Detection system

Abstract

The present invention provides a detection system having high detection accuracy. A receiver (2) or a server (4) comprises an information generation unit (6) that corrects information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals (5) according to a specific timing and generates corrected information. The server (4) comprises a detection unit (7) that detects the receiver (2) or a transmitter (1) on the basis of the corrected information. The specific timing is the timing for transmitting the plurality of signals (5) by the transmitter (1) or the timing for receiving the plurality of signals (5) by the receiver (2).

Description

Detection System

[0001] The present disclosure relates to detection systems.

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses an area determination system having the following configuration. The area determination system includes a determination unit, a calculation unit, and a determination unit. The determination unit determines the location of the transmitter based on information about the reception strength of a wireless signal transmitted from the transmitter at the receiver. The calculation unit calculates multiple determination values ​​that increase or decrease based on the increase or decrease in the number of times the location of the transmitter exists in each of multiple target areas from the determination results made by the determination unit within a determination period. The determination unit determines the target area with the highest determination value among the multiple target areas as the area where the transmitter exists within the determination period. The area determination system may include a weight calculation unit that calculates a weight value for weighting multiple determination values ​​for a second determination period based on the multiple determination values ​​for a first determination period.

[0003] International Publication No. 2022 / 163257

[0004] In the prior art, for example, in the following patterns (A) and (B), the accuracy of the determination may be low.

[0005] (A) During detection by the first receiver, the first receiver moves away from the transmitter and the second receiver moves closer to the transmitter. At this time, the strength of the signal received by the second receiver exceeds the strength of the signal received by the first receiver. As a result, the second receiver is mistakenly determined to be the first receiver.

[0006] (B) During detection of an event occurring in an individual corresponding to the receiver, the event transitions from a first stage to a second stage. At this time, the strength of the signal received by the receiver in the first stage exceeds the strength of the signal received by the receiver in the second stage. As a result, even though the second stage occurs in the individual, it is erroneously determined that the first stage has occurred in the individual.

[0007] A detection system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises at least one transmitter that emits multiple signals at different timings, at least one receiver that receives the multiple signals, and a server that can communicate with the receiver, wherein the receiver or the server comprises an information generation unit that corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals according to a specific timing and generates corrected information, and the server comprises a detection unit that detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the corrected information, wherein the specific timing is the timing of transmission of the multiple signals by the transmitter or the timing of reception of the multiple signals by the receiver.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a detection system with high detection accuracy can be realized.

[0009] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a detection system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a usage environment of the detection system according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a usage environment of the detection system according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals emitted by a transmitter in a first receiver over time. FIG. 5 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals emitted by a transmitter in a second receiver over time. FIG. 6 is a diagram comparing the average value of the reception strength of each of the signals obtained from the information shown in FIG. 4 with the average value of the reception strength of each of the signals obtained from the information shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a graph showing a correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of the plurality of signals to generate corrected information according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a graph showing the corrected reception strength of each of the signals emitted by a transmitter in a first receiver over time. FIG. 9 is a graph showing the corrected reception strength of each of the signals obtained from the information shown in FIG. 1 is a graph showing another correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals to generate corrected information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a usage environment of a detection system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a usage environment of a detection system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals emitted by a first transmitter and a plurality of signals emitted by a second transmitter at a receiver over time. FIG. 5 is a diagram comparing the average value of the reception strength of the plurality of signals emitted by the first transmitter with the average value of the reception strength of the plurality of signals emitted by the second transmitter, corresponding to a first period. FIG. 6 is a graph showing a correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals to generate corrected information according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a graph showing the corrected reception strength of each of a plurality of signals emitted by a first transmitter and a plurality of signals emitted by a second transmitter at a receiver over time. FIG. 8 is a diagram comparing the average value of the corrected reception strength of the plurality of signals emitted by the first transmitter with the average value of the corrected reception strength of the plurality of signals emitted by the second transmitter, corresponding to a first period.10 is a graph showing another correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals to generate corrected information according to embodiment 2 of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a usage environment of a detection system according to a modification of embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a usage environment of a detection system according to a modification of embodiment 2 of the present disclosure.

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following describes an embodiment of the present disclosure. For convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used to designate components having the same functions as those previously described, and the description thereof may not be repeated.

[0011] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a detection system 101 according to the present disclosure. The detection system 101 includes at least one transmitter 1, at least one receiver 2, a gateway 3, and a server 4.

[0012] The transmitter 1 emits a plurality of signals 5 at different times. When the detection system 101 includes a plurality of transmitters 1, the plurality of transmitters 1 (e.g., transmitter 1a and transmitter 1b) may each have an identifier corresponding to the plurality of transmitters 1. Each of the plurality of signals 5 (e.g., multiple signals 5a and multiple signals 5b) emitted by each transmitter 1 may include an identifier corresponding to the respective transmitter 1. An example of the transmitter 1 is a beacon.

[0013] The receiver 2 is a receiver for receiving multiple signals 5. The receiver 2 has an information generating unit 6 that corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 according to a specific timing and generates corrected information. The specific timing is the timing of transmission of the multiple signals 5 by the transmitter 1 or the timing of reception of the multiple signals 5 by the receiver 2. Processing according to the timing of transmission of the multiple signals 5 by the transmitter 1 can be rephrased as processing according to the timing of reception of the multiple signals 5 by the receiver 2. Note that when the detection system 101 includes multiple receivers 2, the detection system 101 may include identifiers corresponding to each of the multiple transmitters 2 (e.g., receiver 2a and receiver 2b). An example of the receiver 2 is an ID tag that can wirelessly communicate with the transmitter 1.

[0014] The gateway 3 enables communication between the receiver 2 and the server 4. The detection system 101 may be configured to enable communication between the receiver 2 and the server 4 without going through the gateway 3. The server 4 has a detection unit 7. The detection unit 7 detects the receiver 2 or the transmitter 1 based on the corrected information generated by the information generation unit 6 of the receiver 2 or the server 4. When detecting multiple transmitters 1 or multiple receivers 2, the detection unit 7 may identify each transmitter 1 or each receiver 2 based on an identifier corresponding to each of the multiple transmitters 1 or an identifier corresponding to each of the multiple receivers 2.

[0015] According to the detection system 101, high detection accuracy can be achieved in the above-described patterns (A) and (B), and therefore a detection system with high detection accuracy can be realized.

[0016] The detection system 101 can be interpreted as a detection system that performs event detection or position detection, etc., based on the strength of the signal 5 received by the receiver 2 within a calculation period, and weights two or more signals 5 received within one calculation period.

[0017] The calculation period can be set arbitrarily. Generally, to improve detection accuracy, as many signals 5 as possible are received during the calculation period and their average value is calculated. In particular, in the case of BLE, the calculation period tends to be set long, at 30 seconds or more, because signal strength may vary between channels 37, 38, and 39. BLE is an abbreviation for Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy.

[0018] In conventional technology, if the calculation period is long, it is not easy to accurately detect the movement of a moving person or a means of transportation, for example, in position detection. There are cases where the moving person or the means of transportation is moving between the beginning and end of the calculation period, and in such cases, there is a risk that the real-time performance of position detection in conventional technology will be reduced.

[0019] 2 and 3 are diagrams illustrating a usage environment of a detection system 101 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The first embodiment of the present disclosure is an example in which the detection system 101 can exhibit high detection accuracy in the above-described pattern (A).

[0020] The transmitter 1 is provided in an appliance 9 which is in turn used by a first individual 8a and a second individual 8b which correspond to a first receiver 2a and a second receiver 2b, respectively. Each of the first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b is a receiver 2.

[0021] The transmitter 1 emits a plurality of signals 5 for a predetermined period of time from the timing when the first individual 8a uses the appliance 9. The transmitter 1 also emits a plurality of signals 5 for a predetermined period of time from the timing when the second individual 8b uses the appliance 9.

[0022] Fig. 2 shows the timing of use of the tool 9 by the first individual 8a. Fig. 3 shows the timing after a certain amount of time has passed since the timing of use of the tool 9 by the first individual 8a, but before the timing of use of the tool 9 by the second individual 8b. In other words, Fig. 3 shows the first receiver 2a moving away from the transmitter 1 and the second receiver 2b moving closer to the transmitter 1 while the detection system 101 is detecting the first receiver 2a.

[0023] Fig. 4 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 emitted by the transmitter 1 at the first receiver 2a over time. Fig. 5 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 emitted by the transmitter 1 at the second receiver 2b over time. The timing when the first individual 8a uses the appliance 9 (the timing when the predetermined period during which the transmitter 1 emits the multiple signals 5 starts) is time TS, and the predetermined period during which the transmitter 1 emits the multiple signals 5 is period T1. Time TG is the timing when period T1 ends.

[0024] The first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b each calculate an average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5 over a predetermined calculation period (here, period T1). The detection unit 7 compares the average value calculated by the first receiver 2a with the average value calculated by the second receiver 2b and detects the receiver 2 corresponding to the larger of these average values. FIG. 6 is a diagram comparing the average value PA of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5 obtained from the information shown in FIG. 4 with the average value PB of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5 obtained from the information shown in FIG. 5. The average value PA is smaller than the average value PB. In this case, the detection unit 7 detects the second receiver 2b corresponding to the average value PB. Because the individual that used the device 9 at time TS is the first individual 8a, the detection unit 7 should detect the first receiver 2a corresponding to the first individual 8a, resulting in a false detection in which the detection unit 7 detects the second receiver 2b. Note that the periods T1 of the first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b do not need to coincide.

[0025] FIG. 7 is a graph showing a correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals 5 to generate corrected information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Each of the first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b corrects the information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 using a correction coefficient that decreases with the passage of time from time TS, which is the timing when the device 9 is used by the first individual 8a, in the information generation unit 6 to generate corrected information.

[0027] The detector 7 detects the first receiver 2a based on the corrected information generated by each of the first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b.

[0028] Fig. 8 is a graph showing the corrected reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 transmitted by the transmitter 1 in the first receiver 2a over time. Fig. 9 is a graph showing the corrected reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 transmitted by the transmitter 1 in the second receiver 2b over time. The corrected information is information on the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5.

[0029] The first receiver 2a and the second receiver 2b each calculate an average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 over a predetermined calculation period (here, period T1). The detection unit 7 compares the average value calculated by the first receiver 2a with the average value calculated by the second receiver 2b, and detects the receiver 2 corresponding to the larger of these average values. In this manner, the detection unit 7 detects the receiver 2 based on the average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 over period T1. FIG. 10 is a diagram comparing the average value QA of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 obtained from the information shown in FIG. 8 with the average value QB of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 obtained from the information shown in FIG. 9. The average value QA is greater than the average value QB. In this case, the detection unit 7 detects the first receiver 2a corresponding to the average value QA. Since the individual that used the device 9 at time TS is the first individual 8a, the detection unit 7 should detect the first receiver 2a corresponding to the first individual 8a, but the detection unit 7 correctly detects the first receiver 2a.

[0030] The instrument 9 may be a detector that detects an event of a first individual 8a, the first individual 8a being a first detector user linked to a first receiver 2a, and the second individual 8b being a second detector user linked to a second receiver 2b.

[0031] The detection system 101 according to the present embodiment may be used, for example, as a system for managing the status of hand hygiene practices of users. As a specific example, the instrument 9 (detector) is a dispenser that sprays disinfectant. The first individual 8a (first detector user) is a first dispenser user linked to the first receiver 2a. The second individual 8b (second detector user) is a second dispenser user linked to the second receiver 2b. The detection system 101 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure can be interpreted as a system that, when the first individual 8a uses the instrument 9, detects the first receiver 2a linked to the first individual 8a, thereby detecting that the first individual 8a has used the instrument 9. As another example, the instrument 9 is not limited to a dispenser that sprays disinfectant, but may also be a detector that detects an event of the first individual 8a.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a graph showing another correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals 5 to generate corrected information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] 7, the correction coefficient changes continuously with the passage of time. Specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 7, the correction coefficient at time TS is LA, and the correction coefficient gradually decreases with the passage of time from time TS.

[0034] On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 11 , the correction coefficient changes discretely over time. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 11 , the correction coefficient from time TS to time TC is LA, the correction coefficient decreases from LA to LB at time TC, and the correction coefficient from time TC to time TG is LB. Note that the tendency for the correction coefficient to decrease over time is not limited to the examples of correction coefficients shown in FIGS. 7 and 11 . For example, there may be a tendency other than a tendency for the correction coefficient to decrease over part of the period T1 (e.g., a tendency for the correction coefficient to increase or a constant correction coefficient). In this case, it is preferable to evaluate the tendency of the correction coefficient during the period T1 by comparing the correction coefficient at time TS with the correction coefficient at time TG during the period T1. If, as a result of comparing the two correction coefficients, the correction coefficient at time TG is smaller than the correction coefficient at time TS, it may be considered that the correction coefficient tends to decrease over time during the period T1.

[0035] The numerical value of the correction coefficient can take countless values ​​over time depending on the actual configuration of the detection system 101, the usage environment, the level of sensitivity at which countermeasures against false detection are implemented, and other factors, making it difficult to provide specific examples. For example, the minimum value of the correction coefficient may be 0.1 times the maximum value of the correction coefficient, or the minimum value of the correction coefficient may be 0. In the example shown in FIG. 11 , the time from time TS to time TC may be longer or shorter than the time from time TC to time TG. In the example shown in FIG. 11 , the time from time TS to time TC and the time from time TC to time TG may be the same.

[0036] The detection system 101 can be interpreted as a system that performs event detection based on the strength of the signal 5 received by the receiver 2 within a calculation period, and weights multiple signals 5 received within a single calculation period.

[0037] Specifically, the strength of the signal 5 received at the beginning of the calculation period is weighted, and the strength of the signal 5 received at the latter half is weighted. The signal 5 received immediately after an event is highly accurate, so this is treated with more importance. The reason why multiple signals 5 are emitted is because the transmission and reception of signals 5 is not always 100% successful. If the receiver 2 is unable to receive any of the signals 5 emitted by the transmitter 1, it will be considered that the event itself did not occur, so to avoid this, the transmitter 1 emits multiple signals 5 just in case.

[0038] There are various types of weighting functions for the calculation period. Any function can be used as long as it weights the data in the first half of the calculation period and lightens the data in the second half. For example, the weights may be changed so that the first half of the calculation period is weighted 1 and the second half is weighted 0.1. It is also possible to use only the first data in the calculation period (setting the correction coefficients for data other than the first data in the calculation period to 0).

[0039] When disinfection is performed using the instrument 9, the transmitter 1 provided in the instrument 9 may transmit a BLE signal as the multiple signals 5 15 times at intervals of 500 ms.

[0040] 12 and 13 are diagrams illustrating a usage environment of a detection system 101 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. The second embodiment of the present disclosure is an example in which the detection system 101 can exhibit high detection accuracy in the above-described pattern (B).

[0041] The detection system 101 has a first transmitter 1a and a second transmitter 1b as at least one transmitter 1. The first transmitter 1a and the second transmitter 1b included in the detection system 101 according to this embodiment are each a transmitter 1. Note that the detection system 101 according to this embodiment may have two or more transmitters 1. The detection system 101 detects an event of the receiver 2 based on the corrected information. Events brought about by the individual 8 include a first stage in which the transmitter 1 closest to the receiver 2 is the first transmitter 1a, and a second stage after the first stage in which the transmitter 1 closest to the receiver 2 is the second transmitter 1b. FIGS. 12 and 13 show a signal transmission range 10a of the first transmitter 1a and a signal transmission range 10b of the second transmitter 1b, respectively.

[0042] The first transmitter 1a and the second transmitter 1b each emit a plurality of signals 5 at a predetermined cycle. The predetermined cycle may be unrelated to the progress of an event brought about by the individual 8. The timing of the start of the period in which the first transmitter 1a emits the plurality of signals 5 and the timing of the start of the period in which the second transmitter 1b emits the plurality of signals 5 may be the same or different. The timing of the end of the period in which the first transmitter 1a emits the plurality of signals 5 and the timing of the end of the period in which the second transmitter 1b emits the plurality of signals 5 may be the same or different. Furthermore, the first transmitter 1a and the second transmitter 1b may be implemented to continuously emit the plurality of signals 5 intermittently.

[0043] Figure 12 shows the timing when the first stage is brought about for the individual 8. Figure 13 shows the timing when the second stage is brought about for the individual 8, some time after the first stage is brought about for the individual 8. In other words, Figure 13 shows how an event transitions from the first stage to the second stage during detection by the detection system 101 of an event brought about for the individual 8 corresponding to the receiver 2.

[0044] 14 is a graph showing the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5a emitted by the first transmitter 1a and the multiple signals 5b emitted by the second transmitter 1b over time in the receiver 2. The first transmitter 1a emits the multiple signals 5a at different times. The second transmitter 1b emits the multiple signals 5b at different times. The multiple signals 5a and the multiple signals 5b are each a plurality of signals 5.

[0045] For ease of explanation, in Fig. 14, the predetermined period during which the first transmitter 1a transmits the multiple signals 5a and the predetermined period during which the second transmitter 1b transmits the multiple signals 5b are the same. The start timing of the period during which the receiver 2 receives the multiple signals 5 is time TP, and the period during which the receiver 2 receives the multiple signals 5 is period T2. Time TF is the end timing of period T2. Fig. 14 shows two of the predetermined periods, with (1) attached to the first period and (2) attached to the second period.

[0046] The receiver 2 calculates the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5b over a predetermined calculation period (here, period T2) (1). The detection unit 7 acquires the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5b calculated by the receiver 2, and detects the receiver 2 if at least one of these reaches a certain value. This certain value may be set to any value so that the target detection sensitivity of the receiver 2 can be achieved. At this time, the detection unit 7 compares the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5b calculated by the receiver 2, and determines that the transmitter 1 closest to the receiver 2 is the transmitter 1 corresponding to the larger of these average values. In this way, the detection unit 7 detects the progress of an event brought about by the individual 8 (e.g., a transition from stage 1 to stage 2). 15 is a diagram comparing the average value RA of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5a transmitted from the first transmitter 1a with the average value RB of the reception strength of the multiple signals 5b transmitted from the second transmitter 1b, corresponding to the first period. The average value RA is greater than the average value RB.

[0047] For reference, Figure 14 also shows characteristic 11a, which shows the reception strength of multiple signals 5a at the receiver 2 as a continuous distribution over time, and characteristic 11b, which shows the reception strength of multiple signals 5b at the receiver 2 as a continuous distribution. According to Figure 14, at time TF(1), the reception strength shown by characteristic 11b is greater than the reception strength shown by characteristic 11a, so it should be detected that a second stage has occurred in the individual 8. On the other hand, because the average value RA is greater than the average value RB, the detection unit 7 will erroneously detect that a first stage corresponding to the average value RA has occurred in the individual 8.

[0048] FIG. 16 is a graph showing a correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals 5 to generate corrected information according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] The receiver 2 corrects the information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 using an information generation unit 6, using a correction coefficient that increases over time during a predetermined period, for example, period T2, which is the reception period for the multiple signals 5, to generate corrected information.

[0050] The detection unit 7 detects that the second stage has occurred for the individual 8 based on the corrected information.

[0051] 17 is a graph showing, with respect to time, the corrected reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5a emitted by the first transmitter 1a and the multiple signals 5b emitted by the second transmitter 1b in the receiver 2. The corrected information is information on the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and information on the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b.

[0052] The receiver 2 calculates the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b during a predetermined calculation period, here, period T2(1). The detection unit 7 acquires the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b calculated by the receiver 2, and detects the receiver 2 if at least one of these reaches a certain value. This certain value may be set to any value so that the target detection sensitivity of the receiver 2 can be achieved. At this time, the detection unit 7 compares the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b calculated by the receiver 2, and determines that the transmitter 1 closest to the receiver 2 is the transmitter 1 corresponding to the larger of these average values. In this way, the detection unit 7 detects the progress of the event brought about for the individual 8. In this way, the detection unit 7 detects the receiver 2 based on the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a and the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b during period T2(1). 18 is a diagram comparing the average value SA of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a transmitted by the first transmitter 1a with the average value SB of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b transmitted by the second transmitter 1b, corresponding to the first period. The average value SA is smaller than the average value SB. At time TF(1), the reception strength indicated by characteristic 11b is greater than the reception strength indicated by characteristic 11a, so it should be detected that the second stage has occurred for the individual 8. Because the average value SA is smaller than the average value SB, the detection unit 7 correctly detects that the second stage corresponding to the average value SB has occurred for the individual 8.

[0053] In the detection system 101 according to this embodiment, for example, the first stage may be a stage in which the receiver 2 is located upstream of the passage 12. The second stage may be a stage in which the receiver 2 is located downstream of the passage 12. The individual 8 may be a moving person or a means of transportation linked to the receiver 2.

[0054] FIG. 19 is a graph showing another correction coefficient over time for correcting information on the reception strength of each of a plurality of signals 5 to generate corrected information according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] In the example shown in Fig. 16, the correction coefficient changes continuously with the passage of time. Specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 16, the correction coefficient gradually increases with the passage of time from time TP, and the correction coefficient at time TF is MA.

[0056] On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 19 , the correction coefficient changes discretely over time. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 19 , the correction coefficient from time TP to time TD is MB, the correction coefficient increases from MB to MA at time TD, and the correction coefficient from time TD to time TF is MA. Note that the tendency for the correction coefficient to increase over time is not limited to the examples of correction coefficients shown in FIGS. 16 and 19 . For example, there may be a tendency other than a tendency for the correction coefficient to increase during part of the period T2 (e.g., a tendency for the correction coefficient to decrease or a constant correction coefficient). In this case, it is preferable to evaluate the tendency of the correction coefficient during the period T2 by comparing the correction coefficient at time TP with the correction coefficient at time TF during the period T2. If, as a result of comparing the two correction coefficients, the correction coefficient at time TF is greater than the correction coefficient at time TP, it may be considered that the correction coefficient tends to increase over time during the period T2.

[0057] The numerical value of the correction coefficient can take countless values ​​over time depending on the actual configuration of the detection system 101, the usage environment, the level of sensitivity at which countermeasures against false detection are implemented, and other factors, making it difficult to provide specific examples. For example, the minimum value of the correction coefficient may be 0.1 times the maximum value of the correction coefficient, or the minimum value of the correction coefficient may be 0. In the example shown in FIG. 19 , the time from time TP to time TD may be longer or shorter than the time from time TD to time TF. In the example shown in FIG. 19 , the time from time TP to time TD may be the same as the time from time TD to time TF.

[0058] The detection system 101 can be interpreted as a system that performs position detection based on the strength of the signal 5 received by the receiver 2 within a calculation period, and weights multiple signals 5 received within one calculation period.

[0059] Specifically, the signal strength received early in the calculation period is weighted lightly, and the signal strength received later is weighted heavily. When detecting the location of a moving person or means of transportation, the signal received later in the calculation period is weighted more heavily because it indicates a location closer to the current location.

[0060] There are various types of weighting functions within the calculation period. Any weighting function can be used as long as it weights the data in the first half of the calculation period lightly and the data in the second half. For example, the weighting may be changed so that the first half of the calculation period is weighted 0 and the second half is weighted 1. It is also possible to use only the last data in the calculation period (setting the correction coefficients of all data other than the last data in the calculation period to 0).

[0061] The first transmitter 1a and the second transmitter 1b may each transmit a BLE signal at regular intervals, for example, every 500 ms. The receiver 2 receives signals 5 from the first transmitter 1a and the second transmitter 1b, calculates the signal strength within a calculation period, and determines that the receiver 2 (individual 8) is located in an area of ​​a transmitter 1 with a strong signal strength.

[0062] [Additional Notes] The multiple signals 5 transmitted by the transmitter 1 include a first signal belonging to a first channel and a second signal belonging to a second channel, and the receiver 2 may set a correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the first signal to be smaller than the correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the second signal.

[0063] For example, when the communication method of the transmitter 1 and the receiver 2 is BLE, the following correspondence relationship may be used: For the multiple signals 5, the first channel corresponds to channel 39, and the second channel corresponds to channel 37 or 38. Among the multiple signals 5, the first signal corresponds to the signal on channel 39, and the second signal corresponds to the signal on channel 37 or 38. The characteristics of the signal on channel 39 are significantly different from the characteristics of the signal on channel 37 and the characteristics of the signal on channel 38 (such as the degree of variation in signal strength). Therefore, when prioritizing at least one of the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 37 and the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 38 in the corrected information, it is preferable to minimize the influence of the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 39. By making the correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 39 smaller than the correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 37 or 38, the influence of the information on the reception strength of the signal on channel 39 in the corrected information can be reduced. Therefore, a detection system 101 with high detection accuracy can be realized.

[0064] The corrected information may include information on the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5, and the detection unit 7 may detect the receiver 2 based on an average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 over a predetermined calculation period by the receiver 2. The predetermined calculation period may be 3 seconds or more, or 30 seconds or more. This makes it possible to easily realize the processing technology in the detection unit 7 according to the present disclosure based on well-known processing technology in the server 4.

[0065] Each embodiment of the present disclosure may have a modified example in which the components corresponding to the transmitter 1 and the components corresponding to the receiver 2 are reversed. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a usage environment of a detection system 101 according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, in a modified example of the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the receiver 2 may be provided in an appliance 9, and two transmitters 1 may correspond to a first individual 8c and a second individual 8d, respectively. In the modified example of the first embodiment, event detection may be performed as follows. For example, the receiver 2 calculates an average value of corrected reception strengths for each of the multiple transmitters 1 (e.g., transmitters 1c and 1d) of multiple signals 5 transmitted from the multiple transmitters 1 during a predetermined calculation period. The detection unit 7 acquires the average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 calculated by the receiver 2. The detection unit 7 identifies the transmitter 1 corresponding to the largest average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 acquired, thereby detecting an event being held by the individual 8 associated with the identified transmitter 1 among the multiple individuals 8. The occurrence of an event by the first individual 8c (e.g., use of the appliance 9) may be acquired by the receiver 2 or another means 13 linked to the receiver 2 (for example, by providing an additional transmitter different from the transmitters 1c and 1d), and the timing of the event occurrence may be notified to the receiver 2. For example, regarding the timing of use of the appliance 9 by the first individual 8c, a separate form may be provided in which the timing of use is notified to the receiver 2 to notify the start of a predetermined calculation period. When an event occurs, notifying the receiver 2 of the timing of the event occurrence may be achieved by means of a wireless or wired signal or the like.

[0066] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a usage environment of a detection system 101 according to a modified example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, in the second embodiment of the present disclosure, a transmitter 1 may correspond to an individual 8, and two receivers 2 (a first receiver 2c and a second receiver 2d) may be provided in order of progress of an event brought about for the individual 8 corresponding to the transmitter 1. In the modified example of the second embodiment, event detection may be performed as follows. For example, multiple receivers 2 (e.g., the first receiver 2c and the second receiver 2d) calculate an average value of corrected reception strengths of multiple signals 5 transmitted from the transmitter 1 during a predetermined calculation period. The detection unit 7 acquires the average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5 calculated by each of the multiple receivers 2. The detection unit 7 identifies the receiver 2 corresponding to the largest value among the acquired average values ​​of corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals 5, thereby detecting the progress of the event brought about for the individual 8.

[0067] Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present disclosure, an example has been shown in which the receiver 2 has the information generation unit 6 and the corrected information is generated by the information generation unit 6, but this is not limiting, and the corrected information may be generated by other configurations included in the detection system 101. For example, the server 4 may have the information generation unit 6 and generate the corrected information by the server 4. When the corrected information is generated by the server 4, the receiver 2 may transmit information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 to the gateway 3 or the server 4 without correcting it.

[0068] Furthermore, in each embodiment of the present disclosure, an example has been shown in which the detection unit 7 compares the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a with the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b, but this is not limiting, and for example, the receiver 2 may compare the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5a with the average value of the corrected reception strength of the multiple signals 5b and transmit the larger value to the gateway 3 or the server 4. With such a configuration, the amount of data in communication from the receiver 2 to the server 4 can be reduced.

[0069] The signal transmitted from the transmitter 1 may be Bluetooth Low Energy.

[0070] The detection system 101 may have the following configuration: it includes at least one transmitter 1 that emits multiple signals 5 at different times, at least one receiver 2 that receives information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5, and a server 4 that receives the information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals 5 from the receiver 2 and generates corrected information. The server 4 includes a detection unit 7 that detects the receiver 2 or the transmitter 1 based on the corrected information.

[0071] [Summary] A detection system according to aspect 1 of the present disclosure comprises at least one transmitter that emits multiple signals at different timings, at least one receiver that receives the multiple signals, and a server that can communicate with the receiver, wherein the receiver or the server comprises an information generation unit that corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals according to a specific timing and generates corrected information, and the server comprises a detection unit that detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the corrected information, and the specific timing is the timing of transmission of the multiple signals by the transmitter or the timing of reception of the multiple signals by the receiver.

[0072] A detection system according to aspect 2 of the present disclosure is the same as aspect 1, except that the detection system has a first receiver and a second receiver as the at least one receiver, the transmitter is provided in an appliance that is used in sequence by a first individual and a second individual corresponding to the first receiver and the second receiver, respectively, and transmits the multiple signals for a predetermined period from the time when the appliance is used by the first individual, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals using a correction coefficient that decreases with the passage of time from the time when the appliance is used by the first individual to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects the first receiver based on the corrected information.

[0073] A detection system according to aspect 3 of the present disclosure is the same as that of aspect 2, in which the instrument is a detector that detects an event of the first individual, the first individual is a first detector user linked to the first receiver, and the second individual is a second detector user linked to the second receiver.

[0074] A detection system according to aspect 4 of the present disclosure is the same as aspect 3, except that the detector is a dispenser that sprays disinfectant, the first detector user is a first dispenser user linked to the first receiver, and the second detector user is a second dispenser user linked to the second receiver.

[0075] A detection system according to aspect 5 of the present disclosure is a detection system according to aspect 1, wherein the detection system has a first transmitter and a second transmitter as the at least one transmitter, and detects an event of the receiver based on the corrected information, the event including a first stage in which the transmitter closest to the receiver is the first transmitter, and a second stage after the first stage in which the transmitter closest to the receiver is the second transmitter, the first transmitter and the second transmitter each emit the multiple signals at a predetermined period, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals using a correction coefficient that increases with the passage of time over a predetermined period to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects that the second stage has occurred in the individual based on the corrected information.

[0076] A detection system according to aspect 6 of the present disclosure is the same as that of aspect 5, wherein the first stage is a stage in which the receiver is located upstream of the passage, the second stage is a stage in which the receiver is located downstream of the passage, and the individual is a traveler or a means of transportation linked to the receiver.

[0077] A detection system according to aspect 7 of the present disclosure is the same as in aspect 1, except that the detection system has a first transmitter and a second transmitter as the at least one transmitter, the receiver is provided in an appliance that is used in turn by a first individual and a second individual corresponding to the first transmitter and the second transmitter, respectively, the first transmitter and the second transmitter emit the multiple signals over a predetermined period of time, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals using a correction coefficient that decreases with the passage of time from the time the first individual uses the appliance to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects the first transmitter based on the corrected information.

[0078] A detection system according to aspect 8 of the present disclosure is the same as that of aspect 7, wherein the device is a detector that detects an event of the first individual, the first individual is a first detector user linked to the first transmitter, and the second individual is a second detector user linked to the second transmitter.

[0079] A detection system according to aspect 9 of the present disclosure is the same as that of aspect 8, except that the detector is a dispenser that sprays disinfectant, the first detector user is a first dispenser user linked to the first transmitter, and the second detector user is a second dispenser user linked to the second transmitter.

[0080] A detection system according to aspect 10 of the present disclosure is the same as in aspect 1, except that the detection system has a first receiver and a second receiver as the at least one receiver, and detects an event of the transmitter based on the corrected information, the event including a first stage in which the receiver closest to the transmitter is the first receiver, and a second stage after the first stage in which the receiver closest to the transmitter is the second receiver, the transmitter emits the multiple signals at a predetermined period, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals using a correction coefficient that increases with the passage of time over a predetermined period to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects that the second stage has occurred in an individual based on the corrected information.

[0081] In the detection system of aspect 11 of the present disclosure, in aspect 10, the first stage is a stage in which the transmitter is located upstream of the passage, the second stage is a stage in which the transmitter is located downstream of the passage, and the individual is a traveler or a means of transportation linked to the transmitter.

[0082] A detection system according to aspect 12 of the present disclosure is a detection system according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, wherein the plurality of signals include a first signal belonging to a first channel and a second signal belonging to a second channel, and the information generating unit makes a correction coefficient for information on the reception strength of the first signal smaller than a correction coefficient for information on the reception strength of the second signal.

[0083] A detection system according to aspect 13 of the present disclosure is one in which, in any one of aspects 1 to 12, the corrected information includes information on the corrected reception strengths of the plurality of signals, and the detection unit detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the average value of the corrected reception strengths of the plurality of signals during a predetermined calculation period by the receiver.

[0084] A detection system according to Aspect 14 of the present disclosure is in any one of Aspects 1 to 13, wherein the signal emitted from the transmitter is Bluetooth Low Energy.

[0085] A detection system according to aspect 15 of the present disclosure comprises at least one transmitter that emits multiple signals at different times, at least one receiver that receives information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals, and a server that receives the information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals from the receiver and generates corrected information, and the server comprises a detection unit that detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the corrected information.

[0086] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, 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 disclosure. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

[0087] (Cross-reference to related applications) This application claims the benefit of priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-089404, filed on May 31, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0088] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Transmitter 1a First transmitter 1b Second transmitter 1c and 1d Transmitters 2 Receiver 2a First receiver 2b Second receiver 2c First receiver 2d Second receiver 3 Gateway 4 Server 5, 5a, 5b Signal 6 Information generation unit 7 Detection unit 8 Individual 8a First individual 8b Second individual 8c First individual 8d Second individual 9 Instrument 10a Within signal transmission range of first transmitter 10b Within signal transmission range of second transmitter 11a, 11b Characteristics 12 Passage 101 Detection system

Claims

1. A detection system comprising: at least one transmitter that emits multiple signals at different timings; at least one receiver that receives the multiple signals; and a server that can communicate with the receiver, wherein the receiver or the server comprises an information generation unit that corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals according to a specific timing and generates corrected information, and the server comprises a detection unit that detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the corrected information, and the specific timing is the timing of transmission of the multiple signals by the transmitter or the timing of reception of the multiple signals by the receiver.

2. The detection system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one receiver is a first receiver and a second receiver; the transmitter is provided in an appliance that is used in turn by a first individual and a second individual corresponding to the first receiver and the second receiver, respectively, and transmits the plurality of signals for a predetermined period of time from the time the appliance is used by the first individual; the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the plurality of signals using a correction coefficient that decreases with the passage of time from the time the appliance is used by the first individual to generate the corrected information; and the detection unit detects the first receiver based on the corrected information.

3. The detection system of claim 2, wherein the instrument is a detector that detects an event of the first individual, the first individual is a first detector user associated with the first receiver, and the second individual is a second detector user associated with the second receiver.

4. The detection system of claim 3, wherein the detector is a dispenser that sprays disinfectant, the first detector user is a first dispenser user linked to the first receiver, and the second detector user is a second dispenser user linked to the second receiver.

5. The detection system according to claim 1, wherein the detection system has a first transmitter and a second transmitter as the at least one transmitter, and detects an event of the receiver based on the corrected information, the event including a first stage in which the transmitter closest to the receiver is the first transmitter, and a second stage after the first stage in which the transmitter closest to the receiver is the second transmitter, the first transmitter and the second transmitter each emit the multiple signals at a predetermined period, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals by a correction coefficient that increases with the passage of time over a predetermined period to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects that the second stage has occurred in the individual based on the corrected information.

6. The detection system of claim 5, wherein the first stage is a stage in which the receiver is located upstream of the passage, the second stage is a stage in which the receiver is located downstream of the passage, and the individual is a moving person or a moving means linked to the receiver.

7. The detection system according to claim 1, wherein the detection system has a first transmitter and a second transmitter as the at least one transmitter, the receiver is provided in an appliance that is used in turn by a first individual and a second individual corresponding to the first transmitter and the second transmitter, respectively, the first transmitter and the second transmitter emit the plurality of signals over a predetermined period of time, the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the plurality of signals using a correction coefficient that decreases with the passage of time from the timing of use of the appliance by the first individual to generate the corrected information, and the detection unit detects the first transmitter based on the corrected information.

8. The detection system of claim 7, wherein the instrument is a detector that detects an event of the first individual, the first individual is a first detector user linked to the first transmitter, and the second individual is a second detector user linked to the second transmitter.

9. The detection system of claim 8, wherein the detector is a dispenser that sprays disinfectant, the first detector user is a first dispenser user linked to the first transmitter, and the second detector user is a second dispenser user linked to the second transmitter.

10. The detection system of claim 1, wherein the detection system has a first receiver and a second receiver as the at least one receiver, and detects an event of the transmitter based on the corrected information, the event including a first stage in which the receiver closest to the transmitter is the first receiver, and a second stage after the first stage in which the receiver closest to the transmitter is the second receiver; the transmitter emits the multiple signals at a predetermined period; the information generation unit corrects information on the reception strength of each of the multiple signals using a correction coefficient that increases with the passage of time over a predetermined period to generate the corrected information; and the detection unit detects that the second stage has occurred in an individual based on the corrected information.

11. The detection system described in claim 10, wherein the first stage is a stage in which the transmitter is located upstream of the passage, the second stage is a stage in which the transmitter is located downstream of the passage, and the individual is a moving person or a moving means linked to the transmitter.

12. A detection system as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the plurality of signals include a first signal belonging to a first channel and a second signal belonging to a second channel, and the information generating unit makes a correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the first signal smaller than the correction coefficient for the information on the reception strength of the second signal.

13. A detection system as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the corrected information includes information on the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals, and the detection unit detects the receiver or the transmitter based on the average value of the corrected reception strengths of the multiple signals during a predetermined calculation period by the receiver.

14. A detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the signal emitted from the transmitter is Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy.

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