Implement and signal processing system

Abstract

An objective of the present invention is to reliably detect the presence of mice using a simple structure, so as to be usable for regular inspections by a building management company or the like.　A feeding detector 1 comprises a control board 11, a beacon board 12, and a movement detecting unit 40. The beacon board 12 includes a circuit for transmitting a beacon using power supplied from a dry battery 13. On the basis that the conduction state of the circuit is an ON state, the control board 11 switches the conduction state from the ON state to an OFF state when a predetermined condition is satisfied. In order to maintain the ON state of the control board 11, the movement detecting unit 40 detects that a weight equal to or greater than a threshold is being continuously applied at a height position A to a bait E support unit 43, and detects, as the predetermined condition (that the bait E has been dropped), that the weight of the support unit 43 and the bait E being applied at the height position A to the support part 43 has dropped below the threshold value.

Description

Apparatus and signal processing system

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and a signal processing system.

[0002] Conventionally, there is a monitoring system that installs a surveillance camera and a plurality of infrared sensors on the floor surface to monitor sensitive mice (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-266735

[0004] By the way, for example, a management company that manages a building or the like needs to periodically inspect whether there are vermin or pests (small animals to be monitored) such as mice on the floor. However, the above-described conventional technology has not been able to sufficiently meet the requirements as a device positioned for periodic inspection due to its large-scale configuration.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and has a simple structure so that it can be used for periodic inspections by a building management company or the like, and can surely detect the presence of small animals to be monitored. The purpose is to make it possible.

[0006] To achieve the above object, an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a transmission unit having a circuit that transmits a predetermined signal using power supplied from a predetermined power source, and a conduction state of the circuit is ON. A switching unit that switches the conduction state from the ON state to the OFF state when a predetermined condition is satisfied based on the state, and a weight equal to or greater than a threshold value is continuously applied to a first location in order to maintain the ON state of the switching unit, and the weight applied to the first location is less than the threshold value. A condition detection unit that detects the above as the predetermined condition. Further, a signal processing system according to an aspect of the present invention includes the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and an apparatus-compatible terminal having a function of receiving the predetermined signal transmitted from the apparatus. When the apparatus-compatible terminal detects that the reception of the predetermined signal has been interrupted, it includes signal non-detection means for outputting information indicating the detection result as signal non-information.

[0007] According to the present invention, a device with a simple structure can be used for periodic inspections by building management companies and the like, and can reliably detect the presence of small animals that are being monitored.

[0008] Figure 1 shows a bait-eating detection service (hereinafter referred to as "this service") using a bait-eating detection device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows a service provided by a signal processing system including the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 shows the circuit configuration of the bait-eating detection device included in the signal processing system shown in Figure 2. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the condition detection unit of the bait-eating detection device when the support unit is at height position A. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the condition detection unit of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 2 when the support unit has moved to height position B. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the first embodiment of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 3 (an example using a photosensor). Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 3 (an example using a contact switch between metal terminals). Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 3 (an example using a microswitch). Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the fifth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 3 (an example of a curved arm). Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the sixth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 3 (an example of a structure that attracts the point of action).

[0009] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, the background leading to the conception of the embodiments of the present invention will be explained. Buildings such as office buildings must be maintained in accordance with the ordinances and guidelines of the area in which they are constructed. For example, in a certain local city, it is instructed that inspections of the habitat of rodents and other pests be conducted at least once a month. For this reason, building managers need to inspect the habitat of pests at least once a month. Specifically, building managers or personnel commissioned by the managers climb onto the ceiling using ladders, set traps to check for pests (mainly rodents), and periodically check the condition of the traps to confirm the presence or absence of pests. Special "bait" is used in the traps, but it is not for killing but is a non-toxic bait for attracting, or sunflower seeds are used. Since the inspection work is done at height, it is necessary to work in a team of two (or more) people, for example, one person working at height and another person assisting them. The means of detecting the presence of rodents is for the personnel to visually check whether the attractant bait has been consumed. Because the target areas are places where mice are likely to roam, such as attics, confined spaces, and damp areas, it takes time for workers to visually inspect them. Since the inspection process requires human intervention, the number of available personnel becomes a bottleneck, preventing the acquisition of new customers. It was against this backdrop that the present invention was conceived.

[0010] Hereinafter, a feed-feeding detection service using a feed-feeding detection device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a feed-feeding detection service using a feed-feeding detection device according to one embodiment of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "this service").

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, this service involves detecting bait consumption when a predetermined condition is met, such as when a pest (small animal) like a mouse eats bait E attached to one end of the arm of a bait detection device 1 (device) placed on the ceiling of a building, and the end of the arm becomes lighter. The device then transmits a message from its wireless communication unit (transmitter) to a worker (inspector) inside the building, thereby informing the inspector of the presence of a pest (small animal). Transmitting a message of detection includes not only transmitting radio waves, but also, for example, lighting up an LED or sounding a buzzer. The bait E may be directly attached to one end of the arm, or it may be placed in a container such as a tray on one end of the arm. The tray is a container for holding bait E that a small animal like a mouse will eat.

[0012] The bait E is made from something that mice N like to eat (for example, a solid made by hardening a powder mainly composed of sunflower seeds and processing it into a rectangular prism shape). A through-hole is provided in the center of the bait E, and the support part 43 (see Figure 4, etc.), which will be described later, is inserted into the through-hole to attach the bait E to the device. When using a container such as a tray, sunflower seeds as they are may be used as the bait E. Alternatively, bait E mixed with poison, so-called poisoned bait, may be used.

[0013] Furthermore, the bait E may be provided by the service provider as a single unit formed from multiple pieces, and the bait may be used by breaking it apart along the cut lines. Bait E may also be other materials or mechanisms, as long as the weight of the part touched by the mouse N changes (becomes lighter or heavier).

[0014] The bait detection device 1 has the function of transmitting a predetermined signal, such as a Bluetooth signal, as a beacon at regular intervals. Note that Bluetooth is a registered trademark. The power source for this device is a dry cell battery, and it can operate for approximately six months (about half a year) with two dry cell batteries connected in parallel. For dry cell batteries, it is preferable to use "AA" or "AAA" batteries, for example, considering the miniaturization of the device, the operating period, and the power consumption. The present invention is not limited to the type or capacity of the battery. The battery capacity shall be determined according to the radio wave strength, transmission frequency, and battery replacement frequency.

[0015] The field terminal 2 has an application program (hereinafter referred to as "the app") provided by the service provider installed. When the app is launched, the field terminal 2 receives a predetermined signal transmitted from the bait detection device 1 and displays the presence or absence of the signal on the app's screen. The predetermined signal is, for example, a beacon, which is one of the radio waves transmitted periodically from the bait detection device 1. In the case of receiving a beacon in this way, reception is possible simply by a person carrying the field terminal 2 with the app running passing near the location where the bait detection device 1 is installed (for example, on the floor). Therefore, data can be easily collected by people such as cleaning staff or floor representatives, without the need for patrols for inspection or survey purposes. In addition, the basic functions of the app include, for example, checking the condition of the bait, checking the battery level, and checking the installation location. Other functions of the app include, for example, a reporting function, a notification function for when it is time to replace batteries, bait, etc., and a detection location management function.

[0016] This service eliminates the need to visually check the condition of the bait E, as it can be checked remotely using a PC, smartphone, etc., thus improving work efficiency. Furthermore, work in confined spaces and at heights is limited to when necessary (installation, bait replacement, etc.). For pest detection, the existing method using bait E can be applied, improving work efficiency without changing the accuracy of the detection. Since confirmation can be carried out early after detection, highly reproductive pests such as rats can be dealt with before their numbers increase.

[0017] In addition, this service can also provide the following benefits. For example, with a simple structure of "contact disconnection," it is possible to check the status of "detection, malfunction, and battery depletion," which would otherwise require on-site response, in a single action. Power saving is achieved by simplifying the unique bait-eating sensor and communication functions. Since it does not use communication equipment such as Wi-Fi or a power supply, it can be used regardless of the installation location. Since it can operate for a long period of time on dry cell batteries, the same level of work can be handled with minimal patrols. Work efficiency can be expected as patrols only need to be conducted when an abnormality notification is received. Since work at heights is eliminated, regular patrols can be easily checked by one person. Since patrol work can be reduced in manpower, the number of clients can be expanded. The occurrence situation in the surrounding area is also mapped, so it is possible to understand the habitat and movement of rats (pests). By developing the shape of the bait E attached to one end of the arm and the tray, bait replacement will become even easier. The most suitable pest control company can be introduced according to the area of ​​occurrence. Because bait consumption can be detected in real time, it's possible to take action before the rat population increases.

[0018] In the above embodiment, the building to be inspected was described as a building and the small animal as a mouse, but in addition to these, the target of inspection could be an empty house and pests such as civets or raccoons could be detected, and it can be applied to detecting wandering elderly people, IoT-based management of kerosene levels used in facility gardening, etc.

[0019] Next, with reference to Figure 2, we will explain the service provided by the signal processing system including the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 1. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the service provided by the signal processing system including the bait-eating detection device shown in Figure 1.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, the signal processing system of the embodiment comprises a bait consumption detection device 1 installed on the ceiling of a building, a field terminal 2 that communicates wirelessly with the bait consumption detection device 1 via Bluetooth communication, and a monitoring terminal T that is connected to the field terminal 2 via a network NW such as a cloud.

[0021] The monitoring terminal T is a terminal managed and operated by the monitor O, and can be, for example, a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer.

[0022] The field terminal 2 is a smartphone, tablet, or personal computer with the app installed, and has a monitoring function K that monitors the Bluetooth signal transmitted from the bait detection device 1. When the monitoring function K of the field terminal 2 detects that the reception of the Bluetooth signal transmitted from the bait detection device 1 has been interrupted, it outputs information indicating the detection result as no signal information via the network NW to the monitoring terminal T of the monitor O or the website W managed by the service provider. In other words, it detects mice that have come to eat the bait E, collects the detection result with the app on the field terminal 2, and links the collected data to the monitoring terminal T or website W (cloud server, etc.) via the network NW. As a result, the monitor O, who is monitoring the monitoring terminal T or website W, can reliably recognize when the battery of the bait detection device 1 has run out or when there is a pest (small animal) such as a mouse N.

[0023] The following describes the definition of users and the functions of the web application (hereinafter referred to as "the application") implemented on the field terminal 2 or on a cloud server, etc. Users are divided into system administrators, field administrators, and field users. System administrators are service providers, field administrators are managers of building maintenance companies or inspection companies, store owners, etc. Field users are field workers of inspection companies, store owners, and employees, etc.

[0024] The user-specific functions of the application provided by the service provider are as follows: System administrators are provided with functions necessary for management tasks, such as logging for system operation, user registration, viewing all user data, and changing status. Field managers are provided with functions to facilitate field work, such as user registration, field management, and shift management, as well as functions to comprehensively handle administrative tasks related to inspection work. Functions for checking terminal status, such as alert confirmation, are also provided. Field users are provided with support functions to perform work efficiently, such as viewing buildings to be surveyed, work task management, and customer patrol route confirmation. The work task management function is designed to prevent omissions in survey work. In addition, field users are provided with functions such as the creation of inspection survey reports.

[0025] Common features of the app provided by the service provider include beacon reception, mapping, and pest outbreak information sharing. The beacon reception function receives beacon signals from the bait detection device 1. The mapping function allows users to view mapping information. The pest outbreak information sharing function shares information about pest outbreaks with each user when bait consumption is detected.

[0026] This service offers the following benefits: 1. High-altitude work can be performed by one person (ceiling-mounted type). 1-1. In the case of the ceiling-mounted type, the inner case can be removed to the interior of the room using a key jig attached to the end of the pole. This allows for bait and battery replacement to be done by one person, eliminating the need for high-altitude work. 1-2. There is no need for ladders or equipment, which reduces travel time and improves work efficiency. 2. The status of baiting can be checked without relying on visual inspection. 2-1. The status of the bait is monitored by a proprietary sensor and can be checked using a smartphone application. 2-2. Monitoring can be performed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, so the intrusion of highly reproductive pests such as rats can be detected before they multiply (response can be taken as soon as the bait is consumed). 3. The status of the installation location can be managed remotely. 3-1. By managing information received by the on-site application in the cloud, the installation location in a remote location can be easily checked. 3-2. The status of the bait and battery can also be checked in the cloud. 4. Tasks for each survey terminal can be easily checked. 4-1. Notifications are sent when it is time to change bait or batteries. 4-2. Reminders are sent for the timing of regular patrols. 5. Visit routes and planned visit locations for on-site surveys can be checked on a map. 5-1. Managed tasks can be checked on a map and patrol routes can be created. 5-2. Managers and related parties can check delays and abnormalities during work in real time, and respond quickly when problems occur. 6. Work reports can be created on-site. 6-1. Work status can be registered from the app. 6-2. Daily reports and other reports can be created from work information registered during patrols. 7. The status of pest infestations can be checked. 7-1. Detection status is displayed on a map, and the status of infestations in the vicinity can be checked. 7-2. Pest information and related information can be checked. 7-3. Future damage can be predicted using AI.

[0027] Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 6, a first embodiment of the bait-eating detection device included in the signal processing system will be described. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the condition detection unit of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 3 when the support unit is at the first position. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the condition detection unit of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 2 when the support unit has moved to height position B. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing an example (first embodiment) where the detection unit of the condition detection unit of Figure 5 is a photosensor.

[0028] First, the circuit configuration of the bait consumption detection device of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the circuit configuration of the bait consumption detection device included in the signal processing system of Figure 2. The bait consumption detection device included in the signal processing system of Figure 2 has the circuit configuration shown in Figure 3. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the bait consumption detection device 1 has a condition detection unit 4 and a control unit 10.

[0029] The control unit 10 includes a control board 11, an LED L or beacon board 12, a dry cell battery 13, etc. The beacon board 12 transmits a beacon under the control of the control board 11. The beacon board 12 has a circuit that transmits, for example, a beacon (a predetermined signal) using power supplied from the dry cell battery 13 (a predetermined power source). As a beacon, the beacon board 12 transmits a Bluetooth signal within a radius of 10 meters (a predetermined range) from the transmission point (a set position). The Bluetooth signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is a fixed interval (for example, an interval of n seconds).

[0030] By installing the app on the field terminal 2 carried by the worker, the field terminal 2 can receive the beacon on the floor, etc., so simply by installing the app on the field terminal 2, a low-cost function for monitoring bait consumption by pests can be implemented.

[0031] The dry cell battery 13 is a predetermined power source that supplies power to the control board 11 and the beacon board 12. This allows the device to be installed in places without wiring, such as ceilings. It also makes it easy to move the installation location. Two dry cell batteries 13, for example, can power the device for approximately six months.

[0032] The control unit 11 switches the circuit's conduction state from ON to OFF when predetermined conditions are met, based on the circuit's conduction state being ON. The predetermined conditions are when the power supply from the dry cell battery 13 is interrupted and when bait consumption is detected. The control board 11 controls the beacon board 12 to transmit a beacon using the power supply from the dry cell battery 13. The control board 11 also performs control to light up the LED L using the power supply from the dry cell battery 13. The control board 11 monitors the voltage of the dry cell battery 13, and when the voltage of the dry cell battery 13 falls below a predetermined amount (e.g., 60%) within the voltage range in which the control board 11 can operate, it transmits additional power drop information on the beacon. If the voltage of the dry cell battery 13 falls below a voltage value in which the control board 11 will not operate (e.g., 0.6V or less) (in the case of battery failure), beacon transmission is stopped.

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, the above-mentioned condition detection unit 4 comprises a seesaw structure including a rotating shaft 41 and an arm 42, and a detection unit 50.

[0034] The seesaw structure comprises a pivot point 41 (fulcrum) positioned offset from the center of gravity of the arm 42, a support part 43 (point of force application) positioned at one end of the arm 42, and a spring mounting part 44 (point of application) positioned at the other end of the arm 42.

[0035] A coil spring 45 is mounted on the spring mounting portion 44 with its lower end fixed. The upper end of the coil spring 45 abuts against a member 38 fixed to the housing of the device, and the coil spring 45 generates a pressing force so that the arm 42 maintains a parallel position when the bait E is attached, as shown in Figure 4. The spring mounting portion 44 is subjected to the weight (spring load) of the coil spring 45, and the pressing force (detected load) of the coil spring 45 is set by the force obtained by subtracting this spring load. These components constitute the biasing mechanism.

[0036] The detection unit 50 includes, for example, a photosensor 51 fixed to the housing of the device, a light-shielding member 52 fixed to the point of application side of the arm 42, and a biasing mechanism attached to the point of force application side of the arm 42 to offset the weight of the bait E and the arm 42. The biasing mechanism may be the coil spring 45 or the like.

[0037] Here, we will explain how to calculate the detected load at the point of application. The detected load at the point of application can be calculated using the distance between the fulcrum and the point of force application (and the point of application) and the pressing force of the coil spring 45. Let the downward force, which is the sum of the load of the bait E and the weight of the arm 42, be the load F1 [N], let the upward force at the spring mounting part 44 (point of application) be the detected load F2 [N], let the pressing force of the coil spring 45 be the spring load F3 [N], let the distance from the rotation axis 41 on the arm 42 to the point of force application be distance L1, and let the distance from the rotation axis 41 on the arm 42 to the point of application be distance L2, then F2 = {(L1 / L2) × F1} - F3 [N]. The above calculation formula is an example where the state is ON, as shown in Figure 4 with the bait E attached. On the other hand, in the case of the ON state when there is no bait E as shown in Figure 5, if the downward force of the arm 42's own weight is defined as load F1 [N], the upward force of the reaction force of the spring load is defined as load F2 [N], and the downward force of the spring mounting part 44 (point of application) is defined as the detected load F3 [N], then F3 = F2 - {(L1 / L2) × F1} [N].

[0038] In this example, a coil spring 45 is used as an example of a biasing mechanism that can continuously apply a pressing force, but other biasing mechanisms or elastic bodies may also be used, as long as they are elastic and can apply a pressing force. Depending on the position of the point of application to which the biasing mechanism is attached, a tensile force may be used instead of a pressing force (see Figure 11).

[0039] In this seesaw structure, by attaching the bait E to the support part 43, the weight of the bait E and the pressing force (pressing force) of the coil spring 45 are balanced, and the support part 43 is held at height position A.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, the condition detection unit 4 includes the rotation axis 41 (fulcrum) of the arm 42, a support part 43 provided at one end of the arm 42 which functions as a point of force application, a movement detection unit 40 that detects movement related to the movement of the other end (point of application) of the arm 42, and a detection unit 50 that detects when the bait E falls from the support part 43 as a condition that has been met.

[0041] Furthermore, the detection unit 50 detects that the predetermined conditions are met not only when the bait E falls, but also when, for example, a portion of the bait E is shaved off and the load becomes lighter than the threshold. In addition, the detection unit 50 also detects that the predetermined conditions are met when the mouse gnaws and destroys the arm 42 beyond the rotation axis 41 (a state in which the load F1 cannot be detected).

[0042] Specifically, in the first embodiment, the detection unit 50 employs a photosensor 51, as shown in Figure 6. The photosensor 51 comprises a light-emitting unit that emits light to one of two opposing wall surfaces, and a light-receiving unit that receives the said light to the other wall surface. The photosensor 51 detects when the light between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit is blocked. In this example, the photosensor 51 detects that when the support unit 43 (one end of the arm 42) moves to height position B in Figure 5, the member 52 at the other end of the arm 42 lowers, and the member 52 blocks the light between the light-emitting unit and the light-receiving unit.

[0043] The movement detection unit 40 continuously applies a weight equal to or greater than a threshold value to the height position A (the first location) of the support portion 43 of the bait E, which is the force point with respect to the rotation axis 41 (fulcrum) of the arm 42, in order to maintain the ON state of the control board 11. When the weight applied to the height position A (the weight of the support portion 43 and the bait E) is less than the threshold value (the weight that eliminates the left - right balance centered on the fulcrum of the arm 42), it is detected that the bait E has fallen off the support portion 43 (see FIG. 5) (meeting the predetermined conditions).

[0044] The detection unit 50 detects that the weight of the support portion 43 and the bait E applied to the height position A becomes lighter (weaker) than the biasing force of the coil spring 45 at the acting point of the seesaw structure (the arm 42 and the rotation axis 41) (the force that pushes the other end (acting point) of the arm 42 downward), and the member 52 arranged at the other end of the arm 42 drops, blocking the light of the photosensor 51, and notifies the control unit 10.

[0045] Here, as an example of the detection unit 50, a photosensor 51 is shown. However, the detection unit 50 may be other than this. Other examples of the detection mechanism that detects the weight change of the seesaw structure including the arm 42 and the bait E will be described later.<00,00091>

[0046] Inside the housing of the bait - eating detection device 1, a circuit board including the control unit 10 and a battery are housed. The housing has holes provided in either the side surface or the upper surface, and an LED L is fixed to the hole. The LED L is controlled by the control unit 10 and emits light outward when the device is operating normally.

[0047] In the case of this bait - eating detection device 1, if the weight of the bait E attached to one end of the arm 42 is equal to or greater than a certain weight, the control unit 10 operates by the power supplied from the dry battery 13, and transmits a beacon signal or lights up the LED L.

[0048] Here, the operation of the food consumption detection device according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the state when the support portion is at the height position A in the movement detection portion of the food consumption detection device in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the state when the support portion has moved to the height position B in the movement detection portion of the food consumption detection device in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example (first embodiment) when the detection portion of the movement detection portion in FIG. 5 is a photosensor. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, with the food E attached, the arm 42 is held at the height position A, and while the light between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion of the photosensor 51 is not blocked by the member 52, the control unit 10 sets the energized state of the circuit to the ON state (conductive state), power is supplied from the control unit 10, and the beacon continues to be transmitted.

[0049] After that, when the food E is eaten by a mouse N or the like, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, when the food E falls off from the support portion 43 or the food E is gnawed and the load (weight) of the food E decreases, the rotation axis 41 of the arm 42 rotates in the direction of the arrow R, and the position of the support portion 43 moves from the height position A to the height position B (arrow Q). Along with this, the member 52 on the action point side of the arm 42 descends, the light of the photosensor 51 is blocked by the member 52, and a signal indicating light shielding is output from the photosensor 51.

[0050] When the control unit 10 receives a signal indicating light shielding from the photosensor 51, it switches the energized state of the circuit to the OFF state (non-conductive state). As a result, the power supply to the beacon substrate 12 and the LED L is cut off, and the transmission of the beacon is stopped. The LED L also goes out.

[0051] In the field terminal 2, when the beacon transmitted at regular intervals from the food consumption detection device 1 is received or the reception stops, the operation state of the food consumption detection device 1 is displayed in real time on the application screen of the field terminal 2.

[0052] The operating status of the bait detection device 1 is indicated by a list of bait detection devices 1 that are transmitting beacons (device identification numbers, etc.). When the beacon is no longer received, the device identification number of the bait detection device 1 in that list will be grayed out or activated, indicating that a malfunction such as a dead battery in the dry cell battery 13 has occurred, or that the device has entered a bait-eating state.

[0053] Since inspection is necessary when either the battery runs out or the food is consumed, it is useful to keep the device with the LED lit or the beacon emitting at all times, and to turn off the LED or stop the beacon from emitting when an abnormality or food consumption occurs.

[0054] As described above, with the bait-eating detection device 1 of the first embodiment, due to the seesaw structure, when the bait E attached to one end of the arm 42 is eaten or falls, that end rises, and due to the lever principle, the other end (point of application) of the arm 42 inside the device lowers. By providing a detection unit 50 on the point of application side to detect the movement of the arm 42, bait-eating can be detected. In other words, bait-eating can be detected by the movement on the point of application side inside the device, utilizing the change in the weight of the bait E when the mouse N eats the bait E. To detect evidence that the bait E has been eaten, by detecting a change in weight (decrease in load) of the arm 42 to which the bait E is attached that exceeds a threshold, the accuracy of bait-eating detection can be improved compared to a device that detects, for example, when the mouse N pulls on the bait E. Furthermore, the detection unit that detects changes in the weight of the bait E and the movement of the arm 42 can utilize, for example, a self-made contact structure or commercially available sensors and switches (for example, a photosensor 51 (see Figure 6), a magnetic sensor 53 (see Figure 7) described later, a metal terminal contact structure (see Figure 8), a microswitch 58 (see Figure 9), a touch switch, etc.), thus providing many options for the detection structure that take cost and environmental factors into consideration. By receiving a beacon from the bait consumption detection device 1 installed in the ceiling space at the field terminal 2, the worker can check the bait consumption and battery depletion status from the field terminal 2, so that pest animal surveys in ceiling spaces, which previously required working at heights using ladders or stepladders, can now be carried out with light equipment without using ladders or stepladders.

[0055] Next, other embodiments of the bait-eating detection device will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 11. Note that the embodiments described below only show a partial configuration (elements of the condition detection unit 4) in the figures, but are part of the configuration described in Figures 1 to 3. First, the second embodiment (an example using a magnetic sensor) will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the second embodiment (an example using a magnetic sensor) of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 3. Note that the embodiments described below only show a partial configuration (elements of the condition detection unit 4) in the figures, but are part of the configuration described in Figures 1 to 3. As shown in Figure 7, in the second embodiment, the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40 includes a magnetic sensor 53 fixed to the base plate 39 of the device body, and a magnet 54 positioned at the bottom (point of application) of the spring mounting portion 44 of the arm 42, corresponding to the position of the magnetic sensor 53.

[0056] In this second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the bait E is eaten by the mouse N and the load of the bait E decreases (the weight decreases), the support portion 43 at one end of the arm 42 lifts up around the pivot point, and the magnet 54 located at the opposite end (the point of application) of the arm 42 lowers. As a result, the magnet 54 approaches the magnetic sensor 53, and the contacts inside the magnetic sensor 53 are turned ON by the magnetism of the magnet 54, thereby detecting that the bait has been eaten.

[0057] Furthermore, when using a magnetic sensor 53 in the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40, the magnetic sensor 53 will not react to the magnet 54 placed at the point of action of the arm 42 during normal operation (for example, when the arm 42 is nearly parallel to the bait), but will react (detect) when the arm 42 rotates in the direction of arrow S due to eating the bait, and the magnet 54 descends to a predetermined position and approaches the magnetic sensor 53. The specifications and distance between the magnet 54 and the magnetic sensor 53 must be considered.

[0058] As described above, according to this second embodiment, the detection unit 50 is composed of a magnetic sensor 53 and a magnet 54, and as the magnet 54 approaches the magnetic sensor 53 due to the rotation of the arm 42, it is possible to detect bait consumption and satisfy the conditions for bait consumption without contact with the target for detection. As a result, the circuit conduction state in the control unit 10 is switched from the ON state to the OFF state, so the transmission of the beacon is stopped, and the presence of the mouse N can be reliably detected at the field terminal 2.

[0059] Next, a third embodiment (an example of a contact switch between metal terminals) will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 3 (an example of using a contact switch between metal terminals). As shown in Figure 8, in the third embodiment, the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40 includes a first metal terminal 55 fixed to the base plate 39 of the device body, a projection 56 positioned on the spring mounting portion 44 of the arm 42 corresponding to the position of the first metal terminal 55, and a second metal terminal 57 positioned downward from the bottom of the projection 56.

[0060] In this third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the bait E is eaten by the mouse N and the load of the bait E decreases (the weight decreases), the support portion 43 at one end of the arm 42 lifts up around the pivot point, and the opposite end (the point of application) of the arm 42 lowers, causing the second metal terminal 57 to contact and engage with the first metal terminal 55, turning the contact ON and detecting that the bait has been eaten.

[0061] Furthermore, if the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40 is to be a switch structure using contact between metal terminals, it is necessary to carefully consider the pressure when the first metal terminal 55 and the second metal terminal 57 are in contact, the force applied when they are fitted (balance between contact pressure and weight), and the load setting. However, since no off-the-shelf products are used, the detection unit 50 can be constructed at low cost.

[0062] Thus, according to this third embodiment, the detection unit 50 is composed of the first metal terminal 55, the second metal terminal 57, and the projection 56, and the eating of bait can be detected by a physical connection, such as when the second metal terminal 57 contacts and fits with the first metal terminal 55 due to the rotation of the arm 42, thereby satisfying the conditions for eating bait. As a result, the circuit's conductivity state is switched from the ON state to the OFF state in the control unit 10, so the beacon transmission is stopped, and the presence of the mouse N can be reliably detected at the field terminal 2.

[0063] Next, a fourth embodiment (an example using a microswitch) will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment (an example using a microswitch) of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 3. As shown in Figure 9, in the fourth embodiment, the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40 includes a microswitch 58 fixed to the circuit board 39 of the device body, and a projection 56 positioned on the spring mounting portion 44 of the arm 42 corresponding to the position of the lever 59 of the microswitch 58.

[0064] In this fourth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the bait E is eaten by the mouse N and the load of the bait E decreases (the weight decreases), the support portion 43 at one end of the arm 42 lifts up around the pivot point, and the projection 56 located at the opposite end (point of application) of the arm 42 lowers. This causes the projection 56 to push down the lever 59 of the microswitch 58, turning on the contact inside the microswitch 58, and thus detecting that the bait has been eaten.

[0065] Furthermore, if the detection unit 50 of the movement detection unit 40 is a microswitch 58, since it involves physical contact, it is necessary to set the load precisely, taking into account the force required to push down the lever of the microswitch 58.

[0066] As described above, according to this fourth embodiment, the detection unit 50 is composed of the microswitch 58, its lever 59, and the projection 56. When the projection 56 pushes down the lever 59 due to the rotation of the arm 42, the contact inside the microswitch 58 turns ON, detecting bait consumption and fulfilling the conditions for bait consumption. As a result, the circuit's conductivity state is switched from ON to OFF in the control unit 10, so the beacon transmission is stopped, and the presence of the mouse N can be reliably detected at the field terminal 2.

[0067] Next, a fifth embodiment of the bait-feeding detection device (an example with a curved arm) and a sixth embodiment (an example with an attraction structure at the point of application) will be described with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0068] First, a fifth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device (an example with a curved arm) will be described with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the fifth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device (an example with a curved arm) of Figure 3. In the fifth embodiment, the bait-eating detection device 1 uses a coil spring 45 in the movement detection unit 40 that generates a pressing force in the direction of arrow D when bait E is attached, and the portion 42a of the arm exposed from the rotation axis 41 of the device body is composed of two parts: a curved portion 91 that curves downward and a straight portion 92. A support portion 43 is provided at the end of the straight portion 92.

[0069] In this fifth embodiment, during normal detection operation with bait E attached to the support part 43, the downward force (direction of arrow D) of the coil spring 45 balances the load including the arm portion 42a and the bait E, so that the straight portion 92 of the arm is at approximately the same position as the bottom surface of the device body. Furthermore, when the bait E is eaten by the mouse N and the support part 43 side becomes lighter, the movement detection unit 40 inside the device body detects that the arm on the side where the coil spring 45 is pushing is lowered, and that the condition for bait eating has been met. The subsequent movements are the same as in the above embodiment and will not be described.

[0070] As described above, according to the fifth embodiment (example of a curved arm), by configuring the arm portion 42a with two parts, a curved portion 91 and a straight portion 92, the bottom surface of the device body and the straight portion 92 of the arm 42a are at approximately the same position during normal detection operation with the bait E attached, thereby improving the installation stability of the device.

[0071] Next, a sixth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device (an example with a structure that attracts the point of action) will be described with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a perspective view showing an example of the sixth embodiment of the bait-eating detection device of Figure 3. As shown in Figure 11, the bait-eating detection device 1 of the sixth embodiment has the arm structure of Figure 10 and is structured to pull the point of action of the movement detection unit 40 downwards. Specifically, the bait-eating detection device 1 of the sixth embodiment has an arm portion 42a composed of two parts: a curved portion 91 that curves downwards and a straight portion 92. The movement detection unit 40 is equipped with a coil spring 46 connected between the arm and the bottom surface of the device. During normal detection operation when bait E is attached, the coil spring 46 pulls the arm downwards (in the direction of arrow D) within the device body, so that the bottom surface of the device body and the straight portion 92 of the arm are at approximately the same position as described in Figure 10. Furthermore, when the bait E is eaten by the mouse N and the support part 43 becomes lighter, the movement detection unit 40 inside the device body detects that the arm on the side of the point of action being pulled by the coil spring 46 lowers, indicating that the condition for bait consumption has been met. The subsequent movements are the same as in the above embodiment and will not be explained.

[0072] As described above, in the sixth embodiment (an example with a structure that attracts the point of application), by configuring the arm portion 42a with two parts, a curved portion 91 and a straight portion 92, in the normal detection operation state with bait E attached, the bottom surface of the device body and the straight portion 92 of the arm are at approximately the same position, thereby improving the installation stability of the device. Furthermore, in the case of the fifth embodiment, where the balance is maintained by the pushing force of the coil spring 45, when the support portion 43 becomes lighter due to bait consumption, the self-weight of the point of application side including the coil spring 45 will cause it to move downward due to the lever action, which may weaken the connection force in the case of a physical contact switch. However, in this sixth embodiment, the coil spring 46 acts to attract the arm, so it is possible to more reliably detect that the conditions for bait consumption have been met.

[0073] In the above embodiment, a beacon board 12 that transmits Bluetooth signals (beacons) at predetermined intervals was exemplified as the wireless communication unit (transmitter). However, a passive tab UHF band RFID tag may also be used. That is, the wireless communication unit (transmitter) may be an RFID tag that uses an external RFID reader (for example, an RFID reader) as a predetermined power source (power source for wireless communication other than bait detection).

[0074] RFID tags consist of an antenna coil pattern printed on a thin film substrate, and a control chip (tag) connected to the antenna coil mounted on the film substrate. In the case of RFID tags, the wireless communication unit can be operated or stopped by controlling the connection or disconnection of the circuit following the antenna coil with a switch, similar to the case of the beacon mentioned above, thus saving labor compared to Bluetooth signals.

[0075] In the case of RFID tags, when the circuit is in the ON state, the antenna coil is active, and the RFID reader receives the reflected wave from the antenna coil of the UHF band signal transmitted from the external RFID reader, thereby acquiring data on the uneaten or eaten state as described above. When the bait E is eaten by a pest and the condition detection unit 4 detects that a predetermined condition has been met, the antenna coil is switched to a non-communication state.

[0076] As a result, the RFID reader will not receive data at regular intervals, allowing it to detect bait consumption when the return signal of the transmitted signal is interrupted.

[0077] By using an RFID tag as the transmitter, monitoring functionality can be achieved without the need for batteries or other power sources. While RFID tags have a short reading range of only a few meters, requiring personnel to approach the device to operate the RFID reader, the device itself does not require a power source, allowing it to be installed in various locations and used for a variety of purposes.

[0078] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and any modifications, improvements, etc. that can achieve the objectives of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0079] In the above embodiment, a dry cell battery 13 was used as the power source for the bait detection device 1, but a solar panel capable of generating power even with indoor lighting may be used as another power source. Furthermore, if the device is ceiling-mounted or similar, commercial power may be used as the power source.

[0080] Furthermore, the series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. In other words, the examples shown in Figures 1 to 11 are merely illustrative and not particularly limiting. That is, it is sufficient for the device to be equipped with a function that can execute the series of processes described above as a whole, and the functional configuration used to realize this function is not particularly limited to the examples in Figures 1 to 11. Also, the functions realized by the application may be configured by hardware alone, by software alone, or by a combination of both.

[0081] When a series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up that software are installed on a computer or other device from a network or storage medium. The computer may be a computer built into dedicated hardware. Alternatively, the computer may be a computer capable of performing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0082] Such recording media containing programs may consist not only of removable media (not shown) distributed separately from the main unit to provide programs to users, but also of recording media provided to users, etc., that are pre-installed in the main unit.

[0083] In this specification, the step of describing a program to be recorded on a recording medium includes not only processes that are performed chronologically in that order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed chronologically, but are executed in parallel or individually. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall system composed of multiple devices, means, etc.

[0084] In other words, the device to which the present invention applies only needs to have the following configuration, and can take various forms. That is, the device of an embodiment to which the present invention applies (for example, the bait-eating detection device 1 in Figure 1) has: (1) a transmitting unit (for example, the beacon board 12 in Figure 2) having a circuit that transmits a predetermined signal (for example, a beacon) using power supplied from a predetermined power source (for example, the dry cell battery 13 in Figure 2); and a switching unit (for example, the control board 11 in Figure 3) that switches the conduction state from the ON state to the OFF state when predetermined conditions are met, based on the fact that the conduction state of the circuit is ON. The system includes a movement detection unit 40 (for example, a seesaw structure including the arm 42 in Figure 5 and a detection unit 50 including a photosensor 51, member 52, etc.) that detects when the weight applied to the first location (for example, the height position A of the support part 43 of the bait E, which is the point of force application relative to the rotation axis 41 (fulcrum) of the arm 42 in Figure 4) falls below the threshold (becomes lighter than the biasing force of the coil spring 45 at the point of application (the force pushing or pulling the other end (point of application) of the arm 42)) as a predetermined condition (for example, the bait E in Figure 5 falling off the support part 43). This allows for a simple structure that can be used for periodic inspections by building management companies, etc., and reliably detects the presence of small animals to be monitored (for example, mice N, etc.).

[0085] (2) The condition detection unit (for example, the seesaw structure including the arm 42 in Figure 5 and the detection unit 50) includes: a fulcrum (for example, the rotation axis 41 of the arm 42 in Figure 5); the first location that functions as the point of force application (for example, the height position A of the support part 43 at one end of the arm 42 in Figure 5); and a detection unit 50 that detects when the point of force application (for example, the support part 43) moves to the second location (for example, the height position B in Figure 5) in response to the fulfillment of the predetermined condition (for example, the bait E in Figure 5 falling from the support part 43) (for example, a photosensor 51 that detects when the member 52 at the other end of the arm 42 in Figure 5 blocks light). In this way, by detecting the rotational movement of the arm 42, i.e., bait eating, using the principle of leverage, the presence of the small animal to be monitored (for example, a mouse N) can be detected more reliably with a simple structure.

[0086] (3) The detection unit is a magnetic sensor (for example, the magnetic sensor 53 in Figure 7). This makes it possible to detect the movement of the arm on the point of application side without contact.

[0087] (4) The detection unit is an optical sensor (for example, the photosensor 51 in Figure 6). This makes it possible to detect the movement of the arm on the point of action side without contact.

[0088] (5) The predetermined power source is a battery (for example, the dry cell battery 13 in Figure 3). This allows the device (for example, the bait-eating detection device 1 in Figure 1) to be installed in a desired location in a place where there is no outlet such as a commercial power outlet, such as in the ceiling.

[0089] (6) The transmitting unit (for example, the beacon board 12 in Figure 3) transmits a wireless signal (for example, a Bluetooth signal) with a range within a predetermined range (for example, a radius of 10 m from the transmitting source), thereby allowing the device-compatible terminal (an existing field terminal 2 such as a smartphone or tablet) to receive the wireless signal, and by simply installing an app, a function to monitor bait consumption by pests can be realized at low cost.

[0090] (7) The transmitting unit is an RFID tag that uses an external RFID reader (for example, an RFID reader) as the predetermined power source, thereby enabling the monitoring function to be realized without providing a power source such as a battery.

[0091] (8) A container (e.g., a tray) for holding food for small animals is placed at the first location (for example, at height position A of the support part 43 in Figure 4), so that non-solid foods that lose their shape over time, such as powdered, jelly-like, or gel-like foods, can also be used.

[0092] (9) A signal processing system according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied includes the device described in any one of claims 1 to 8 (for example, the bait-eating detection device 1), and a device-compatible terminal (for example, the field terminal 2 in Figure 2) having the function of receiving the predetermined signal (for example, a Bluetooth signal) transmitted from the device (for example, the bait-eating detection device 1 in Figure 2), wherein the device-compatible terminal (for example, the field terminal 2 in Figure 2) includes a signal-less detection means (for example, the monitoring function K in Figure 2) that, when it detects that the reception of the predetermined signal (for example, a Bluetooth signal) has been interrupted, outputs information indicating the detection result as signal-less information (for example, to the terminal T of the monitor O in Figure 2 or to the website W in Figure 2), thereby enabling reliable detection of at least one of the following: that the power to the device has been turned off, or that the bait E has been eaten.

[0093] In addition, a solar panel may be used instead of the dry cell battery 13 described in the above embodiment. The transmitting means may also be a wireless communication unit, in which case an alert may be triggered by sending signal no information (message, alert signal, etc.) to the monitor's monitoring terminal, indicating that the signal transmission has been interrupted because the mouse N has eaten the bait E. This allows for a simple structure that can be used for periodic inspections by building management companies, etc., and reliably detects the presence of pests such as mice.

[0094] NW...Network, E...Bait, K...Monitoring function, L...LED, O...Monitor, T...Monitoring terminal, 1...Bait consumption detection device, 2...Field terminal, 4...Condition detection unit, 10...Control unit, 11...Control board, 12...Beacon board, 13...Dry cell battery, 40...Movement detection unit, 41...Rotation axis, 42...Arm, 43...Support unit, 50...Detection unit, 51...Photosensor, 53...Magnetic sensor, 58...Microswitch, 91...Bent part, 92...Straight part

Claims

1. A device comprising: a transmitting unit having a circuit that transmits a predetermined signal using power supplied from a predetermined power source; a switching unit that switches the conduction state of the circuit from the ON state to the OFF state when predetermined conditions are met, based on the fact that the conduction state of the circuit is ON; and a condition detection unit that detects, as predetermined conditions, that a weight greater than a threshold is continuously applied to a first location in order to maintain the ON state of the switching unit, and that the weight applied to the first location falls below the threshold.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the condition detection unit comprises a fulcrum, a first location that functions as a point of force application, a point of force application that moves to a second location when the predetermined condition is met, and a detection unit that detects that the point of force application has moved to the second location.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit is a magnetic sensor.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the detection unit is an optical sensor.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a battery as the predetermined power source.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting unit transmits a wireless signal with a predetermined range.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting unit is an RFID tag that uses the predetermined power source as an external RFID reader.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a container for holding food for small animals is provided at the first location.

9. A signal processing system comprising: the device described in any one of claims 1 to 8; and a device-compatible terminal having the function of receiving the predetermined signal transmitted from the device, wherein the device-compatible terminal comprises signal-less detection means that, when it detects that the reception of the predetermined signal has been interrupted, outputs information indicating the detection result as signal-less information.

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