Information and communication equipment and information and communication control program

Abstract

To provide an information communication device capable of constructing a system that enables information collection and information sharing even in an environment where communication services provided by communication companies are disrupted.SOLUTION: An information communication device 100.1 provided in a portable housing includes: a server device 2010 that has a storage device that can store data and can provide corresponding data in response to requests from a plurality of client devices; an access point 2400 for enabling wireless or wired communication by a type 1 signal; and a power supply unit 2300 capable of supplying power. The information communication device 100.1 single-handedly executes information distribution to the plurality of client devices, and executes information sharing between specific client devices among the plurality of client devices by storing and reading shared information in and from a storage device 2080.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information communication device and an information communication control program that enable the use of information communication services within a specific area.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and heavy rains have been increasing worldwide. When a disaster occurs, people in the disaster-stricken area collect information such as the disaster situation and evacuation information for ensuring their own safety, confirming the safety of family, friends, and acquaintances, and protecting their own property, and based on the collected information, they determine the situation and take actions.

[0003] For example, it is an action such as receiving evacuation information transmitted from a local government through disaster prevention radio immediately after a disaster and evacuating to a designated evacuation site.

[0004] In addition, in disaster response organizations such as local governments, police, fire departments, medical institutions, and the Self-Defense Forces, teams rush to the disaster site, etc., while communicating among team members about grasping the disaster situation and rescue and recovery work, and promote disaster response organizationally by sharing the acquired disaster information inside and outside the organization. Therefore, in the disaster area and its vicinity, the demand for communication services such as telephones and the Internet increases rapidly, resulting in congestion where it is difficult to connect the network.

[0005] By the way, in order to cope with such a congested state where communication becomes difficult during a disaster, in Patent Document 1, an access control function is provided in a base station to which a mobile phone terminal is connected, and only a mobile phone terminal connected from a specific base station (that is, the coverage area of the base station) can access an information sharing server on the network to provide information and collect (browse) information, and an access control is performed to solve the congestion problem occurring in the disaster area, and a disaster area information sharing system has been proposed.

[0006] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 proposes a distributed information management system that enables the sharing of minimum information even if the communication line is disconnected or the distribution server on the center side malfunctions.

[0007] The system disclosed in Patent Document 2 consists of multiple tourism and disaster prevention Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) stations and a tourism and disaster prevention Wi-Fi station center, with each tourism and disaster prevention Wi-Fi station connected to the tourism and disaster prevention Wi-Fi station center via a regional intranet line or point-to-point wireless access device.

[0008] Each tourist and disaster prevention Wi-Fi station consists of a Wi-Fi access point, camera, sensors, and information management device fixed to a pole-like structure. Information acquired by the cameras and sensors is organized and processed by the information management device and then sent via the network to the central distribution server.

[0009] Users access the information management device or the central distribution server using Wi-Fi functionality from their smartphones or other information and communication devices to access necessary information, obtain (collect) information, and upload (share) information to use the system. In the event of a network failure connecting the information management device and the distribution server, the information management device will temporarily take over user access and uploads. This allows users to access the system via Wi-Fi using their information and communication devices during a disaster, enabling them to send posted information and safety confirmation information, and receive disaster information and camera footage. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0010] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-217411 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2017 / 187833 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0011] Incidentally, during large-scale disasters, infrastructure such as electricity, gas, water, and communications may be damaged and become unusable. Information and communication services such as telephones and the internet may also experience communication disruptions during disasters due to the collapse of utility poles, severed cables, damage to communication buildings, and power outages at base stations.

[0012] When communication is disrupted, not only telephone services but also social networking services (SNS), e-commerce, search engines, and video streaming services, which are widely used via the internet on a regular basis, become completely unusable or extremely difficult to use. Moreover, it is difficult to accurately predict in advance when and where such disasters and damages will occur.

[0013] Here, the problem of difficulty in collecting and sharing disaster information due to communication congestion in disaster-stricken areas during large-scale disasters can be mitigated by Patent Document 1.

[0014] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 has the problem that access to the information sharing server depends on the existing communication network, and therefore becomes unusable or difficult to use in the event of a communication disruption during a disaster (damage to the communication network, network disconnection, etc.).

[0015] On the other hand, the method described in Patent Document 2 can function even in environments where communication services, including internet connectivity provided by telecommunications companies, are interrupted, as long as the regional intranet lines or wireless access lines connecting the tourism / disaster prevention Wi-Fi stations and the center are proprietary.

[0016] Furthermore, even if the regional intranet lines or wireless access lines become unusable due to a disaster, information management devices installed at each station can temporarily substitute for the information distribution server located at the center, enabling users to access the system using information and communication devices and collect and share disaster information.

[0017] However, the system described in Patent Document 2 is based on the premise that it will be pre-installed in tourist facilities, evacuation centers, etc., and it is difficult to respond to disasters, communication outages, or congestion caused by a sudden increase in communication demand in places where these systems are not installed.

[0018] Furthermore, even if the information management devices installed at each station could replace the information distribution server located at the center, if the communication disruption was prolonged, the users that each information management device could handle would be limited to those in the vicinity of the tourist / disaster prevention Wi-Fi station. This presented a challenge in that it would be difficult to collect, share, and communicate information among users connected to multiple tourist / disaster prevention Wi-Fi stations.

[0019] On the other hand, during large-scale disasters, local governments and other organizations widely disseminate evacuation information using disaster prevention radio and loudspeakers. However, as seen in cases such as the Great East Japan Earthquake, challenges have been identified where reliable information transmission is not possible due to factors such as weather conditions during the disaster, the location of the loudspeakers, and the location of residents, which can make it difficult to hear the audio.

[0020] Furthermore, during a disaster, disaster response headquarters established by local governments and other organizations are frequented not only by local government officials but also by people from various disaster relief organizations such as medical institutions, the Self-Defense Forces, the police, and the fire department. Within these headquarters, sensitive information that requires careful handling, such as information on the life and death of individuals, is shared.

[0021] In order to solve the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an information communication device or an information communication control program that enables a user to construct a system that can collect and share information using a communication terminal possessed by the user even in an environment where the communication service provided by a communication company is interrupted.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0022] According to one aspect of this invention, an information communication device capable of communicating with a plurality of client devices, comprising: a housing for making the information communication device portable; a storage device provided in the housing and capable of storing data; a server device capable of providing corresponding data in response to requests from a plurality of client devices; a first access means provided in the housing for enabling communication with a plurality of client devices by a first type of signal wirelessly or by wire; and a power supply means provided in the housing for supplying power to the server device and the first access means. The information communication device can, alone, perform information distribution to a plurality of client devices by using well-known information stored in the storage device and notified to unspecified client devices, and perform information sharing between specific client devices among the plurality of client devices by storing and reading shared information to and from the storage device. The system further includes a second access means provided within the enclosure, which operates exclusively with respect to the first access means, and which allows the administrator of the information communication device to configure the information communication device to communicate with other information communication devices as a server, and when the administrator tours the locations of other information communication devices together with the information communication device that has been configured to communicate as a client, if the information communication device with the second access means in operation enters the communication range of another information communication device operating as a server, communication becomes possible between the information communication device and the other information communication device, and the information communication device further includes an information synchronization means that performs synchronization processing with publicly known information and shared information stored in the other information communication device with information stored in its own storage device.

[0023] Preferably, the storage device stores specific administrator information in advance, and the information communication device further comprises: an administrator authentication means for authenticating an administrator device corresponding to the specific administrator information among the client devices that have requested access via the first access means; and an information access control means for permitting writing, modification, and deletion of the well-known information only to the authenticated administrator device.

[0024] Preferably, the storage device stores shared approval information for specifying the range of users who share shared information among a plurality of client devices, and can store the shared information in association with information for specifying the users. The information access control means restricts so as to permit only writing, changing, deleting, and reading of the corresponding shared information for access from users specified based on the shared approval information among the client devices that have requested access via the first access means.

[0026] Preferably, the storage device stores user recognition information for individually authenticating each user of a plurality of client devices and access control information that is commonly distributed to the plurality of client devices, and further includes presenting means for presenting the access control information by a second type of signal that is a signal receivable by information input means pre-equipped in each of the plurality of client devices and is different in type from the signal used for communication by the first access means. The information access control means receives, as a first type of signal, authentication information combining the access control information and the user recognition information from each of the plurality of client devices via the first access means, executes authentication of each user, and permits access for each client device.

[0027] Preferably, the second type of signal is an audio signal, the information input means includes a microphone, and the presenting means includes a speaker.

[0028] Preferably, the second type of signal is an optical signal, the information input means includes a camera, and the presenting means includes a light capable of transmitting a signal by light emission control.

[0029] Preferably, the second type of signal is an optical signal, the information input means includes a camera, and the presenting means is a two-dimensional code displayed on a medium attached to the housing and readable by the camera.

[0030] According to another aspect of this invention, an information communication control program for controlling the operation of an information communication device capable of communicating with multiple client devices, wherein the information communication device comprises a housing for making the information communication device portable, a server device housed in the housing and having a computing device and a memory device, and capable of communicating with the outside wirelessly or wired via a first access means, and a power supply means provided in the housing capable of supplying power to the server device and the first access means, the information communication control program is stored in the memory device and is for controlling the communication operation of the information communication device, the steps being: the computing device enables communication with multiple client devices wirelessly or wired via a first type of signal using the first access means; the computing device, acting alone, performs information distribution to multiple client devices in response to requests from multiple client devices via the first access means using well-known information stored in the memory device for notification to unspecified client devices; and the computing device, acting alone, performs information sharing between specific client devices among multiple client devices by storing and reading shared information to and from the memory device via the first access means. A second access means is provided within the enclosure and operates exclusively with respect to a first access means, and can be configured for an information communication device to communicate with another information communication device as a server, and when an administrator tours the locations of other information communication devices with an information communication device that has been configured to communicate as a client with respect to the second access means, when the information communication device in which the second access means is operational enters the communication range of another information communication device operating as a server, the computing unit of the information communication device starts communicating with the other information communication device, and the computing unit of the information communication device performs synchronization processing with the publicly known information and shared information stored in the other information communication device and the information stored in its own storage device. This is then executed by an information and communication device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0031] According to the information communication device or information communication control program of the present invention, even in environments where communication services provided by a telecommunications company are interrupted, it becomes possible for users to collect and share information using their own communication terminals.

[0032] More specifically, according to the information and communication device of the present invention, even in environments where communication is disrupted during a disaster, for example, the information and communication device is portable and can be brought to demand sites such as evacuation centers and disaster response headquarters and operated, enabling people in the surrounding area to use their usual communication terminals, such as smartphones, to obtain public information disseminated by public institutions, contact family, friends, and colleagues, and share information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram showing a system consisting of the information and communication device 100.1 of Embodiment 1 and communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n owned by the user. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of communication terminal 10.1. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of information and communication device 100.1. [Figure 4] This is a functional block diagram illustrating the functions performed by the CPU 2040 within the server device 2010 of the information and communication device 100.1. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of the display screen when a user accesses server device 2010 via a web browser from a communication terminal 10.1 to 10.n. [Figure 6] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the communication flow when accessing server device 2010 from communication terminal 10.1. [Figure 7] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the communication flow when accessing server device 2010 from communication terminal 10.1. [Figure 8] This is a conceptual diagram showing a system consisting of the information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3 of Embodiment 2 and communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n owned by the user. [Figure 9] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3. [Figure 10] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information communication device 100.1' of Embodiment 3. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the information and communication device 100.1'. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] The configuration of the information communication device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In the following embodiment, components and processing steps denoted by the same reference numerals are identical or equivalent, and their descriptions will not be repeated unless necessary.

[0035] In the following description, the information communication device of the present invention will be explained assuming that it operates using a wireless communication method capable of "two-way communication". In this case, as an example of the information communication device of the present invention, a communication device having a wireless communication function that enables communication between a server and a client in existing unlicensed bands (for example, the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands used for wireless LANs) will be used as an example.

[0036] However, the frequency band and communication method are not limited to these, as long as they enable wireless communication between the server and client. However, as will become clear from the following explanation, the communication band and communication method should be able to communicate in a frequency band other than the mobile communication services provided by telecommunications companies in normal environments where communication interruptions do not occur, and should be a frequency band and method that can be used by many users in such normal environments, such as the communication devices equipped in smartphones. In addition, a configuration that allows wired server-client communication is also acceptable if necessary. [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a system consisting of the information and communication device 100.1 of Embodiment 1 and communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n owned by the user.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, the information and communication device 100.1 is housed in a portable enclosure, such as a suitcase with casters.

[0038] Furthermore, Figure 1 uses smartphones as an example of communication terminals owned by users, specifically 10.1 to 10.n (where n is a natural number greater than or equal to 2). However, it is not limited to smartphones; any wireless communication terminal used by an individual user in their daily life that is capable of communication in frequency bands other than those provided by telecommunications companies is acceptable.

[0039] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the information and communication device 100.1 is configured to be portable by human power as a single unit. In the example in Figure 1, it is configured to be housed in a suitcase with casters. However, the configuration is not limited to this, as long as it is portable by human power. Preferably, it is desirable that it be portable by one adult, but for example, it may be portable by two people, or multiple people may individually carry parts of the system, and various configurations are possible as long as the technical ideas described below can be realized.

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of communication terminal 10.1 as shown in Figure 1. Note that communication terminals 10.2 to 10.n have a similar configuration, so their explanation will not be repeated.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2, the communication terminal 10.1 of this embodiment includes a control unit 102 for controlling the terminal's communication and input / output operations, a network communication unit 110 for performing wireless LAN and mobile communication, a baseband processing unit 112 for generating baseband signals from data and signals to be transmitted and sending them to modulation / demodulation circuits / devices, and obtaining the original data and signals from received baseband signals, an audio input unit 114 for converting audio signals from outside the terminal into electrical signals, an audio output unit 116 for sending audio signals to the outside of the terminal, a display unit 118, and an operation unit 120 for receiving input operations from the user. Furthermore, the communication terminal 10.1 is equipped with a USIM 122, which is an IC module that stores a subscriber information storage medium that can be attached to the main unit and enables communication with a communication carrier.

[0042] The control unit 102 is equipped with a storage device consisting of an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), RAM, ROM, etc., and controls various parts such as the baseband processing unit 112 and constructs a native platform environment and application execution environment in the software configuration by executing a predetermined basic OS or middleware program.

[0043] Furthermore, when a predetermined control program is executed, the control unit 102 can work in cooperation with the network communication unit 110 and the short-range communication unit 124 (described later) to realize the following functions.

[0044] (1) Based on the predetermined IP address and port number set on the communication terminal 10.1 and the communication partner, a bidirectional communication path is established between the communication partner and the communication terminal via the communication network.

[0045] (2) The connection information is encrypted using a predetermined key or a predetermined password is set for the connection information, and the connection information after this process is sent to the communication partner.

[0046] The memory device of the control unit 102 includes, for example, semiconductor memory such as RAM as a temporary memory device and flash memory as a non-volatile memory device. This non-volatile memory device stores driver programs, operating system programs, application programs, data, etc., used for processing in each unit.

[0047] For example, the non-volatile memory device stores driver programs such as a communication driver program that executes wireless communication methods such as the IEEE 802.11 standard or mobile communication (cellular communication), an input device driver program that controls the operation unit 120, and an output device driver program that controls the display unit 118.

[0048] Furthermore, the non-volatile memory device stores operating system programs, such as basic operating systems like Android® OS and iOS®, as well as connection control programs that perform authentication for wireless communication methods such as IEEE 802.11 and mobile communication (cellular communication).

[0049] Furthermore, the non-volatile memory device stores application programs such as an authentication program for web authentication, a timing program for timing, a web browser program for retrieving and displaying web pages, and an email program for sending and receiving emails. The memory device may also store various text data, video data, image data, etc., and temporarily store temporary data related to predetermined processing. In addition, the memory device stores various information for connecting to a wireless LAN access point.

[0050] Furthermore, the non-volatile memory device of the control unit 102 stores connection information, including the IP addresses and port numbers of the communication terminal 10.1 and the communication partner used for communication with the communication partner.

[0051] The network communication unit 110 has functions for performing wireless LAN communication via a wireless LAN access point 2400 (described later) and mobile communication via a base station (not shown) of a cellular mobile communication network. The network communication unit 110 performs high-frequency signal processing for wireless communication with the access point 2400 using IEEE 802.11 or other predetermined communication methods, and performs high-frequency signal processing for wireless communication with the base station 60 using predetermined communication methods such as 4G and 5G. The access point 2400 may have not only wireless LAN functionality but also wired LAN communication functionality.

[0052] The baseband processing unit 112 performs digital processing for voice communication and data transmission / reception communication with other communication terminal devices such as mobile phones and various servers. The baseband processing unit 112 and the network communication unit 110 are connected via a D / A converter and an A / D converter.

[0053] The audio input unit 114 consists of a microphone, an audio signal processing unit, and the like. The analog audio signal input from the microphone is converted into a digital signal by the audio signal processing unit and sent to the control unit 102, the baseband processing unit 112, and the like.

[0054] The audio output unit 116 consists of an audio signal processing unit, a speaker, etc. The speaker receives an analog signal converted from a digital signal by the audio signal processing unit and outputs the audio during a call, as well as email notification tones, phone ringtones, music, etc.

[0055] The display unit 118 is composed of an LCD (liquid crystal display) or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, and displays various images based on commands from the control unit 102.

[0056] The operation unit 120 consists of a touch panel integrated into the display unit 118, various operation keys and buttons, and a power switch for turning the power on and off. This operation unit 120 is used by the user to turn the power of the communication terminal 10.1 on and off, to start and end calls, select menus, switch screens, and to input information.

[0057] Furthermore, the communication terminal 10.1 also includes a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit 130 as a means of acquiring location information, a camera unit 128 for capturing still images and videos, a power supply unit 126 for supplying power for the operation of the terminal, a short-range communication unit 124 such as Bluetooth, and a clock unit (not shown).

[0058] The power supply unit 120 includes a rechargeable battery, a power supply circuit that supplies power of a predetermined voltage from the battery to each part, and a charging circuit for charging the battery. The clock unit consists of a clock circuit and the like, which counts the date and time accurately and generates time information for updating various information.

[0059] The short-range communication unit 124 is for direct communication with other communication terminal devices located near the communication terminal 10.1 using a predetermined short-range wireless communication method. As the short-range wireless communication method, peer-to-peer (P2P) communication methods such as NFC (Near Field Communication) such as FeliCa (registered trademark) or peer-to-peer communication methods such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used.

[0060] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information and communication device 100.1.

[0061] As described above, the information and communication device 100.1 is housed in a portable enclosure.

[0062] Referring to Figure 3, the information and communication device 100.1 comprises a server device 2010, an access point 2400 that functions as a wireless LAN access point when the information and communication device 100.1 operates as a server, a hub 2310 that connects to the access point 2400 to form a local area network with the server device 2010 and other devices, a power supply unit 2300 consisting of a battery or the like that supplies power to devices such as the server device 2010 and the access point 2400, and a network communication unit 2410 that communicates with the outside when the information and communication device 100.1 operates as a client device for wireless LAN communication. The access point 2400 may also have router functionality.

[0063] The network communication unit 2410 may also have communication functions for mobile communication or wired LAN communication, although this is not a limitation of the network communication unit 2410.

[0064] As shown in Figure 3, the computer body constituting this server device 2010 includes, in addition to the disk drive 2030 and memory drive 2020, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 2040 connected to bus 2050, memory including ROM (Read Only Memory) 2060 and RAM (Random Access Memory) 2070, a non-volatile rewritable storage device, such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) 2080, and a communication interface 2090 for communication over a network. An optical disc can be installed in the disk drive 2030. A memory card 2210 is installed in the memory drive 2020.

[0065] As will be explained later, for the operation of the Server Device 2010 program, the data and programs that store the information fundamental to its operation as a server will be described as being stored on SSD2080.

[0066] In Figure 3, the medium capable of recording information such as programs installed on the computer itself may be, for example, a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc), a memory card, or a USB memory stick. In that case, the computer 2200 is equipped with a drive device capable of reading these media.

[0067] The main components of server device 2010 consist of computer hardware and software executed by CPU 2040. Generally, this software is stored on a storage medium and distributed via a network, retrieved via disk drive 2030 or network communication unit 2410, and temporarily stored in SSD 2080. From there, it is read from SSD 2080 into RAM 2070 in memory and executed by CPU 2040. However, if a network connection is established, the software may be loaded directly into RAM and executed without being stored in SSD 2080.

[0068] The program for functioning as a server device 2010, as described below, does not necessarily need to include an operating system (OS) that enables the computer 2010 to execute functions such as those of an information processing device, for distribution purposes. The program only needs to include the instruction portion that calls the appropriate functions (modules) in a controlled manner and obtains the desired result. How the computer system 2010 operates is well known, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0069] Furthermore, the CPU2040 may be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. In other words, it may be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor.

[0070] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram illustrating the functions performed by the CPU 2040 within the server device 2010 of the information and communication device 100.1.

[0071] Referring to Figure 4, the CPU 2040 executes the functions of the message exchange unit 2041, information dissemination unit 2042, information sharing unit 2043, user interface unit 2044, user management unit 2045, and information storage unit 2046, as described later, using programs stored in the SSD 2080 and temporarily stored in the RAM 2070.

[0072] Users of communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n access the access point 2400 of the information and communication device 100.1 using the standard Wi-Fi function (wireless LAN function) of their smartphones. Furthermore, users access the server device 2010 of the information and communication device 10.1 using a web browser that is standard on internet-connected terminals.

[0073] Figure 5 shows an example of the display screen when a user accesses server device 2010 via a web browser from a communication terminal 10.1 to 10.n.

[0074] Referring to Figure 5, when a user first accesses the server device 2010 from a communication terminal 10.1 to 10.n, the top page 31 is displayed. Subsequently, depending on the user's selection, the user transitions to the information dissemination screen 32, the information sharing screen 33, and the message exchange screen 34.

[0075] Figures 6 and 7 are sequence diagrams illustrating the communication flow when accessing the server device 2010 from the communication terminal 10.1.

[0076] Such communication will be performed via wireless LAN through access point 2400 in environments where communication services provided by telecommunications companies (communication via mobile communication networks) are interrupted due to disasters or other reasons.

[0077] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, when communication terminal 10.1, which is the administrator's terminal among the communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n, accesses the server device 2010 of the information communication device 100.1 and sends an authentication request (S100), the user management unit 2045 on the server device 2010 performs an authentication process to determine whether the access is from the administrator (S102), and if it determines that the access is from the administrator, it permits the upload of public information (S104).

[0078] On the communication terminal 10.1, the administrator executes the process of generating upload information (S106) and uploads the generated notification information data (S108). On the server device 2010, the information storage and preservation processing unit 2046 stores the uploaded data as notification information in the non-volatile storage device SSD 2080 (S110).

[0079] Next, although not particularly limited, for example, when a regular user of the communication terminal 10.2 accesses the server device 2010 (S112) and sends data through the processing of the user interface unit 2044 of the server device 2010 (S114), the menu screen of the top page 31 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.2 (S116). The user can then transition to the page of the desired function by clicking (tapping) the icon located at the bottom of the top page for the desired function.

[0080] For example, if information sharing is selected from the communication terminal 10.2 (S118), the user interface unit 2044 and information sharing unit 2043 of the server device 2010 generate a screen display that transitions to information sharing mode (S120), and the information sharing screen 33 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the communication terminal 10.2.

[0081] When a user transmits shared information by operating the control panel of the communication terminal 10.2 (S124), the information storage and preservation processing unit 2046 of the server device 2010 stores the uploaded data as shared information in the SSD 2080 (S128).

[0082] In this case, the shared information is stored in SSD2080, associated with information to identify the uploading user (for example, name and ID) and sharing approval information indicating the scope of access to the shared information. Here, the sharing approval information may be set each time the user uploads shared information, or default information may be stored in the communication terminal 10.2 in advance, and unless the user gives special instructions, this default information may be set. If the user specifically wishes to change it, information different from the default information may be set. The scope of users identified by the sharing approval information can be set to "viewable by all users" or "viewable only by specified users".

[0083] Information Sharing Unit 2043 is a function that allows users to freely exchange information. Registered users can view and upload information within the scope of users identified by the sharing approval information.

[0084] This allows it to function as a bulletin board for evacuees to share necessary information with each other in evacuation shelters during disasters, as explained below.

[0085] Next, a regular user of the communication terminal 10.n accesses the server device 2010 (S128), and the user interface unit 2044 of the server device 2010 sends data (S130), causing the menu screen of the top page 31 to be displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.n (S132).

[0086] Referring to Figure 7, when the user selects information to be notified (S134), the information notification unit 2042 and the user interface unit 2044 transition to the information notification mode (S136), and the information notification screen is displayed on the display unit 118 of the user terminal 10.2 (S138).

[0087] This allows users on user terminal 10.n to view the announcement information uploaded by the administrator.

[0088] As mentioned above, the Information Dissemination Unit 2042 is a function for disseminating information to users. It is typically used by those supporting disaster victims, such as local governments and shelter managers, to convey accurate information to victims, including evacuation orders during disasters. Therefore, only pre-configured administrators can upload information to this information dissemination function.

[0089] Next, a regular user of the communication terminal 10.n instructs to move to the top page (S140), and after processing by the user interface unit 2044 (S142), the menu screen of the top page 31 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.n (S144). Then, the user selects, for example, information sharing from the communication terminal 10.n (S146).

[0090] Processing by the user interface unit 2044 and the information sharing unit 2043 of the server device 2010 generates a screen display that transitions to information sharing mode (S148), and the information sharing screen 33 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the communication terminal 10.n (S150).

[0091] When a user transmits shared information by operating the control unit of the communication terminal 10.n (S152), the information storage and preservation processing unit 2046 of the server device 2010 stores the uploaded data as shared information in the SSD 2080 (S154).

[0092] Here too, the shared information is stored in the SSD2080, associated with information to identify the user who uploaded it and sharing approval information indicating the extent to which the shared information can be viewed.

[0093] Once again, a regular user of the communication terminal 10.2 accesses the server device 2010 (S156), and the user interface unit 2044 of the server device 2010 transmits data (S158). As a result, the menu screen of the top page 31 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.2 (S160), and the user selects information sharing from the communication terminal 10.2 (S162).

[0094] In this context, it is assumed that information sharing has been authorized between communication terminal 10.2 and communication terminal 10.n based on shared authorization information.

[0095] As a result, the user interface unit 2044 and the information sharing unit 2043 of the server device 2010 generate a screen display that transitions to information sharing mode (S164), and the information sharing mode screen 33 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the communication terminal 10.2, allowing the user of the communication terminal 10.2 to confirm the information uploaded from the communication terminal 10.n.

[0096] Although not shown in the diagram, if the message exchange mode is selected from the top page between any communication terminals and the process transitions to the message exchange unit 2041, the message exchange screen 34 will be displayed. The message exchange unit 2041 is a function for exchanging information one-on-one or in groups, and is also called messaging or chat. Users can specify the person or group they want to contact and send messages, images, files, etc. to them. Using this function, in the event of a disaster, for example, families in an evacuation center can communicate with each other, or the evacuation center management team can communicate with each other.

[0097] As explained above, according to this embodiment, even when sharing information requiring management, such as public information, on a rapidly formed information and communication network, the system can be configured so that only authorized individuals can access the system or information to make changes to the information. Furthermore, in a communication disruption environment where telephones and the internet are unusable during a large-scale disaster, portable information and communication devices can be installed and operated in locations where there is local communication demand, such as disaster response headquarters, evacuation centers, and hospitals in the affected area. Users in the vicinity of the location where the portable information and communication device is installed can use terminals such as smartphones that they normally use for internet access, the Wi-Fi function of the terminal, and a web browser to access the various functions provided by the portable information and communication device, and will be able to obtain, upload, and communicate necessary information, albeit limited to a local area. [Embodiment 2] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing a system consisting of the information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3 of Embodiment 2 and the communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n owned by the user.

[0098] Although Figure 8 shows three information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3 as examples, the number of information and communication devices is not limited to these.

[0099] Referring to Figure 8, in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, the information communication device 100.1 operates as a server via wireless LAN and performs server-client communication with communication terminals 10.1 to 10.n within a certain area, for example, in a specific evacuation center during a disaster, via access point 2400.

[0100] On the other hand, administrators and others shall utilize the portability of the information and communication device 100.1 to patrol other evacuation centers along with the information and communication device 100.1.

[0101] At this time, it is assumed that information and communication devices 100.2 and 100.3 are installed in the other evacuation shelters, respectively. Information and communication devices 100.2 and 100.3 shall have the same configuration as information and communication device 100.1.

[0102] As described later, during this patrol period, the information and communication device 100.1 shall operate as a client device for server-client communication via the network communication unit 2410. The operation as a server device and the operation as a client device shall be set in advance by the administrator through a predetermined operation before the patrol.

[0103] During its patrol, the information communication device 100.1 searches for any devices capable of communication. When it enters the communication area of ​​either the information communication device 100.2 or the information communication device 100.3, it enters server-client communication mode, compares the information held by each device, and synchronizes their information. As a result, when the information communication device 100.1 returns from its patrol to its original installation location, for example, the original evacuation center, it will have not only the information uploaded at its original installation location but also the information uploaded at other installation locations (such as evacuation centers).

[0104] The information and communication device 100.1 establishes a bidirectional communication path with the communication partner and then performs data synchronization processing with the communication partner. The data transmitted and received between the communication partner during data synchronization processing may be encrypted with a predetermined key or have a predetermined password set. Furthermore, if the non-volatile storage device 2080 encrypts connection information or synchronization data with the communication partner or sets a password, it may be configured to pre-store key information and password information used for encryption.

[0105] Figures 9 and 10 are sequence diagrams illustrating the operation of information and communication devices 100.1 to 100.3.

[0106] Referring to Figure 9, in patrol mode, the information communication device 100.1 uses its client function to search for other information communication devices within an area where they can communicate (within the range where a Wi-Fi client can receive radio waves) (S200).

[0107] When information communication device 100.2 is detected to be within the communication area, information communication device 100.1 sends an authentication request to information communication device 100.2 (S202). If information communication device 100.2 authenticates that it is a device that can communicate (S204), information communication device 100.2 sends an access permission notification to information communication device 100.1 (S206).

[0108] After granting access permission, information communication device 100.1 and information communication device 100.2 each perform internal query processing of their own held data information (S208a, S208b), exchange information of the query results (S210), compare their own held data with the other's held data (S212a, S212b), and each extracts difference information of their held data (S214a, S214b).

[0109] Next, information communication device 100.1 and information communication device 100.2 perform data synchronization processing on the data they each possess based on the differential information (S216).

[0110] Once the synchronization process is complete, the information and communication device 100.1 again uses its client function to search for any other information and communication devices that have not yet processed data synchronization within the communication area (S218).

[0111] Then, when information communication device 100.3 is detected to be within the communication area, information communication device 100.1 performs data synchronization processing on the data held by each device in the same manner as it performed on information communication device 100.2 (S220~S234).

[0112] Referring to Figure 10, when the information and communication device 100.1 returns to its original installation location (for example, the original evacuation center) from its patrol, for example, a regular user of the communication terminal 10.i accesses the server device 2010 (S236), and the user interface unit 2044 of the server device 2010 transmits data (S238), causing the menu screen of the top page 31 to be displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.i (S240).

[0113] When the user selects information to be notified (S242), the information notification unit 2042 and the user interface unit 2044 transition to the information notification mode (S244), and the information notification screen is displayed on the display unit 118 of the user terminal 10.i (S246).

[0114] Furthermore, upon receiving an instruction from the user terminal 10.i to transition to the top page (S248), the user interface unit 2044 of the server device 2010 transmits data (S250), and the menu screen of the top page 31 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the terminal 10.i (S252).

[0115] Next, if information sharing is selected from the communication terminal 10.i (S254), the user interface unit 2044 and the information sharing unit 2043 of the server device 2010 generate a screen display indicating that it has transitioned to information sharing mode (S256), and the information sharing screen 33 is displayed on the display unit 118 of the communication terminal 10.i (S258).

[0116] When a user transmits shared information by operating the control panel of the communication terminal 10.i (S260), the information storage and preservation processing unit 2046 of the server device 2010 stores the uploaded data as shared information in the SSD 2080 (S262).

[0117] In this case as well, the shared information from the communication terminal 10.i is stored in the SSD2080, associated with information for identifying and specifying the uploading user and sharing approval information.

[0118] The subsequent operations are the same as those described in Embodiment 1, so the explanation will not be repeated.

[0119] In this way, by utilizing the data synchronization function between nearby systems in this embodiment, the fact that the information communication device 100.1 is configured to be portable can be utilized more effectively.

[0120] In addition to the above-described method, it is also possible to perform information synchronization processing at multiple installation locations, for example, as follows.

[0121] For example, suppose information and communication devices are deployed in multiple evacuation centers during a disaster and are used for information exchange and sharing within each center. Now, suppose a different information and communication device (hereinafter referred to as the "mobile information and communication device") is used, and this mobile information and communication device travels around the evacuation centers, for example, by being mounted on a vehicle. When this mobile information and communication device approaches the information and communication devices installed in each evacuation center, a synchronization function is activated between the two systems, adjusting the data differences and performing a synchronization operation.

[0122] Once this mobile information and communication device completes a circuit of the evacuation centers, the devices at each center will hold almost identical data. This demonstrates that multiple evacuation centers can function as if they were a single area. In other words, it can be seen as being able to expand the service area to multiple evacuation centers.

[0123] Although the synchronization function in this embodiment is intended for use between nearby portable information and communication systems, its use is not limited to this. For example, the same synchronization function can be used when information and communication devices can connect to each other via the internet. In that case, once communication is restored after an interruption, multiple information and communication devices can automatically share their service usage status during the period when they were isolated with other systems.

[0124] Furthermore, although the above explanation has described the data synchronization function for two portable information and communication devices, the synchronized system is not limited to two devices; it may include three or more devices. [Embodiment 3] Figure 11 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the information communication device 100.1' of Embodiment 3.

[0125] The configuration in Figure 11 is shown in comparison to the configuration in Figure 3, and the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0126] In addition to the configuration shown in Figure 3, the information and communication device 100.1' includes a speech synthesis unit 2500 that converts a signal given by the CPU 2040 into speech, and a speaker 500 that transmits the signal from the speech synthesis unit 2500 as speech.

[0127] Figure 12 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of the information and communication device 100.1'.

[0128] Referring to Figure 12, the CPU 2040 of the information communication device 100.1' generates an access control signal (S300) based on access control information pre-stored in the non-volatile memory device 2080. The access control information can be, for example, a binary string generated in advance from a predetermined range of characters, numbers, and symbols.

[0129] Next, the speech synthesis unit 2500 converts the access control signal into an audio signal by tone modulation, intensity modulation, etc., according to a predetermined method (S302), and this audio signal is output into space from the speaker 500 (S304).

[0130] The frequency of the sound used as the carrier here should be within the operating range of the speaker 500 of the information and communication device 100.1' and the audio input unit 114 of the communication terminal 10.1.

[0131] Alternatively, the transmission may be superimposed on human-aware audio, similar to regular broadcasting. In this case, the low-frequency range of the audible frequency band, or a wide frequency range that is almost inaudible to most people, can be used as the carrier for transmitting the access signal.

[0132] The access control signal transmitted from speaker 500 is intended to be receivable by multiple communication terminals within the sound's range. Figure 12 illustrates the operation of communication terminal 10.2.

[0133] The communication terminal 10.2 receives the access control signal as an audio signal, extracts the access control signal from the received sound (S306), generates information by combining the usual ID and password with this access control signal, and sends this as authentication information (S308) to the information communication device 100.1' via wireless LAN (S310).

[0134] The information and communication device 100.1' receives an authentication request (S312) and performs the authentication process by checking whether the received signal includes not only the information normally required for access, such as the ID and password, but also the access control information originally sent from the system (S314).

[0135] The information and communication device 100.1' grants access to the service if the access control information is correctly presented and notifies the user terminal accordingly (S316). Upon receiving the notification, the terminal device 10.2 can then access the top page and receive services such as information sharing (S318-S328).

[0136] According to the method described above, only terminal devices that can receive the wireless LAN signal from the information and communication device 100.1' and can receive an audio access control signal can access the information and communication device 100.1'.

[0137] This makes it possible to reliably disseminate disaster information via a portable information and communication system even in situations where the audio from the voice synthesis unit 2500 and speaker 500 is difficult to hear via disaster prevention radio, for example, during a large-scale disaster. By superimposing an access control signal onto the disaster prevention radio broadcast to amplify the sound, users who can hear the broadcast and are within the communication area of ​​the wireless LAN of the information and communication device 100.1' will be automatically accessed by access control via the access control signal to a page containing information related to the broadcast content.

[0138] On the other hand, if the goal is to enable the dissemination and exchange of information only to people in a limited location using the information and communication device 100.1', for example, the information and communication device 100.1' could be installed in a room, and access control signals could be broadcast via speakers or other means as audio that can only be received within the room, while necessary information could be exchanged by accessing the system via wireless LAN. Such limited locations could include disaster response headquarters set up in prefectural or municipal offices during large-scale disasters. In this use case, it would be possible to prevent information from being stolen in areas where radio waves can reach, such as adjacent buildings, surrounding the location of the disaster response headquarters.

[0139] In the above explanation, the transmission of the access control signal was assumed to be via an audio signal, but the configuration is not limited to this.

[0140] For example, a communication terminal 10.1 is typically equipped with a camera unit 128. Therefore, in an information communication device 100.1', instead of providing a voice synthesis unit 2500 and a speaker 500, it is possible to provide an optical signal generation unit and a light that can blink via signal control, thereby enabling the transmission of access control signals via optical signals.

[0141] Furthermore, when using optical signals, in addition to a configuration in which access control signals are transmitted by such an optical signal generation unit and a light, a configuration may also be used in which, for example, a medium for displaying a two-dimensional code is attached to the outer surface of the housing of the information communication device 100.1' or to the inside of the lid when the housing is opened, and the access control signal is transmitted by photographing this with the camera unit 128 of the communication terminal 10.1. When a medium for displaying a two-dimensional code is attached to the outer surface of the housing, it is usually possible to attach this medium with the back side facing inward so that the two-dimensional code is not visible, and to configure it so that it can be attached with the front side facing outward when necessary.

[0142] The information communication devices or information communication control programs of Embodiments 1 to 3 can establish a local information communication environment quickly and easily, anytime and anywhere, even under communication disruption conditions that may occur during large-scale disasters that are difficult to predict in advance.

[0143] Furthermore, the information and communication devices of Embodiments 1 to 3 can be used not only during large-scale disasters, but also in places where information and communication demands arise temporarily, such as at various events and construction projects, and in developing countries where internet connectivity is not adequately developed.

[0144] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative of configurations for specifically carrying out the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The technical scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments, and modifications within the literal scope and equivalent meaning of the claims are intended. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0145] 10.1-10.n Communication terminal, 100.1-100.3 Information and communication device, 102 Control unit, 110 Network communication unit, 112 Baseband processing unit, 114 Voice input unit, 116 Voice output unit, 118 Display unit, 120 Operation unit, 122 USIM, 124 Short-range communication unit, 126 Power supply unit, 128 Camera unit, 130 GPS unit, 100.1 Information and communication device, 2010 Server device, 2020 Memory disk drive, 2030 Disk drive, 2040 CPU, 2050 Bus, 2060 ROM, 2070 RAM, 2080 Non-volatile storage device, 2100 Keyboard, 2120 Display, 2210 Memory card, 2300 Power supply unit, 2310 Hub, 2400 Access point, 2410 Network communication unit.

Claims

1. An information communication device capable of communicating with multiple client devices, A housing for making the aforementioned information and communication device portable, A server device provided within the aforementioned enclosure, having a storage device capable of storing data, and capable of providing corresponding data in response to requests from the plurality of client devices, A first access means provided within the housing enables communication with the plurality of client devices by wireless or wired means using a first type signal, The enclosure includes a power supply means capable of supplying power to the server device and the first access means, The information communication device, independently, performs information distribution to the multiple client devices by means of publicly known information stored in the storage device for notification to unspecified client devices, and performs information sharing among specific client devices among the multiple client devices by storing and reading shared information in the storage device. The enclosure further comprises a second access means provided within the enclosure, which operates exclusively with respect to the first access means, and which allows the administrator of the information communication device to configure the information communication device to communicate with other information communication devices as a client and with other information communication devices as a server. When the administrator visits the locations of other information communication devices together with the information communication device that has set up communication as a client, and the information communication device whose second access means is operational enters the communication range of the other information communication device that is operating as a server, communication becomes possible between the information communication device and the other information communication device. The information communication device further comprises information synchronization means that perform synchronization processing with the well-known information and shared information stored in the other information communication device, in relation to the information stored in its own storage device.

2. The aforementioned storage device pre-stores specific administrator information, The information communication device includes an administrator authentication means for authenticating an administrator device corresponding to the specific administrator information among client devices that have requested access via the first access means, The information communication device according to claim 1, further comprising information access control means that permits only the authenticated administrator device to write, modify, and delete the publicly known information.

3. The storage device is capable of storing shared approval information for identifying the range of users among the plurality of client devices that share the shared information, and storing the shared information in association with information that identifies the users. The information communication device according to claim 2, wherein the information access control means restricts access to only those users identified based on the shared approval information among client devices that have requested access via the first access means, to permit writing, modification, deletion, and reading of the corresponding shared information.

4. The storage device stores user recognition information for individually authenticating each user of the plurality of client devices, and access control information that is distributed in common to the plurality of client devices. The system further includes a presentation means for presenting the access control information using a second type of signal, which is a signal that can be received by an information input means pre-equipped in each of the plurality of client devices and is of a different type from the signal used for communication in the first access means. The information communication device according to claim 3, wherein the information access control means receives authentication information, which is a combination of the access control information and the user recognition information, as a first type signal from each of the plurality of client devices via the first access means, performs authentication of each user, and grants access permission for each of the client devices.

5. The second type of signal mentioned above is an audio signal, The aforementioned information input means includes a voice microphone, The information communication device according to claim 4, wherein the presenting means includes an audio speaker.

6. The aforementioned second type of signal is an optical signal, The aforementioned information input means includes a camera, The information communication device according to claim 4, wherein the presenting means includes a light capable of transmitting a signal by light emission control.

7. The aforementioned second type of signal is an optical signal, The aforementioned information input means includes a camera, The information communication device according to claim 4, wherein the display means is a two-dimensional code displayed on a medium mounted on the housing and readable by the camera.

8. An information communication control program for controlling the operation of an information communication device capable of communicating with multiple client devices, The information communication device comprises a housing for making the information communication device portable, a server device housed in the housing and having a computing device and a memory device, and capable of communicating with the outside wirelessly or by wire via a first access means, and a power supply means provided in the housing and capable of supplying power to the server device and the first access means. The aforementioned information communication control program is stored in the storage device and is for controlling the communication operation of the information communication device. The calculation device enables communication between itself and the plurality of client devices by wireless or wired means using a first type of signal via the first access means. The calculation device, acting alone, and the information communication device, via the first access means, in response to requests from the plurality of client devices, performs information distribution to the plurality of client devices using publicly known information stored in the storage device for notification to unspecified client devices; The arithmetic unit performs the following steps: The information communication device, acting independently, performs information sharing between specific client devices among the plurality of client devices by storing and reading shared information to and from the storage device via the first access means; A second access means is provided within the enclosure and operates exclusively with respect to the first access means, and the information communication device can be configured to communicate with another information communication device as a server, and when the administrator tours the location of the other information communication device together with the information communication device that has configured the second access means to communicate as a client, when the information communication device in which the second access means is operational enters the communication range of the other information communication device that is operating as a server, the computing unit of the information communication device starts communicating with the other information communication device, An information communication control program that causes the information communication device to perform the following steps: the calculation unit of the information communication device performs synchronization processing with the well-known information and shared information stored in the other information communication device and with the information stored in its own storage device.

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