Communication monitoring device, communication monitoring system, communication monitoring method, and program

Abstract

To provide a mechanism for rapidly detecting a communication failure of a base station.SOLUTION: An acquisition section (11) acquires information which indicates reception signal intensity of wireless communication. A monitoring section (12) monitors the level of the reception signal intensity of wireless communication. A reporting section (13) issues a report when the reception signal intensity of wireless communication never becomes equal to or more than a threshold for a fixed time period.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication monitoring device, a communication monitoring system, a communication monitoring method, and a program, and more particularly, to a communication monitoring device, a communication monitoring system, a communication monitoring method, and a program for monitoring the presence or absence of a communication failure in a base station.

Background Art

[0002] In the event of a disaster such as an earthquake or a typhoon, the power supply to a radio base station may be cut off due to a power outage, or a communication failure such as a disconnection may occur in mobile communication provided by a mobile carrier or in third-party radio using MCA (multi-channel access) radio technology due to a failure in a transmission line. In addition, in order to confirm the safety of people in the disaster area, it is assumed that line connection requests will be urgent. In this case, the mobile carrier performs traffic control for each communication area to prevent congestion (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Although the mobile carrier monitors the presence or absence of a communication failure at the operation center, there are cases where it cannot be detected. In addition, when a large-scale disaster occurs, the number of radio base stations for which an operator should confirm the presence or absence of a communication failure also increases. Therefore, it takes a considerable amount of time to fully recover the communication infrastructure.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a mechanism for quickly detecting a communication failure in wireless communication. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A communication monitoring device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, a monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of wireless communication, and a notification means for notifying when the received signal strength of wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time.

[0007] A communication monitoring system according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a broadcast radio slave station including an acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of a wireless communication, a monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication, and a notification means for making a notification when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has never exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time; and a broadcast radio master station including a receiving means for receiving the notification from the slave station via the broadcast radio, an identification means for identifying the slave station that made the notification, and a determination means for determining the area where a communication failure has occurred based on information identifying the slave station that made the notification.

[0008] A communication monitoring method according to one aspect of the present invention acquires information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication, and issues a notification when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has never exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer to perform the following actions: acquire information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication; monitor the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication; and send a notification when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] One aspect of the present invention provides a mechanism for rapidly detecting communication failures in wireless communication. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1]It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication control device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] It is a flowchart showing the operation of the communication control device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the communication monitoring system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 4] It is a block diagram showing the second configuration of the communication control device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 5] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the communication monitoring system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 6] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication monitoring system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 7] It is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the slave station and the master that constitute the communication monitoring system according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 8] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the master station according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 9] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of the communication monitoring system according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 10] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the slave station according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 11] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the slave station according to Embodiment 6. [Figure 12] It is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the slave station according to a modification of Embodiment 6. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of any of the communication monitoring devices according to Embodiments 1 to 2 or any of the slave stations according to Embodiments 3 to 6.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0013] 〔Embodiment 1〕 Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 2.

[0014] (Communication Monitoring Device 10) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication monitoring device 10 according to Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication monitoring device 10 includes an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, and a notification unit 13.

[0015] The acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength (RSSI; Received Signal Strength Indicator) of wireless communication. The acquisition unit 11 is an example of acquisition means.

[0016] In one example, the acquisition unit 11 acquires, from a wireless communication terminal (not shown), information indicating the strength of a wireless signal (referred to as "received signal strength") received by the wireless communication terminal from a wireless base station (hereinafter abbreviated as base station 99 (FIG. 5)).

[0017] The wireless communication terminal is, for example, a mobile terminal that can wirelessly access mobile broadband. The wireless communication terminal may be a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory type, a Compact Flash (registered trademark) card type, an SD memory type, or a mobile Wi-Fi (registered trademark) router.

[0018] The base station 99 is constructed by a mobile carrier. The base station 99 wirelessly communicates with wireless communication terminals (e.g., mobile phones) within a coverage area (cell) at the end of a telephone network, enabling the wireless communication terminals to make calls or access a wide-area network such as the Internet. There are tower types, pole types, antenna types, and portable types for the base station 99.

[0019] The acquisition unit 11 outputs information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication to the monitoring unit 12.

[0020] The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 is an example of monitoring means.

[0021] In one example, the monitoring unit 12 receives information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the acquisition unit 11 over a certain period of time. Here, the configuration in which the monitoring unit 12 receives information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication over a certain period of time also includes a configuration in which the monitoring unit 12 receives information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the acquisition unit 11 at intervals of one unit of time, when "one unit of time" is defined as a time that is sufficiently smaller than a time slot (for example, 1 / 10 or less of a time slot).

[0022] A time slot is the communication time allocated to each communication line in a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) or Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) system. Time slots are generally in milliseconds. If one unit time is less than or equal to a time slot, the monitoring unit 12 can receive information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication at least once during the communication time between the base station 99 and the wireless communication terminal.

[0023] On the other hand, in the Frequency-Division Multiple Access (FDMA) scheme, each communication entity uses a different carrier wave to communicate simultaneously, so there are no time slots. Therefore, both one unit of time and the fixed time described later can be determined arbitrarily.

[0024] The wireless communication terminal keeps its wireless communication circuit constantly on and repeatedly samples, holds, and encodes the measured value of the received signal strength at a predetermined sampling frequency. The wireless communication terminal then transmits the encoded measured value to the acquisition unit 11 of the communication monitoring device 10 as information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication.

[0025] Each time the monitoring unit 12 receives information from the acquisition unit 11 indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication, it compares the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication with a threshold value. The threshold value may be pre-set by the local government authorities (such as a city hall) based on the mobile communication service provided by the mobile carrier.

[0026] The monitoring unit 12 compares the received signal strength of the wireless communication with a threshold. If the received signal strength of the wireless communication never exceeds the threshold for a certain period of time, the monitoring unit 12 notifies the notification unit 13 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold for a certain period of time. Here, "certain period of time" is determined, for example, based on the statistical average of the number of communication lines simultaneously connected to the base station 99 and the time slot described above.

[0027] Let M be the statistical average of the number of communication lines simultaneously connected to base station 99, and let m be the time slot. Also, define one cycle as M × m. In one cycle, the communication time with base station 99 allocated to a wireless communication terminal is expressed as m / M × m. In this case, a fixed time is defined, in one example, as (M × m) × n (where n is any positive integer).

[0028] If n=1, then a certain period of time is the same as one cycle. If the received signal strength of the wireless communication falls below the threshold during one cycle (M × m), it indicates that the strength of the radio waves received by the wireless communication terminal from the base station 99 is weaker than normal, even during the communication time between the base station 99 and the wireless communication terminal. Therefore, there is a high possibility that the base station 99 is malfunctioning due to a power outage or other reason.

[0029] Alternatively, if n > 1, then the constant time period is n periods. If the received signal strength of the wireless communication falls below the threshold over a constant time period (M × m) × n, it indicates that the strength of the radio waves received by the wireless communication terminal from the base station 99 is weaker than normal during the n communication periods between the base station 99 and the wireless communication terminal. Therefore, the possibility that the base station 99 is malfunctioning due to a power outage or the like becomes more likely.

[0030] The notification unit 13 sends a notification when the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once over a certain period of time. The notification unit 13 is an example of a notification method.

[0031] In one example, the notification unit 13 is notified that the monitoring unit 12 has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. Triggered by this notification, the notification unit 13 issues a notification, such as an alarm. The recipient of the notification might be, for example, a local government authority or employee.

[0032] For example, the notification unit 13 may notify the local government authorities via a public address system (also called a disaster prevention administrative radio) used by the local government that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. The notification unit 13 may also output a notification via display or voice from a terminal connected to the public address system via a local network, such as an office automation (OA) device installed in the government office. Alternatively, the notification unit 13 may emit a rotating light (connectable to a local network) for the purpose of notifying of an anomaly.

[0033] The reporting unit 13 may determine that a communication failure has occurred based on the fact that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. In this case, the reporting unit 13 may notify the local government authorities, their staff, the company responsible for the communication work of the base station 99, or the mobile carrier's operation center that a communication failure may have occurred.

[0034] (Operation of communication monitoring device 10) The operation of the communication monitoring device 10 according to this embodiment 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the communication monitoring device 10.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication (S101). The acquisition unit 11 outputs the information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication to the monitoring unit 12.

[0036] The monitoring unit 12 receives information from the acquisition unit 11 indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication (S102).

[0037] If the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once for a certain period of time, the monitoring unit 12 notifies the notification unit 13 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold for a certain period of time.

[0038] The notification unit 13 is notified by the monitoring unit 12 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. Subsequently, the notification unit 13 notifies the local government authorities or officials that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time (S103).

[0039] This concludes the operation of the communication monitoring device 10 according to this embodiment 1.

[0040] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99. Therefore, based on the notification, the authorities can detect communication failures early and implement the necessary measures to restore the communication infrastructure.

[0041] [Embodiment 2] Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. This embodiment 2 describes an example of a configuration that operates in cooperation with an unmanned aerial vehicle (e.g., a drone).

[0042] (Communication monitoring device 20a) Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication monitoring device 20a according to this second embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the communication monitoring device 20a includes an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, and a notification unit 13. The communication monitoring device 20a further includes a power supply unit 24.

[0043] The power supply unit 24 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 (e.g., a drone) (Figure 9) and the charger (not shown), and controls the power supply from the charger to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500. The power supply unit 24 is an example of a power supply means.

[0044] In one example, the power supply unit 24 is electrically connected to the charger and monitors the charger's output. Based on the change in the charger's output, the power supply unit 24 detects that the unmanned aircraft 500 has been connected to the charger. At this time, the power supply unit 24 starts supplying power from the charger to the unmanned aircraft 500.

[0045] Alternatively, if the received signal strength of the wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time, the power supply unit 24 is notified by the monitoring unit 12 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold for a certain period of time. The power supply unit 24 may supply power to the unmanned aircraft 500 only when the received signal strength of the wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time.

[0046] (Communication monitoring device 20b) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication monitoring device 20b according to this second embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the communication monitoring device 20b includes an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, and a notification unit 13. The communication monitoring device 20b further includes a broadcasting unit 25.

[0047] The broadcasting unit 25 receives broadcasting instructions from the unmanned aircraft 500 (Figure 9) by communicating wirelessly with the aircraft. Based on these instructions, the broadcasting unit 25 then broadcasts an audio message using a loudspeaker (not shown). The broadcasting unit 25 is an example of a broadcasting method.

[0048] In one example, the broadcasting unit 25 detects an unmanned aircraft 500 (Figure 9) near the communication monitoring device 20b using a beacon or other means, and communicates wirelessly with the detected unmanned aircraft 500 via short-range wireless communication. Alternatively, the broadcasting unit 25 establishes a wireless connection with the unmanned aircraft 500 in response to a connection request from the unmanned aircraft 500.

[0049] The broadcasting unit 25 receives broadcast instructions from the wirelessly connected unmanned aircraft 500. For example, the content of the broadcast instructions may be an audio file, a text file, or a broadcast number (parameter). The audio file contains recorded audio broadcast data. The audio broadcast data may be generated by the unmanned aircraft 500 itself based on the surrounding conditions collected by the unmanned aircraft 500 using cameras and sensors, etc.

[0050] If the content of the broadcast instruction is an audio file, the broadcast unit 25 outputs an audio broadcast based on the audio file from a loudspeaker (not shown).

[0051] If the broadcast instructions are in the form of a text file, the broadcast unit 25 converts the text file into an audio file. Then, the broadcast unit 25 outputs an audio broadcast based on the converted audio file through the loudspeaker.

[0052] If the broadcast instruction is a broadcast number, the broadcast unit 25 obtains an audio source associated with the broadcast number from a recording medium (not shown). The broadcast unit 25 then outputs an audio broadcast based on the obtained audio source from the loudspeaker.

[0053] For example, the content of the audio broadcast may be to urge residents near the loudspeaker to take evacuation action.

[0054] (modified version) In one variation, the drone 500 may be equipped with a repeater or a portable base station. The drone 500 may provide wireless communication services in place of the base station 99 within an area (cell) where a communication failure has occurred.

[0055] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99. Therefore, based on the notification, the authorities can detect communication failures early and implement the necessary measures to restore the communication infrastructure.

[0056] Furthermore, according to one configuration of this embodiment, the power supply unit 24 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 and the charger, and controls the power supply from the charger to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500.

[0057] Furthermore, according to another configuration of this embodiment, the broadcasting unit 25 receives broadcasting instructions from the unmanned aircraft 500 by communicating wirelessly with the unmanned aircraft 500, and then performs voice broadcasting via loudspeaker based on those broadcasting instructions.

[0058] As a result, the communication monitoring devices 20a and 20b can work with the unmanned aircraft 500 to collect information about the conditions around the base station 99, or the portable base station mounted on the unmanned aircraft 500 can provide alternative functions for the base station 99.

[0059] [Embodiment 3] Embodiment 3 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. This Embodiment 3 describes an example of the configuration of a communication monitoring system equipped with a master station and slave stations for a broadcast radio system (for example, a disaster prevention administrative radio system). The slave station of the broadcast radio system according to this Embodiment 3 has the same functions as the communication monitoring devices 10, 20a, and 20b according to Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0060] (Communication monitoring system 1) Referring to Figure 5, the communication monitoring system 1 according to this third embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the communication monitoring system 1. The communication monitoring system 1 monitors for the presence or absence of communication failures caused by power outages, etc. For example, base station 99 is a wireless base station operated by a mobile carrier. Under normal circumstances, base station 99 provides wireless communication to wireless communication terminals (not shown) within its coverage area (cell).

[0061] As shown in Figure 5, the communication monitoring system 1 comprises a master station 200 (400) and slave stations 30. The notation "master station 200 (400)" refers to either master station 200 (Embodiment 3) or master station 400 (Embodiment 4).

[0062] The master station 200 (400), together with the slave station 30, constitutes a broadcast radio system such as an administrative disaster prevention radio system. For example, broadcast radio is used to broadcast disaster prevention information such as weather information within a city. In analog administrative disaster prevention radio systems, the 60MHz and 150MHz bands are mainly used. On the other hand, in digital administrative disaster prevention radio systems, the 60MHz band is mainly used. In one example, the master station 200 (400) is installed within the communication equipment of a government office.

[0063] Substation 30 communicates wirelessly with base station 200 (400) and receives disaster prevention information such as weather information from base station 200 (400). Substation 30 is either connected to a loudspeaker or equipped with one. Substation 30 uses the loudspeaker to broadcast the disaster prevention information such as weather information received from base station 200 (400) as voice broadcasts.

[0064] When disasters such as earthquakes occur, communication disruptions may occur due to power outages or other causes. As a result, wireless communication terminals within the coverage area (cell) of base station 99 may become unresponsive. The operation of the master station 200 and slave stations 30 in this situation is described below.

[0065] (Parent station 200 and child station 30) Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the configurations of the master station 200 and slave stations 30 that make up the communication monitoring system 1. Note that the base station 99 (Figure 5) is not shown in Figure 6.

[0066] (Substation 30) As shown in Figure 6, the slave station 30 is equipped with an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, and a notification unit 13, similar to the communication monitoring device 10 (Figure 1) according to Embodiment 1. The slave station 30 also further includes a wireless communication unit 34.

[0067] The wireless communication unit 34 of the slave station 30 receives a wireless signal from the base station 99. The wireless communication unit 34 is an example of a wireless communication means.

[0068] In one example, the wireless communication unit 34 is a wireless receiver capable of using mobile broadband. The wireless communication unit 34 only needs to be able to receive wireless communications in the frequency band used by mobile carriers.

[0069] The wireless communication unit 34 establishes a wireless connection with the base station 99. The wireless communication unit 34 detects the received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 34 then outputs information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication to the acquisition unit 11.

[0070] The acquisition unit 11 of the slave station 30 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the wireless communication unit 34. The acquisition unit 11 outputs the information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication to the monitoring unit 12.

[0071] The monitoring unit 12 of the slave station 30 receives information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the acquisition unit 11, and monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication.

[0072] If the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once for a certain period of time, the monitoring unit 12 notifies the notification unit 13 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold for a certain period of time.

[0073] The notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 is notified by the monitoring unit 12 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time.

[0074] Subsequently, the notification unit 13 notifies the base station 200 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. Specifically, the notification unit 13 notifies the receiver unit 201 of the base station 200 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication received by the wireless communication unit 34 has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. At this time, the notification unit 13 transmits information that allows the slave station 30 to the receiver unit 201 of the base station 200.

[0075] For example, if the location information of the main unit is registered in the sub-station 30, the notification unit 13 transmits the registered location information of the sub-station 30 to the receiving unit 201. In this case, the main station 200 can use the location information of the sub-station 30 to identify the sub-station 30 that made the notification.

[0076] In another example, the notification unit 13 obtains location information of the base station 99 to which the wireless communication unit 34 is wirelessly connected from the wireless communication unit 34. Then, the notification unit 13 transmits the location information of the base station 99 to the receiving unit 201. In this case, the master station 200 can use the location information of the base station 99 to identify the slave station 30 that made the notification.

[0077] Alternatively, if the master station 200 possesses information indicating the correspondence between the identifier of the slave station 30 and the base station 99, the notification unit 13 may transmit the identifier of the notified slave station 30 to the receiving unit 201. In this case, the identification unit 202 can use the information indicating the correspondence between the identifier of the slave station 30 and the base station 99 to identify the base station 99 with which the wireless communication unit 34 is wirelessly connected.

[0078] (master station 200) As shown in Figure 6, the master station 200 includes a receiving unit 201, a identification unit 202, and a determination unit 203.

[0079] The receiver unit 201 of the master station 200 receives a message from the slave station 30 via broadcast radio. The receiver unit 201 is an example of a receiving means.

[0080] In one example, the receiving unit 201 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 via the broadcast radio. The content of the notification received by the receiving unit 201 is that the received signal strength of the radio communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. The receiving unit 201 notifies the identification unit 202 that a notification has been received from the slave station 30, along with information that allows the slave station 30 to be identified.

[0081] The identification unit 202 of the master station 200 identifies the slave station 30 that made the report. The identification unit 202 is an example of an identification method.

[0082] In one example, the identification unit 202 is notified by the receiving unit 201 that a report has been received from the slave station 30. Subsequently, the identification unit 202 uses the information that can identify the slave station 30 (for example, the location information of the slave station 30, or the identifier of the slave station 30) received from the receiving unit 201 to identify the slave station 30 that made the report. For example, if the information that can identify the slave station 30 is the location information of the slave station 30, the identification unit 202 refers to map information showing the distribution of the slave stations 30 to identify the slave station 30 that made the report.

[0083] The identification unit 202 outputs information indicating the location of the reporting substation 30 to the determination unit 203.

[0084] The determination unit 203 of the master station 200 determines the area where a communication failure has occurred based on information that identifies the slave station 30. The determination unit 203 is an example of a determination means.

[0085] In one example, the determination unit 203 determines, based on map information showing the distribution of the slave stations 30 and location information of the slave stations 30 (an example of information that identifies the slave stations 30), that restoration of the communication infrastructure is necessary within the area surrounding the slave station 30 (for example, within a predetermined distance from the slave station 30).

[0086] In another example, the determination unit 203 identifies the base station 99 to which the wireless communication unit 34 of the reporting slave station 30 is wirelessly connected, based on a correspondence table between the identifiers of the slave station 30 and the base station 99, and the identifier of the reporting slave station 30 (which is an example of information that identifies the slave station 30). This base station 99 may have malfunctioned or stopped due to an accident such as a power outage. Therefore, the determination unit 203 refers to map information showing the distribution of base stations 99 and determines that restoration of the communication infrastructure is necessary within the coverage area of ​​the identified base station 99.

[0087] Furthermore, the master station 200 may instruct the slave station 50 that reported the issue to broadcast a loudspeaker urging them to "refrain from high-capacity communication and unnecessary communication." For example, the master station 200 may prepare a template of broadcast content in advance and generate the broadcast content based on the information (location name, slave station name) from the slave station 50 that reported the issue. The master station 200 then transmits the generated broadcast content to the slave station 50 via the public address system. The slave station 50 outputs an audio broadcast of the broadcast content generated by the master station 200. This prevents the restored line from becoming congested again and becoming unusable.

[0088] (Operation of slave station 30 and master station 200) Referring to Figure 7, the operation of the slave station 30 and master station 200 provided in the communication monitoring system 1 according to this third embodiment will be explained. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the slave station 30 and master station 200, and the relationship between their operations.

[0089] As shown in Figure 7, the acquisition unit 11 of the slave station 30 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication (S301). The acquisition unit 11 outputs the information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication to the monitoring unit 12.

[0090] The monitoring unit 12 of the slave station 30 receives information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the acquisition unit 11. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication (S302).

[0091] If the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once for a certain period of time, the monitoring unit 12 notifies the notification unit 13 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold for a certain period of time.

[0092] The notification unit 13 is notified by the monitoring unit 12 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time. Subsequently, the notification unit 13 notifies the master station 200 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below a threshold for a certain period of time (S303). The notification unit 13 also transmits information that can identify the slave station 30 that made the notification to the receiving unit 201 of the master station 200.

[0093] The receiving unit 201 of the master station 200 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 (S304). The receiving unit 201 outputs information that allows the notification-making slave station 30 to the identification unit 202.

[0094] The identification unit 202 identifies the reporting sub-station 30 based on information that allows it to identify the reporting sub-station 30 (S305).

[0095] Subsequently, the identification unit 202 outputs information indicating the reporting substation 30 to the determination unit 203.

[0096] The determination unit 203 determines the area where the communication failure occurred based on the information indicating the reporting slave station 30 (S306).

[0097] This concludes the operation of the slave station 30 and master station 200 according to this third embodiment.

[0098] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99.

[0099] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the receiving unit 201 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 via broadcast radio. The identification unit 202 identifies the slave station 30 that made the notification. The determination unit 203 determines the area where the communication failure occurred based on the information identifying the slave station 30 that made the notification.

[0100] Therefore, based on reports, authorities can detect communication disruptions early and implement necessary measures to restore communication infrastructure.

[0101] [Embodiment 4] Embodiment 4 will be described with reference to Figure 8. This Embodiment 4 describes an example of a configuration for estimating the number of mobile carrier users affected by a communication failure. In this Embodiment 4, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in Embodiment 3, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0102] (master station 400) As shown in Figure 8, the base station 400 includes a receiving unit 201, a identifying unit 202, and a determination unit 203. The base station 400 further includes an estimation unit 404.

[0103] The estimation unit 404 estimates the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred by analyzing video data or analytical information. The estimation unit 404 is an example of an estimation means.

[0104] In one example, the receiver 201 of the master station 400 receives video data or analysis information based on video data from the slave station 30 (Figure 6) via broadcast radio. The receiver 201 outputs the video data or analysis information based on video data to the estimation unit 404.

[0105] The estimation unit 404 receives video data or analysis information based on video data from the receiving unit 201. The video data is captured in the vicinity of the reporting substation 30, that is, within the area where the communication failure occurred.

[0106] The estimation unit 404 detects people in the video data by analyzing the video data or analytical information and counts the number of people detected. Based on the number of people detected, the estimation unit 404 estimates the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred.

[0107] For example, the estimation unit 404 assumes that 70-80% of the detected people have wireless communication terminals, and further estimates that 40% of those people have wireless communication terminals are users of the mobile carrier operating the base station 99. In this way, the estimation unit 404 can roughly estimate the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred.

[0108] The estimation unit 404 outputs information indicating the estimated number of users to the screen of an office automation terminal at the government office. Alternatively, the estimation unit 404 may transmit the result of estimating the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred to an external device (for example, an unmanned aircraft control device 600 (Figure 9)).

[0109] Furthermore, the master station 400 may instruct the slave station 50 that reported the issue to broadcast a loudspeaker urging them to "refrain from high-capacity communication and unnecessary communication." For example, the master station 400 may prepare a template of broadcast content in advance and generate the broadcast content based on the information (location name, slave station name) from the slave station 50 that reported the issue. The master station 400 then transmits the generated broadcast content to the slave station 50 via the public address system. The slave station 50 outputs an audio broadcast of the broadcast content generated by the master station 400. This prevents the restored line from becoming congested again and becoming unusable.

[0110] (modified version) In one modified example, the estimation unit 404 estimates the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred by using statistical data on the number of users for each area (cell). For example, the estimation unit 404 receives information from the determination unit 203 indicating the area where the communication failure occurred. The estimation unit 404 estimates the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred by referring to statistical data on the number of users for each area (cell).

[0111] This modified configuration has the advantage of eliminating the need for computationally intensive processing such as image analysis.

[0112] (Example 1) Local information may be transmitted from the substation 50 to the master station 200 (400), and the master station 200 (400) may use the local information received from the substation 50 when generating the content of the disaster prevention radio broadcast.

[0113] For example, the unmanned aircraft 500 uses its equipped camera or sensors to analyze the surrounding environment and reports (notifies) the analysis results to the broadcast radio slave station 50. The slave station 50 obtains the analysis results of the surrounding environment from the unmanned aircraft 500 via short-range radio communication or the like.

[0114] Substation 50 notifies the main broadcast station 200 (400) of the analysis results from the drone 500 (an example of on-site information). Upon receiving the notification, the main broadcast station 200 (400) reviews the operation of the broadcast system or the broadcast content based on the information received.

[0115] The drone 500 may also be used to monitor disaster situations. For example, the drone 500 can use its mounted camera to monitor broadcast radio communications and residents' reactions to them (evacuation actions).

[0116] Because the private network for the public address system has very small line capacity, it is difficult for the slave station 50 to transmit the camera footage directly to the master station 200 (400). Therefore, the drone 500 may analyze the camera footage to determine human movement and generate parameters (evacuation status parameters) such as "1: There are almost no people (evacuation is progressing)", "2: People are lingering", and "3: A crowd has gathered in one area, causing problems", and transmit these parameters to the slave station 50 of the public address system via contactless communication. The slave station 50 then transmits the received evacuation status parameters to the master station 200 (400) of the public address system.

[0117] The main station 200 (400) of the broadcast radio system can use the received evacuation status parameters to review the instructions that should be issued now and revise how those instructions are communicated, enabling it to issue more appropriate instructions that lead to residents' evacuation actions and problem-solving.

[0118] According to this embodiment, by using a non-carrier network, the utilization rate of the carrier network can be reduced, and delays in notifications due to congestion on the carrier network can be prevented.

[0119] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99.

[0120] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the receiving unit 201 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 via broadcast radio. The identification unit 202 identifies the slave station 30 that made the notification. The determination unit 203 determines the area where the communication failure occurred based on the information identifying the slave station 30 that made the notification.

[0121] Therefore, based on reports, authorities can detect communication disruptions early and implement necessary measures to restore communication infrastructure.

[0122] [Embodiment 5] Embodiment 5 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 10. This Embodiment 5 describes an example of a configuration that uses an unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) to support the restoration of communication infrastructure. In this Embodiment 5, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in Embodiments 3 to 4, and the descriptions of those components are omitted.

[0123] (Communication monitoring system 2) Referring to Figure 9, the communication monitoring system 2 according to this embodiment 5 will be described. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the communication monitoring system 2. The communication monitoring system 2 monitors for the presence or absence of communication failures at the base station 99. For example, the base station 99 is a wireless base station operated by a mobile carrier. Under normal circumstances, the base station 99 provides wireless communication to wireless communication terminals (not shown) within its coverage area (cell).

[0124] As shown in Figure 9, the communication monitoring system 2 comprises a master station 200 (400) and a slave station 30. As described in Embodiment 3, the term "master station 200 (400)" refers to either the master station 200 (Embodiment 3) or the master station 400 (Embodiment 4).

[0125] The communication monitoring system 2 is further equipped with an unmanned aircraft control device 600.

[0126] The drone control device 600 performs movement control of the drone 500. The drone control device 600 is located within a drone management area. Alternatively, the drone control device 600 is managed by a drone management and operation operator.

[0127] The drone control device 600, or the slave station 30 connected to the drone control device 600, receives information from the master station 200 (400) indicating the area where a communication failure has been determined to have occurred. The drone control device 600 moves the drone 500, which is equipped with a portable base station or repeater, toward the area where the communication failure has occurred.

[0128] The drone 500 moves to the area where the communication failure has occurred, and then uses a portable base station or repeater mounted on the drone 500 to provide wireless communication to users of wireless communication terminals within the area, acting as a substitute for base station 99. Since the drone 500 is equipped with a power source or generator, it can provide wireless communication without being affected by power outages.

[0129] The unmanned aircraft 500 may determine the surrounding conditions by analyzing video data obtained from a camera mounted on the unmanned aircraft 500. Based on the determination result, the unmanned aircraft 500 may generate audio broadcast data appropriate to the surrounding conditions.

[0130] The unmanned aircraft 500 may transmit the generated voice broadcast data to a nearby substation 30 using short-range wireless communication or the like, causing the substation 30 to output the voice broadcast from its loudspeaker 64 (Figure 11).

[0131] The unmanned aircraft control device 600 may receive information from the master station 400 (Figure 8) indicating the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred. Based on the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred, the unmanned aircraft control device 600 may predict the demand for line capacity in the area where the communication failure occurred. Based on the prediction results, the unmanned aircraft control device 600 may determine the number of unmanned aircraft 500 to send to the area where the communication failure occurred.

[0132] (Substation 50) As shown in Figure 10, the slave station 50, like the slave station 30 according to Embodiment 3 (Figure 6), is equipped with an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, a notification unit 13, and a wireless communication unit 34. In addition, the slave station 50 further includes a charger 54 and a power supply unit 55.

[0133] The charger 54 supplies power to the unmanned aircraft 500. The power supply unit 55 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 and the charger 54. The power supply unit 55 then controls the power supply from the charger 54 to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500. The power supply unit 55 is an example of a power supply means.

[0134] In one example, the output terminal of the charger 54 is located on a port (not shown) near the top of the slave station 50 (Figure 9). When the unmanned aircraft 500 arrives at the port, the output terminal of the charger 54 is connected to the input terminal of the unmanned aircraft 500.

[0135] When the output terminal of the charger 54 is connected to the input terminal of the unmanned aircraft 500, the power supply unit 55 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 and the charger 54. The power supply unit 55 starts supplying power from the charger 54 to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500. In other words, the power supply unit 55 charges the unmanned aircraft 500 using the charger 54.

[0136] When the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once over a certain period of time, the power supply unit 55 is notified by the monitoring unit 12 that the received signal strength of the wireless communication has continuously fallen below the threshold over a certain period of time. The power supply unit 55 may supply power to the unmanned aircraft 500 only when the received signal strength of the wireless communication does not exceed a threshold even once over a certain period of time.

[0137] This prevents a third party from using the charger 54 to charge an unmanned aircraft or the like that they possess during normal operation.

[0138] The unmanned aircraft 500 provides wireless communication on the port installed on the slave station 50, using an onboard portable base station or repeater, as a substitute for the base station 99. At this time, the unmanned aircraft 500 can perform wireless communication while receiving power from the charger 54, so there is no risk of power loss.

[0139] (Example 2) The slave station 50 may notify the master station 200 (400) of the broadcast radio of information collected from a camera or sensor connected to an interface (IF) section (not shown) of the slave station 50, or parameters calculated from such information.

[0140] For example, the number of people around a train station fluctuates greatly depending on the time of day and train service. Similarly, the number of people at event venues also fluctuates significantly depending on whether an event is being held and the time of day before and after the event. In such places where people tend to congregate, it is common practice to install 50 substations of a broadcast radio system. Furthermore, the amount of network usage on a carrier network is positively correlated with the number of wireless communication terminals, i.e., the number of people.

[0141] Therefore, for example, a camera is connected to a substation 50 of the public address system installed in a location like this. When the substation 50 notifies the main station 200 (400) of the public address system, it transmits the camera image itself or parameters indicating the number of people calculated by analyzing the camera image to the main station 200 of the public address system.

[0142] The master station 200 (400) of the broadcast radio calculates the estimated number of users on the carrier network around the slave station 50 based on camera images or parameters indicating the number of people received from the slave station 50. The master station 200 (400) then transmits the ID and location information (latitude and longitude information, address) of the slave station 50 located near the base station 99 that needs communication restoration to the slave station at the drone management area.

[0143] Furthermore, the main station 200 (400) of the broadcast radio system may rank areas with a high risk of disaster based on the broadcast history (broadcast destination and content), and notify the unmanned aircraft control device 600 of this ranking as the priority for communication restoration.

[0144] At the drone management area, the drone control unit 600 acquires the ID and location information (latitude and longitude information, address) of the sub-stations 50. Based on the location information of the base stations 99 to be restored and the user scale information of the carrier network, it calculates the estimated network capacity required for network restoration and dispatches drones 500 equipped with the necessary equipment to the sub-stations 50. Alternatively, the drone control unit 600 can dispatch two or more drones 500 to the sub-stations 50, in a quantity sufficient to cover the required network capacity. This makes it possible to restore the network more efficiently.

[0145] Furthermore, when the unmanned aircraft control device 600 receives notification of the order of priority for communication restoration from the broadcast radio master station 200 (400), it directs the unmanned aircraft 500 to the area with the highest risk according to that priority. (Example 3) The substation 50 records the charging status of the drone 500 (number of charges, duration, etc.) and parameters obtained from the drone 500 in a recording unit (not shown) and notifies the broadcast radio master station 200 (400). The broadcast radio master station 200 (400), upon receiving the notification, notifies the broadcast radio substations located at the drone management area of ​​this information. This allows the drone control unit 600 at the drone management area to understand the status of the drone 500 while it is undergoing line restoration work, and to plan for the replacement or addition of drones 500.

[0146] According to the configuration of this embodiment, compared to the case where the unmanned aircraft 500 notifies the drone management area of ​​its status using a carrier network, the use of the carrier network can be reduced, and delays in notification due to carrier network congestion can be prevented.

[0147] Furthermore, the configuration of Embodiment 1 described in Embodiment 4 can also be realized in this embodiment in the same way as in Embodiment 4.

[0148] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99.

[0149] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the receiving unit 201 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 via broadcast radio. The identification unit 202 identifies the slave station 30 that made the notification. The determination unit 203 determines the area where the communication failure occurred based on the information identifying the slave station 30 that made the notification.

[0150] Therefore, based on reports, authorities can detect communication disruptions early and implement necessary measures to restore communication infrastructure.

[0151] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the charger 54 supplies power to the unmanned aircraft. The power supply unit 55 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 and the charger 54 and controls the power supply from the charger 54 to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500.

[0152] Therefore, the unmanned aircraft 500 can continue to provide wireless communication to the wireless communication terminal while receiving power from the charger 54.

[0153] [Embodiment 6] Embodiment 6 will be described with reference to Figures 11 to 12. This Embodiment 6 describes an example of a slave station having a configuration different from that described in Embodiment 5. The configuration of the master station of the broadcast radio according to this Embodiment 6 is the same as that of Embodiment 5. In this Embodiment 6, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in Embodiment 5, and the explanation of those components is omitted.

[0154] (Substation 60) As shown in Figure 11, the substation 60 is equipped with an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, a notification unit 13, and a wireless communication unit 34, similar to the substation 50 (Figure 10) according to Embodiment 5. In addition, the substation 60 further includes a loudspeaker 64 and a broadcasting unit 65.

[0155] The loudspeaker 64 is, for example, an amplified speaker with an electrical amplification mechanism. The broadcasting unit 65 receives broadcasting instructions from the unmanned aircraft 500 (Figure 9) by communicating wirelessly with the unmanned aircraft 500. Based on the broadcasting instructions, the broadcasting unit 65 then carries out voice broadcasting using the loudspeaker 64. The broadcasting unit 65 is an example of a broadcasting means.

[0156] In one example, the broadcasting unit 65 detects the drone 500 in the vicinity of the substation 60 using means such as beacons, and communicates wirelessly with the detected drone 500 via short-range wireless communication. Alternatively, the broadcasting unit 65 establishes a wireless connection with the drone 500 in response to a connection request from the drone 500.

[0157] The broadcasting unit 65 receives broadcast instructions from the wirelessly connected unmanned aircraft 500. For example, the content of the broadcast instructions may be an audio file, a text file, or a broadcast number (parameter). An audio file is data from a recorded broadcast. If the content of the broadcast instructions is an audio file, the broadcasting unit 65 outputs an audio broadcast based on the audio file from the loudspeaker 64.

[0158] If the broadcast instructions are in the form of a text file, the broadcast unit 65 converts the text file into an audio file. Then, the broadcast unit 65 outputs an audio broadcast based on the audio file from the loudspeaker 64.

[0159] For example, the content of the audio broadcast may be a message urging residents near the substation 60 to take evacuation action. Alternatively, the content of the broadcast instruction may be a broadcast number (parameter). In the latter case, the broadcast unit 65 prepares an audio source corresponding to the broadcast number (parameter) and outputs an audio broadcast corresponding to the prepared audio source from the loudspeaker 64.

[0160] (modified version) A modified slave station 60a may have both the functions of the slave station 50 (Figure 10) according to Embodiment 5 and the functions of the slave station 60 (Figure 11) according to Embodiment 6. The configuration of the slave station 60a according to this modified example will be described below.

[0161] As shown in Figure 11, the slave station 60a according to this modified example is equipped with an acquisition unit 11, a monitoring unit 12, a notification unit 13, and a wireless communication unit 34, similar to the slave station 50 according to Embodiment 5 (Figure 10). In addition, the slave station 60a is further equipped with a charger 54 and a power supply unit 55, similar to the slave station 50 according to Embodiment 5. In addition, the slave station 60a is further equipped with a loudspeaker 64 and a broadcasting unit 65, similar to the slave station 60 according to Embodiment 6.

[0162] According to this modified configuration, the loudspeaker 64 supplies power to the unmanned aircraft. The power supply unit 55 detects the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft 500 and the charger 54 and controls the power supply from the charger 54 to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft 500.

[0163] Therefore, the portable base station mounted on the drone 500 can provide alternative functions to the base station 99. The drone 500 can continue to provide wireless communication to wireless communication terminals while receiving power from the charger 54.

[0164] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the configuration of this embodiment, the acquisition unit 11 acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The monitoring unit 12 monitors the magnitude of the received signal strength of the wireless communication. The notification unit 13 notifies when the received signal strength of the wireless communication has not exceeded a threshold for a certain period of time. The authorities can quickly detect communication failures without monitoring the base station 99.

[0165] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the receiving unit 201 receives a notification from the notification unit 13 of the slave station 30 via broadcast radio. The identification unit 202 identifies the slave station 30 that made the notification. The determination unit 203 determines the area where the communication failure occurred based on the information identifying the slave station 30 that made the notification.

[0166] Therefore, based on reports, authorities can detect communication disruptions early and implement necessary measures to restore communication infrastructure.

[0167] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the broadcasting unit 65 receives broadcasting instructions from the unmanned aircraft 500 by communicating wirelessly with the unmanned aircraft 500. Based on the broadcasting instructions, the broadcasting unit 65 then performs voice broadcasting using the loudspeaker 64.

[0168] As a result, even in areas where communication is disrupted and wireless communication is unavailable, the substations 60 and 60a can work in cooperation with the drone 500 to encourage evacuation or provide necessary information to residents near the loudspeaker 64.

[0169] (Regarding hardware configuration) The communication monitoring devices 10, 20a, and 20b described in Embodiments 1 to 2, and the slave stations 30, 50, 60, and 60a described in Embodiments 3 to 6, and the master stations 200 and 400 described in Embodiments 3 to 6, each represent a functional unit block. Some or all of these components are realized by an information processing device 900, for example, as shown in Figure 13. Figure 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 900.

[0170] As shown in Figure 13, the information processing device 900 includes, as an example, the following configuration.

[0171] ·CPU(Central Processing Unit)901 • ROM (Read Only Memory) 902 ·RAM(Random Access Memory)903 Program 904 is loaded into RAM903. • Storage device 905 for storing program 904 • Drive device 907 for reading and writing recording medium 906 • Communication interface 908 connected to communication network 909 • Input / output interface 910 for data input and output. • Bus 911 connecting each component The communication monitoring devices 10, 20a, and 20b described in Embodiments 1 to 2, and the slave stations 30, 50, 60, and 60a described in Embodiments 3 to 6, and the master stations 200 and 400 described in Embodiments 3 to 6, are realized by the CPU 901 reading and executing a program 904 that realizes the functions of each component. The program 904 that realizes the functions of each component is, for example, stored in advance in a storage device 905 or ROM 902, and the CPU 901 loads it into RAM 903 and executes it as needed. The program 904 may be supplied to the CPU 901 via a communication network 909, or it may be stored in advance in a recording medium 906, and the drive device 907 may read the program and supply it to the CPU 901.

[0172] According to the above configuration, the communication monitoring devices 10, 20a, and 20b described in Embodiments 1 to 2, as well as the slave stations 30, 50, 60, and 60a described in Embodiments 3 to 6, and the master stations 200 and 400 described in Embodiments 3 to 6, are realized as hardware. Therefore, the same effects as those described in any of Embodiments 1 to 6 can be achieved.

[0173] (Note) One aspect of the present invention can also be described as follows, but is not limited to the following.

[0174] (Note 1) An acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, A monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, A notification means for notifying when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. A communication monitoring device equipped with this device.

[0175] (Note 2) Power supply means for detecting the electrical coupling between an unmanned aircraft and a charger, and controlling the power supply from the charger to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft. Furthermore, it is equipped with A communication monitoring device as described in Appendix 1, characterized by the features described herein.

[0176] (Note 3) Broadcasting means that, by communicating wirelessly with an unmanned aircraft, receives broadcast instructions from the unmanned aircraft and, based on the broadcast instructions, performs voice broadcasting via loudspeaker. Furthermore, it is equipped with A communication monitoring device as described in Appendix 1, characterized by the features described herein.

[0177] (Note 4) The acquisition means acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from a wireless communication terminal that communicates wirelessly with the base station. A communication monitoring device as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, characterized by the above.

[0178] (Note 5) We obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication. The magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication is monitored, The system will send a notification if the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. Communication monitoring method.

[0179] (Note 6) To obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, To monitor the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, To send a notification when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. A program that causes a computer to execute something.

[0180] (Note 7) An acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, A monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, A notification means for notifying when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. This includes the substations of the broadcast radio, A receiving means for receiving the notification from the substation via a broadcast radio, A means for identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report, A determination means for determining the area where a communication failure occurred, based on information identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report. This includes the main station of the broadcast radio and A communication monitoring system equipped with [unclear] features.

[0181] (Note 8) Further includes wireless communication means for communicating with base stations, The acquisition means acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from the wireless communication means. The communication monitoring system described in Appendix 7, characterized by the features described herein.

[0182] (Note 9) (Main station) The receiving means of the master station receives video data or analysis information based on the video data from the slave station via broadcast radio. The aforementioned base station, The system further includes estimation means for estimating the number of wireless communication users in the area where a communication failure occurred by analyzing the aforementioned video data or analysis information. A communication monitoring system according to appendix 7 or 8, characterized by comprising the following:

[0183] (Note 10) The aforementioned analysis information includes information indicating the number of people remaining in the area where the communication failure occurred. The communication monitoring system described in Appendix 9, characterized by the features described herein.

[0184] (Note 11) The aforementioned substation is A charger to supply power to the drone, A power supply means for detecting the electrical coupling between the unmanned aircraft and the charger, and controlling the power supply from the charger to the electrically coupled unmanned aircraft, Includes A communication monitoring system according to any one of the appendices 7 to 10, characterized in that it is the same as described in the appendix.

[0185] (Note 12) The aforementioned substation is The video data obtained by the camera mounted on the unmanned aircraft, or the analysis information based on the video data, is received from the unmanned aircraft. The aforementioned video data or the analysis information based on the aforementioned video data is transmitted to the base station via broadcast radio. A communication monitoring system according to any one of the appendices 7 to 10, characterized in that it is the same as described in the appendix.

[0186] (Note 13) An unmanned aircraft control device moves the unmanned aircraft equipped with a portable base station or repeater toward the area where a communication failure has occurred. A communication monitoring system according to any one of the appendices 7 to 12, further comprising:

[0187] (Note 14) The aforementioned unmanned aircraft control device is Based on the number of wireless communication users in the area where the communication failure occurred, the demand for line capacity in the area where the communication failure occurred is predicted, and the number of unmanned aircraft to be dispatched to the area is determined. A communication monitoring system according to any one of the appendices 7 to 13, characterized by the features described herein.

[0188] (Note 15) The aforementioned unmanned aircraft The system transmits the audio data registered with or generated by the drone to the substation, and the substation outputs the audio data from its loudspeaker. A communication monitoring system according to any one of the appendices 7 to 14, characterized by the features described herein.

[0189] (Note 16) The aforementioned unmanned aircraft By analyzing the video data obtained from the camera mounted on the drone, the surrounding conditions of the drone are determined, and based on the determination result, audio data corresponding to the surrounding conditions of the drone is generated. The communication monitoring system described in Appendix 15, characterized by the features described herein.

[0190] (Note 17) A substation of the broadcast radio system We obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication. The magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication is monitored, When the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time, a notification is sent. The main station of the broadcast radio system, The notification is received from the substation via the broadcast radio. Identify the aforementioned substation that made the report, Based on the information identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report, the area where the wireless communication is difficult is determined. Communication monitoring method.

[0191] (Note 18) A substation of the broadcast radio system To obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication and To monitor the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication. To send a notification when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. Have the computer run it, The main station of the broadcast radio system, To receive the aforementioned notification from the substation via the broadcast radio, Identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report, Based on the information identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report, the area where the aforementioned wireless communication is difficult is determined. Make the computer execute it. A program for that purpose. [Industrial applicability]

[0192] The present invention can be used, for example, to monitor for communication failures in a mobile network, or to provide temporary wireless communication using an unmanned aircraft. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0193] 1. Communication monitoring system 2. Communication monitoring system 10. Communication monitoring device 11 Acquisition Department 12 Monitoring Department 13. Reporting Department 20a Communication monitoring device 20b Communication monitoring device 24 Power supply section 25 Broadcasting Club 30 Substations 34 Wireless Communication Section 50 Substations 54 Charger 55 Power supply section 60 Substations 60a Substation 64. Loudspeakers 65 Broadcasting Club 99 base station 200 Master station 201 Receiver 202 Specific section 203 Judgment section 400 Master station 404 Estimation section 500 drones 600 Unmanned Aircraft Control System 900 Information Processing Equipment 901 CPU 902 ROM 903 RAM 904 Program 905 Storage device 906 Recording media 907 Drive unit 908 Communication Interface 909 Communication Network

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, A monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, A notification means for notifying the local government authorities when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. Equipped with, The acquisition means acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from a wireless communication terminal that communicates wirelessly with the base station. Communication monitoring device.

2. A power supply means detects an electrical coupling with an unmanned aircraft, and when the received signal strength of the wireless communication monitored by the monitoring means never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time, it supplies power to the unmanned aircraft from which the electrical coupling was detected. Furthermore, it is equipped with The communication monitoring device according to feature 1.

3. Broadcasting means that, by communicating wirelessly with an unmanned aircraft, receives broadcast instructions from the unmanned aircraft and, according to the audio file, text file, or broadcast number included in the broadcast instructions, performs an audio broadcast via loudspeaker. Furthermore, it is equipped with The communication monitoring device according to feature 1.

4. Computers We obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication. The magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication is monitored, A communication monitoring method that notifies the local government when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time, The computer acquires information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from a wireless communication terminal that communicates wirelessly with the base station. Communication monitoring method.

5. To obtain information indicating the received signal strength of wireless communication, To monitor the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, A program to cause a computer to perform the following actions: notify the local government authorities when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time, To obtain information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication from a wireless communication terminal that communicates wirelessly with a base station. A program to cause the aforementioned computer to execute.

6. A wireless communication means for communicating wirelessly with a base station, An acquisition means for acquiring information indicating the received signal strength of the wireless communication means, A monitoring means for monitoring the magnitude of the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication, A notification means for notifying the local government authorities when the received signal strength of the aforementioned wireless communication never exceeds a threshold for a certain period of time. This includes the substations of the broadcast radio, A receiving means for receiving a notification from the aforementioned substation via a broadcast radio, A means for identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report, A determination means for determining the area where a communication failure occurred, based on information identifying the aforementioned substation that made the report. A broadcast radio master station, including, Communication monitoring system.

7. The receiving means of the master station receives video data or analysis information based on the video data from the slave station via broadcast radio. The aforementioned base station, The system further includes estimation means for estimating the number of users of the aforementioned wireless communication in an area where a communication failure has occurred, by referring to statistical data on the number of users of the aforementioned wireless communication for each area. The communication monitoring system described in claim 6.

Images