Sensing system

Abstract

Provided is a sensing system capable of easily detecting the approach of a detection subject from an outdoor space to an indoor space.　A sensing system according to the present invention is provided with: a first sensor that is disposed in an indoor space and that detects a detection subject in the indoor space; and a second sensor that is disposed in the indoor space and that detects sound information in the indoor space and an outdoor space. The sensing system predicts the approach of the detection subject from the outdoor space to the indoor space on the basis of changes in the sound information.

Description

Sensing System

[0001] The present disclosure relates to sensing systems.

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a device that sets a human presence sensor and a sound pressure sensor arranged in an indoor space into a power-saving mode with a longer detection interval than normal when the detection result of either sensor indicates the absence of a person.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-85717

[0004] The present disclosure provides a sensing system that can easily detect the approach of a detection target to an indoor space.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is a sensing system including: a first sensor disposed in an indoor space and configured to detect a detection target in the indoor space; and a second sensor disposed in the indoor space and configured to detect sound information in the indoor space and an outdoor space outside the indoor space, the sensing system predicting the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space based on a change in the sound information. This specification includes the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-055723, filed on March 29, 2024.

[0006] The sensing system of the present disclosure can easily detect the approach of a detection target to an indoor space from sound information detected by one sensor, and can easily determine the timing to start operation of other sensors, etc.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a sensing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device in the sensing system. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a scene in which a detection target approaches an indoor space. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the sensing system.

[0008] (Findings underlying the present disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived the present disclosure, there was a technology that set two sensors arranged in an indoor space to a power-saving mode when the detection result of either sensor indicated the absence of a person. However, if the sensor's operating mode is switched between a power-saving mode and a normal mode based solely on the detection of the presence or absence of a person in the indoor space, it may be difficult to quickly return the sensor to the normal mode before the person enters the indoor space. On the other hand, placing a sensor outside the indoor space to detect the approach of a person, or placing a sensor with a wide detection area including the outdoors in the indoor space, increases the system complexity and costs. The inventors discovered these problems and, to solve them, have come up with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a sensing system that can easily detect the approach of a detection target in an indoor space.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed description may be omitted. For example, detailed description of already well-known matters or redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0010] (Embodiment) [1. Configuration of Sensing System] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a sensing system 1. The sensing system 1 uses multiple sensors installed in a space to detect the position, size, shape, posture, state, etc. of a detection target present in the space. The space in which the sensors constituting the sensing system 1 are installed is the target space sensed by the sensing system 1. The shape and purpose of the target space are not limited. For example, the target space may be a closed space surrounded by walls and a ceiling, or an open space. Furthermore, for example, the target space may be a residential space, a living space, a business space such as an office, a corridor, a public space, or a space used for other purposes.

[0011] The sensing system 1 detects an object in an indoor space 9. An object detected by the sensing system 1 is called a detection target, and the detection target may be either a living or non-living object. For example, the detection target may be a person, an animal, an autonomously moving robot, or other moving object. The sensing system 1 detects the position, size, shape, and posture of the detection target, or other states of the detection target.

[0012] 1 is a space surrounded by a floor 91, a ceiling 92, and four walls 93, 94, 95, and 96. A door is provided in the interior space 9, and when the door is closed, the interior space 9 becomes a closed space.

[0013] A plurality of sensors constituting the sensing system 1 are arranged in the indoor space 9. These sensors can be installed on the floor 91, ceiling 92, and four walls 93, 94, 95, 96, etc. of the indoor space 9. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of sensors constituting the sensing system 1 is incorporated into electrical equipment installed in the indoor space 9.

[0014] The electrical equipment includes components, equipment, machinery, and devices that are connected to a commercial power source and fixedly installed in the indoor space 9. More specifically, the electrical equipment includes switches, outlets, and other power wiring components. The electrical equipment also includes ventilation fans, lighting fixtures, intercoms, and other devices that consume electricity. The electrical equipment also includes distribution boards, building energy management devices, and other power control devices.

[0015] 1 , a lighting device 10, a switch 20, and outlets 30A and 30B are installed as electrical equipment. The electrical equipment may also include a distribution board 50 installed inside or outside the indoor space 9.

[0016] Power lines 5A, 5B, and 5C are drawn into the indoor space 9 from a distribution board 50. The power lines 5A, 5B, and 5C are, for example, electric wires laid concealed within the walls of the indoor space 9, and are power cables such as VVF cables and CV cables. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the power lines 5A, 5B, and 5C, they will be referred to as power lines 5.

[0017] The lighting device 10 is attached to a ceiling 92. The lighting device 10 may be fixed directly to the ceiling 92, or may be attached to a lighting duct rail or the like fixed to the ceiling 92. In this embodiment, a ceiling socket 112 is fixed to the ceiling 92, and the lighting device 10 is attached to the ceiling socket 112. The ceiling socket 112 may be in a form called a lighting rosette. The ceiling socket 112 corresponds to an example of a fixing member. The ceiling socket 112 is connected to a power line 5A, and the lighting device 10 is connected to the power line 5A via the ceiling socket 112.

[0018] The lighting device 10 includes a light source 11 (FIG. 2) described below and a cover 110 that diffuses light emitted from the light source 11. The light source 11 is provided in a circuit body 111 together with a driver 12 (FIG. 2) described below and the like, and is covered by the cover 110.

[0019] The switch 20 has a switch body 21 connected to the power line 5A. The switch 20 connects and disconnects the power line 5A between the lighting device 10 and the distribution board 50, and when the switch 20 is on, power is supplied to the lighting device 10. When the switch 20 is off, the power supply to the lighting device 10 is cut off, and the lighting device 10 is turned off.

[0020] The outlets 30A and 30B are power outlets (also called outlets) to which load devices that operate on commercial power can be connected. For example, the outlets 30A and 30B are single-phase 100V power outlets, with the outlet 30A connected to the distribution board 50 by a power line 5B and the outlet 30B connected to the distribution board 50 by a power line 5C.

[0021] The distribution board 50 branches off a service line 58 connected to a commercial power supply system and connects it to the power line 5. The distribution board 50 is fixed to a wall surface inside the indoor space 9 or outside the indoor space 9.

[0022] A sensor is provided in each electrical equipment installed in the indoor space 9. The lighting device 10 includes a sensor 14. The sensor 14 is arranged so as to be exposed to the indoor space 9 from the cover 110. The sensor 14 is provided on the lighting device 10 facing downward so that the area below the lighting device 10 is the sensing area.

[0023] The sensor 14 is attached to the circuit body 111 and connected to the power line 5A via the circuit body 111. Therefore, when the lighting device 10 is attached to the ceiling 92, power is supplied to the sensor 14 from the power line 5A.

[0024] The switch 20 includes a sensor 24. The sensor 24 is disposed on the switch 20 so as to face the interior space 9 from the wall 94.

[0025] Outlet 30A is equipped with sensor 34A, and outlet 30B is equipped with sensor 34B. Sensor 34A is arranged so as to face from wall 95 toward indoor space 9, and sensor 34B is arranged so as to face from wall 94 toward indoor space 9.

[0026] The sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B may be the same type of sensor or different types of sensors, such as a position detection sensor, an image output sensor, or a status detection sensor.

[0027] The position detection sensor outputs a detection result related to the position of the person P in the indoor space 9. Specifically, the position detection sensor is a PIR (Passive InfraRed) sensor, an ultrasonic ranging sensor, or a radar sensor. Since the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B are fixed to the indoor space 9, if the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B include a position detection sensor, information related to the position of the person P can be obtained based on the position of the position detection sensor and the detection result.

[0028] The image output sensor is a sensor that outputs an image as a detection result in the indoor space 9. The image output sensor performs, for example, two-dimensional or three-dimensional detection on the indoor space 9 and outputs an image as a detection result. Specifically, examples of the image output sensor include an infrared array sensor, an image sensor that captures images using light outside the visible range including infrared light, and a digital camera that captures images using visible light. The infrared array sensor has multiple infrared sensors arranged in a grid pattern, and outputs a thermal image of the detection range based on the detection values ​​of these multiple infrared sensors.

[0029] If cameras are used as the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B, the person P in the indoor space 9 may be made aware of the cameras, which may cause psychological oppression. For this reason, if the indoor space 9 is a private space or if the comfort of the person P in the indoor space 9 is important, it is appropriate not to capture images using visible light or high-resolution images. For example, it is preferable to use an infrared array sensor as the sensor 14.

[0030] It is not prohibited to use cameras as the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B. For example, if the sensing system 1 has a function to edit the images captured by the camera so that the individual cannot be identified, it is possible to avoid having a psychological effect on the person P.

[0031] The state detection sensor is a sensor that detects the state of the indoor space 9. The state detection sensor outputs a detection value that detects the state of the indoor space 9. Examples of the state detection sensor include a sound sensor (such as a microphone), a vibration sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor that detects air pressure, and a Doppler sensor. A ranging sensor may also be used as the state detection sensor. Specifically, an ultrasonic ranging sensor or LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) can be adopted as the state detection sensor. Furthermore, by generating a depth image including LiDAR measurement values, LiDAR can also be used as an image output sensor.

[0032] The sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B are selected from the sensors described above. For example, the types of the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B are selected depending on the positions of the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B in the indoor space 9.

[0033] The sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B are installed at different heights in the indoor space 9. Height H1 indicates the height of the installation position of sensor 14, height H2 indicates the height of sensor 24, height H3 indicates the height of sensor 34A, and height H4 indicates the height of sensor 34B. Heights H1, H2, H3, and H4 are all heights relative to the floor 91.

[0034] Since the sensor 14 is installed on the ceiling 92, the height H1 is the height of the entire indoor space 9. The height H2 of the sensor 24 and the heights H3 and H4 of the sensors 34A and 34B are lower than the height H1. The heights H3 and H4 may be the same or different. The sensors 34A and 34B are installed near the floor 91, and the heights H3 and H4 are lower than the height H2.

[0035] The sensor 14 is located at the highest position and detects from the ceiling 92 downward, so it can detect a wide range and detection is rarely obstructed by furniture or fixtures installed in the indoor space 9. For this reason, if an image output sensor or a position detection sensor is used as the sensor 14, a lot of information can be obtained about a wide range of the indoor space 9.

[0036] When an image output sensor or a position detection sensor is used as the sensor 14, it is preferable to use an image output sensor or a position detection sensor for at least one of the sensors 24, 34A, 34B. The sensors 24, 34A, 34B can detect the indoor space 9 from the walls 94, 95. Therefore, for example, if at least one of the sensors 24, 34A, 34B and the sensor 14 are configured as the same type of sensor and are an image output sensor, a three-dimensional detection result of the indoor space 9 can be obtained.

[0037] [2. Configuration of Each Device] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of each device in the sensing system 1, and shows the configuration of the lighting device 10, the switch 20, the outlets 30A and 30B, and the distribution board 50. Fig. 2 is a diagram that schematically shows the configuration of each device and does not limit the detailed circuit configuration. For example, each device in Fig. 2 may include a circuit that is not shown in Fig. 2.

[0038] The sensing system 1 includes a processing device 40 that processes the detection results of the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B. The lighting device 10 transmits the detection result of the sensor 14 to the processing device 40. Similarly, the switch 20 transmits the detection result of the sensor 24, the outlet 30A transmits the detection result of the sensor 34A, and the outlet 30B transmits the detection result of the sensor 34B to the processing device 40.

[0039] The processing device 40 can be provided in any of the lighting device 10, the switch 20, the outlets 30A and 30B, and the distribution board 50. The processing device 40 may also be mounted in a device separate from these devices. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the outlet 30A is provided with the processing device 40 will be described as an example.

[0040] A service line 58 is connected to the distribution board 50. The service line 58 is a power line drawn in from outside the building including the indoor space 9 or a main wiring of the building including the indoor space 9, and supplies commercial AC power to the distribution board 50.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2 , the distribution board 50 includes a main breaker 51, branch wiring 52, and circuit breakers 53A, 53B, and 53C. The main breaker 51 is connected to a service line 58. The branch wiring 52 connects the main breaker 51 to each of the circuit breakers 53A, 53B, and 53C. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which a single-phase, three-wire, 200V AC power supply is supplied to the distribution board 50 from the service line 58. In this example, the branch wiring 52 includes branch wiring 52R, 52N, and 52T corresponding to the R phase, N phase, and T phase, respectively. The branch wiring 52R, 52N, and 52T are formed of metal members such as stranded wire, single-core wire, or bus bar. The distribution board 50 may also be provided with a ground terminal (not shown).

[0042] When the current flowing from the service line 58 to the branch wiring 52 exceeds a specified capacity, the main breaker 51 cuts off the service line 58 and the branch wiring 52. In addition to the main breaker 51, the distribution board 50 may also include a ground fault circuit interrupter and a neutral phase loss protection circuit (not shown).

[0043] Circuit breaker 53A is connected to branch wiring 52R and branch wiring 52N and supplies single-phase 100V AC current to power line 5A. Circuit breaker 53A disconnects power line 5A from branch wiring 52 when the current flowing through power line 5A exceeds a predetermined capacity. Circuit breaker 53B is connected to branch wiring 52N and branch wiring 52T and supplies single-phase 100V AC current to power line 5B. Circuit breaker 53C is connected to branch wiring 52N and branch wiring 52T and supplies single-phase 100V AC current to power line 5C. Circuit breaker 53B disconnects power line 5B from branch wiring 52 when the current flowing through power line 5B exceeds a predetermined capacity, and circuit breaker 53C disconnects power line 5C from branch wiring 52 when the current flowing through power line 5C exceeds a predetermined capacity.

[0044] The branch wiring 52 can be called secondary wiring relative to the main breaker 51. That is, the main breaker 51 functions as a circuit breaker that separates the commercial power supply from the secondary wiring. Also, the power line 5 can be called secondary wiring relative to the circuit breakers 53A, 53B, and 53C, and the circuit breakers 53A, 53B, and 53C function as circuit breakers that separate the commercial power supply from the secondary wiring.

[0045] In the sensing system 1, the lighting device 10 and the switch 20 are connected to a power line 5A, the outlet 30A is connected to a power line 5B, and the outlet 30B is connected to a power line 5C. The power lines 5A, 5B, and 5C are all connected to branch wiring 52 of a distribution board 50. In other words, the lighting device 10, the switch 20, and the outlets 30A and 30B are electrically connected to each other via the branch wiring 52 and the power line 5.

[0046] In the sensing system 1, either wired communication or wireless communication can be used as the communication method for communication between the lighting device 10, the switch 20, and the outlets 30A and 30B. For wired communication, power line communication (PLC) can be performed via a power line 5. For wireless communication, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or other wireless communication methods can be used. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which power line communication via a power line 5 is used in the sensing system 1.

[0047] The lighting device 10 includes a light source 11 and a driver 12 that turns on the light source 11. The light emitted by the light source 11 is diffused by a cover 110 (FIG. 1) to illuminate an indoor space 9. The light source 11 is a solid-state light source such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), or a lamp such as an incandescent lamp or a fluorescent lamp. The driver 12 is connected to the light source 11, and power is supplied from the driver 12 to the light source 11.

[0048] The driver 12 is connected to the power line 5A and receives commercial AC power via the power line 5A. The driver 12 includes a circuit that supplies the power required for the light source 11 to light up. For example, if the light source 11 is an LED, the driver 12 includes an inverter circuit that converts the commercial AC power to output a DC current of a predetermined voltage to the light source 11. The driver 12 may also have a function for adjusting the light intensity of the light source 11. For example, the driver 12 may be configured to be able to adjust the light intensity of the light source 11 by PWM (Pulse Wave Modulation) control.

[0049] The sensor 14 is incorporated into the circuit body 111 ( FIG. 1 ) of the lighting device 10 as the sensor unit 13 together with the control unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the power supply unit 17. The power supply unit 17 is connected to the power line 5A via a ceiling socket 112, converts the AC current supplied from the power line 5A into DC current of a predetermined voltage, and outputs the DC current to the sensor 14, the control unit 15, and the communication unit 16.

[0050] The control unit 15 includes a processor that processes data by executing a program. The processor is configured as an integrated circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), or microcontroller. The control unit 15 may also include a storage device that stores programs and data in a non-volatile manner using a flash memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or the like. The control unit 15 may also be configured as an integrated circuit that integrates a processor and a storage device, or may also be configured as a SoC (System-on-a-chip) that further integrates the sensor 14.

[0051] The control unit 15 operates the sensor 14 to perform detection of the indoor space 9. The control unit 15 acquires the detection results of the sensor 14 and generates detection data including the detection results. The control unit 15 causes the communication unit 16 to transmit the detection data to the processing device 40.

[0052] The control unit 15 can operate in two modes: a normal mode in which the sensor 14 executes a detection operation, and a power-saving mode in which the sensor 14 stops the detection operation. In the power-saving mode, the detection operation of the sensor 14 stops and detection data is not generated in the control unit 15. Therefore, the power consumption of the sensor unit 13 is smaller in the power-saving mode than in the normal mode.

[0053] The control unit 15 transitions from normal mode operation to power-saving mode operation when the state in which the detection result of the sensor 14 remains unchanged continues for a predetermined time or more. The control unit 15 also returns from the power-saving mode to the normal mode when power supply to the sensor unit 13 starts and when an operation instruction is received from the processing device 40 via the communication unit 16.

[0054] The communication unit 16 is a communication device that communicates with other devices constituting the sensing system 1 in accordance with the control of the control unit 15, and includes a transmitter, a receiver, an interface circuit, etc. The communication unit 16 communicates with the processing device 40 in accordance with the control of the control unit 15. For example, the communication unit 16 transmits detection data generated by the control unit 15 to the processing device 40.

[0055] The communication unit 16 is, for example, a communication modem that is connected to two cables that make up the power line 5A and performs power line communication via the power line 5A. The communication unit 16 includes, for example, a coding circuit that codes data, a transmission circuit that superimposes the coded signal on a carrier wave, a receiving circuit that has a filter that extracts the signal superimposed on the carrier wave, and a decoding circuit that decodes the extracted signal to generate received data and outputs the received data to the control unit 15. The communication unit 16 may also be a wireless communication device that performs wireless communication.

[0056] The switch 20 includes a switch body 21 and a sensor unit 23. Although Fig. 2 shows the switch body 21 as a single-pole switch that disconnects only one of a pair of cables that make up the power line 5A, the switch body 21 may also be a double-pole switch.

[0057] The sensor unit 23 includes a sensor 24, a control unit 25, a communication unit 26, and a power supply unit 27. The power supply unit 27 is connected to the power line 5A at a position closer to the processing device 40 along the power line 5 than the switch main body 21. The power supply unit 27 converts the AC current supplied from the power line 5A into DC current of a predetermined voltage and outputs it to the sensor 24, the control unit 25, and the communication unit 26.

[0058] The control unit 25 includes a processor that processes data by executing a program. The processor is configured as an integrated circuit such as a CPU or MPU. The control unit 25 may also include a storage device that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner using a flash memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or the like. The control unit 25 may be configured as an integrated circuit that integrates a processor and a storage device, or may be configured as an SoC that further integrates the sensor 24.

[0059] The control unit 25 operates the sensor 24 to perform detection of the indoor space 9. The control unit 25 acquires the detection results of the sensor 24 and generates detection data including the detection results. The control unit 25 causes the communication unit 26 to transmit the detection data to the processing device 40.

[0060] The control unit 25 can operate in two modes: a normal mode in which the sensor 24 executes a detection operation, and a power-saving mode in which the sensor 24 stops the detection operation. In the power-saving mode, the detection operation of the sensor 24 stops and detection data is not generated in the control unit 25. Therefore, the power consumption of the sensor unit 23 is smaller in the power-saving mode than in the normal mode.

[0061] The control unit 25 transitions from the normal mode operation to the power saving mode operation when the state in which the detection result of the sensor 24 remains unchanged continues for a predetermined time or more. Furthermore, the control unit 25 returns from the power saving mode to the normal mode when power supply to the sensor unit 23 starts and when an operation instruction is received from the processing device 40 via the communication unit 26.

[0062] The communication unit 26 communicates with the processing device 40 under the control of the control unit 25. For example, the communication unit 26 transmits detection data generated by the control unit 25 to the processing device 40. The communication unit 26 is a communication modem that is connected to two cables that make up the power line 5A and performs power line communication via the power line 5A. The communication unit 26 includes, for example, a coding circuit that encodes data, a transmission circuit that superimposes the coded signal on a carrier wave, a receiving circuit that has a filter that extracts the signal superimposed on the carrier wave, and a decoding circuit that decodes the extracted signal to generate received data and outputs the received data to the control unit 25.

[0063] The outlet 30A includes an outlet body 31A and a sensor unit 33A. The outlet body 31A has a pair of terminals 32A that are connected to the power line 5B. A load device is connected to the terminals 32A. The terminals 32A correspond to an example of a power supply terminal. The load device is, for example, an electrical appliance used in the indoor space 9.

[0064] The sensor unit 33A includes a sensor 34A, a control unit 35A, a communication unit 36A, and a power supply unit 37A. The power supply unit 37A is connected to the power line 5B, converts AC current supplied from the power line 5B into DC current of a predetermined voltage, and outputs the DC current to the sensor 34A, the control unit 35A, and the communication unit 36A.

[0065] The control unit 35A includes a processor that processes data by executing a program. The processor is configured as an integrated circuit such as a CPU or MPU. The control unit 35A may also include a storage device that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner using a flash memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or the like. The control unit 35A may also be configured as an integrated circuit that integrates a processor and a storage device, or may also be configured as an SoC that further integrates the sensor 34A.

[0066] In this embodiment, the control unit 35A does not have a power saving mode and always operates in a normal mode.

[0067] The sensor unit 33A is equipped with a processing device 40. The processing device 40 includes a processing unit 41 and a storage unit .

[0068] The processing unit 41 includes a processor that processes data by executing a program. The processor is configured as an integrated circuit such as a CPU or MPU. The processor may also be programmed hardware. The storage unit 42 includes a storage device that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner using a flash memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or the like. The storage unit 42 may also be configured as an integrated circuit integrated with the processing unit 41.

[0069] The processing unit 41 acquires detection data including the detection results of the sensors 14, 24, 34A, and 34B, performs various processes on the detection data, and stores the processed results in the storage unit 42. The processes executed by the processing unit 41 will be described later.

[0070] The control unit 35A operates the sensor 34A to perform detection for the indoor space 9. The control unit 35A acquires the detection result of the sensor 34A and generates detection data including the detection result. The control unit 35A outputs the detection data to the processing device 40.

[0071] The communication unit 36A is a communication device that communicates with other devices that constitute the sensing system 1 under the control of the control unit 35A. The communication unit 36A is a communication modem that is connected to two cables that constitute the power line 5B and performs power line communication via the power line 5B. The communication unit 36A includes, for example, a coding circuit that encodes data, a transmission circuit that superimposes the coded signal on a carrier wave, a receiving circuit having a filter that extracts the signal superimposed on the carrier wave, and a decoding circuit that decodes the extracted signal to generate received data and outputs the received data to the control unit 35A. The communication unit 36A receives detection data transmitted by the lighting device 10, the switch 20, and the outlet 30B. The detection data received by the communication unit 36A is output to the processing device 40.

[0072] The outlet 30B includes an outlet body 31B and a sensor unit 33B. The outlet body 31B has a pair of terminals 32B connected to the power line 5B. The terminals 32B correspond to an example of a power supply terminal. A load device is connected to the terminals 32B.

[0073] The sensor unit 33B includes a sensor 34B, a control unit 35B, a communication unit 36B, and a power supply unit 37B. The power supply unit 37B is connected to the power line 5C, converts AC current supplied from the power line 5C into DC current of a predetermined voltage, and outputs the DC current to the sensor 34B, the control unit 35B, and the communication unit 36B.

[0074] The control unit 35B includes a processor that processes data by executing a program. The processor is configured as an integrated circuit such as a CPU or MPU. The control unit 35B may also include a storage device that stores programs and data in a nonvolatile manner using a flash memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, or the like. The control unit 35B may also be configured as an integrated circuit that integrates a processor and a storage device, or may also be configured as an SoC that further integrates the sensor 34B.

[0075] The control unit 35B operates the sensor 34B to perform detection of the indoor space 9. The control unit 35B acquires the detection results of the sensor 34B and generates detection data including the detection results. The control unit 35B causes the communication unit 36B to transmit the detection data to the processing device 40.

[0076] The control unit 35B can operate in two modes: a normal mode in which the sensor 34B executes a detection operation, and a power-saving mode in which the sensor 34B stops the detection operation. In the power-saving mode, the detection operation of the sensor 34B stops and detection data is not generated by the control unit 35B. Therefore, the power consumption of the sensor unit 33B is smaller in the power-saving mode than in the normal mode.

[0077] The control unit 35B transitions from the normal mode operation to the power saving mode operation when the state in which the detection result of the sensor 34B remains unchanged continues for a predetermined time or more. The control unit 35B also returns from the power saving mode to the normal mode when power supply to the sensor unit 33B starts and when an operation instruction is received from the processing device 40 via the communication unit 36B.

[0078] The communication unit 36B communicates with the processing device 40 under the control of the control unit 35B. For example, the communication unit 36B transmits detection data generated by the control unit 35B to the processing device 40. The communication unit 36B is a communication modem that is connected to the two cables that make up the power line 5B and performs power line communication via the power line 5B. The communication unit 36B includes, for example, a coding circuit that encodes data, a transmission circuit that superimposes the coded signal on a carrier wave, a receiving circuit that has a filter that extracts the signal superimposed on the carrier wave, and a decoding circuit that decodes the extracted signal to generate received data and outputs the received data to the control unit 35B.

[0079] Processing device 40 provided in outlet 30A operates by receiving power from power supply unit 37A. Processing unit 41 also directly or indirectly controls communication unit 36A when communicating with lighting device 10, switch 20, and outlet 30B. Processing unit 41 acquires detection data including the detection results of sensors 14, 24, and 34B via communication unit 36A. Processing unit 41 also acquires detection data including the detection results of sensor 34A from control unit 35A.

[0080] The processing unit 41 processes the detection data to generate detection data related to the detection target in the indoor space 9, and stores the generated detection data in the storage unit 42. For example, the processing unit 41 generates detection data including one or more of the position, facial expression, posture, position, physique (height, weight), movement, and surface temperature (body temperature) of the detection target. Furthermore, the processing unit 41 may generate detection data including two or more of the position, facial expression, posture, position, physique (height, weight), movement, and surface temperature (body temperature) of the detection target based on detection results from multiple sensors.

[0081] Furthermore, for example, the processing unit 41 may integrate detection data from multiple sensors installed on different surfaces surrounding the indoor space 9. Specifically, the processing unit 41 integrates the detection result of the sensor 14 installed on the ceiling 92 with the detection result of the sensor 24 and / or the sensor 34A installed on the wall 94. Alternatively, the processing unit 41 integrates the detection result of the sensor 14 with the detection result of the sensor 34B. Alternatively, the processing unit 41 integrates the detection result of the sensor 14 with the detection result of the sensor 24 and / or the sensor 34A and the detection result of the sensor 34B. When performing these processes, the processing unit 41 can generate three-dimensional detection data of the person P based on two-dimensional detection results, or obtain two-dimensional or three-dimensional detection data based on one-dimensional detection results. Examples of one-dimensional detection results include detection results from an ultrasonic ranging sensor or a radar sensor. Examples of two-dimensional detection results include detection results from an image output sensor. As a typical example, when the sensors 14 and 24 are configured as infrared array sensors, the processing unit 41 can generate a three-dimensional heat distribution map by overlaying the thermal images detected by the sensors 14 and 24.

[0082] For example, the processing unit 41 can identify the position of the detection target in the indoor space 9 using the detection result of the image output sensor. Then, the processing unit 41 may determine the posture of the detection target using the position of the detection target and the detection result of the state detection sensor or the image output sensor. For example, it may determine whether the person P who is the detection target is standing, sitting, or crouching. Furthermore, the health condition of the person P who is the detection target may be determined by calculating changes in the body temperature of the person P who is the detection target and the body temperature of each part of the person P.

[0083] In the sensing system 1, a plurality of sensors are arranged in the indoor space 9, and except for the sensor 34A arranged in the outlet 30A, the other sensors switch to a power-saving mode that consumes less power when there is no detection target in the indoor space 9. This can prevent the sensing system 1 from wasting power when there is no detection target in the indoor space 9.

[0084] On the other hand, when a sensor that has transitioned to the power saving mode is returned to the normal mode to start sensing, it is conceivable that, for example, when a sensor that always operates in the normal mode, such as sensor 34A, detects the entry of a detection target into the indoor space 9, the other sensors are returned to the normal mode. However, if the sensor is returned to the normal mode after detecting the entry of a detection target into the indoor space 9, it may be difficult to start sensing immediately after the detection target enters the indoor space 9.

[0085] For this reason, in the sensing system 1, the sensors 14, 24, 34A, 34B arranged in the indoor space 9 are configured to include a first sensor that detects a detection target in the indoor space 9, and a second sensor that detects sound information in the indoor space 9 and the outdoor space outside the indoor space 9. Then, based on a change in the sound information detected by the second sensor, the approach of a detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 is predicted. Then, when the approach of a detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 is predicted, the first sensor is activated.

[0086] This means that even if the first sensor is, for example, a position detection sensor, an image output sensor, or a status detection sensor that cannot detect the detection target in the outdoor space by passing through the walls 93, 94, 95, and 96 of the indoor space 9, the first sensor can predict the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 and keep operating before the detection target reaches the indoor space 9.

[0087] In the sensing system 1 according to this embodiment, the second sensor that detects sound information is the sensor 34A that always operates in normal mode. The sensor 34A is, for example, a microphone. The other sensors 14, 24, and 34B are first sensors that detect a detection target in the indoor space 9. The first sensors, the sensors 14, 24, and 34B, may be any of the various sensors described above.

[0088] 3 is a diagram showing, as an example, a scene in which a person P, who is a detection target in an outdoor space 100 outside the indoor space 9, approaches a door 97 of the indoor space 9. In FIG. 3, the person P is walking, for example, along a passageway provided in the outdoor space 100 along the outer surface of a wall 94 of the indoor space 9, toward the door 97. As the person P walks, sound information including footsteps generated from under the person P is acquired via the wall 94 by a second sensor, sensor 34A, disposed in the outlet 30A. A processing device 40 of a sensor unit 33A disposed in the outlet 30A predicts the approach of the person P to the indoor space 9 from the change in the volume of the sound information acquired from sensor 34A over time.

[0089] When the processing device 40 predicts that the person P will approach the indoor space 9, it transmits an operation instruction for the sensors 14, 24, and 34B, which are the first sensors, to the control units 15, 25, and 35B. Upon receiving the operation instruction, the control units 15, 25, and 35B return to the normal mode from the power saving mode and start operating the sensors 14, 24, and 34B, which are the first sensors.

[0090] [3. Operation Example of Sensing System] An example of the procedure for the operation of the sensing system 1 will be described below. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the sensing system 1. The operation shown in Fig. 4 is realized by the processing unit 41 executing a program stored in the storage unit 42. The operation shown in Fig. 4 starts when power is supplied to the sensor units 13, 23, 33A, and 33B, and is executed repeatedly after starting.

[0091] When the process starts, the processor 40 first determines whether or not all of the first sensors are in the power saving mode (step S1). In this embodiment, the first sensors are the sensors 14, 24, and 34B.

[0092] When all of the first sensors are in the power saving mode (step S1; YES), the processing device 40 acquires sound information from the second sensor 34A (step S2). The processing device 40 determines whether the acquired sound information predicts the approach of a detection target in the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 (step S3). For example, when the loudness of the sound information acquired from the sensor 34A increases over time, the processing device 40 determines that the approach of a detection target in the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 is predicted. Alternatively, the processing device 40 may extract a specific sound from the sounds detected by the sensor 34B and, when it determines that the extracted sound is gradually increasing over time, estimate that a detection target in the outdoor space is approaching the indoor space 9. The specific sound may be a sound with a specific frequency or periodicity characteristic of a type of detection target (e.g., footsteps, a motor sound, or the sound of wheels moving).

[0093] When the processing device 40 does not predict that the detection target will approach the indoor space 9 (step S3; NO), it returns to step S2 and repeats the process, continuing to acquire sound information from the second sensor, sensor 34A.

[0094] On the other hand, when it is predicted that the detection target will approach the indoor space 9 (step S3; YES), the processing device 40 instructs the first sensors, ie, the sensors 14, 24, and 34B, to operate (step S4). As described above, specifically, the processing device 40 can return the control units 15, 25, and 35B to the normal mode by transmitting an operation instruction to the control units 15, 25, and 35B, and cause the control units 15, 25, and 35B to start operating the sensors 14, 24, and 34B.

[0095] Next, the processing device 40 acquires detection data including the detection result of the operated first sensor (step S5). The processing device 40 analyzes the acquired detection data to generate detection data including information about the detection target, stores the detection data in the storage unit 42 (step S6), and ends the processing. After the processing ends, the processing device 40 returns to step S1 and starts a new processing.

[0096] On the other hand, if none of the first sensors are in the power saving mode in step S1 (step S1; NO), the processing device 40 proceeds to step S5.

[0097] The detection data generated in step S6 may include the position of the detection target, as well as the facial expression, posture, position, physique (height, weight), movement, and surface temperature (body temperature) of the detection target. That is, the processing device 40 may include the position of the detection target identified from the detection results of any of the first sensors in the detection data. The processing device 40 may also include information regarding the facial expression, posture, physique, body temperature, movement, etc. of the detection target obtained from the detection results of any of the first sensors in the detection data. The facial expression and posture of the detection target can be obtained from the detection results if any of the first sensors is an image output sensor. The physique of the detection target can be obtained from the detection results if any of the first sensors is an image output sensor or a distance sensor. The body temperature of the detection target can be obtained from the detection results if any of the first sensors is a thermal image sensor or an infrared sensor. Information regarding the movement of the detection target can be obtained by the processing device 40 comparing multiple detection results performed by the first sensors over time.

[0098] [4. Effects, etc.] As described above, the sensing system 1 includes a first sensor that is placed in the indoor space 9 and detects a detection target in the indoor space 9, and a second sensor that is placed in the indoor space and detects sound information from the indoor space and the outdoor space outside the indoor space. Then, based on changes in the sound information, the approach of a detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 is predicted. Therefore, the approach of a detection target to the indoor space 9 can be easily detected from the sound information detected by the second sensor, and the timing to start operation of the first sensor, etc. can be easily determined.

[0099] Furthermore, the processing device 40 activates the first sensor when it predicts the approach of a detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space 9 based on sound information from the second sensor. This allows the first sensor to be activated and prepared for detection before the detection target arrives in the indoor space 9, so that the detection target can be detected without delay when it reaches the indoor space 9. Furthermore, the first sensor can be put on standby until the detection target approaches, which improves the power saving performance of the sensing system.

[0100] Furthermore, in the sensing system 1, the first sensor is provided on either the ceiling surface or the wall surface. Therefore, the first sensor can be incorporated into electrical equipment provided on the ceiling surface or the wall surface and can be powered from a commercial power source connected to the electrical equipment, thereby reducing the labor required for installing the first sensor and connecting it to the power source.

[0101] Furthermore, in the sensing system 1, the first sensor may be unable to detect a detection target in the outdoor space through the wall of the indoor space 9. Therefore, the first sensor, whose sensing area is shielded by the wall of the indoor space 9, can be kept in an inactive state until the approach of a detection target is predicted based on sound information detected by the second sensor, thereby reducing the power consumption of the sensing system 1.

[0102] Furthermore, in the sensing system 1, a plurality of first sensors may be provided, with at least one first sensor being provided at a different height from the remaining first sensors. This allows the first sensors to perform three-dimensional sensing, making it possible to easily obtain a large amount of information regarding the position, shape, size, etc. of the detection target.

[0103] Furthermore, in the sensing system 1, the first sensor and the second sensor are provided on electrical materials installed in the indoor space 9. Therefore, there is no need to install new components on the wall 94 or ceiling 92 to install the sensors, and the sensors can be easily installed. For example, the lighting device 10 and the switch 20 are installed to illuminate the indoor space 9, and are essential equipment regardless of whether sensors are installed. The first sensor and the second sensor can be installed using these pieces of equipment, and the sensing system 1 can be realized.

[0104] Other Embodiments In the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the sensing system 1 is configured to include multiple sensors installed in one indoor space 9. The space that the sensing system 1 detects is not limited to one space. For example, the sensing system 1 may be configured such that multiple sensors are installed in multiple spaces separated by walls, and these multiple sensors are connected to the processing device 40 via power lines 5. Furthermore, the sensing system 1 may include multiple processing devices 40, and these multiple processing devices 40 may communicate with each other.

[0105] The switch 20 and the outlets 30A and 30B are examples of electrical equipment in which sensors can be installed. Examples of electrical equipment in which sensors constituting the sensing system 1 can be installed include an outlet with two or more sockets, an outlet with a ground terminal, a switch with a pilot lamp, a switch with a timer, a switch with lighting, a ventilation fan, etc. Of course, sensors can also be installed in other electrical equipment.

[0106] 2 are merely examples, and the specific implementation form is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each unit individually. For example, it is of course possible to configure the functions of each unit to be realized by a single integrated circuit. Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the functions of the control units 15, 25, 35A, 35B and the processing unit 41 may be realized by software or hardware.

[0107] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0108] (Additional Notes) The above description of the embodiments discloses the following techniques.

[0109] (Technology 1) A sensing system includes a first sensor disposed in an indoor space for detecting a detection target in the indoor space, and a second sensor disposed in the indoor space for detecting sound information from the indoor space and an outdoor space outside the indoor space, and predicts the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space based on changes in the sound information. This makes it possible to easily detect the approach of the detection target to the indoor space from the sound information detected by the second sensor, and to easily determine the timing for starting operation of the first sensor. Furthermore, the second sensor for detecting sound information can be configured as a small microphone or the like and easily attached to electrical equipment such as an outlet, thereby reducing the labor required for installation and power connection.

[0110] (Technology 2) The sensing system according to Technology 1, wherein the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space is predicted and the first sensor is activated. This allows the first sensor to be activated and prepared for detection before the detection target arrives in the indoor space, so that the detection target can be detected without delay when it arrives in the indoor space. Furthermore, the first sensor can be placed on standby until the detection target approaches, thereby improving the power saving of the sensing system.

[0111] (Technology 3) The sensing system according to Technology 1 or 2, wherein the first sensor is provided on either a ceiling surface or a wall surface. This allows the first sensor to be incorporated into electrical equipment arranged on the ceiling surface or the wall surface and powered from a commercial power source connected to the electrical equipment, thereby reducing the labor required for installing the first sensor and connecting it to a power source.

[0112] (Technology 4) The sensing system according to any one of Technologies 1 to 3, wherein the first sensor cannot detect the detection target in the outdoor space through a wall of the indoor space. This allows the first sensor, whose sensing area is shielded by the wall of the indoor space, to be kept in an inactive state until the approach of the detection target is predicted based on sound information detected by the second sensor, thereby reducing power consumption of the sensing system.

[0113] (Technology 5) The sensing system according to any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of the first sensors are provided, and at least one first sensor is provided at a different height from the remaining first sensors. This allows three-dimensional sensing to be performed by the first sensor, and makes it possible to easily obtain a large amount of information regarding the position, shape, size, etc. of the detection target.

[0114] (Technology 6) The sensing system according to any one of Technologies 1 to 5, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are provided on electrical components installed in the indoor space. This eliminates the need to install additional components on the walls or ceiling of the indoor space, making it easy to install the sensors. This makes it easy to realize a sensing system including the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0115] As described above, the sensing system according to the present disclosure can be used to detect objects such as people and animals in indoor spaces.

[0116] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Sensing system 5, 5A, 5B, 5C Power line (secondary wiring) 9 Indoor space 10 Lighting device 11 Light source 12 Driver 13 Sensor unit 14 Sensor 15 Control unit 16 Communication unit 17 Power supply unit 20 Switch 21 Switch body 23 Sensor unit 24 Sensor 25 Control unit 26 Communication unit 27 Power supply unit 30A, 30B Outlet 31A, 31B Outlet body 32A, 32B Terminal (power terminal) 33A, 33B Sensor unit 34A, 34B Sensor 35A, 35B Control unit 36A, 36B Communication unit 37A, 37B Power supply unit 50 Distribution board 51 Main breaker (circuit breaker) 52, 52R, 52N, 52T Branch wiring (secondary wiring) 53A, 53B, 53C Circuit breaker 58 Lead-in line 40 Processing device 41 Processing unit 42 Memory unit 110 Cover P Person (detection target)

Claims

1. A sensing system comprising: a first sensor arranged in an indoor space to detect a detection target in the indoor space; and a second sensor arranged in the indoor space to detect sound information in the indoor space and an outdoor space outside the indoor space; and predicting the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space based on changes in the sound information.

2. The sensing system according to claim 1, wherein the approach of the detection target from the outdoor space to the indoor space is predicted and the first sensor is activated.

3. The sensing system according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor is provided on either a ceiling surface or a wall surface.

4. The sensing system according to claim 1, wherein the first sensor cannot detect the detection target in the outdoor space through a wall surface of the indoor space.

5. The sensing system according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the first sensors are provided, and at least one of the first sensors is provided at a different height position from the remaining first sensors.

6. A sensing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are provided on electrical materials installed in the indoor space.

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