visitor photographed in the past, and is stored in the storage unit 120. The storage unit 120 stores, for example, a plurality of image data each showing the face of a visitor. Examples of the "information for identifying a person" include the person's name and the person's role in society (such as a newspaper delivery person, a neighbor, or a salesman).

[0024] The registration information 50 is updated, for example, when the parent device 100 is set to the registration mode. For example, image data of a visitor generated by the child device 200 is transmitted to the parent device 100 and stored in the storage unit 120. For example, when the parent device 100 is set to the registration mode, the user can selectively display one of the images stored in the storage unit 120 on the display 150. For example, the user can display an image including a person (visitor) to be added to the registration information 50 on the display 150. With the image displayed, the user inputs personal information about the person included in the displayed image and selects from multiple ring tones a ring tone to be output from the speaker 140 when the person visits. This adds the person's information to the registration information 50, and the registration information 50 is updated.

[0025] 1, the microphone 130 is configured to convert input audio into an analog audio signal. This analog audio signal is converted into a digital audio signal (audio data) by, for example, an audio processing circuit (not shown) and transmitted to the child device 200.

[0026] The speaker 140 is configured to convert an analog audio signal into sound and output the sound. For example, a digital audio signal (audio data) received from the handset 200 is converted into an analog audio signal by an audio processing circuit (not shown), and the speaker 140 converts the analog audio signal into sound and outputs the sound. In addition, for example, when the base unit 100 receives a call signal from the handset 200, the speaker 140 outputs a call tone indicated by the audio data stored in the storage unit 120.

[0027] The display 150 is configured to display an image. The display 150 is configured with a monitor such as a liquid crystal monitor or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) monitor. The display 150 displays, for example, an image captured by the child device 200.

[0028] Operation unit 160 is configured to accept operations from the user. Operation unit 160 is configured, for example, with a touch panel or physical buttons. For example, when base unit 100 is receiving a call signal from handset 200, if a predetermined operation (for example, pressing a physical button) is performed via operation unit 160, a call between base unit 100 and handset 200 becomes possible. If operation unit 160 is configured with a touch panel, for example, an operation area that accepts a predetermined operation is displayed on display 150, and a call between base unit 100 and handset 200 becomes possible in response to a touch operation from the user.

[0029] Power supply unit 180 is configured to convert alternating current (AC) power supplied from a commercial power source (100V) into direct current (DC) power, and supply the DC power to each component of parent device 100, as well as to child device 200 via two-wire cable L1. For example, the voltage of the DC power supplied by power supply unit 180 is 12V.

[0030] The first PLC communication unit 170 is configured to perform communication (hereinafter also referred to as "PLC communication") with the slave device 200 via the two-wire cable L1 in accordance with the PLC (Power Line Communication) standard. That is, the first PLC communication unit 170 is configured to perform, for example, modulation and demodulation processes in accordance with the PLC standard. For example, the first PLC communication unit 170 performs communication in accordance with the so-called high-speed PLC standard (for example, HD-PLC). The frequency band of the carrier wave in high-speed PLC is, for example, 2 to 30 MHz.

[0031] The first PLC communication unit 170 is configured to transmit and receive image data, audio data, control signals, and the like to and from the slave unit 200 via the two-wire cable L1. That is, two-way communication is possible between the master unit 100 and the slave unit 200 via the two-wire cable L1. The first PLC communication unit 170 is also configured to send power to the slave unit 200 via the two-wire cable L1. This power is supplied from the power supply unit 180.

[0032] For example, when a digital audio signal (audio data) generated via microphone 130 is transmitted from parent device 100 to child device 200, first PLC communication unit 170 generates a carrier wave (2 to 30 MHz) and superimposes the audio data on the carrier wave. For example, first PLC communication unit 170 performs modulation using OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) or the like. First PLC communication unit 170 superimposes the carrier wave on which the audio data is superimposed onto DC power to generate a PLC signal, and transmits the PLC signal to child device 200 via two-wire cable L1.

[0033] The slave unit 200 includes a second control unit 210, a memory unit 220, a call bell 230, a microphone 240, a speaker 250, a camera 260, a second PLC communication unit 270, a power separation unit 275, and a power supply unit 280.

[0034] The second control unit 210 includes a CPU, a memory, etc. (not shown), and is configured to control each component of the child device 200. For example, various functions of the child device 200 are realized by the CPU executing a control program for the child device 200 stored in the memory.

[0035] The storage unit 220 is configured to store various types of data. For example, the storage unit 220 stores audio data output from the speaker 250. The storage unit 220 is configured by, for example, at least a part of a ROM, a RAM, an EEPROM, a hard disk drive, and a solid state drive.

[0036] The call bell 230 is, for example, a button that is pressed by a visitor. When the visitor presses the call bell 230, a call signal is transmitted from the handset 200 to the base unit 100 through the two-wire cable L1.

[0037] The microphone 240 is configured to convert input audio into an analog audio signal. This analog audio signal is converted into a digital audio signal (audio data) by, for example, an audio processing circuit (not shown) and transmitted to the parent device 100.

[0038] The speaker 250 is configured to convert an analog audio signal into audio and output the audio. For example, a digital audio signal (audio data) received from the parent device 100 is converted into an analog audio signal by an audio processing circuit (not shown), and the speaker 250 converts the analog audio signal into audio and outputs the audio.

[0039] Camera 260 is configured to capture moving images and generate image data. When call bell 230 is pressed, the image data generated by camera 260 is transmitted from slave unit 200 to master unit 100. The transmitted image is displayed on display 150 of master unit 100. Camera 260 is configured, for example, by a camera module including an image sensor.

[0040] The second PLC communication unit 270 is configured to perform PLC communication with the parent device 100 (first PLC communication unit 170) via the two-wire cable L1. That is, the second PLC communication unit 270 is configured to perform modulation and demodulation processing in accordance with the PLC standard, for example. For example, the second PLC communication unit 270 performs communication in accordance with the so-called high-speed PLC standard. The second PLC communication unit 270 is configured to transmit and receive image data, audio data, control signals, and the like to and from the parent device 100 via the two-wire cable L1. The second PLC communication unit 270 is also configured to receive power from the parent device 100 via the two-wire cable L1.

[0041] For example, when a digital image signal (image data) generated via camera 260 is transmitted from slave device 200 to master device 100, second PLC communication unit 270 generates a carrier wave (2 to 30 MHz) and superimposes the image data on the carrier wave. For example, second PLC communication unit 270 performs modulation using OFDM or the like. Second PLC communication unit 270 superimposes the carrier wave on which the image data is superimposed onto DC power to generate a PLC signal, and transmits the PLC signal to slave device 200 via two-wire cable L1.

[0042] The power separation unit 275 is configured to separate power (DC power) from the PLC signal received via the second PLC communication unit 270. The separated DC power is supplied to the power supply unit 280. The power supply unit 280 is configured to supply the DC power supplied from the power separation unit 275 to each component of the slave device 200.

[0043] <1-2. Why DC power is used for PLC communication> As described above, PLC communication using DC power is performed between the first PLC communication unit 170 and the second PLC communication unit 270. For example, home appliances and the like may be connected to each outlet in the home where the master unit 100 is installed. When home appliances and the like are connected to the outlets, noise caused by the home appliances and the like may be carried over the AC power in the home power lines. If a high-frequency signal conforming to the PLC standard is transmitted superimposed on the AC power in the home power lines, the high-frequency signal may be affected by noise caused by other home appliances and the like that use AC power.

[0044] In the intercom device 10, the high-frequency signal generated by superimposing data on a carrier wave is superimposed on DC power, not AC power. Therefore, the intercom device 10 can prevent the high-frequency signal from being affected by noise caused by home appliances, etc.

[0045] <1-3. Call initiation with authentication> As described above, in intercom device 10, face authentication of a visitor is performed after the visitor presses call bell 230. Next, a series of steps from pressing call bell 230 to starting a call will be described.

[0046] 3 is a flowchart showing a preparation procedure for starting a call in base unit 100. The processing shown in this flowchart is executed by first control unit 110 of base unit 100 after call bell 230 is pressed by a visitor.

[0047] 3, the first control unit 110 determines whether or not a call signal and image data (hereinafter also referred to as "image data, etc.") have been received from the slave device 200 via the two-wire cable L1 and the first PLC communication unit 170 (step S100). If it is determined that the image data, etc. have not been received (NO in step S100), the first control unit 110 waits until the image data, etc. are received.

[0048] On the other hand, if it is determined that image data or the like has been received (YES in step S100), the first control unit 110 executes a process (personal authentication process) to authenticate the person (visitor) indicated by the received image data (image data showing the visitor's face) by comparing each image data registered in the registration information 50 among the multiple image data (image data showing people's faces) stored in the storage unit 120 with the received image data (image data showing the visitor's face) (step S110). Various known personal authentication techniques can be used. Examples of personal authentication techniques include the generalized learning vector quantization method, the multi-point feature point detection method, and the multi-dimensional feature identification method. In the personal authentication process, for example, still image data extracted from the received video data is used.

[0049] After the personal authentication process is completed, the first control unit 110 determines whether the visitor is registered in the registration information 50 (step S120). If it is determined that the visitor is registered in the registration information 50 (YES in step S120), the first control unit 110 controls the display 150 to display the received image and the personal information associated with the visitor in the registration information 50. The first control unit 110 also controls the speaker 140 to output a ringtone associated with the visitor in the registration information 50 (step S130).

[0050] On the other hand, if it is determined that the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50 (NO in step S120), the first control unit 110 controls the display 150 to display the received image and to display a message indicating that the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50. The first control unit 110 also controls the speaker 140 to output a ringtone that is output when the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50 (step S140).

[0051] Thereafter, first control unit 110 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation to answer the call via operation unit 160 (step S150). If it is determined that the operation to answer the call has not been performed (NO in step S150), first control unit 110 waits until the operation to answer the call is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation to answer the call has been performed (YES in step S150), first control unit 110 controls first PLC communication unit 170 and the like to enable communication (step S160).

[0052] <1-4. Features> As described above, according to intercom device 10 in accordance with the first embodiment, a high-frequency signal is transmitted between base unit 100 and handset 200 while being superimposed on DC power, thereby preventing the high-frequency signal from being affected by noise caused by home appliances, etc. Furthermore, according to intercom device 10, a carrier frequency band of 2 to 30 MHz is adopted, enabling high-speed, large-capacity communication between base unit 100 and handset 200.

[0053] Furthermore, in intercom device 10 according to the first embodiment, the visitor photographed by handset 200 is authenticated by master unit 100. Therefore, intercom device 10 can improve the security level. In particular, in intercom device 10, a carrier wave of 2 to 30 MHz is used for communication between master unit 100 and handset 200. That is, so-called high-speed PLC communication is performed in intercom device 10. Therefore, intercom device 10 can easily transmit high-resolution image data (for example, a resolution of HD (High Definition) or higher) from handset 200 to master unit 100. Furthermore, by using high-resolution image data, intercom device 10 can improve the accuracy of visitor authentication.

[0054] Furthermore, in intercom device 10 according to the first embodiment, a call tone corresponding to the authentication result of the visitor, among a plurality of types of call tone, is output by speaker 140. Therefore, according to intercom device 10, a call tone corresponding to the authentication result is output from speaker 140, so that the user can more easily recognize whether or not there is a problem with the visitor.

[0055] 2. Second Embodiment In the first embodiment, image data, audio data, and various control signals are transmitted by high-speed PLC communication between master unit 100 and slave unit 200. In intercom device 10A according to the second embodiment, image data is transmitted by high-speed PLC communication between master unit 100A and slave unit 200A, while analog audio signals and various control signals are transmitted by analog communication. The following mainly describes the differences from intercom device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0056] <2-1. Configuration of intercom device> Fig. 4 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of intercom device 10A according to the present embodiment 2. As shown in Fig. 4, intercom device 10A includes a master unit 100A and a slave unit 200A.

[0057] The parent device 100A includes a first PLC communication unit 170A, an LPF (Low-pass Filter) 191, a first analog communication unit 185, and an HPF (High-pass Filter) 192. The child device 200A includes a second PLC communication unit 270A, an LPF 291, a second analog communication unit 285, and an HPF 292.

[0058] The first PLC communication unit 170A is configured to perform PLC communication with the slave unit 200A via the two-wire cable L1. That is, the first PLC communication unit 170A is configured to perform modulation and demodulation processing in accordance with the PLC standard. For example, the first PLC communication unit 170A performs communication in accordance with the so-called high-speed PLC standard.

[0059] The first PLC communication unit 170A is configured to transmit image data to and from the slave unit 200A via the two-wire cable L1. On the other hand, the first PLC communication unit 170A does not transmit audio signals and control signals to and from the slave unit 200A via the two-wire cable L1. The audio signals and control signals are transmitted via the first analog communication unit 185. The first PLC communication unit 170A is also configured to send power to the slave unit 200A via the two-wire cable L1. This power is supplied from the power supply unit 180.

[0060] The LPF 191 is configured to pass frequency components of 30 MHz or less from the PLC signal generated by the first PLC communication unit 170 A or the second PLC communication unit 270 A. The frequency band of the PLC signal that has passed through the LPF 191 is 2 to 30 MHz.

[0061] The first analog communication unit 185 is configured to perform analog communication with the slave unit 200A (second analog communication unit 285), and is configured to transmit and receive analog voice signals and various control signals to and from the slave unit 200A via the two-wire cable L1. That is, in the intercom device 10A, analog communication is used for voice calls. Power may also be transmitted via the first analog communication unit 185. The frequency band used in the analog communication between the first analog communication unit 185 and the second analog communication unit 285 does not overlap with the frequency band (2 to 30 MHz) used in the high-speed PLC communication. The frequency band used in the analog communication between the first analog communication unit 185 and the second analog communication unit 285 is, for example, 30 to 50 MHz. Therefore, the high-speed PLC communication and the analog communication do not interfere with each other.

[0062] The HPF 192 is configured to pass, for example, frequency components greater than 30 MHz from the analog signal generated by the first analog communication unit 185 or the second analog communication unit 285. Specifically, it is preferable to pass frequency components in the range of 30 to 50 MHz. The frequency band of the analog signal that has passed through the HPF 192 is, for example, 30 to 50 MHz.

[0063] The second PLC communication unit 270A is configured to perform PLC communication with the parent device 100A via the two-wire cable L1. That is, the second PLC communication unit 270A is configured to perform modulation and demodulation processing in accordance with the PLC standard. For example, the second PLC communication unit 270A performs communication in accordance with the so-called high-speed PLC standard.

[0064] The second PLC communication unit 270A is configured to transmit and receive image data to and from the parent unit 100A via the two-wire cable L1. On the other hand, the second PLC communication unit 270A does not transmit and receive audio signals and control signals to and from the parent unit 100A via the two-wire cable L1. The transmission and reception of audio signals and control signals is performed via the second analog communication unit 285.

[0065] The LPF 291 is configured to pass frequency components of 30 MHz or less from the PLC signal generated by the second PLC communication unit 270 A or the first PLC communication unit 170 A. The frequency band of the PLC signal that has passed through the LPF 291 is 2 to 30 MHz.

[0066] The second analog communication unit 285 is configured to perform analog communication with the parent unit 100A (first analog communication unit 185), and is configured to transmit and receive analog audio signals and various control signals to and from the parent unit 100A via the two-wire cable L1.

[0067] The HPF 292 is configured to pass, for example, frequency components greater than 30 MHz from the analog signal generated by the second analog communication unit 285 or the first analog communication unit 185. The frequency band of the analog signal that has passed through the HPF 292 is, for example, 30 to 50 MHz.

[0068] <2-2. Features> As described above, in intercom device 10A according to the second embodiment, audio signals and control signals that do not require large amounts of data are transmitted between master unit 100A and slave unit 200A by analog communication, and image data that requires large amounts of data is transmitted by high-speed PLC communication. Therefore, intercom device 10A can transmit large amounts of image data (high resolution) from slave unit 200A to master unit 100A. Furthermore, by using high-resolution image data, intercom device 10A can improve the accuracy of visitor authentication.

[0069] 3. Third Embodiment In the first and second embodiments, the visitor authentication process is performed in the master unit. In intercom system 1B according to the third embodiment, the visitor authentication process is performed in server 300. The following description will focus on the differences from intercom devices 10 and 10A according to the first and second embodiments.

[0070] <3-1. Intercom system configuration> Fig. 5 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of an intercom system 1B including intercom device 10B according to the present embodiment 3. As shown in Fig. 5, intercom system 1B includes intercom device 10B and a server 300. In intercom system 1B, intercom device 10B and server 300 can communicate with each other via a network (for example, the Internet) N1.

[0071] <3-2. Configuration of intercom device> Fig. 6 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of intercom device 10B according to the present embodiment 3. As shown in Fig. 6, intercom device 10B includes a master unit 100B and a slave unit 200. Master unit 100B includes a first control unit 110B, a storage unit 120B, and a communication unit 190.

[0072] The first control unit 110B includes a CPU, a memory, etc. (not shown), and is configured to control each component of the parent device 100B. For example, the CPU executes a control program for the parent device 100B stored in the memory, thereby realizing various functions of the parent device 100B.

[0073] The storage unit 120B is configured to store various types of data. The storage unit 120B is configured, for example, by at least a portion of a ROM, a RAM, an EEPROM, a hard disk drive, and a solid state drive. The storage unit 120B stores, for example, image data representing a UI to be displayed on the display 150, image data of visitors photographed in the past, and audio data representing a ringtone to be output from the speaker 140. For example, the storage unit 120B stores a plurality of types of ringtones. Note that the above-mentioned registration information 50 (FIG. 2) may or may not be stored in the storage unit 120B.

[0074] The communication unit 190 is configured to communicate with the server 300 via a network N1 (FIG. 5). The communication unit 190 is configured, for example, by a wired LAN (Local Area Network) module or a wireless LAN module.

[0075] <3-3. Server configuration> 7 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of server 300. Server 300 is realized by, for example, a general-purpose computer. As shown in FIG. 7, server 300 includes a control unit 310, a communication unit 330, and a storage unit 320.

[0076] The control unit 310 includes a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. (not shown) and is configured to control each component. The communication unit 330 is configured to communicate with the intercom device 10B (master unit 100B) through the network N1. The communication unit 330 is configured, for example, with a wired LAN module or a wireless LAN module.

[0077] The storage unit 320 is, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive or a solid state drive. The storage unit 320 stores, for example, a control program. The control program is executed by the CPU of the control unit 310 to realize various functions of the server 300. The storage unit 320 also stores, for example, the above-mentioned registration information 50 and image data of visitors previously received from the intercom device 10B.

[0078] <3-4. Call initiation with authentication> In the intercom system 1B, face authentication of the visitor is performed after the visitor presses the call bell 230. Next, a series of steps from pressing the call bell 230 to starting a call will be described.

[0079] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a preparation procedure for starting a call in intercom system 1B. The process shown in the flowchart on the left side of Fig. 8 is executed by first control unit 110B of master unit 100B after a visitor presses call bell 230. The process shown in the flowchart on the right side of Fig. 8 is executed by control unit 310 of server 300.

[0080] 8, first control unit 110B of parent device 100B determines whether or not a call signal and image data (image data, etc.) have been received from child device 200 via two-wire cable L1 and first PLC communication unit 170 (step S200). If it is determined that image data, etc. have not been received (NO in step S200), first control unit 110B waits until image data, etc. are received.

[0081] On the other hand, if it is determined that image data or the like has been received (YES in step S200), first control unit 110B controls communication unit 190 to transmit the received image data to server 300 (step S210).

[0082] Thereafter, first control unit 110B determines whether or not a result of authentication of the visitor based on the image data has been received from server 300 (step S220). The authentication result includes, for example, whether or not the visitor is registered in registration information 50, and if the visitor is registered in registration information 50, includes personal information about the visitor and information that can identify the ringtone associated with the visitor. If it is determined that the authentication result has not been received from server 300 (NO in step S220), first control unit 110B waits until the authentication result is received from server 300.

[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined that the authentication result has been received from the server 300 (YES in step S220), the first control unit 110B controls the display 150 to display a message corresponding to the authentication result, and controls the speaker 140 to output a ringtone corresponding to the authentication result (step S230).

[0084] For example, when an authentication result is received indicating that the visitor is registered in the registration information 50, the first control unit 110B controls the display 150 to display the received image and also to display the personal information associated with the visitor in the registration information 50. The first control unit 110B also controls the speaker 140 to output a ringtone associated with the visitor in the registration information 50.

[0085] Furthermore, for example, when an authentication result is received indicating that the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50, the first control unit 110B controls the display 150 to display the received image and to display a message indicating that the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50. The first control unit 110B also controls the speaker 140 to output a ringtone that is output when the visitor is not registered in the registration information 50.

[0086] Thereafter, first control unit 110B determines whether or not the user has performed an operation to answer the call via operation unit 160 (step S240). If it is determined that the operation to answer the call has not been performed (NO in step S240), first control unit 110B waits until the operation to answer the call is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation to answer the call has been performed (YES in step S240), first control unit 110B controls first PLC communication unit 170 and the like to enable communication (step S250).

[0087] 8, control unit 310 of server 300 determines whether image data has been received from intercom device 10B (master unit 100B) via communication unit 330 (step S300). If it is determined that image data has not been received (NO in step S300), control unit 310 waits until image data is received.

[0088] On the other hand, if it is determined that image data has been received (YES in step S300), the control unit 310 executes a process (personal authentication process) to authenticate the person (visitor) indicated by the received image data (image data showing the visitor's face) by comparing each piece of image data (image data showing people's faces) registered in the registration information 50 among the multiple pieces of image data (image data showing people's faces) stored in the storage unit 320 (step S310). Various known personal authentication techniques can be used. Examples of personal authentication techniques include generalized learning vector quantization, multi-point feature point detection, and multi-feature classification. In particular, if the server 300 is a cloud server or the like and the control unit 310 has high computing power, the multi-feature classification method, which has a high computational load, can be used without any problems. Note that the personal authentication process uses, for example, still image data extracted from the received video data.

[0089] After the personal authentication process is completed, control unit 310 controls communication unit 330 to transmit the authentication result to intercom device 10B (base unit 100B) (step S320). As described above, the authentication result includes, for example, whether or not the visitor is registered in registration information 50, and if the visitor is registered in registration information 50, the authentication result includes personal information about the visitor and information that can identify the ring tone associated with the visitor.

[0090] <3-5. Features> As described above, according to intercom system 1B, visitor authentication is performed by server 300, which makes it possible to perform authentication processing that places a greater load on the user. As a result, authentication with higher accuracy (for example, authentication using a multi-feature identification method) can be performed. Furthermore, according to intercom system 1B, the authentication result is displayed on display 150 of base unit 100B, allowing the user to easily recognize whether or not there is a problem with the visitor.

[0091] [4. Modifications] The concept of the above embodiment is not limited to the embodiment described above. An example of a modified example to which the concept of the above embodiment can be applied will be described below.

[0092] <4-1> In each of the above-described embodiments 1 to 3, the registration information 50 is updated via the operation unit 160 of the parent device. However, the method of updating the registration information 50 is not limited to this. For example, the parent device may be capable of communicating with a user's information terminal (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, or a PC (Personal Computer)), and the registration information 50 may be updated via the information terminal.

[0093] <4-2> In intercom device 10A according to the second embodiment, both high-speed PLC communication and analog communication are performed through two-wire cable L1. However, both types of communication do not necessarily have to be performed through two-wire cable L1. For example, high-speed PLC communication may be performed through two-wire cable L1, and analog communication may be performed through a separate communication line.

[0094] The above describes exemplary embodiments of the present invention. That is, the detailed description and the accompanying drawings are disclosed for the purpose of illustrative explanation. Therefore, some of the components described in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings may be non-essential components for solving the problems. Therefore, just because these non-essential components are described in the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, it should not be immediately recognized that these non-essential components are essential.

[0095] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment is merely an example of the present invention in all respects. Various improvements and modifications can be made to the above-described embodiment within the scope of the present invention. In other words, when implementing the present invention, specific configurations can be appropriately adopted depending on the embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1B intercom system, 10, 10A, 10B intercom device, 50 registration information, 100, 100A, 100B parent unit, 110 first control unit, 120, 220, 320 memory unit, 130, 240 microphone, 140, 250 speaker, 150 display, 160 operation unit, 170, 170A first PLC communication unit, 180, 280 power supply unit, 185 first analog communication unit, 190, 330 communication unit, 191, 291 LPF, 192, 292 HPF, 200, 200A child unit, 210 second control unit, 230 call bell, 260 camera, 270, 270A second PLC communication unit, 275 power separation unit, 285 second analog communication unit, 300 server, 310 control unit, L1 2-wire cable, N1 network.

Claims

1. The parent unit and a slave unit connected to the master unit via a two-wire cable, The parent device is a power supply unit configured to convert AC power supplied from a commercial power source into DC power and supply the DC power to the slave unit through the two-wire cable; a first PLC communication unit configured to generate a PLC signal by superimposing data on a carrier wave in a manner conforming to a PLC (Power Line Communication) standard and transmit the PLC signal to the slave device through the two-wire cable; a first analog communication unit configured to perform analog communication with the slave device, The slave unit is a second PLC communication unit configured to generate the PLC signal by superimposing data on the carrier wave in a manner conforming to a PLC standard and transmit the PLC signal to the parent device through the two-wire cable; a second analog communication unit configured to perform analog communication with the first analog communication unit, The frequency band of the PLC signal is 2 to 30 MHz, a frequency band of the analog communication is a frequency band that does not interfere with the PLC communication performed between the first PLC communication unit and the second PLC communication unit, the first PLC communication unit is configured to transmit image data to and from the second PLC communication unit, but not to transmit audio signals and control signals; The intercom device, wherein the first analog communication unit is configured to transmit and receive audio signals and control signals to and from the second analog communication unit.

2. The parent device is a storage unit configured to store a plurality of image data, each image data representing a human face; The intercom device of claim 1, further comprising an authentication unit configured to authenticate the person indicated by the image data received from the handset by comparing the image data received from the handset with multiple image data stored in the memory unit.

Images