JP2003284162A - Apparatus control system, apparatus to be controlled for the system, and center apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a control system capable of being shifted to an inoperative mode when a user is absent by allowing an apparatus to be controlled such as an air-conditioner to infer the absence of the user. <P>SOLUTION: The apparatuses to be controlled installed in a house such as an air-conditioner, a television receiver, a lighting apparatus, and a fixed phone are connected to a network, and one of the apparatuses to be controlled is used for a center apparatus for controlling an operation mode of the apparatuses to be controlled. Each apparatus to be controlled is configured to make wireless communication with a controller around itself and configured to transmit peripheral information obtained by searching the controller around itself to the center apparatus. The center apparatus grasps information with respect to location of the controller on the basis of the peripheral information, decides the operation mode of each apparatus to be controlled according to the peripheral information and transmits the information as control information to each apparatus to be controlled. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a device control system configured by wirelessly connecting a controlled device such as an air conditioner to a control device such as a remote controller.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Various electronic devices used at home such as televisions and air conditioners employ remote control control using infrared rays, etc., and remotely control these electronic devices using a relatively small remote control device. It is possible to do.

[0003]

However, for example, if the user forgets to turn off electronic devices such as a television, a lighting device, and an air conditioner when he / she goes out of the house, these electronic devices will remain switched on. is there.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances. That is, the present invention enables a controlled device for remote control such as an air conditioner to detect the absence of the user, and when the user is absent, the controlled device can shift to a non-operation mode. An object of the present invention is to provide a device control system and a controlled device.

[0005]

In order to achieve the above object, a device control system comprises a controlled device and a control device capable of wirelessly connecting to the controlled device. Then, the device control system is configured such that the controlled device changes the operation mode depending on whether or not the wireless connection between the controlled device and the control device is established (claim 1). ).

Further, in order to achieve the above object, a device control system is configured by a controlled device and a control device capable of wirelessly connecting to the controlled device, and the controlled device and the control device are wirelessly connected. Is controlled, the controlled device shifts to a predetermined non-operation mode (claim 2).

In the case where there are a plurality of control devices, the controlled device is configured to shift to a predetermined non-operation mode when the connection between all the control devices and the controlled device cannot be established. It is also possible (claim 3). With such a configuration, when the control device moves to a place where it cannot communicate with the controlled device, the controlled device can be shifted to the non-operation mode.

Further, in the case where there is a plurality of control devices, if the connection between at least one of the plurality of control devices and the controlled device is established, the controlled device is It can be configured to move to a mode other than the predetermined non-operation mode (claim 4). With such a configuration, when the control device enters a range in which communication with the controlled device is possible, the controlled device can be shifted to a normal operation mode or the like.

Whether or not the connection between the controlled device and the control device can be established is detected in the controlled device by the controlled device transmitting a signal for inquiry to the control device. It is possible (Claim 5).

To achieve the above object, a plurality of controlled devices and at least one control device capable of wireless connection with at least one of the plurality of controlled devices,
In addition, the plurality of controlled devices constitutes a device control system configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire. Furthermore, this device control system is provided with a plurality of controlled devices and
When the connection with the control device cannot be established, the plurality of controlled devices are all set to a predetermined non-operation mode (claim 6).

In order to achieve the above object, a plurality of controlled devices and at least one control device capable of wireless connection with at least one of the plurality of controlled devices are provided, and a plurality of control devices are provided. The controlled devices of 1 constitute a device control system configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire. Further, when the connection between at least one of the plurality of controlled devices and at least one of the one or more control devices is established, the device control system is provided in a plurality of states. At least one of the controlled devices is moved to a mode other than the predetermined non-operation mode (claim 7).

In order to achieve the above object, a plurality of controlled devices and at least one of the plurality of controlled devices are controlled.
And one or more control devices capable of wireless connection, and a plurality of controlled devices constitute a device control system configured to be connected to each other wirelessly or by wire. In this device control system, it is determined whether or not a connection with a control device connectable to itself can be established by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device to each of a plurality of controlled devices, and the result of the determination According to the above, peripheral information acquisition means for creating peripheral information indicating whether or not a control device connectable to itself exists in the periphery of the self is added. Each of the control devices is configured to transmit a response indicating itself when receiving an inquiry signal from the controlled device. Further, any one of the plurality of controlled devices receives the peripheral information from the controlled device other than the center device, and based on the received peripheral information,
The control information for instructing the operation mode is transmitted to each controlled device (claim 8). By using the peripheral information from all controlled devices, the center device can obtain information about the whereabouts of the control device, such as whether or not the control device exists within the communication range of the device control system. it can. By using the information regarding the location, the center device can control the controlled device to be in an appropriate operation mode.

With the above-mentioned configuration, the center device can control the controlled device, out of the plurality of controlled devices, whose peripheral information indicates that there is no control device connectable to itself. , Control information for instructing to shift to a predetermined non-operation mode can be transmitted (claim 9).

Alternatively, the center device operates in a normal operation mode with respect to the controlled device whose peripheral information indicates that a control device connectable to itself exists in the periphery among the plurality of controlled devices. It is possible to transmit control information instructing to move to (Claim 10).

Further, when it is determined from the received peripheral information that all of the plurality of controlled devices recognize that there is no control device connectable to them, the center device determines all It is preferable to transmit control information for instructing the controlled device to move to a predetermined non-operation mode (claim 11).

Here, the predetermined non-operation mode is the power supply OF.
The mode corresponding to F is preferable (claim 1
2). Alternatively, the predetermined non-operation mode may be a mode corresponding to the standby mode (claim 13). Alternatively,
The predetermined non-operation mode may be a mode corresponding to an answering machine function (claim 14).

In order to achieve the above object, by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device to a controlled device configured to be wirelessly connectable with one or more control devices, the control device can be connected to itself. Peripheral information acquisition means for determining whether or not a connection can be established and acquiring peripheral information indicating whether or not there is a control device connectable to itself in accordance with the result of the determination is added. Further, an operation mode determining means for determining its own operation mode is added to the controlled device according to the acquired peripheral information (claim 15).

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device to a controlled device configured to be wirelessly connectable to one or more control devices, the control device can be connected to itself. Whether or not a connection can be established is determined, and based on the result of the determination, peripheral information indicating whether or not a control device connectable to itself is present in the vicinity of itself is acquired, and the acquired peripheral information is stored in the center device. Peripheral information transmitting means for transmitting the information is added. Furthermore, an operation mode setting means for receiving control information determined by the center device based on the peripheral information from the center device and setting its own operation mode according to the received control information is added to the controlled device (claim) Item 16). Since this controlled device provides the peripheral information to the center device, the center device grasps the information regarding the whereabouts of the control device based on the peripheral information, and outputs the control information indicating the appropriate operation mode to the controlled device. Can be sent to. The controlled device sets the operation mode according to this control information.

In order to achieve the above object, a plurality of controlled devices and one or more control devices capable of wireless connection with at least one of the plurality of controlled devices, and a plurality of controlled devices are provided. Is one of a plurality of controlled devices in a device control system configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire, and is a center device configured to control a controlled device other than the one device. In addition, a peripheral information receiving means for receiving peripheral information, which is obtained by the controlled device and which is information on the control device existing in the vicinity of the controlled device, from the controlled device other than the one device. Therefore, the center device can grasp the information regarding the location of the control device within the communication range of the device control system. Further, to this center device, an operation mode determining means for determining an operation mode of each controlled device according to the received peripheral information, and a control for transmitting the determined operation mode to each controlled device as control information. And information transmission means. The operation mode of each controlled device appropriately determined according to the peripheral information can be transmitted to each controlled device.

[0020]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a control system 100 as a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1
The control system 100 includes a control device 1 (hereinafter referred to as a control device) including a mobile phone or the like for a controlled device 3 such as a home air conditioner (hereinafter, these controlled devices are referred to as remote control devices). Is referred to as a key device),
The key device 2 which is a portable information terminal is configured to be wirelessly connectable. That is, the user uses the key device 1 or the key device 2 as the remote control device 3
The remote control device 3 can be controlled using the key device 1 or the key device 2 in a state where the remote control device 3 is moved within a range in which wireless communication with the.

Each of the key device 1, the key device 2, and the remote control device 3 includes a communication control unit that operates according to a predetermined wireless communication standard, and can communicate with each other according to the predetermined wireless communication standard. As the predetermined wireless communication standard, a generally known wireless communication standard for connecting information devices wirelessly can be used. In the present specification, the term “synchronized” as used below means that the presence of the other party can be confirmed when communicating with the intended other party according to the predetermined wireless communication standard. Represent For example, when a remote control device and a key device are in a state where they can confirm the existence of each other, they are synchronized. “Out of sync” means that the existence of the other party cannot be confirmed and the synchronization cannot be established.

FIG. 2 shows, as an example of the configuration of the key device, the configuration when the key device is a mobile phone (that is, the configuration of the key device 1). In FIG. 2, the control unit 12 is a unit that controls the original functions of the mobile phone, such as a telephone control circuit.
The system controller 11 is connected to the controller 12. A communication control unit 14 that controls communication is connected to the system control unit 11. The communication control unit 14 includes a transmission circuit 18 including a modulation circuit 15, an output circuit 16 and an antenna 17, an antenna 17 and an amplifier circuit 2.
0 and a receiving system circuit 21 including a demodulation circuit 19 are connected.

A memory 23 for communication partner information and an input I / F 22 are connected to the system controller 11. The communication partner information memory 23 stores information about the remote control device with which the key device should be synchronized. The input I / F 22 is an interface for inputting information to be stored in the communication partner information memory 23,
For example, it may be an operation key of a mobile phone. The system control unit 11 controls the communication control unit 14, the input I / F 22, and the communication partner information memory 23.

The communication control circuit 14 transfers the received “inquiry information” to the system control unit 11 when an inquiry is made to the own station via the receiving system circuit 21. The system control unit 11 refers to the communication partner information memory 23 based on the content of the transferred “inquiry information”, and the “inquiry information” is an inquiry from the remote control device to be communicated, and it is necessary to respond. If it is determined that there is, “response information” is created and transferred to the communication control unit 14. The communication control unit 14 transmits the transferred “response information” to the destination of the inquiry via the transmission system circuit 18. Note that the system control unit 11 does not create the “response information” when it determines that it is not necessary to respond as a result of referring to the communication partner information memory 23 based on the transferred “inquiry information”.

When the key device is a portable information terminal (that is, the configuration of the key device 2), the configuration is the same as that shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the remote control device when the remote control device 3 is an air conditioner. In FIG. 3, the control unit 32 is a part that controls the original function of the air conditioner, including a room temperature control circuit and the like. The system controller 31 is connected to the controller 32. A communication control unit 34 that controls communication is connected to the system control unit 31. Further, the communication control unit 34 includes a transmission system circuit 38 including a modulation circuit 35, an output circuit 36, and an antenna 37,
An antenna 37, an amplification circuit 40, and a reception system circuit 41 including a demodulation circuit 39 are connected.

Further, the system control section 31 is provided with an input I /
The F42, the communication partner information memory 43, and the status information memory 44 are connected. Communication party information memory 4
3 stores information about the key device with which the remote control device 3 should be synchronized. The state information memory 44 stores information regarding each operation mode of the remote control device 3 and information regarding the current operation mode. The input I / F 42 is an interface for inputting information to be stored in the communication partner information memory 43 and the status information memory 44, and may be an operation key, for example. The system control unit 31 includes the communication control unit 3
4, it controls the input I / F 42, the communication partner information memory 43, and the status information memory 44.

An outline of the operation controlled by the system controller 31 will be described with reference to FIG. System control unit 3
1 creates "inquiry information" to search for a key device in the vicinity of the remote control device 3 at regular intervals, and transfers it to the communication control unit 34. The communication control unit 34
"Inquiry information" is transmitted via the transmission system circuit 38 (S1).

When "response information" is transmitted from the key device as a response to the "inquiry information" via the receiving system circuit 41, the communication control section 34 controls the received "response information" by the system control. Transfer to section 31. The system control unit 31 refers to the communication partner information memory 43 based on the content of the received “response information”, and if the “response information” is from the key device to be communicated, confirms synchronization with the key device ( The processing after S2) is started.

That is, if the key device is found in step S1 and it is confirmed that the key device can be synchronized with the key device (S2: YES), then the immediately previous operation mode is the normal mode. Check whether (S3),
As a result, when it is not the normal mode (S3: NO), the system control unit 31 sets the operation mode to the normal mode for the control unit 32 (S4). If the immediately previous operation mode is the normal mode (S3: YE
S), since it is not necessary to set the operation mode here, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the contents (database) of the communication partner information memory 43 and the status information memory 44 are updated (S5).

On the other hand, as a result of the search in step S1, if the key device is not found, or if synchronization is impossible (S2: NO), then the immediately previous operation mode is the answering machine mode. If it is determined that the answering machine mode is not set (S6: NO), the system control unit 31 sets the control unit 32 to be in the answering machine mode (S7). If the immediately previous operation mode is the answering machine mode (S6: YES), it is not necessary to set the operation mode here, and the process proceeds to step S8. In step S8, contents of communication partner information memory 43 and status information memory 44 (database)
Is updated (S8). Step S5 or Step S8
After the processing of (1), the processing from the search of the key device (S1) at a constant cycle is repeated.

Further, an example of a specific operation of the control system 100 will be described below with reference to the configuration diagrams of FIGS. 1 to 3 and the flowchart of FIG. First, the preparation required for operating the control system 100 will be described below. Preparation 1. The remote control device 3 is set in advance with which key device (user) should be synchronized.
This setting is stored in the communication partner information memory 43.
As a method of storing this setting in the communication partner information memory 43, (1) under the control of the system control unit 31,
A configuration in which an input is received from an input I / F 42 including a keyboard and written in the communication partner information memory 43, and (2) communication is performed from another device via the communication control unit 34 under the control of the system control unit 31. Partner information memory 4
3 and so on. Here, it is assumed that the key device 1 and the key device 2 are set as the key devices (users) to be synchronized.

Advance preparation 2. Remote control device 3
Set the operation contents of "Answer Mode" and "Normal Mode". This setting is stored in the state information memory 44. As a method of storing this setting in the state information memory 44, (1) under the control of the system control unit 31, an input is received from the input I / F 42 such as a keyboard and written in the state information memory 44. Configuration, (2) Under the control of the system control unit 31, there is a configuration such that another device writes to the state information memory 44 via the communication control unit 34. Here, 25 degree automatic operation is set as the normal mode, and the power is turned off as the answering machine (except the communication interface section).
Shall be set.

Advance preparation 3. Set which remote control device should be synchronized with the key device. This setting is stored in the communication partner information memory 23. As a method of storing this setting in the communication partner information memory 23, (1) under the control of the system control unit 11, an input is received from an input I / F 22 such as a keyboard,
A configuration for writing to the communication partner information memory 23,
(2) Under the control of the system control unit 11, there is a configuration in which another device writes the information in the communication partner information memory 23 via the communication control unit 14. Here, it is assumed that the remote control device 3 is set as a partner to be synchronized.

The communication partner information memory 43 of the remote control device 3 also stores information about the location of the communication partner, that is, whether the partner exists or is absent, and the status information memory 44 stores the information. Information on the current operation mode (current mode) is also stored. Therefore, the communication partner information memory 43 and the status information memory 44
The items and contents of the information stored in, that is, the contents of the database of the remote control device 3 are shown in Table 1 below.
It becomes something like.

[0036]

[Table 1]

The above is the contents of the advance preparation, and an example of a specific operation will be described below. Action 1. A state in which the remote control device 3 is synchronized with the key device 1 via the communication control circuit 34. At this time, the remote control device 3 is in the normal mode because it can be synchronized with the key device 1. At this time, the database of the remote control device 3 is in a state as shown in Table 2 below.

[0038]

[Table 2]

Operation 2. Here, it is assumed that the user having the key device 2 returns home and the key device 2 approaches the remote control device 3. At this time, since the remote control device 3 searches for the key device 1 and the key device 2 at regular intervals (S1 in FIG. 4), when the key device 2 approaches, the synchronization with the key device 2 is started. Yes (S in Fig. 4
2). At this time, the remote control device 3 updates the contents of the database (S5 in FIG. 4) and sets the state of the key device 2 at home. Since both the key device 1 and the key device 2 to be synchronized are at home, the current mode remains the normal mode. At this time, the database of the remote control device 3 is in a state as shown in Table 3 below.

[0040]

[Table 3]

Operation 3. Here, it is assumed that the user having the key device 1 goes out and the key device 1 moves away from the remote control device 3. At this time, the remote control device 3 operates the key device 1 and the key device 2 at regular intervals.
(S1 in FIG. 4), it is detected that when the key device 1 moves away, the synchronization with the key device 1 is lost (S2 in FIG. 4: NO). At this time, the remote control device 3 updates the contents of the database and makes the state of the key device 1 absent. However, since the key device 2 to be synchronized is at home, the current mode remains the normal mode. At this time, the database of the remote control device 3 is in the state shown in Table 4 below.

[0042]

[Table 4]

Operation 4. Here, it is assumed that the user having the key device 2 goes out and the key device 2 moves away from the remote control device 3. At this time, since the remote control device 3 searches for the key device 1 and the key device 2 at regular intervals (S1 in FIG. 4), the key device 2
It is detected that when the keys move away from each other, the synchronization with the key device 2 is lost (S2 in FIG. 4). At this time, the remote control device 3 updates the contents of the database and makes the state of the key device 2 absent. Since both the key device 1 and the key device 2 to be synchronized are absent, the system control unit 31 changes the current mode to the answering machine mode. At this time, the database of the remote control device 3 is in the state shown in Table 5 below.

[0044]

[Table 5]

Operation 5. Here, it is assumed that the user having the key device 1 returns home and the key device 1 approaches the remote control device 3 again. At this time, the remote control device 3 operates the key device 1 and the key device 2 at regular intervals.
(S1 in FIG. 4), synchronization with the key device 1 is started when the key device 1 approaches (S2 in FIG. 4). At this time, the remote control device 3 updates the contents of the database and sets the state of the key device 1 at home. Since the key device 1 to be synchronized is at home, the current mode is changed to the normal mode. At this time,
The database of the remote control device 3 is shown in Table 6 below.
It will be in a state like.

[0046]

[Table 6]

As described above, the control system 100
At, the remote control device 3 recognizes that the key device is absent, and can shift itself to the answering machine mode corresponding to power OFF.

FIG. 5 shows the configuration of a control system 200 installed in a house as a second embodiment of the present invention. The control system 200 includes a plurality of remote control devices 221-223 and a center device 231.
And they are networked and configured. The remote control device 221 (air conditioner) and the remote control device 222 (TV) are installed in the living room 201, and the remote control device 223 is installed.
The (lighting device) is a center device 2 installed in the bedroom 202, which is also a remote control device and also has a function of controlling each remote control device 221-223.
31 (fixed telephone) is installed in the corridor / entrance 203.

Each remote control device 221-22
Reference numeral 3 retrieves the surrounding key devices at regular intervals, synchronizes with the discovered key device, grasps the existence of the key device in its surroundings, and transmits the information to the center device 231. The center device 231 transmits control information for controlling the operation to each remote control device based on the obtained information. It is assumed that the wireless communication between the remote control device and the key device is configured to be performed according to a predetermined wireless communication standard, as in the case of the first embodiment.

A detailed description of the control system 200 will be given below. FIG. 6 shows a configuration when the key device is a mobile phone (that is, a configuration of the key device 211) as an example of the configuration of the key device. In FIG. 6, the control unit 242
Is the part that controls the original functions of the mobile phone, such as the phone control circuit. The system controller 251 is connected to the controller 242. A communication control unit 254 that controls communication is connected to the system control unit 251. Further, the communication control unit 254 includes a modulation circuit 255 and an output circuit 256.
And a transmission system circuit 258 including an antenna 257, an antenna 257, an amplification circuit 260, and a demodulation circuit 259.
Is connected to the receiving circuit 261.

A communication partner information memory 263 and an input I / F 262 are connected to the system controller 251. The communication partner information memory 263 stores information about the remote control device with which the key device should be synchronized. The input I / F 262 is an interface for inputting information to be stored in the communication partner information memory 263, and may be, for example, an operation key of a mobile phone. The system control unit 251 includes a communication control unit 254,
Input I / F 262 and communication partner information memory 263
Control the.

When the key device is a portable information terminal (that is, the configuration of the key device 212), the configuration is the same as that shown in FIG.

The operation of the key device 211 after the activation will be described with reference to FIG. 7 showing the operation flow. Key device 2
The communication control circuit 254 of No. 11 is initially in an inquiry waiting state (S21), and when an inquiry is made to its own station via the reception system circuit 261, the received “inquiry information” is sent to the system control unit. 251 is transferred. The system control unit 251 refers to the communication partner information memory 263 based on the content of the transferred "inquiry information" (S22), and the "inquiry information" is an inquiry from the remote control device to be communicated and responds. If it is determined that it is necessary to do so, "response information" is created and transferred to the communication control unit 254 (S23). Communication control unit 25
4 transmits the transferred “response information” to the transmission system circuit 258.
It is transmitted to the destination of the inquiry via (S24).
Then, the process returns to step S21. The system control unit 251 sends the transferred “contact information”.
As a result of referring to the communication partner information memory 263 based on the content of No., if it is determined that there is no need to respond, no response information is created (S22: no reply is required).

FIG. 8 shows, as an example of the configuration of the remote control device, the configuration when the remote control device is an air conditioner (that is, the configuration of the remote control device 221). In FIG. 8, the control unit 2
Reference numeral 72 is a part that controls the original functions of the air conditioner, including a room temperature control circuit. The system controller 281 is connected to the controller 272. System control unit 28
1 is a communication control unit 28 that controls communication with the key device.
4 is connected. In the communication control unit 284, a transmission system circuit 288 including a modulation circuit 285, an output circuit 286 and an antenna 287, and a reception system circuit 29 including an antenna 287, an amplification circuit 290 and a demodulation circuit 289.
1 and 1 are connected.

Further, the system controller 281 has an input I
/ F292, communication partner information memory 293, and status information memory 294 are connected. The communication partner information memory 293 stores information on the key device with which the remote control device 221 should be synchronized. The state information memory 294 stores information regarding each operation mode of the remote control device 221 and information regarding the current operation mode. Input I / F 292
Is an interface for inputting information to be stored in a memory such as the communication partner information memory 293, and may be, for example, an operation key. System control unit 281
Controls the communication control unit 284, the input I / F 292, the communication partner information memory 293, and the status information memory 294.

Further, the system control circuit 281 is connected to a communication control section 295 which controls communication with the center device 231. The communication control unit 295 includes a modulation circuit 29.
6, a transmission system circuit 299 including an output circuit 297 and an antenna 298, and a reception system circuit 302 including an antenna 298, an amplifier circuit 301, and a demodulation circuit 300 are connected. The “synchronization information” transmitted from the center device 231 is stored in the synchronization information memory 303. The system control unit 281 controls the communication control unit 295 and the synchronization information memory 303.

Even when the remote control device is a television or a lighting device (that is, the configuration of the remote control devices 222 and 223), the configuration is the same as that shown in FIG.

The operation of the remote control device 211 after starting will be described with reference to FIG. 9 showing the operation flow. The process shown in FIG. 9 is mainly executed under the control of the system control unit 281. When the remote control device 221 is activated, the center device is searched for in the network via the communication control unit 295 (S3).
1). If there is no response from the center device, the remote control device behaves as the center device (S
33, S45). The operation in the case of acting as the center device will be described later as the operation regarding the center device 231.

If there is a response from the center device, it sends its own information (contents of the communication partner information memory 293 and the status information memory 294) to the center device 231 (S32). Next, it waits for the "synchronization information" to be sent from the center device 231 (S34). If a timeout occurs here, the process returns to step 31. "Synchronization information" is the cycle when searching for key devices,
This is information about timing and the like. Center device 231
When the "sync information" arrives from, it is the sync information memory 3
03 is registered (S35). Next, the process proceeds to operation as a remote control device from step S36.

The system control unit 281 is for the center device 2
In the cycle instructed by 31, "inquiry information" is created and transferred to the communication control unit 284 in order to search for the peripheral key device. The communication control unit 284 transmits the “inquiry information” to the peripheral key devices. The "inquiry information" is transmitted in a format that does not specify the key device (S
36). If there is a response from the key device to the “inquiry information” via the receiving system circuit 291, the communication control unit 2
84 transfers the “response information” to the system control unit 281. The system control unit 281 refers to the communication partner information memory 293 based on the content of the received “response information”, and if it is “response information” from the key device to be synchronized, if necessary, the key device Confirm synchronization with (S3
7) The subsequent processing is performed.

When it is determined that the synchronization can be achieved (S37: YES), the current "peripheral key information" is created (S39), and the "peripheral key information" is stored in the communication control unit 2.
It transmits to the center apparatus 231 via 95 (S4
0). On the other hand, as a result of the search (S36), if the key device is not found, or if it is determined that the synchronization is impossible (S37: NO), the current "peripheral key information" is based on these facts. Is created and transmitted to the center device 231. Next, it waits for a response of "control information" from the center device 231 (S41). If there is no response within the predetermined time and a time-out occurs, the process returns from step S31.

Communication control unit 29 via the receiving system circuit 302
When the device 5 receives the “control information” from the center device 231, the “control information” is transferred to the system control unit 281. The system control unit 281 sets the operation mode for the control unit 272 according to the received "control information" (S42), and also, the communication partner information memory 293 and the status information memory 294 (database).
Is updated (S43). In the process of step S42, the system control unit 281 does not need to set the operation mode here when the operation mode specified in the "control information" is the same as the immediately previous operation mode. The operation mode setting operation for the control unit 272 may not be performed.

FIG. 10 shows, as an example of the configuration of the center device, the configuration when the center device is a fixed telephone (that is, the configuration of the center device 231). Figure 10
In the above, the control unit 332 is a unit that controls the original function of the fixed telephone. A system control unit 351 is connected to the control unit 332. The system control unit 351 includes
A communication control unit 354 that controls communication with the key device is connected. The communication control unit 354 includes a modulation circuit 355,
A transmission system circuit 358 including an output circuit 356 and an antenna 357 is connected to a reception system circuit 361 including an antenna 357, an amplification circuit 360, and a demodulation circuit 359.

Further, the system control unit 351 has an input I
/ F362, a communication partner information memory 363, and a status information memory 364 are connected. The communication partner information memory 363 stores information regarding the key device to be synchronized. The state information memory 364 stores information on each operation mode of the center device 231 and information on the current operation mode. Input I / F3
Reference numeral 62 is an interface for inputting information to be stored in a memory such as the communication partner information memory 363, and may be, for example, an operation key. System control unit 351
Controls the communication control unit 354, the input I / F 362, the communication partner information memory 363, and the status information memory 364.

Further, the system control unit 351 has a communication control unit 36 which controls communication with each remote control device.
5 is connected. The communication control unit 365 includes a transmission circuit 369 including a modulation circuit 366, an output circuit 367, and an antenna 368, an antenna 368, and an amplifier circuit 37.
1 and a reception system circuit 370 including a demodulation circuit 370 are connected. The “synchronization information” is stored in the synchronization information memory 373. The system control unit 351 controls the communication control unit 365 and the synchronization information memory 373.

The operation of the center device 231 will be described with reference to FIG. 11 showing the operation flow. In addition,
The process illustrated in FIG. 11 is mainly performed under the control of the system control unit 351. The center device 231 is also one of the remote control devices, and it is not determined whether the device behaves as a remote control device or the center device immediately after startup, and a process for determining which one of them behaves immediately after startup ( S51 to S53) are performed. The processing of steps S51 to S53 is the same as the processing of steps S31 to S33 described with reference to FIG. Here, for example, the center device 231
When the power is turned on earlier than each of the remote control devices 221-223, it is determined that the remote control device 221-223 behaves as the center device (S51, S53).
When the center device is found in step S51, after transmitting its own information (communication partner information, status information) to the center device (S52), the operation as the remote control device (from S34 of FIG. 9) is performed. Do (S6
5). The processing from step S54 after it is determined to behave as the center device will be described below.

The system control unit 351 creates "inquiry information" in order to search the peripheral key devices at a constant cycle, and transfers it to the communication control unit 354. Communication control unit 354
Transmits "inquiry information" to the peripheral key device via the transmission system circuit 358. The "inquiry information" is transmitted in a format that does not specify the key device (S54). If there is a response to the “inquiry information” from the key device via the reception system circuit 361, the communication control unit 354 transfers the “response information” to the system control unit 351. The system control unit 351 refers to the communication partner information memory 363 based on the content of the received "response information", and if it is the "response information" from the key device to be synchronized, the key The process after the confirmation of synchronization with the device (S55) is executed.

When it is determined that the synchronization can be achieved (S55: YES), the current "peripheral key information" is created (S57). When the key device is not found as a result of the search (S54), or when it is determined that synchronization cannot be achieved (S55: NO), the current "peripheral key information" is based on this fact. Is created.
Next, in step S58, the communication control unit 36 is operated for a certain period of time.
Wait for a response from the remote control device via 5. The communication control circuit 365 transfers the received response to the system control unit 351 as soon as there is a response (“peripheral key information” or the like) from the remote control device while waiting for this fixed time. System control unit 35 that received it
1 updates the communication partner information memory 363 based on the "peripheral key information" created in S57 (S59).

The system control section 351 confirms the responses from all the registered remote control devices,
Alternatively, after a lapse of a certain period of time, “control information” that defines the operation mode and the like to be set is transmitted to all remote control devices via the communication control unit 365 (S6).
0). Further, the system control unit 354 sets an operation mode for the control unit 332 based on the communication partner information memory 363 and the status information memory 364.
61). Next, the information about all the remote control devices in the status information memory 373 is updated (S6).
2). Then, the process returns to step S54. In addition,
In the process of step S61, the system control unit 351
Does not need to be set here when the operation mode to be shifted to next and the operation mode immediately before, which are obtained based on the communication partner information memory 363 and the status information memory 364, are the same. Therefore, the operation mode setting operation for the control unit 332 may not be performed.

The center device 231 must respond to an inquiry from a new remote control device in all states. FIG. 12 shows an operation flow of the center device 231 showing the response processing to the inquiry from the new remote control device. The center device 231 is in a state of waiting for an inquiry from the new remote control device (S71). When there is an inquiry, the "destination information" and "state information" are requested to the inquiry destination (S72), and if there is a response to the request, the validity of the value obtained by the response is judged. (S74). If the value obtained from the response is valid and there is no problem, data regarding the new remote control device is added to the communication partner information memory 363 and the status information memory 364 (S75). Next, the "synchronization information" is sent to the new remote control device inquired about (S76). After step S76
The process from step S71 is repeated. By these processes, the new remote control device can join the network centered on the center device 231 like the remote control devices 221-223.

An example of a specific operation in the control system 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 12. First, the preliminary preparations necessary for operating the control system 200 are shown below. Preparation 1. Each remote control device 221-22
In "3", "normal mode" (at home) and "answering mode" (at home) are set as operation modes, and the state information memory is stored. Here, the remote control device 2
21 (air conditioner), the status information memory 294
The information such as "normal mode = 25 degree automatic setting" and "answering machine mode = power OFF (excluding communication interface)" is to be registered.

Preparation 2. A key device (user) to be synchronized with each remote control device 221-223 is set and stored in the communication partner information memory. Here, for the remote control device 221 (air conditioner), only the key device 211 is set as a partner to be synchronized, and for the other remote control devices (air conditioner and lighting device), the key device 211 is defined as a partner to be synchronized. Both the key device 212 and the key device 212 are set.

Preparation 3. Each key device 211, 212
Then, which remote control device should be synchronized with is set and stored in the communication partner information memory. Here, it is assumed that the center device 231 and the remote control devices 221-223 (“fixed telephone, air conditioner, television, lighting device”) are set as the parties to be synchronized with both the key device 211 and the key device 212. .

Preparation 4. In each remote control device 221-223, the area (“area considered to be at home”) that the user (key device) considers to be at home is set,
It is stored in the memory for communication partner information. Here, since the remote control device 221 (air conditioner) wants to be in the normal mode only when the user (key device 211) is in the living room 201, the setting of “area to be considered at home” is set to the remote control devices 221 and 222. To do. Further, since the remote control device 223 (illumination device) wants to be in the normal mode only when the user is in the bedroom 202, the setting of the “area to be considered at home” is the remote control device 223. Advance preparation 5. First activate the landline phone and set it as the center device.

The specific contents of the operation will be described below. Action 1. The key device 211 is the living room 201 and the key device 2
12 is in the bedroom 202. In this case, the key device 211 is synchronized with the remote control device 221 (air conditioner), and the key device 212 is synchronized with the remote control device 223 (illumination device). At this time, the state of each remote control device is as shown in Table 7 below. The contents of Table 7 below are information that can be centrally managed by the center device 231.

The contents of the normal mode, the contents of the answering machine, and the current mode shown in the following table are information stored in the state information memory. Also, the key device 2
The location of 11, the location of the key device 212, and the contents of the “area to be considered at home” are information stored in the communication partner information memory. In the table, for simplification, the location of the key device 211 is referred to as “the location of the key 1” and the key device 2 is
The 12 locations are referred to as “the location of key 2”. Also,
In the columns of "Location of key 1", "Location of key 2", and "Area considered to be at home", refer to "221" for the remote control device 221 (air conditioner) and "221" for the remote control device 222 (TV). "222"
"223" for the remote control device 223 (illumination device) and "23" for the center device 231.
1 ”and when all of them are included, they are described as“ all ”. The remote control device 221 (air conditioner) is set as a partner to be synchronized with the key device 211.
Since it is only, the column of “location of key 2” is not registered.

[0077]

[Table 7]

Operation 2. The key device 212 is the living room 201
Move to. In this case, the remote control device 222
The (television) notifies the center device 231 that the key device 212 has moved. Upon receiving the notification, the center device 231 updates the “location of key 2” information. Since there are no key devices around the remote control device 223 (lighting device), the center device 2
Remote control device 22 according to instructions from 31
3 moves to answering machine mode. The states of the other remote control devices remain in the normal mode. At this time, the state of each remote control device changes as shown in Table 8 below.

[0079]

[Table 8]

Operation 3. The key device 211 (user) goes out. In this case, the key device 211 is out of synchronization with all the remote control devices and the center device 231.
All remote control equipment and center equipment 2
31 searches for the key device 211 again,
Since 11 is not found, the center device 231 changes the “location of key 1” to absent. Since the key device 212 is not registered as a partner to be synchronized with the remote control device 221 (air conditioner), the center device 2
Remote control device 22 according to instructions from 31
1 moves to answering machine mode. The center device 231 and the remote control device 222 remain in the normal mode because the key devices 2212 are synchronized in their respective “areas considered to be at home”. At this time, the state of each remote control device is as shown in Table 9 below.

[0081]

[Table 9]

Operation 3. The key device 212 (user of) goes out. In this case, all the remote control devices and the center device 231 are out of synchronization with all the key devices. All the remote control devices and the center device 231 search the key device 212 again, but the key device 212 is not found, so the center device 231 changes the “location of key 2” to absent. Center equipment 23
Remote control device 222 according to the instruction from 1.
The center device 231 also shifts to the answering machine mode. At this time, the status of each remote control device is shown in Table 1 below.
It becomes like 0.

[0083]

[Table 10]

Operation 5. Absent (key devices 211 and 2
12 is absent) In this case, all the remote control devices and the center device are searching for the key device at regular intervals.

Operation 6. The key device 211 (user) returns to the bedroom 202. In this case, the key device 211 starts synchronizing with the remote control device 223 (illumination device). The remote control device 223 notifies the center device 231 that the key device 211 has been found. In response to an instruction from the center device 231, the remote control device 223 and the center device 231 are
Move to normal mode. At this time, the state of each remote control device is as shown in Table 11 below.

[0086]

[Table 11]

Operation 7. The key device 211 (user) moves from the bedroom 202 to the living room 201. In this case, the key device 211 is the remote control device 222 (TV).
And start synchronizing. Remote control device 222
Notifies the center device 231 that the key device 211 has moved. In response to an instruction from the center device 231, the remote control device 223 (lighting device)
Move to answering mode. Further, according to an instruction from the center device 231, the remote control devices 221 and 2 are
22 moves to the normal mode. The remote control device 222 (TV) is in the normal mode, so
The power does not turn on automatically. At this time, the state of each remote control device is as shown in Table 12 below.

[0088]

[Table 12]

As described above, the control system 200
In, the location of the key device is grasped by each remote control device, and the center device can shift the operating state of each remote control device to an appropriate state based on the information such as the location of the key device.

Although the above-described embodiments have been described as having various features, all of which are not necessarily required to implement the present invention, some of these features may be replaced, deleted, or otherwise. Various modifications of the embodiment of the present invention can be configured by adding the constituent elements of. For example, in the above-described embodiment, two types of operation modes of the remote control device and the center device, the normal mode and the answering machine, are illustrated, but there are various operation modes other than these, and these are included. The embodiments of the present invention can be configured as described above.

In the above-described embodiment, the information regarding the location of the key device to be synchronized and the "area considered to be at home" is used as a factor for determining the operation mode of each remote control device and the center device. Also, by using the conditions “when the key device 211 is at home and the key device 212 is absent” and “when the key device 211 is absent and the key device 212 is at home”, the mode setting corresponding to the plurality of operation modes is performed. It is also possible to realize The time information may be added to the determination of the operation mode.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the remote control device includes a communication control unit for connecting with the key device and a communication control unit for connecting with the center device.
Although shown separately, it is also possible to use a common communication control unit and wirelessly connect to the key device and the center device using one communication control unit. The network formed by the center device and the remote control device may be a wireless network or a wired network.

In the above-described embodiment, the key device, for example, the key device 211, has the control unit 242 which achieves the original function.
The system control unit 251 for connecting to the remote control device is connected to the above, but there may be a modification of the structure of such a key device. For example, regarding the connection between the remote control device and the key device, in the above-described embodiment, the mutual confirmation of the communication partner is described using the memory for communication partner information. It is also possible to eliminate the function of determining the other party using the memory for use and leave the determination of the other party to the remote control device side.

In this case, when there is an "inquiry", the communication control unit of the key device creates a response by itself without transferring the "inquiry" information to the system control unit,
It is possible to send a response to the contact. Further, in the key device, the control unit 242 that controls the original function
And the system control unit 251 does not necessarily have to be connected. Therefore, it is possible to realize a key device including the communication control unit 254, the transmission system circuit 258, and the reception system circuit 261.

Needless to say, the control system can be configured by various numbers of key devices and remote control devices different from the above-described embodiment.

[0096]

As described above, the remote control device (controlled device) itself is the key device (control device).
It is possible to recognize the absence of and to shift to a preset answering machine by itself. Therefore, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of electricity and prevent danger such as fire.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control system as a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration when the key device is a mobile phone, as an example of a configuration of the key device in the control system of FIG.

3 is a diagram showing a configuration when the remote control device is an air conditioner, as an example of the configuration of the remote control device in the control system of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control device of FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a control system installed in a house as a second embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a diagram showing a configuration when the key device is a mobile phone, as an example of the configuration of the key device in the control system of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation of the key device of FIG.

8 is a diagram showing a configuration when the remote control device is an air conditioner, as an example of a configuration of the remote control device in the control system of FIG.

9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control device of FIG.

10 is a diagram showing a configuration when the center device is a landline telephone, as an example of the configuration of the center device in the control system of FIG.

11 is a flowchart showing an operation related to control of an operation mode of a remote control device in the center device of FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation related to a new remote control device in the center device of FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 2 key device 3 Remote control equipment 11 System control unit 12 Control unit 14 Communication control unit 18 Transmitter circuit 21 Receiver circuit 22 Input I / F 23 Memory for communication partner information 211,212 key device 221, 222, 223 Remote control equipment 231 Center equipment

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Claims (17)

[Claims] 1. A controlled device comprising a controlled device and a control device capable of wirelessly connecting to the controlled device, and whether or not the wireless connection between the controlled device and the control device is established. According to the above, the controlled device is configured to change the operation mode, the device control system. 2. The controlled device and a control device capable of wirelessly connecting to the controlled device, wherein the controlled device is provided when a wireless connection between the controlled device and the control device cannot be established. A device control system, wherein the device is configured to enter a predetermined non-operational mode. 3. The control device comprises a plurality of control devices, and is configured to shift the controlled device to the predetermined non-operation mode when connection between all the control devices and the controlled device cannot be established. The device control system according to claim 2, wherein: 4. The controlled device includes the plurality of control devices, and when the connection between at least one of the plurality of control devices and the controlled device is established, the controlled device determines The device control system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the device control system is configured to shift to a mode other than the non-operation mode. 5. Whether or not the connection between the controlled device and the control device can be established is determined by the controlled device by transmitting a signal for inquiry to the control device. The device control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the device control system is configured to be detected. 6. A plurality of controlled devices, and at least one of the plurality of controlled devices capable of wireless connection 1
A device control system comprising the above control device, and the plurality of controlled devices being configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire, wherein the plurality of controlled devices and the one or more control devices are A device control system, wherein all the plurality of controlled devices are configured to shift to a predetermined non-operation mode when a connection between them cannot be established. 7. A plurality of controlled devices, and at least one of the plurality of controlled devices capable of wireless connection 1
A device control system comprising the above control device, and the plurality of controlled devices being configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire, at least one of the plurality of controlled devices, and When the connection with at least one of the one or more control devices is established, at least one of the plurality of controlled devices is set to a mode other than the predetermined non-operation mode. A device control system characterized by being configured to move. 8. A plurality of controlled devices, and at least one control device capable of wirelessly connecting to at least one of the plurality of controlled devices, wherein the plurality of controlled devices are mutually wireless or A device control system configured to be connectable by wire, wherein each of the plurality of controlled devices is connected to a control device connectable to itself by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device. The presence or absence of establishment is determined, and according to the result of the determination, a control device connectable to the self is provided with a peripheral information acquisition unit that creates peripheral information indicating whether or not it exists, and the control device is Each of them is configured to transmit a response indicating itself when the inquiry signal is received from the controlled device, and any one of the plurality of controlled devices is configured to be transmitted. Control device receives the peripheral information from a controlled device other than the center device, and transmits control information instructing an operation mode to each of the controlled devices based on the received peripheral information. The device control system is characterized by being configured in. 9. The controlled device, in the plurality of controlled devices, for the controlled device indicated in the peripheral information that a control device connectable to the self does not exist in the periphery, 9. The device control system according to claim 8, further comprising transmitting control information instructing to shift to a predetermined non-operation mode. 10. The controlled device, in the plurality of controlled devices, for a controlled device indicated in the peripheral information that a control device connectable to the self exists in the periphery, The device control system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein control information instructing to shift to a normal operation mode is transmitted. 11. The center device determines from the received peripheral information that all of the plurality of controlled devices recognize that a control device connectable to the self does not exist in the periphery. 11. The device control system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein control information for instructing to move to a predetermined non-operation mode is transmitted to all the controlled devices. . 12. The predetermined non-operation mode is a power supply OF.
10. The mode corresponding to F. 10.
Alternatively, the device control system according to claim 11. 13. The predetermined non-operation mode is a mode corresponding to a standby mode.
Alternatively, the device control system according to claim 11. 14. The device control system according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined non-operation mode is a mode corresponding to an answering machine function. 15. A controlled device configured to be wirelessly connectable to at least one control device, the device being connected to the control device capable of connecting to itself by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device. Peripheral information acquisition means for determining whether or not establishment is possible, and acquiring peripheral information indicating whether or not a control device connectable to the self exists in the vicinity of the self according to the result of the determination, and the acquired peripheral information. Therefore, the controlled device comprising: an operation mode determining unit that determines its own operation mode. 16. A controlled device configured to be wirelessly connectable to at least one control device, the device being connected to the control device capable of connecting to itself by transmitting an inquiry signal to the control device. Whether or not the establishment is possible is determined, and based on the result of the determination, peripheral information indicating whether or not the control device connectable to the self is present around the self is acquired, and the acquired peripheral information is transmitted to the center device. And a peripheral information transmitting means for transmitting the control information determined by the center device based on the peripheral information from the center device, and an operation mode setting means for setting its own operation mode in accordance with the received control information. And a controlled device. 17. A plurality of controlled devices, and at least one of the plurality of controlled devices that can be wirelessly connected.
In the device control system including the above control device, wherein the plurality of controlled devices are configured to be connectable to each other wirelessly or by wire, the device is one of the plurality of controlled devices, and A center device configured to control a controlled device other than one device, the control being present in the vicinity of the controlled device acquired by the controlled device from the controlled device other than the one device Surrounding information receiving means for receiving surrounding information representing device information, operating mode determining means for determining an operating mode of each of the controlled devices according to the received surrounding information, and the determined operating mode for each A center device comprising: control information transmitting means for transmitting as control information to the controlled device.