Monitoring system, control device, and sensor unit

Abstract

To prevent misidentification of a quantity of an object in an inner bag.SOLUTION: A monitoring system (100) includes: a distance sensor (2) that measures a distance to an object in an inner bag (A13); a detection device (5) that detects a weight of the inner bag (A13); and a monitoring device (6) that monitors a quantity of the object based on the distance measured by the distance sensor (2) on the condition that the inner bag (A13) not protruding into a measurement range of the distance sensor (2) is determined from a detection result of the detection device (5).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a monitoring system for monitoring the amount of an object in a storage container.

Background Art

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a system that wirelessly transmits to a manager that a trash can is full. In this system, a sound wave transceiver is attached to the trash can, the height of the garbage is measured by sound waves, and when it is detected that the trash can is full, the full information is wirelessly alerted to the manager of the trash can. This makes it possible to efficiently collect garbage at an appropriate timing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a waste collection container such as a trash can, waste may be directly stored inside, but it is also common to attach an inner bag and store waste inside. Here, when an inner bag is attached to a waste collection container, the inner bag may not spread properly and may protrude toward the center of the waste collection container. In this case, the inner bag enters the measurement range of the sound wave transceiver (ultrasonic distance sensor) attached to the upper part of the waste collection container, and the distance to the inner bag is detected instead of the distance to the waste. As a result, there is a problem that the amount of waste is misrecognized and an alarm is transmitted when there is no waste or only a small amount of waste is stored. This is a common problem that occurs when monitoring the amount of an object stored in an inner bag for any storage container that stores an arbitrary object in the inner bag, not limited to a waste collection container.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention aims to realize a monitoring system that can prevent misidentification of the quantity of an object inside an inner bag due to the inner bag protruding into the measurement range of a distance sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above problems, a monitoring system according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a distance sensor mounted above the inner bag of a storage container that houses a predetermined object in an inner bag installed inside, and measuring the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag; a detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag; and a monitoring device that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the detection result of the detection device determines that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor.

[0007] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, a control device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a detection result acquisition unit that acquires the detection result of a detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag of a storage container that stores a predetermined object in an inner bag installed inside; and a measurement control unit that causes the distance sensor to measure the distance, on the condition that it is determined from the detection result of the detection device that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of a distance sensor which is mounted at a position above the inner bag of the storage container and measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, a sensor unit according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a distance sensor that measures the distance to an object inside an inner bag of a storage container that stores a predetermined object in an inner bag installed inside; a communication device that notifies a monitoring device that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag of the distance measured by the distance sensor; and a control device that, on the condition that a detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag determines from the detection result that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor, causes the distance sensor to measure the distance or causes the communication device to notify the distance measured by the distance sensor. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent misinterpretation of the quantity of an object inside an inner bag due to the inner bag protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram shows an overview of the monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the main components of a control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows the relationship between the number of PET bottles inside the inner bag and the distance measured by the distance sensor. [Figure 4] This figure shows another example of a detection device that detects the load generated by an object contained in an inner bag. [Figure 5] This figure shows another example of a detection device applicable to the monitoring system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of a process performed by the control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 7] This figure shows an overview of the monitoring system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. [Figure 8] This diagram shows an overview of the monitoring system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing an example of the main components of a monitoring device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Figure 10] This flowchart shows an example of a process performed by the monitoring device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] [Embodiment 1] (System Configuration) An overview of a monitoring system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the monitoring system 100. The monitoring system 100 is a system that monitors the amount of object contained in a containment container A1. Figure 1 shows an example in which the object is a PET bottle and the containment container A1 is a PET bottle recycling collection box. Note that the containment container A1 can contain any object and is not limited to this example. Also, "monitoring" here means continuously detecting the amount of object contained in the containment container A1. The monitoring system 100 may also perform processes such as requesting a designated person to collect the object based on the detected amount.

[0012] The containment container A1 includes a main body A11 with an open top and a lid A12 that covers the opening, with an inner bag A13 attached to the main body A11. More specifically, the inner bag A13 is fixed to the main body A11 by sandwiching the edge of the opening end of the inner bag A13 between the main body A11 and the lid A12. The method of fixing the inner bag A13 is not particularly limited; for example, a fastener for the inner bag A13 may be provided at the opening of the main body A11, and the inner bag A13 may be fixed by this fastener. Of course, the monitoring system 100 can also monitor containment containers with a different configuration than containment container A1.

[0013] Furthermore, an input opening A121 is provided on the side of the lid A12. As shown in the figure, the object (a PET bottle in the illustrated example) inserted through the input opening A121 is contained within the inner bag A13. Therefore, monitoring the amount of object contained in the container A1 is equivalent to monitoring the amount of object contained within the inner bag A13.

[0014] The monitoring system 100 includes a sensor unit 1, a detection device 5, and a monitoring device 6. The sensor unit 1 further includes a distance sensor 2, a control device 3, and a communication device 4. Although not shown in the drawings, the sensor unit 1 may include one or more batteries for supplying power to each component included in the sensor unit 1. The same applies to the detection device 5. Also, the distance sensor 2, the control device 3, and the communication device 4 do not necessarily have to be integrated as one sensor unit 1. That is, at least a part of the distance sensor 2, the control device 3, and the communication device 4 may be provided outside the sensor unit 1.

[0015] The sensor unit 1 is attached to the ceiling portion of the lid part A12. As a result, the distance sensor 2 included in the sensor unit 1 can measure the distance from the own device to the object inside the inner bag A13. Note that the sensor unit 1 may be attached at a position above the inner bag A13, and the attachment position is not limited to the ceiling portion of the lid part A12.

[0016] Here, in FIG. 1, a broken line L extending in the vertical direction passing through the center of the sensor unit 1 is drawn. The measurement range of the distance sensor 2 is a predetermined range centered on the broken line L. Therefore, when the distance is measured by the distance sensor 2 with the inner bag A13 protruding on or near the broken line L as shown in the figure, the distance to the inner bag A13 is measured.

[0017] Therefore, the control device 3 causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance on the condition that it is determined from the detection result of the detection device 5 that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag A13 that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. As a result, it is possible to prevent misrecognition of the amount of the object due to the inner bag A13 protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0018] The distance sensor 2 may be any device that can measure the distance to the object. For example, as the distance sensor 2, an optical sensor such as an infrared distance sensor may be used, or an ultrasonic distance sensor, an image sensor, or the like may be used.

[0019] Of these, the ultrasonic distance sensor has the advantage of being able to measure the appropriate distance even if the object is a transparent PET bottle or plastic, but it also has the disadvantage of being highly likely to measure the distance to the inner bag A13. In this respect, the monitoring system 100 can prevent misjudging the amount of the object due to the protrusion of the inner bag A13 as described above, so the disadvantage of applying the ultrasonic distance sensor as distance sensor 2 can be eliminated and the advantages can be enjoyed.

[0020] As described above, the detection device 5 performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag A13. Specifically, the detection device 5 detects the magnitude of the load generated at the part of the container A1 that the inner bag A13 is in contact with (the bottom of the container A1 in the example of Figure 1). In other words, the detection device 5 shown in Figure 1 is a weight sensor.

[0021] The communication device 4 notifies the monitoring device 6, which monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13, of the distance measured by the distance sensor 2. As described above, the control device 3 causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance only if it determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. Therefore, the monitoring device 6 monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2 when this condition is met.

[0022] As described above, the monitoring system 100 includes a distance sensor 2 mounted above the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 that houses a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13, and which measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag A13; a detection device 5 that performs predetermined detections regarding the state of the inner bag A13; and a monitoring device 6 that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the detection result of the detection device 5 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. This makes it possible to prevent misidentification of the amount of the object due to the inner bag A13 protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0023] Furthermore, as described above, the sensor unit 1 includes a distance sensor 2 that measures the distance to an object inside the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 that houses a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13; a communication device 4 that notifies a monitoring device 6, which monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13, of the distance measured by the distance sensor 2; and a control device 3 that causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance on the condition that the detection result of a detection device 5, which performs predetermined detections regarding the state of the inner bag A13, determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. The control device 3 may also cause the communication device 4 to notify the distance measured by the distance sensor 2 when the above condition is met.

[0024] According to the above configuration, the detection result of the detection device 5 indicates that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. On this condition, the distance sensor 2 is instructed to measure the distance, or the communication device 4 is instructed to notify the distance measured by the distance sensor 2. Thus, it is possible to prevent misidentification of the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 due to the inner bag A13 protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0025] (Control device configuration) The configuration of the control device 3 will be explained based on Figure 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the main components of the control device 3. As shown in the figure, the control device 3 includes a control unit 30 that controls all parts of the control device 3, a storage unit 31 that stores various data used by the control device 3, and a communication unit 32 for communicating with the detection device 5. The control unit 30 also includes a detection result acquisition unit 301, an inner bag state determination unit 302, a measurement control unit 303, and a transmission control unit 304. Note that communication with the detection device 5 may be performed via a communication device 4, in which case the communication unit 32 is omitted.

[0026] The detection result acquisition unit 301 acquires the detection results of the detection device 5. As described above, the detection device 5 is a device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 that contains a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13.

[0027] The inner bag state determination unit 302 determines whether the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 301. Details of the determination method by the inner bag state determination unit 302 will be explained later in the section "Determination of whether the inner bag is protruding or not".

[0028] The measurement control unit 303 controls the distance measurement by the distance sensor 2. More specifically, the measurement control unit 303 causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance on the condition that the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0029] The transmission control unit 304 controls the communication device 4 to transmit data. Specifically, the transmission control unit 304 controls the communication device 4 to transmit the distance measurement value from the distance sensor 2 to the monitoring device 6. Alternatively, the transmission control unit 304 may control the communication device 4 to transmit information indicating the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 301 to the monitoring device 6.

[0030] As described above, the control device 3 includes a detection result acquisition unit 301 that acquires the detection result of a detection device 5 that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 which contains a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13, and a measurement control unit 303 that, on the condition that it is determined from the detection result of the detection device 5 that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of a distance sensor 2 which is mounted above the inner bag A13 of the storage container A1 and measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag A13, causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance.

[0031] According to the above configuration, the unnecessary operation of the distance sensor 2 when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2 can be eliminated, thereby minimizing the operating time of the distance sensor 2. In addition, it is possible to prevent misidentification of the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 due to the inner bag A13 protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0032] (Regarding the determination of whether or not the inner bag is protruding) The details of the determination by the inner bag state determination unit 302 regarding whether or not the inner bag A13 protrudes into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2 will be explained with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the number of PET bottles inside the inner bag A13 and the distance measured by the distance sensor 2. More specifically, graph B1 in Figure 3 shows the relationship between the number of PET bottles inside the inner bag A13 (horizontal axis) and the distance measured by the distance sensor 2 (vertical axis). An ultrasonic distance sensor was used as the distance sensor 2.

[0033] On the other hand, graph B2 shows the relationship between the number of PET bottles in inner bag A13 and the actual distance from distance sensor 2 to the top surface of the PET bottles contained in inner bag A13. As shown in graph B2, the actual distance from distance sensor 2 to the surface of the object is maximum when no PET bottles are contained in inner bag A13, and decreases as the number of contained PET bottles increases. However, as shown in graph B1, the distance measured by distance sensor 2 is minimum when no PET bottles are contained, and increases as PET bottles are contained during the period until the number of PET bottles reaches 10.

[0034] This is due to the inner bag A13 protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. In other words, when the inner bag A13 is not filled with a PET bottle, the distance sensor 2 measures the distance to the protruding inner bag A13 because it is within the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. As the PET bottle is filled with a PET bottle, the protrusion of the inner bag A13 is reduced, and the distance measured by the distance sensor 2 approaches the correct distance.

[0035] Furthermore, from graphs B1 and B2, it can be seen that if there are more than 10 PET bottles in inner bag A13, the distance measured by distance sensor 2 is generally correct. Therefore, if there are more than 10 PET bottles in inner bag A13, it can be said that inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of distance sensor 2.

[0036] Therefore, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2 if the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 301, i.e., the detection result of the detection device 5, indicates a weight heavier than the weight of 10 PET bottles.

[0037] For example, the weight threshold may be set to 27g, which is the weight of one PET bottle. In this case, the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2 if the detection result of the detection device 5 indicates a weight heavier than the threshold of 270g, and determines that it protrudes if the weight is 270g or less. Note that the above threshold is merely an example, and the weight threshold should be determined according to the size of the container A1, the type of object to be contained, etc.

[0038] As described above, the magnitude of the load generated at the point where the inner bag A13 makes contact is suitable as an indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 protrudes into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. Note that the point where the inner bag A13 makes contact is not limited to the bottom of the container A1, but may also be the inner surface, or it may be the fasteners of the inner bag A13, as will be described later.

[0039] (Determination based on load) Other examples of load-based determination are explained with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 shows another example of a detection device that detects the load generated by an object contained in inner bag A13. More specifically, Figure 4 shows detection devices 5A and 5B, respectively. The upper left of Figure 4 is a top view of detection device 5A installed in containment container A1, and the upper right is a side view of detection device 5A. The lower left of Figure 4 is a top view of containment container B1 with detection device 5B attached, and the lower right is a cross-sectional view of containment container B1 along line A-A'.

[0040] As shown in the upper left of Figure 4, the detection device 5A is installed at the bottom of the main body A11 of the containment container A1. Also, as shown in the upper right, the detection device 5A includes a support plate 51A on which the inner bag A13 is placed, a spring 52A, a base 53A, and a switch 54A provided on the base 53A. The spring 52A should be provided in such a way as to stably support the support plate 51A; for example, one spring 52A may be provided at each of the four corners of the support plate 51A. Note that other elastic materials may be used instead of the spring 52A.

[0041] When a load is applied from the inner bag A13 to the support plate 51A, the spring 52A is compressed. When the load on the support plate 51A exceeds a predetermined value, the support plate 51A presses the switch 54A, and a signal indicating this is sent to the control device 3 via wired or wireless communication. The detection device 5A detects and notifies that the load on the support plate 51A has exceeded a predetermined value through this mechanism.

[0042] When using the detection device 5A, by pre-adjusting the type of spring 52A and the weight of the support plate 51A, a notification can be sent to the control device 3 when the object is contained to the extent that the inner bag A13 no longer protrudes within the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. The detection result acquisition unit 301 of the control device 3 acquires the above notification as the detection result of the detection device 5A, and the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines that the inner bag A13 is protruding until the notification is received, and determines that it is not protruding after the notification is received. Similar detection is possible using a pressure sensor or piezoelectric sensor instead of the detection device 5A.

[0043] On the other hand, as shown in the lower left of Figure 4, the detection device 5B is attached to the containment container B1, which has a fastener B111 provided near the upper end of the inner surface of the main body B11. The fastener B111 is configured to rotate around the connection part to the main body B11 as an axis. This allows the inner bag A13 to be held in place by being sandwiched between the fastener B111 and the inner surface of the main body B11. The detection device 5B is attached to the upper surface of this fastener B111.

[0044] As shown in the lower right of Figure 4, when the inner bag A13 is attached to the containment container B1, the detection device 5B is sandwiched between the inner bag A13 and the fastener B111. When an object is placed in the inner bag A13 in this state, the weight of the object places a load on the fastener B111, and a similar load is also placed on the detection device 5B.

[0045] Therefore, by applying a weight sensor as the detection device 5B, the weight of the inner bag A13 containing the object can be detected in the same way as the detection device 5, and the detection result can be notified to the control device 3. Alternatively, a device or sensor that detects when a load of a certain magnitude or greater is applied may be applied as the detection device 5B.

[0046] As described above, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be a device that detects the magnitude of the load generated at the part of the inner bag A13 that is in contact with the containment container A1 or B1 (for example, a device such as detection device 5 or 5B). Alternatively, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be a device that detects that a load is being applied to the part of the inner bag that is in contact with the containment container A1 (for example, a device such as detection device 5A).

[0047] Furthermore, detection devices for detecting the presence of a load may be installed at multiple locations within the containment container A1. For example, the detection devices for detecting the presence of a load may be installed at multiple locations on the bottom of the containment container A1, at multiple locations on the inner surface, or at both the bottom and the inner surface.

[0048] In this case, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine whether the inner bag A13 is protruding based on whether the detection device has detected that a load of a predetermined value or greater is being applied. Alternatively, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine whether the inner bag A13 is protruding based on whether the detection device has detected that there are a predetermined number of locations within the container A1 where a load is being applied.

[0049] As a result, the monitoring device 6 will monitor the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the detection device detects that a load of a magnitude greater than or equal to a predetermined value is being applied, or that the number of locations where a load has been detected by the detection device within the containment container A1 is greater than or equal to a predetermined number.

[0050] As described above, the magnitude of the load generated at the point where the inner bag A13 is in contact is a suitable indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. Furthermore, if the volume of the object contained in the inner bag A13 increases, the inner bag A13 is pushed out by the object it contains, bringing it closer to or in contact with the inner surface of the container A1 over a wide area, and in this state, the protrusion of the inner bag A13 is often eliminated. Therefore, whether or not the number of locations where a load is detected is greater than a predetermined number is also a suitable indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0051] Therefore, with the above configuration, when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 can be monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2.

[0052] (Other examples of detection devices) Based on Figure 5, other examples of detection devices applicable to the monitoring system 100 will be described. Figure 5 is a diagram showing other examples of detection devices applicable to the monitoring system 100. Detector devices 5C to 5F will be described in order below.

[0053] (Detection device 5C: Detects contact or proximity with the inner bag) The detection device 5C shown in the upper left of Figure 5 has a configuration in which multiple proximity sensors 52C for detecting proximity to the inner bag A13 are arranged on a flat base plate 51C. In the illustrated example, proximity sensors 52C are arranged at each of the four corners of the top surface of the rectangular base plate 51C. The detection device 5C is installed on the inner surface of the storage container A1 facing the inner bag A13. For example, the detection device 5C may be placed at the bottom of the storage container A1 or on the inner surface. Note that the shape of the base plate 51C, the arrangement of the proximity sensors 52C, and the number of proximity sensors 52C are not limited to the illustrated example and can be appropriately changed according to the shape and size of the storage container A1, the object to be stored, etc.

[0054] The output value of the proximity sensor 52C indicates the proximity state between the device and the inner bag A13, and is such that it is possible to determine whether or not the proximity sensor 52C and the inner bag A13 are in close proximity. The output value of the proximity sensor 52C is notified to the control device 3 by wired or wireless communication.

[0055] Then, the detection result acquisition unit 301 of the control device 3 acquires the above output value as the detection result of the detection device 5C, and the inner bag state determination unit 302 uses the output value to determine whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding.

[0056] For example, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is not protruding if the output value of at least one of the multiple proximity sensors 52C indicates that the detection device 5C and the inner bag A13 are in close proximity. On the other hand, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is protruding if the output values ​​of all proximity sensors 52C indicate that the detection device 5C and the inner bag A13 are not in close proximity.

[0057] Furthermore, for example, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is not protruding if the output values ​​of a predetermined number or more of the proximity sensors 52C indicate that the detection device 5C and the inner bag A13 are in close proximity. On the other hand, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is protruding if the number of proximity sensors 52C that output values ​​indicating that the detection device 5C and the inner bag A13 are in close proximity is less than a predetermined number.

[0058] Alternatively, instead of the proximity sensor 52C, a sensor that detects the contact state between the inner bag A13 and the inner bag A13, or a sensor that detects whether a load is applied, may be used. Furthermore, instead of notifying the output value of the proximity sensor 52C, the detection device 5C may determine whether the inner bag A13 and the proximity sensor 52C are in a proximity or contact state, and if it is determined that they are in a proximity or contact state, it may notify the control device 3 accordingly. In this case, the inner bag state determination unit 302 of the control device 3 will determine that the inner bag A13 is protruding until it receives the notification, and will determine that it is not protruding after receiving the notification.

[0059] As described above, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be installed on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13 and detect the contact state with the inner bag A13 or the proximity state with the inner bag A13 (for example, a device like the detection device 5C).

[0060] In this case, the monitoring device 6 monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the detection device has detected contact or proximity to the inner bag A13.

[0061] As the volume of the object contained in the inner bag A13 increases, the inner bag A13 is pushed out by the object it contains, bringing it closer to or in contact with the inner surface of the container A1. In this state, the protrusion of the inner bag A13 is often eliminated. Therefore, whether or not the detection device installed on the inner surface of the container A1 is in contact with or close to the inner bag A13 is a suitable indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0062] Therefore, with the above configuration, when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 can be monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2.

[0063] (Detection device 5D: detects distance) The detection device 5D shown in the upper right of Figure 5 is installed on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13, more specifically on the inner surface of the main body A11. The detection device 5D is a distance sensor that detects the distance to the inner bag A13. The detection device 5D can be installed anywhere on the inner surface of the containment container A1, for example, on the bottom of the main body A11.

[0064] The distance value detected by the detection device 5D is notified to the control device 3 via wired or wireless communication. The detection result acquisition unit 301 of the control device 3 acquires the notified distance value as the detection result of the detection device 5D, and the inner bag state determination unit 302 uses this distance value to determine whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding.

[0065] For example, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is not protruding if the distance value detected by the detection device 5D is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold, and determine that the inner bag A13 is protruding if the distance value is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0066] As described above, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be installed on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13 and detect the distance to the inner bag A13 (for example, a device like the detection device 5D).

[0067] In this case, the monitoring device 6 monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the distance detected by the detection device is below a predetermined threshold.

[0068] As the volume of the object contained in the inner bag A13 increases, the inner bag A13 is pushed out by the object it contains, bringing it closer to or in contact with the inner surface of the container A1. In this state, the protrusion of the inner bag A13 is often eliminated. Therefore, the distance from the detection device installed on the inner surface of the container A1 facing the inner bag A13 to the inner bag A13 is suitable as an indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 protrudes into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0069] Therefore, with the above configuration, when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 can be monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2.

[0070] (Detection device 5E: detects illuminance) The detection device 5E, shown in the lower left of Figure 5, is installed on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13, more specifically, on the bottom of the main body A11. The detection device 5E is an illuminance sensor that detects the illuminance around the device. The installation location of the detection device 5E can be anywhere on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13, for example, it may be installed on the inner surface of the main body A11.

[0071] The illuminance value detected by the detection device 5E is notified to the control device 3 via wired or wireless communication. The detection result acquisition unit 301 of the control device 3 acquires the notified illuminance value as the detection result of the detection device 5E, and the inner bag state determination unit 302 uses this illuminance value to determine whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding.

[0072] For example, the inner bag state determination unit 302 may determine that the inner bag A13 is not protruding if the illuminance value detected by the detection device 5E is below a predetermined threshold, and determine that the inner bag A13 is protruding if the illuminance value is greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0073] As described above, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be installed on the inner surface of the containment container A1 facing the inner bag A13 and detect the illuminance around the detection device (for example, a device like the detection device 5E).

[0074] In this case, the monitoring device 6 monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the illuminance detected by the detection device is below a predetermined threshold.

[0075] As the amount of material contained in the inner bag A13 increases, the material blocks the ambient light, reducing the amount of light reaching the detection device installed on the inner surface of the container A1 facing the inner bag A13. In this state, the protrusion of the inner bag A13 is often eliminated. Therefore, the illuminance detected by the detection device installed on the inner surface of the container A1 facing the inner bag A13 is suitable as an indicator of whether or not the inner bag A13 protrudes into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2.

[0076] Therefore, with the above configuration, when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 can be monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2.

[0077] (Detection device 5F:: Detects the number of times the device is inserted) The detection device 5F shown in the lower right of Figure 5 is installed on the inner surface of the lid A12 of the containment container A1. More specifically, the detection device 5F includes a light-emitting unit 51F that emits light and a light-receiving unit 52F that receives the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 51F, and is positioned so that the light crosses the input opening A121. The light-receiving unit 52F notifies the control device 3 of an output value indicating the light reception status via wired or wireless communication.

[0078] When an object is inserted through the input port A121, the light emitted by the light-emitting unit 51F is blocked by the object, and the light-receiving unit 52F temporarily stops receiving light. Therefore, it is possible to detect that an object has been inserted from the output value, and by using the output value in time series, it is also possible to determine the number of times an object has been inserted.

[0079] The detection result acquisition unit 301 of the control device 3 acquires the notified output value as the detection result of the detection device 5F, and the inner bag state determination unit 302 uses the output value to determine whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding. More specifically, the inner bag state determination unit 302 calculates the cumulative number of times the object has been placed in the time-series output values, and if the calculated cumulative value is above a predetermined threshold, it determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding, and if it is below the predetermined threshold, it determines that the inner bag A13 is protruding.

[0080] As described above, the detection device used in the monitoring system 100 may be one that detects when an object has been placed in the containment container A1 (for example, a device like detection device 5F).

[0081] In this case, the monitoring device 6 monitors the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the cumulative number of times the object has been placed inside is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0082] As explained with reference to Figure 3, as the number of objects contained in inner bag A13 increases, inner bag A13 is often pushed out by the objects it contains, eliminating the protrusion of inner bag A13. For this reason, the cumulative number of times objects have been placed is suitable as an indicator of whether or not the inner bag is protruding into the measurement range of distance sensor 2.

[0083] Therefore, with the above configuration, when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 can be monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2.

[0084] Furthermore, the configuration of the detection device that detects the insertion of an object is not limited to that of detection device 5F. For example, a switch or sensor may be placed at a part that is subjected to impact or load when an object is inserted, such as the bottom of the containment container A1 or on the fastener B111 in the containment container B1 in Figure 4, and this may be used as the detection device.

[0085] (Example of using an illuminance sensor in addition to a detection device) As described above, the distance sensor 2 may be an optical sensor. In this case, the monitoring system 100 may include an illuminance sensor in addition to a detection device (for example, any of the detection devices 5, 5A to 5F described above) that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag A13. The illuminance sensor should be installed in a position that can measure the illuminance within or around the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, and may be installed, for example, inside the sensor unit 1.

[0086] In this case, the monitoring device 6 may monitor the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is below a predetermined threshold.

[0087] Light sensors may experience reduced measurement accuracy if their surroundings are too bright. In this regard, the above configuration allows for appropriate monitoring based on a reasonable distance, as the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 is monitored based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is below a predetermined threshold.

[0088] The measurement results from the illuminance sensor may be notified to the control device 3, or to the monitoring device 6 via the communication device 4. In the former case, the control device 3 either causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance on the condition that the illuminance detected by the illuminance sensor is below a predetermined threshold, or, if the condition is met, causes the distance measured by the distance sensor 2 to be notified to the monitoring device 6 via the communication device 4. In the latter case, the monitoring device 6 determines whether or not to perform monitoring using the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, which is notified via the communication device 4.

[0089] (Process flow executed by the control unit) The processing flow performed by the control device 3 will be explained based on Figure 6. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing (monitoring method / control method) performed by the control device 3. Note that the processing in Figure 6 is performed continuously during the monitoring period of the containment container A1. Furthermore, although an example using the detection device 5, which is a weight sensor, will be explained below, other types of detection devices 5A to 5F, as explained in Figures 4 and 5, may also be used, and the processing flow in that case will be generally the same.

[0090] In S1, the detection result acquisition unit 301 acquires the detection result from the detection device 5. Specifically, as described above, the detection result acquisition unit 301 acquires the detection result from the detection device 5, which indicates the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, through communication via the communication unit 32.

[0091] In S2, the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines, based on the detection result obtained in S1, whether the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. Specifically, the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding (NO in S2) if the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, is above a predetermined threshold. On the other hand, the inner bag state determination unit 302 determines that the inner bag A13 is protruding (YES in S2) if the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, is below a predetermined threshold. If NO is determined in S2, the process proceeds to S3; if YES is determined in S2, the process returns to S1 after waiting for a predetermined time.

[0092] The predetermined waiting time can be set in advance according to the frequency with which the target object is placed in container A1. If the frequency of object placement changes depending on the time of day, the detection result acquisition unit 301 may wait only for the waiting time corresponding to the time of day. For example, for container A1 with a high frequency of object placement during the day, the daytime waiting time may be shortened (e.g., to about 30 minutes) and the nighttime waiting time may be lengthened (e.g., to about 2 hours).

[0093] In S3, the measurement control unit 303 controls the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance and obtains the measurement value from the distance sensor 2. Then, in S4, the transmission control unit 304 controls the communication device 4 to transmit the measurement value obtained in S3 to the monitoring device 6. After completing the process in S4, the measurement control unit 303 waits for a predetermined time and then executes the process in S3 again. The predetermined waiting time can be predetermined according to the frequency with which an object is placed in the containment container A1, similar to when YES is determined in S2.

[0094] As described above, the measurement control unit 303 of the control device 3 causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance only if it is determined from the detection result of the detection device 5 that the inner bag A13 is not protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. This eliminates the waste of measuring the distance with the distance sensor 2 when there is a high probability that the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2, and minimizes the operating time of the distance sensor 2.

[0095] Furthermore, distance measurement by distance sensor 2 may be performed automatically at predetermined time intervals, without control by measurement control unit 303. In this case, transmission control unit 304 only needs to transmit the distance measurement value acquired after S2 is determined to be NO to the monitoring device 6. In this case, the number of distance measurements increases compared to when the measurement control unit 303 controls the measurement, but the power consumption required for communication can be reduced compared to when the distance measurement value is constantly transmitted.

[0096] Furthermore, if there is no need to reduce power consumption, the transmission control unit 304 may always transmit the distance measurement to the monitoring device 6. In this case, the transmission control unit 304 transmits the determination result of the inner bag state determination unit 302 or the detection result of the detection device 5 to the monitoring device 6 along with the distance measurement. This allows the monitoring device 6 to determine whether or not to use the received distance measurement for monitoring based on the determination result of the inner bag state determination unit 302 or the detection result of the detection device 5.

[0097] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present invention are described below. For the sake of clarity, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. The same applies to Embodiment 3.

[0098] Figure 7 shows an overview of the monitoring system 100A according to this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the monitoring system 100A includes a sensor unit 1A, a distance sensor 2, and a monitoring device 6, and the sensor unit 1A includes a control device 3A, a communication device 4, and a detection device 5. In the monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1, the distance sensor 2 was included in the sensor unit 1, but the main difference between these systems is that in the monitoring system 100A, the detection device 5 is included in the sensor unit 1A. Note that instead of the detection device 5, any of the detection devices 5A to 5F shown in Figures 4 and 5 may be used.

[0099] The monitoring system 100A, like the monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1, includes a distance sensor 2 mounted above the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 that houses a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13, and measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag A13; a detection device 5 that performs predetermined detections regarding the state of the inner bag A13; and a monitoring device 6 that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensor 2, provided that the detection result of the detection device 5 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. This makes it possible to prevent misidentification of the amount of the object inside the inner bag A13.

[0100] Similar to the control device 3 in Embodiment 1, the control device 3A causes the distance sensor 2 to measure the distance on the condition that the detection result from the detection device 5 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor 2. Then, the control device 3A controls the communication device 4 to transmit the measured distance to the monitoring device 6. This minimizes the operating time of the distance sensor 2.

[0101] Furthermore, the distance measurement by the distance sensor 2 may be performed automatically at predetermined intervals, without control by the control device 3A. In this case, the control device 3A only needs to transmit the measured distance to the monitoring device 6 after determining from the detection result of the detection device 5 that the inner bag A13 is not protruding. Alternatively, the control device 3A may be configured to always transmit the measured distance to the monitoring device 6. In this case, the control device 3A transmits to the monitoring device 6 the determination result of whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding, or the detection result of the detection device 5, along with the measured distance. This allows the monitoring device 6 to determine whether or not to use the received measured distance for monitoring based on the determination result or the detection result.

[0102] [Embodiment 3] Figure 8 shows an overview of the monitoring system 100B according to this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the monitoring system 100B includes distance sensors 2a and 2b, a detection device 5, and a monitoring device 6B. Both distance sensors 2a and 2b measure the distance to an object and are installed at horizontally separated positions. Although not shown in the figure, communication devices are connected to distance sensors 2a and 2b, and the measured values ​​of distance sensors 2a and 2b are transmitted to the monitoring device 6B via these communication devices. The same applies to the detection device 5; the detection result of the detection device 5 is transmitted to the monitoring device 6B via the communication device connected to the detection device 5.

[0103] The monitoring system 100B, like the monitoring system 100 of Embodiment 1, includes distance sensors 2a and 2b mounted above the inner bag A13 of a storage container A1 that houses a predetermined object inside the inner bag A13, and which measure the distance from the position to the object inside the inner bag A13; a detection device 5 that performs predetermined detections regarding the state of the inner bag A13; and a monitoring device 6B that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag A13 based on the distance measured by the distance sensors 2a and 2b, provided that the detection result of the detection device 5 determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensors 2a and 2b. This makes it possible to prevent misidentification of the amount of the object inside the inner bag A13.

[0104] Furthermore, the monitoring system 100B includes multiple distance sensors, namely distance sensors 2a and 2b. The monitoring device 6B then monitors the amount of object in the inner bag A13 based on the average value of the distances measured by these multiple distance sensors. This allows for proper monitoring of the amount of object even if the surface of the object accumulated in the containment container A1 is sloped. Note that the monitoring system 100B may include three or more distance sensors.

[0105] The monitoring device 6B is a device that has the functions of the monitoring device 6 in Embodiment 1 as well as the functions of the control device 3. As will be described in detail later, the monitoring device 6B acquires the detection results of the detection device 5 and uses the acquired detection results to determine whether or not the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensors 2a and 2b. If the monitoring device 6B determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding, it causes the distance sensors 2a and 2b to measure the distance and acquires the measured distance. This minimizes the operating time of the distance sensors 2a and 2b.

[0106] (Configuration of the monitoring device) The configuration of the monitoring device 6B will be explained based on Figure 9. Figure 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the main components of the monitoring device 6B. As shown in the diagram, the monitoring device 6B includes a control unit 60B that controls all parts of the monitoring device 6B, and a storage unit 61B that stores various data used by the monitoring device 6B. The monitoring device 6B also includes a communication unit 62B for the monitoring device 6B to communicate with other devices, an input unit 63B that receives input of various data to the monitoring device 6B, and an output unit 64B for the monitoring device 6B to output various data. The control unit 60B also includes a data acquisition unit (detection result acquisition unit) 601B, an inner bag state determination unit 602B, a measurement control unit 603B, an index value calculation unit 604B, a recovery necessity determination unit 605B, a recovery request unit 606B, and a recovery detection unit 607B.

[0107] The data acquisition unit 601B acquires the detection results from the detection device 5 and the measured values ​​from the distance sensors 2a and 2b. For example, the detection result acquisition unit 601B may acquire the detection results from the detection device 5 via communication through the communication unit 62B, or it may acquire the detection results input via the input unit 63B. The same applies to acquiring the measured values ​​from the distance sensors 2a and 2b.

[0108] The inner bag state determination unit 602B determines whether the inner bag A13 protrudes into the measurement range of the distance sensors 2a and 2b, based on the detection results obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 601B. The determination method by the inner bag state determination unit 602B is the same as that of the inner bag state determination unit 302 in Embodiment 1.

[0109] The measurement control unit 603B controls the measurement of distance by distance sensors 2a and 2b. More specifically, the measurement control unit 603B transmits control signals to distance sensors 2a and 2b via the communication unit 62B to perform distance measurement, provided that the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines that the inner bag A13 does not protrude into the measurement range of distance sensors 2a and 2b.

[0110] The index value calculation unit 604B calculates an index value indicating the amount of object contained in the container A1 based on the measured values ​​(measured values ​​of distance sensors 2a and 2b) acquired by the data acquisition unit 601B. This index value only needs to indicate the amount of object contained in the container A1. For example, the index value calculation unit 604B may calculate the average of the measured values ​​of distance sensors 2a and 2b and use that average value to calculate the filling rate, which indicates the percentage of the container A1 that is filled with object, as the index value.

[0111] The measurement control unit 603B may be omitted. In that case, the distance measurement by distance sensors 2a and 2b and the transmission of the measured values ​​to the monitoring device 6B should be performed automatically at predetermined time intervals. The index value calculation unit 604B should not use the measured values ​​received during the period until the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding, but should calculate the index value using the measured values ​​received after it has been determined that the inner bag is not protruding.

[0112] The recovery necessity determination unit 605B uses the index value calculated by the index value calculation unit 604B to determine whether or not it is necessary to recover the object from the containment container A1. For example, the recovery necessity determination unit 605B may determine that recovery is necessary if the index value is above a predetermined threshold, and that recovery is not necessary if it is below the threshold.

[0113] Note that the index value calculation unit 604B may be omitted. In that case, the recovery necessity determination unit 605B may determine that recovery is necessary if the average value of the measurements of distance sensors 2a and 2b acquired by the data acquisition unit 601B reaches a predetermined lower limit, and determine that recovery is not necessary if it does not reach that limit.

[0114] The collection request unit 606B requests the collection of the object from a designated person (for example, a collection officer of a cleaning company) when the collection necessity determination unit 605B determines that collection is necessary. For example, the collection request unit 606B may cause the output unit 64B to output information prompting collection. This information may include, for example, distance measurements from distance sensors 2a and 2b and index values ​​calculated by the index value calculation unit 604B. Alternatively, for example, the collection request unit 606B may send a notification to a terminal device possessed or used by the person performing the collection work, requesting the collection of the object from container A1 along with identification information of container A1. This notification may also include the above-mentioned measurements and index values.

[0115] The recovery detection unit 607B detects that the object contained in container A1 has been recovered based on the progression of the detection results of the detection device 5. By including the recovery detection unit 607B, the monitoring device 6B can automatically detect that the object contained in container A1 has been recovered, eliminating the need to manually record the timing of object recovery. Furthermore, recording the timing of object recovery makes it possible to analyze the rate at which objects accumulate in container A1.

[0116] The method for detecting that the object has been recovered is not particularly limited. For example, the recovery detection unit 607B may detect that the object has been recovered when, after the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding based on the weight value detected by the detection device 5, the weight value detected by the detection device 5 falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0117] Furthermore, the recovery detection unit 607B may notify the user when it detects that the object has been recovered. For example, the recovery detection unit 607B may output information indicating that the object has been recovered to the output unit 64B. In addition, other types of detection devices 5A to 5F described in Figures 4 and 5 may be used instead of the detection device 5, which is a weight sensor.

[0118] (Process flow executed by the monitoring device) The processing flow performed by the monitoring device 6B will be explained based on Figure 10. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing (monitoring method / control method) performed by the monitoring device 6B. Note that the processing in Figure 10 is performed continuously during the monitoring period of the containment container A1. Furthermore, although an example using the detection device 5, which is a weight sensor, will be explained below, other types of detection devices 5A to 5F, as explained in Figures 4 and 5, may also be used, and the processing flow in that case will be generally similar.

[0119] In S11, the data acquisition unit 601B acquires the detection result from the detection device 5. Specifically, the data acquisition unit 601B acquires the detection result from the detection device 5, which indicates the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, via communication through the communication unit 62B.

[0120] In S12, the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines, based on the detection results obtained in S11, whether the inner bag A13 is protruding into the measurement range of the distance sensors 2a and 2b. Specifically, the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines that the inner bag A13 is not protruding (NO in S12) if the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. On the other hand, the inner bag state determination unit 602B determines that the inner bag A13 is protruding (YES in S12) if the magnitude of the load detected by the detection device 5, i.e., the weight, is less than a predetermined threshold. If NO is determined in S12, the process proceeds to S13; if YES is determined in S12, the process returns to S11 after a predetermined waiting time.

[0121] In S13, the measurement control unit 603B controls the distance sensors 2a and 2b to measure distance and transmit the measured values ​​to the monitoring device 6B. Then, in S14, the data acquisition unit 601B acquires the measured values ​​transmitted from the distance sensors 2a and 2b.

[0122] In S15, the index value calculation unit 604B calculates an index value indicating the amount of object inside the inner bag A13 of the containment container A1 using the measurement values ​​obtained in S14. For example, the index value calculation unit 604B may calculate the average value of the measurement values ​​from the distance sensors 2a and 2b and calculate the filling rate from that average value.

[0123] In S16, the recovery necessity determination unit 605B uses the index value calculated in S15 to determine whether or not it is necessary to recover the object from the containment container A1. If recovery is determined to be necessary in S16 (YES in S16), the process proceeds to S17. On the other hand, if recovery is not necessary in S16 (NO in S16), the process returns to S13 after a predetermined waiting time.

[0124] In S17, the retrieval request unit 606B requests the designated person to retrieve the object. Next, in S18, the data acquisition unit 601B acquires the detection result of the detection device 5. Then, in S19, the retrieval detection unit 607B determines whether the object has been retrieved or not based on the detection result acquired in S18. If it has been retrieved (YES in S19), the process returns to S11. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has not been retrieved (NO in S19), the process returns to S17. A waiting time may be provided between the processes of S17 and S18. The same applies when returning from S19 to S11.

[0125] [Variation] The entity executing each process described in the above-described embodiment is arbitrary and not limited to the examples above. In other words, the functions of the control devices 3, 3A and the monitoring devices 6, 6B can be realized by multiple information processing devices (which can also be called processors) that can communicate with each other. For example, each process described in the flowcharts of Figures 6 and 10 can be assigned to multiple information processing devices. In other words, the entity executing the monitoring method and control method in the above-described embodiment may be one information processing device or multiple information processing devices.

[0126] [Examples of implementation using software] The functions of the control devices 3, 3A and the monitoring devices 6, 6B (hereinafter referred to as "devices") are programs that cause the devices to function as computers, and these programs (monitoring programs / control programs) can be implemented by programs that cause the computers to function as each control block of the devices (especially each part included in the control units 30, 60B, etc.).

[0127] In this case, the device includes a computer having at least one control device (e.g., a processor) and at least one storage device (e.g., memory) as hardware for executing the program. By executing the program using this control device and storage device, the functions described in each of the embodiments are realized.

[0128] The above program may be recorded on one or more computer-readable recording media, not temporary ones. These recording media may or may not be provided by the above device. In the latter case, the program may be supplied to the above device via any wired or wireless transmission medium.

[0129] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of each of the above control blocks can also be realized by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which logic circuits functioning as each of the above control blocks are formed is also included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is also possible to realize the functions of each of the above control blocks by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0130] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] 100 monitoring systems 1 Sensor Unit 2. Distance Sensor 3. Control device 301 Detection result acquisition unit 303 Measurement Control Unit 4. Communication equipment 5. Detection device 6 Monitoring equipment 100A Monitoring System 1A Sensor Unit 3A Control Unit 100B Monitoring System 6B Monitoring device (control device) 601B Data acquisition unit (detection result acquisition unit) 603B Measurement Control Unit

Claims

1. A distance sensor is installed above the inner bag of a storage container that houses a predetermined object in an inner bag fitted inside, and measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag. A detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag, A monitoring system including a monitoring device that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the detection result of the detection device determines that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor.

2. The detection device detects the magnitude of the load generated in the portion of the container in contact with the inner bag, or whether a load is being applied to that portion. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device monitors the amount of the object in the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, on the condition that a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value is detected being applied, or that the number of locations in the containment container where a load is detected is greater than or equal to a predetermined number.

3. The system includes multiple distance sensors, The monitoring device monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag based on the average value of the distance measured by a plurality of distance sensors, according to the monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the distance sensor is an ultrasonic distance sensor.

5. The detection device is installed on the inner surface of the container facing the inner bag, and detects the contact state with the inner bag or the proximity state with the inner bag. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the detection device detects a contact state or proximity state with the inner bag.

6. The detection device is installed on the inner surface of the container facing the inner bag and detects the distance to the inner bag. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device monitors the amount of the object in the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the distance is below a predetermined threshold.

7. The detection device is installed on the inner surface of the containment container facing the inner bag, and detects the illuminance around the detection device. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the illuminance is below a predetermined threshold.

8. The detection device detects that the object has been placed in the container, The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the monitoring device monitors the amount of the object in the inner bag based on the distance measured by the distance sensor, provided that the cumulative value of the number of times the object has been put in is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

9. The monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the monitoring device detects that the object contained in the containment container has been retrieved based on the progression of the detection results of the detection device.

10. The monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a control device that causes the distance sensor to measure the distance on the condition that the detection result of the detection device determines that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor.

11. A detection result acquisition unit that acquires the detection result of a detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag of a storage container that contains a predetermined object in an inner bag installed inside, A control device comprising: a measurement control unit that causes the distance sensor to measure the distance, on the condition that, based on the detection results of the detection device, it is determined that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of a distance sensor which is mounted above the inner bag of the containment container and measures the distance from that position to the object inside the inner bag.

12. A distance sensor for measuring the distance to an object inside an inner bag of a storage container that contains a predetermined object in an inner bag installed inside, A communication device that notifies a monitoring device that monitors the amount of the object inside the inner bag of the distance measured by the distance sensor, A sensor unit including a control device that, on the condition that a detection device that performs a predetermined detection regarding the state of the inner bag determines from the detection result that the inner bag does not protrude into the measurement range of the distance sensor, causes the distance sensor to measure a distance, or causes the communication device to notify the distance measured by the distance sensor.

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