JP4258435B2 - Intercom device and intercom system using the same - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an interphone device that transmits an image together with sound and an interphone system that uses the interphone device, and more particularly, is used as a main unit and a sub-base unit, and does not require a dedicated signal line to be routed by using wireless communication. About what to make.

  In recent years, interphone devices have been provided with a camera in the slave unit and a display device in the master unit, and by transmitting images together with voice as described above, the appearance can be confirmed in addition to the voice of the visitor. . In addition, a resident who notices a suspicious noise can check the appearance of the outside. The slave unit and the master unit are connected via a dedicated signal line laid during installation work. As the dedicated signal line, for example, an image, a sound, and a control signal are multiplexed and transmitted through a pair of signal lines.

  On the other hand, in addition to the master unit often installed in a kitchen or living room, it may be desired to be able to respond to the visitor from other rooms. In such a case, the secondary master unit is used, and it is possible to transmit images and voices to and from the slave unit by relaying the master unit to one or a plurality of secondary master units. Become.

  However, if there is such a request at the time of construction of the house, the dedicated signal line can be laid to the secondary master unit. Easy wireless support can be considered. In addition, in order to simplify the installation work at the time of housing construction, a wireless response can be considered. Furthermore, by using radio, the sub-master can be made portable.

Here, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose transmission from the master unit to the sub-master unit using wireless communication as described above. Further, Patent Document 3 discloses a portable child device that is held by a specific visitor using radio, separately from a normal child device.
JP 2000-224316 A JP 2000-224317 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-55933

  In the above-described conventional technology, the use of wireless communication simplifies the installation work and is excellent in convenience, but because it is communication using weak radio waves such as specific low power communication, the communication distance, the structure of the building, etc. There is a problem that communication quality changes due to the difference in communication environment, and communication is impossible in the worst case.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an intercom apparatus that can make use of the advantages of wireless communication and compensate for the weak points, and an intercom system using the intercom apparatus.

  The intercom apparatus of the present invention is an intercom apparatus that transmits an image together with sound by a wireless communication unit, and a power line communication unit that performs power line communication via a power line, and on the transmission side, the wireless communication unit transmits image data. The reception side includes a communication control unit that determines communication quality from the reception result and transmits the determination result to the transmission side via the power line communication unit.

  According to the above configuration, in the video / audio compatible intercom apparatus that is used as a master unit and a secondary master unit and uses wireless communication, the communication distance, the structure of the building, etc. In addition to the wireless communication unit whose communication quality varies depending on the communication environment, power line communication with stable communication quality is performed using a power line as another communication path that does not use the dedicated signal line. A power line communication unit is provided. Here, noise that is difficult to communicate on the power line is mostly temporary noise in the home environment, and can be avoided after a short time, and does not cause a problem.

  Then, at the time of installation or at the start of communication, the communication control unit determines the communication quality as follows. That is, image data is transmitted from a wireless communication unit on the transmission side to a wireless communication unit on the reception side, and on the reception side, communication quality is determined from, for example, the packet rate or S / N ratio of the image, and the image data For example, when the image is successfully received, an ACK is returned to the power line communication unit on the receiving side of the image data, and an NG is returned if the image is not received properly. .

  Therefore, it is possible to reliably transmit the determination result of the communication quality with a small amount of data to the image data transmission side through the power line communication unit, and to recognize whether the wirelessly transmitted image has arrived with satisfactory image quality. . Thereby, on the image data transmission side, communication is performed at a data rate adapted to the communication environment of wireless communication such as reducing the number of frames and the number of pixels, or the user is informed that the communication state is not good, Appropriate measures such as adjusting the direction of the antenna can be taken. Thus, the weak point can be compensated while taking advantage of the wireless communication.

  In the intercom apparatus of the present invention, the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data may send the data of the image data to the wireless communication unit when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad. The transmission is performed at a reduced rate.

  According to the above configuration, the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data sets the data rate of the image data to the wireless communication unit when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad. Lower and send. Specifically, for example, the number of frames is reduced when priority is given to image quality, and the number of pixels is reduced when priority is given to motion. By repeating such an operation, communication can be performed at the maximum data rate adapted to the communication environment of the wireless communication at that time. In the case where good communication cannot be performed by repeating this operation, the communication control unit uses the power line communication unit to perform communication only with sound or with low-rate image data added to sound. That's fine.

  Furthermore, in the intercom apparatus of the present invention, the wireless communication unit performs communication by dividing the image data into packets, and the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data receives the determination result received via the power line communication unit. If it is defective, the wireless communication unit is caused to increase the number of packet divisions of the image data to be transmitted.

  According to the above configuration, when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad, the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data sends a packet division number of packet communication to the wireless communication unit. Increase, that is, reduce the amount of data per packet, improve error tolerance, and perform transmission. By repeating such an operation, communication can be performed with error tolerance adapted to the communication environment of the wireless communication at that time.

  In the intercom apparatus of the present invention, if the determination result is poor even after the second transmission, the communication control unit stops communication of the image data and causes at least the audio data to communicate with the wireless communication unit. It is characterized by that.

  According to the above configuration, when the determination result is poor even by re-transmission after decreasing the data rate or increasing the number of packet divisions, the communication control unit Cancel communication. However, at least audio data is communicated to the wireless communication unit. If possible, control data may be further communicated. As a result, although the data rate is lower than that of the image data, voice data having a large data rate can be satisfactorily communicated for communication by the power line communication unit.

  Furthermore, in the intercom apparatus of the present invention, the image data transmission side includes a storage unit that stores at least a part of the audio signal to be transmitted, and the image data reception side includes the at least the received audio signal. A reply unit that returns a part to the image data transmission side through the power line communication unit, and the communication control unit on the image data transmission side stores the audio signal stored in the storage unit and the power line communication The voice signal sent back through the unit is compared with each other, and if the communication quality is higher than a predetermined threshold, radio communication is selected for communication of the voice signal, and if low, power line communication is selected. .

  According to the above configuration, at least a part of the audio signal to be transmitted is returned from the reception side, compared with the stored signal at the time of transmission, and the communication path of the audio signal is selected according to the comparison result To do. Therefore, when the communication environment for wireless communication is not good or when there is no transmission margin for the audio signal by transmitting image data at the data rate in the communication environment, the communication of the audio signal is switched to the power line communication. The audio signal can be appropriately communicated according to the communication environment.

  In the intercom device of the present invention, the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data, when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad, again after the elapse of a predetermined time, It is characterized by trying wireless communication.

  According to the above configuration, when the communication of the image data wirelessly is poor, the communication control unit performs transmission at a reduced data rate of the image data as described above, or increases the number of packet divisions. However, after a predetermined time elapses, the wireless communication is tried again. As a result, if the communication environment is improving, communication can be performed with a higher data rate.

  Furthermore, in the intercom apparatus of the present invention, the communication control unit on the image data transmission side transmits dummy data to the wireless communication unit even when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad. The wireless communication unit on the receiving side of the image data is provided with an electric field strength measuring unit that measures the electric field strength of the radio wave, and the communication control unit on the receiving side of the image data When the measurement result of the reception electric field strength of the dummy data by the measurement unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, wireless communication is performed again.

  According to the above configuration, when the communication of the image data wirelessly is poor, the communication control unit performs transmission at a reduced data rate of the image data as described above, or increases the number of packet divisions. However, the field strength measuring unit is provided in the wireless communication unit on the image data reception side to communicate dummy data, and the received field strength is monitored. Then, when the communication environment improves, it switches to wireless communication. As a result, when the communication environment improves, communication can be performed at a higher data rate.

  In the intercom device according to the present invention, if the determination result of the wireless communication quality is poor even by the re-transmission, the communication control unit uses the user interface to set the installation position and / or Alternatively, a notification requesting readjustment of the direction of the antenna is performed.

  According to the above configuration, in any trial, when an NG reply is received, the communication control unit uses the user interface to notify the request for readjustment of the installation position and / or antenna orientation. I do. Specifically, the request is displayed on a liquid crystal display or notified by a recorded voice from a speaker. As a result, the user can be urged to install in an appropriate state, and the intended function of the intercom device can be exhibited.

  Furthermore, in the intercom apparatus according to the present invention, if the wireless communication quality determination result is poor even by the re-transmission, the communication control unit includes the own device address through the power line communication unit. Communication to the predetermined notification destination device via the power line, and the notification destination device uses the user interface to issue a notification requesting readjustment of the installation position and / or antenna orientation. It is characterized by performing.

  According to the above configuration, when an NG reply is received in any trial, the communication control unit uses the power line communication unit to preliminarily notify a destination device, for example, the same type of interphone device, Communication is performed with a home electric appliance that performs power line communication, and a notification for requesting readjustment of the installation position and / or antenna orientation is performed using the user interface of the device. Specifically, the request is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the device, or is notified by recorded sound from a speaker. As a result, the user can be urged to install in an appropriate state, and the intended function of the intercom device can be exhibited.

  In the interphone system according to the present invention, one unit including the interphone device is a parent unit to which a child device is connected by wire, and one or more units including the interphone device are individually connected to the parent device. A sub-master unit connected to a power source and capable of transmitting image and sound to and from the master unit and relaying the master unit and transmitting image and voice to and from the slave unit; It is characterized by becoming.

  According to the above configuration, in the video / audio compatible interphone system in which the slave unit is connected to the master unit in a wired manner and transmits image and audio, the one or more secondary master units are provided, and the master unit is When relaying images and audio to and from the slave unit, the above-mentioned interphone device is used for the master unit and the secondary master unit, so that the dedicated signal line is connected between the master unit and the secondary master unit. An intercom system that does not need to be laid can be constructed. As a result, the installation work can be simplified, and a secondary master unit can be added as needed, or the secondary master unit can be carried to a required room.

  As described above, the intercom apparatus of the present invention is used as a master unit and a sub-master unit, and uses a wireless communication to eliminate the need for a dedicated signal line. Aside from the wireless communication whose communication quality varies depending on the communication environment such as communication distance and building structure, the power line is used as another communication path that does not use the dedicated signal line. Use a power line communication unit that performs power line communication with a relatively low communication rate although the data rate is relatively low, and at the time of installation or communication start, the communication control unit is connected from the wireless communication unit on the transmission side to the reception side. The image data is transmitted to the wireless communication section of the receiver, and the reception side determines the communication quality from the reception result, for example, the image packet rate and S / N ratio, and the image data From the power line communication unit of the signal side to the power line communication unit of the transmission side of the image data, for example, ACK reply When you successfully receive the image, such as by NG reply If you can not satisfactorily receive, to transmit the determination result.

  Therefore, it is possible to reliably transmit the determination result of the communication quality with a small amount of data to the image data transmission side through the power line communication unit, and to recognize whether the wirelessly transmitted image has arrived with satisfactory image quality. it can. Thereby, on the image data transmission side, communication is performed at a data rate adapted to the communication environment of wireless communication such as reducing the number of frames and the number of pixels, or the user is informed that the communication state is not good, Appropriate measures such as adjusting the direction of the antenna can be taken. Thus, the weak point can be compensated while taking advantage of the wireless communication.

  In addition, as described above, the interphone system of the present invention includes one or a plurality of sub-master units in an image / audio compatible interphone system in which a slave unit is connected to the master unit in a wired manner and transmits images and sounds. The interphone device described above is used for the master unit and the sub-master unit when relaying the master unit and transmitting images and sounds to and from the slave unit.

  Therefore, it is possible to construct an intercom system that does not require the dedicated signal line to be laid between the master unit and the secondary master unit. As a result, the installation work can be simplified, and a secondary master unit can be added as needed, or the secondary master unit can be carried to a required room.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an intercom system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This intercom system is installed in outdoor facilities such as gateposts and entrances, and has at least a call function for a visitor to call a resident in a dwelling unit and a call function for a visitor to make a call with the resident. The machine 1 is installed in a room such as a living room or a dining room, and has a notification function for notifying a visitor's call by the call function of the slave unit 1 and a call function for a resident to make a call with the visitor. The base unit 2 provided at least is configured to be connected to each other by a pair of two-core signal lines 10 by multiplexing, for example, images, sounds, and control signals. Furthermore, this intercom system is provided with a camera 11 in the slave unit 1 and a monitor 20 in the master unit 2 so that the appearance outside the dwelling unit can be observed, and can support a dual mode of image and sound. Intercom system.

  Further, in this intercom system, it is possible to make a call or call with the base unit 2, and relay the base unit 2 to notify the call of the visitor by the calling function of the handset 1. 1 or a plurality of (2 in FIG. 1) secondary master units 3 having at least a notification function and a call function for a resident to make a call with a visitor can be added as necessary. . The master unit 2 and the sub master unit 3 take in commercial AC as a power source from individual outlets 7 and 8 via plugs 5 and 6, respectively. Further, as will be described later, the master unit 2 and the sub master unit 3 can communicate with each other wirelessly as indicated by a reference symbol F1, and as indicated by a reference symbol F2, It is possible to communicate with each other by power line communication from the outlets 7 and 8 through the power line 9.

  When the call button 12a on the handset 1 side is operated, or when the call buttons 22a and 32a on the handset 2 or sub-master 3 side are operated, the microphone 13a and speaker 13b on the handset 1 side and the base 2 Alternatively, a call can be made using the microphones 23a and 33a and the speakers 23b and 33b on the sub-master unit 3 side, and images captured by the camera 11 are displayed on the monitors 20 and 30. Further, even if the monitor buttons 22b and 32b are operated on the master unit 2 or the sub master unit 3, the images taken by the camera 11 are displayed on the monitors 20 and 30, and the resident notices a suspicious sound. You can also secretly monitor the outside. Furthermore, when the call buttons 22c and 32c are operated, the base unit 2 and the sub base unit 3 are used by using the microphone 23a, the speaker 23b, the camera 21 and the monitor 20, and the microphone 33a, the speaker 33b, the camera 31 and the monitor 30. Calls with can be made.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the intercom system described above. Parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The subunit | mobile_unit 1 has the said camera 11, the operation part 12 containing the said call button 12a, the audio | voice input / output part 13 containing the said microphone 13a and the speaker 13b, the audio | voice processing part 14, the video processing part 15, and a power receiving part. 16.

  The camera 11 includes an imaging device that photoelectrically converts a subject light image and outputs a video signal, and an optical system that forms a subject light image on the imaging surface of the imaging device. The imaging element is a photoelectric conversion element in which a plurality of light receiving elements that convert received light into electrical signals according to the light intensity are arranged in a matrix, for example, a CCD (Charge-Coupled Devices) or a CMOS (Complementary). (Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) solid-state image sensor. The video signal from the camera 11 is input to the video processing unit 15 and modulated to generate a video modulation signal, and this video modulation signal is transmitted from the power receiving unit 16 to the master unit 2 via the signal line 10. .

  The operation unit 12 is a circuit for transmitting a call signal for ringing a ringing tone from the speakers 23b and 33b of the master unit 2 and the sub master unit 3 in response to an operation input of the call button 12a. For example, a push button switch. The calling signal is generated, for example, when a predetermined high level voltage drops to a predetermined low level voltage, more specifically, when a voltage of 12V drops to a voltage close to the ground level, and is generated from the calling button 12a. It is transmitted to the parent device 2 via the power receiving unit 16. The visitor operates the call button 12a to inform the resident in the dwelling that there is a visitor.

  The voice processing unit 14 demodulates and amplifies a voice signal from the parent device 2 obtained via the power receiving unit 16 and outputs the amplified signal to the speaker 13b of the voice input / output unit 13 together with the voice input / output unit. And a microphone amplifier that amplifies an audio signal input from the 13 microphones 13 a and transmits the amplified audio signal from the power receiving unit 16 to the parent device 2. The voice input / output unit 13 converts the voice signal input from the voice processing unit 14 into voice and reproduces and outputs the voice from the speaker 13b. The voice input / output unit 13 mainly collects the voice of the visitor with the microphone 13a and outputs the voice signal. The data is converted and output to the voice processing unit 14. The sound input / output unit 13 includes a sound input unit that converts sound from the microphone 13a and the like into a sound signal and peripheral circuits such as a bias circuit thereof, and a sound output unit that converts sound signals from the speaker 13b and the like into sound. Composed. Alternatively, it is configured with a speaker that also serves as an audio input / output.

  The power receiving unit 16 transmits the video modulation signal from the video processing unit 15, the call signal from the call button 12 a, and the audio signal from the audio processing unit 14 to the base unit 2, and the audio received from the base unit 2. A signal is output to the audio processing unit 14, and the power supply voltage supplied from the parent device 2 is indicated by a broken line in FIG. 2, the camera 11, the video processing unit 15, the audio processing unit 14, and the audio input / output unit. 13 respectively.

  On the other hand, base unit 2 includes monitor 20, camera 21, operation unit 22 including call button 22a and monitor button 22b, audio input / output unit 23 including microphone 23a and speaker 23b, and audio processing unit. 24, image processing units 25a and 25b, a control unit 26, a power supply unit 27, a power supply unit 28, a wireless communication interface 29a, and a power line communication interface 29b.

  The power supply unit 28 transmits the power supply voltage from the power supply unit 27 and the audio signal from the audio processing unit 24 to the child device 1, and the video modulation signal, the calling signal, and the audio signal output from the child device 1 are respectively displayed as video. The data is output to the processing unit 25a, the control unit 26, and the sound processing unit 24. The control unit 26 includes, for example, a microprocessor, and controls each unit in the parent device 2 based on the calling signal via the power feeding unit 28 and the operation signal from the operation unit 22.

  The video processing unit 25 a demodulates the video modulation signal from the slave unit 1 or the sub-master unit 3 into a video signal and outputs it to the monitor 20 under the control of the control unit 26. The monitor 20 displays an image of the video signal from the video processing unit 25a, and includes, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display, and the like. The video processing unit 25b modulates the video signal from the camera 21 under the control of the control unit 26 to generate a video modulation signal, and this video modulation signal is transmitted from the wireless communication interface 29a to the sub-master as will be described later. Transmit to machine 3.

  The operation unit 22 includes the call button 22a, the monitor button 22b, and the like, and operates the parent device 2 such as instructions for starting and ending a call between the parent device 2 and the child device 1 or the sub-main device 3. The input instruction is input to the control unit 26.

  The audio processing unit 24 demodulates and amplifies the audio signal in accordance with the control of the control unit 26, outputs the signal to the speaker 23 b of the audio input / output unit 23, and the audio input from the microphone 23 a of the audio input / output unit 23. The signal is amplified and transmitted from the control unit 26 to the handset 1 side via the power feeding unit 28. The voice input / output unit 23 includes the microphone 23a and the speaker 23b. The voice input / output unit 23 converts the voice signal input from the voice processing unit 24 into voice and reproduces and outputs the voice. And output to the audio processing unit 24.

  The power supply unit 27 is connected to an AC 100V commercial power supply, and as shown by a broken line in FIG. 2, the monitor 20, the camera 21, the video processing units 25a and 25b, the control unit 26, the audio input / output unit 23, and the audio processing unit. 24, power is supplied to the power feeding unit 28, the wireless communication interface 29a, and the power line communication interface 29b. As in the case of waiting for a visitor, the power supply unit 27 includes a monitor 21, a video processing unit 25a, 25b, a control unit 26, an audio input / output unit 23 and an audio processing unit 24, a wireless communication interface 29a, When it is not necessary to operate the power line communication interface 29b and the camera 11, the video processing unit 15, the audio input / output unit 13, and the audio processing unit 14 in the slave unit 1 (standby state), power feeding is performed in order to reduce power consumption. When the voltage is lowered, when it is necessary to operate these parts (operating state), such as when establishing a call between a visitor and a resident or observing the outside, the power supply voltage To increase. For example, in the operating state, a DC voltage of about 22V is supplied to these parts. On the other hand, in the standby state, the monitor 21, the video processing units 25a and 25b, the control unit 26, the audio input / output unit 23, the audio processing unit 24, the wireless communication interface 29a, and the power line communication interface 29b in the base unit 2 are connected. Is supplied with a DC voltage of about 8 V, which is lower than the DC voltage in the operating state, and the power supply unit 28 and the power receiving unit 16 are connected to the camera 11, video processing unit 15, audio input / output unit 13 and audio processing unit 14 in the slave unit 1. A DC voltage of about 12 V, which is lower than the operating DC voltage, is supplied via

  When a visitor operates the call button 12a to call a resident, a call signal is transmitted from the child device 1 to the parent device 2, and the control unit 26 switches each part of the parent device 2 from the standby state to the operating state, A ringing tone is output from the voice input / output unit 23 via the voice processing unit 24. When switched to the operating state, the video captured by the camera 11 is processed by the video processing unit 15, the power receiving unit 16, the power feeding unit 28, the control unit 26 and the video processing unit 25 a and displayed on the monitor 20. And the main | base station 2 and the subunit | mobile_unit 1 will be in the state which can talk.

  In addition, when the resident operates the call button 22c (32c) to call the housemate, a calling signal is transmitted from the parent device 2 (secondary parent device 3) to the second parent device 3 (parent device 2), and the control unit 26 (36) switches each part of both machines 2 and 3 from the standby state to the operating state, and outputs a ringing tone from the voice input / output unit 33 (23) via the voice processing unit 34 (24). When switched to the operating state, the video captured by the camera 21 (31) is processed by the video processing unit 25b (35b), the control units 26, 36 (36, 26) and the video processing unit 35a (25a), respectively. It is displayed on the monitors 30 and 20. Thus, the master unit 2 and the secondary master unit 3 are in a state where they can talk.

  It should be noted that in the present invention, the base unit 2 is provided only with a radio communication interface 29a and an antenna 29a ′ for eliminating the need for routing a dedicated signal line corresponding to the sub-base unit 3. The power line communication interface 29b is provided as another communication path that does not use the dedicated signal line. The control unit 26 also performs communication with the secondary master unit 3 using these interfaces 29a and 29b as described later.

  As the wireless communication interface 29a, for example, a wireless LAN such as IEEE802.11 (communication speed of 1 to 2 Mbps), or a specific low power radio can be used when the amount of data to be transmitted / received is small. There is a possibility that communication quality (communication speed, noise superimposition) may change depending on the communication environment such as the structure of the building. On the other hand, since the power line communication interface 29b performs communication using the power line 9, communication is often possible. This is because the noise that is difficult to communicate on the power line 9 is mostly temporary noise except for periodic noise such as a microwave oven in the home environment. It is because it does not become. The power line communication can realize a communication speed of 170 Mbps by, for example, the PLC system, and can be sufficiently communicated with the MPEG4 image format because it is about 1 to 2 Mbps.

  Further, the secondary master unit 3 does not include the power supply unit 28 that is configured for the slave unit 1 in the master unit 2, and the slave unit 1 is not connected for processing by the control unit 36. They are basically the same except that they are different. That is, the monitor 20, camera 21, operation unit 22, audio input / output unit 23, audio processing unit 24, video processing units 25a and 25b, control unit 26, power supply unit 27, wireless communication interface 29a and power line communication interface 29b. Are the monitor 30, the camera 31, the operation unit 32, the audio input / output unit 33, the audio processing unit 34, the video processing units 35a and 35b, the control unit 36, the power supply unit 37, the wireless communication interface 39a and the like. Each corresponds to the power line communication interface 39b. Using the configuration of the master unit 2 as it is, the power supply unit 28 is not used when used as the secondary master unit 3, and the control unit 26 is selectively used for the master unit 2 and the secondary master unit 3 by setting or the like. By making it possible, the master unit 2 and the secondary master unit 3 may be shared.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation according to the first embodiment of the present invention between the master unit 2 and the secondary master unit 3 of the intercom system configured as described above. In FIG. 3, a case where an image is communicated from the master unit 2 to the sub master unit 3 will be described.

  In the base unit 2, in step S101, the control unit 26 sends the image data acquired from the handset 1 or its own camera 21 to the wireless communication interface 29a, and converts it into a wireless signal by the wireless communication interface 29a. It is transmitted to the secondary master unit 3 via 29a ′.

  In the sub-master device 3 on the receiving side, in step S201, the image data wirelessly transmitted from the parent device 2 on the sending side is received by the wireless communication interface 39a via the antenna 39a ′, and the image data is received by the control unit 36. Send to. In step S202, the control unit 36 analyzes the received image data and calculates the S / N of the image data. In step S203, the image quality is determined from the calculated S / N. If the image quality is good, “ACK” is determined in step S204. If the image quality is bad, “NG” is determined in step S205. The data is transmitted to the face 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the base unit 2 on the transmission side using the power line 9 as a communication medium.

  In step S102, base unit 2 receives signals (“ACK” and “NG”) relating to image quality transmitted from power receiving side secondary base unit 3 through power line communication interface 29b, and controls the received signal to the control unit. 26. The control unit 26 grasps “good” or “bad” in the reception status at the receiving side sub-master unit 3 from the received signal (“ACK”, “NG”) relating to the image quality.

  As described above, the determination result of the wireless communication quality is reliably transmitted to the transmission-side master unit 2 through the power line communication interfaces 39b and 29b. It becomes possible to identify whether or not reception (communication) with satisfactory image quality is possible in the master unit 3.

  4 and 5 are flowcharts for explaining a specific communication operation using the identification result. 4 and 5, the processes corresponding to those in FIG. 3 described above are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  In the process of FIG. 4, the reception result in step S102 is determined in step S103. If “ACK” (good), it is determined that a stable wireless communication path is secured, and the process returns to step S101. Thus, the current data rate (image quality, frame rate) is maintained, and the next communication is performed. On the other hand, if “NG” (bad) in step S103, it is determined that a stable wireless communication path has not been secured, and the process proceeds to step S104 to reduce the data rate and perform the next communication. Do. Specifically, the number of frames is reduced when priority is given to image quality, and the number of pixels is reduced when priority is given to motion.

  By repeating such processing, communication can be performed at the maximum data rate adapted to the wireless communication environment at that time. In the case where good communication cannot be performed by repeating this operation, the control unit 26 uses the power line communication interfaces 29b and 39b to perform communication of only sound or low-rate image data. You just have to do it. Thus, the weak point can be compensated while taking advantage of the wireless communication.

  In the process of FIG. 5, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the process proceeds to step S105, where the current packet division number is increased (the packet data length is increased). (I.e. shortened), that is, the amount of data per packet is reduced, error tolerance is improved, and the next communication is performed.

  By repeating such processing, communication can be performed with error tolerance adapted to the communication environment of the wireless communication at that time. Even if it does in this way, the weak point can be supplemented, utilizing the advantage of radio | wireless communication.

  Note that the transmission in step S101 and the reception in step S201 have been described only with image data, but at least image data may be transmitted and received because it is necessary for image quality determination in subsequent steps S202 and S203. This indicates that voice data and control data may be transmitted / received together, and one of voice data and control data may be transmitted / received by power line communication.

[Embodiment 2]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 can be used, and the communication control operation in the control units 26 and 36 is different between FIG. 6 and FIG. 3 to FIG. Therefore, the processing of FIG. 6 is similar to the processing of FIGS. 3 to 5, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  In this communication operation, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the wireless communication is abandoned, and the process proceeds to step S111. Transmit to machine 3. However, due to the above-described difference in data rate between wireless communication and power line communication, the transmitted image data has a lower resolution and / or a lower frame rate than when wireless communication is used.

  Therefore, in step S111, the control unit 26 sends the image data acquired from the handset 1 or its own camera 21 to the power line communication interface 29b and converts it into a power line communication signal in the power line communication interface 29b. Then, the power line 9 is transmitted as a communication medium to the receiving side secondary master unit 3.

  In the sub-master device 3 on the receiving side, the image data transmitted from the parent device 2 on the sending side via the power line 9 is received by the power line communication interface 39b and sent to the control unit 36 in step S211. In step S212, the control unit 36 analyzes the received image data and calculates the S / N of the image data. Subsequently, in step S213, the image quality is determined from the calculated S / N. If the image quality is good (at the power line communication level), “ACK” is set in step S214. If the image quality is bad, “NG” is set in step S215. The information is transmitted from the control unit 36 to the power line communication interface 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the parent device 2 on the transmission side using the power line 9 as a communication medium.

  In step S112, base unit 2 receives signals related to image quality (“ACK”, “NG”) transmitted from power-side secondary base unit 3 by power line communication interface 29b, and receives the received signal as a control unit. 26. The control unit 26 grasps “good” or “bad” in the reception status at the receiving side sub-master unit 3 from the received signal (“ACK”, “NG”) relating to the image quality. Thereafter, the process returns to step S101, and the above processing is repeated from the wireless communication with the next image data.

  As a result, even when the wireless communication reception status (communication status) is poor, it is possible to reliably transmit data from the master unit 2 to the secondary master unit 3.

[Embodiment 3]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 described above can be used, and the communication control operation in the control units 26 and 36 is different between FIG. 7 and FIG. 3 to FIG. Therefore, the processing of FIG. 7 is similar to the processing of FIGS. 3 to 5, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  In this communication operation, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the wireless communication of the image data and control data is given up, but the process proceeds to step S121, where the audio data Only transmit by wireless communication. Further, the image data and control data other than sound are transmitted to the secondary master unit 3 by power line communication in step S122. In this case, the data rate is limited, but the image quality and the frame rate of the image data are reduced with priority given to the control data.

  In the sub-master device 3 on the receiving side, in step S221, the voice data transmitted from the sending-side master device 2 by wireless communication is received by the wireless communication interface 39a and sent to the control unit 36. In step S222, the control unit 36 analyzes the received voice data and calculates the S / N of the voice data. Subsequently, in step S223, the sound quality is determined from the calculated S / N. If the sound quality is good, “ACK” is determined in step S224. If the sound quality is bad, “NG” is determined in step S225. The data is transmitted to the face 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the transmission-side base unit 2 using the power line 9 as a communication medium.

  In step S231, the receiving side secondary master unit 3 receives data other than voice transmitted from the transmitting side master unit 2 via the power line 9 by the power line communication interface 39b, and sends it to the control unit 36. send. In step S232, the control unit 36 analyzes data other than the received voice and calculates the S / N of the data. Subsequently, in step S233, the quality of the data is determined from the calculated S / N. If the quality is good (at the power line communication level), “ACK” is given in step S234, and if the quality is bad, “NG” is given in step S235. Is transmitted from the control unit 36 to the power line communication interface 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the parent device 2 on the transmission side using the power line 9 as a communication medium. In step S123, base unit 2 receives signals (“ACK” and “NG”) related to data quality other than sound quality and voice transmitted from power-side secondary base unit 3 at power line communication interface 29b. The received signal is sent to the control unit 26.

  Thus, although the data rate is lower than that of the image data, voice data having a high data rate can be satisfactorily communicated in order to communicate with the power line communication interfaces 29b and 39b. If possible, control data may be further communicated. In addition, when the data rate is lowered as shown in FIG. 4 or the packet division number is increased as shown in FIG. The communication of the image data may be stopped, and at least the audio data may be communicated through the power line communication interfaces 29b and 39b.

[Embodiment 4]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 can be used, and the communication control operation in the control units 26 and 36 is different between FIG. 8 and FIG. 3 to FIG. The process of FIG. 8 is particularly similar to the process of FIG. 7, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  In this communication operation, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the wireless communication of the image data and audio data is given up, but the process proceeds to step S141, and the control data Only transmit by wireless communication. Further, the image data and audio data other than the control data are transmitted to the secondary master unit 3 by power line communication in step S142. In this case, although the data rate is limited, the image quality and frame rate of the image data are reduced with priority given to the audio data.

  In step S241, the receiving side secondary master unit 3 receives the control data transmitted from the transmitting side master unit 2 by wireless communication by the wireless communication interface 39a and sends it to the control unit 36. In step S242, the control unit 36 analyzes the received control data and calculates the S / N of the control data. Subsequently, in step S243, the data quality is determined from the calculated S / N. If the quality is good, “ACK” is sent in step S244, and if the quality is bad, “NG” is sent in step S245. The data is transmitted to the interface 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the transmission-side base unit 2 using the power line 9 as a communication medium.

  Further, in step S251, the receiving side secondary master unit 3 receives data other than the control data transmitted from the transmitting side master unit 2 via the power line 9 by the power line communication interface 39b, and controls the control unit 36. Send to. In step S252, the control unit 36 analyzes data other than the received control data and calculates the S / N of the data. Subsequently, in step S253, the image quality and sound quality are determined from the calculated S / N. If the image quality and sound quality are good (at the level of power line communication), “ACK” is given in step S254, and if the image quality and sound quality are bad, step S255. Then, “NG” is transmitted from the control unit 36 to the power line communication interface 39b, converted into a power line communication signal by the power line communication interface 39b, and transmitted to the transmission-side base unit 2 using the power line 9 as a communication medium. To do. In step S143, base unit 2 receives signals (“ACK” and “NG”) relating to the image quality, sound quality, and control data quality transmitted from power receiving side secondary base unit 3 through power line communication interface 29b. The received signal is sent to the control unit 26.

  Thus, communication can be performed using wireless as much as possible. In the communication operation of FIG. 8, as in the communication operation of FIG. 7, the data rate is lowered as shown in FIG. 4 or the packet division number is increased as shown in FIG. May be performed when the determination result is poor.

[Embodiment 5]
9 and 10 are flowcharts for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 described above can be used, and the communication control operation in the control units 26 and 36 differs between these FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 and FIG. Is. It should be noted that in these communication operations of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, test data is transmitted from the master unit 2 to the sub master unit 3, and part or all of the received data is echoed back and stored in advance. The S / N ratio (deterioration rate) of the echo reply is calculated using the transmission data as a comparison reference, and the S / N ratio calculation result is compared with a predetermined threshold. If it is low, power line communication is selected.

  Specifically, in the communication operation of FIG. 9, audio data is used for the test data. In the base unit 2, in step S301, the control unit 26 sends the audio data to the wireless communication interface 29a, and transmits it from the antenna 29a ′ to the secondary base unit 3 by a radio signal. In step S302, one of the transmission data is transmitted. Remember all or part of it.

  In the sub-master device 3 on the receiving side, the voice data wirelessly transmitted from the parent device 2 on the sending side is received by the wireless communication interface 39a via the antenna 39a 'and sent to the control unit 36 in step S401. In step S402, the control unit 36 sends part or all of the received image data to the power line communication interface 39b and returns it to the main unit 2 with a power line communication signal.

  In base unit 2, the data that has been echoed back in step S 303 is received by power line communication interface 29 b, and the data that has been echoed back in step S 304 is based on the transmission data stored in advance as a comparison reference. The S / N ratio (deterioration rate) is calculated. In step S305, the S / N ratio calculation result is compared with a predetermined threshold. If it is high, wireless communication is selected. In step S306, the remaining data is transmitted from the wireless communication interface 29a. If low, power line communication is selected. In step S307, all data is transmitted from the power line communication interface 29b.

  On the other hand, the secondary master unit 3 receives the data transmitted in step S306 or step S307 in step S403, analyzes the received data in step S404, and calculates the S / N. Subsequently, in step S405, the quality of the data is determined from the calculated S / N. If the quality is good, "ACK" is determined in step S406. If the quality is bad, "NG" is determined in step S404, and the power line communication interface 39b. To base unit 2.

  In step S308, base unit 2 receives signals (“ACK” and “NG”) relating to the quality of data transmitted from power-side secondary base unit 3 by power line communication interface 29b, and receives the received signal. The data is sent to the control unit 26. The control unit 26 grasps “good” or “bad” in the reception status at the receiving side sub-master unit 3 from the received data quality related signals (“ACK”, “NG”).

  The communication operation of FIG. 10 is the same as the communication operation shown in FIG. 9 except that control data is used for the test data. Corresponding processing includes the same step number and the suffix a. Is shown.

  With this configuration, it is possible to search for a communication environment for wireless communication and select an optimal communication means.

[Embodiment 6]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 can be used, and the communication control operations in the control units 26 and 36 are different from those in FIG. 3 to FIG. However, the process of FIG. 11 is particularly similar to the process of FIG. 6, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  It should be noted that in this communication operation, in step S103, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad), the wireless communication is once given up, and the steps S111, S112, S211 to S115 are performed. The image data is transmitted to the secondary master unit 3 by power line communication, but before starting the power line communication in step S111, the timer is started in step S151 and the communication in step S112 is ended. After that, in step S152, it is determined every time whether the specified waiting time has not been reached. Only when it has not been reached, the process proceeds to step S111. When it has reached, the process returns to step S101. .

  Accordingly, when the communication of the image data is poor, the communication is once switched to the communication via the power line, but when the specified time has elapsed since the switching, the wireless communication is tried again. As a result, if the communication environment is improving, communication can be performed with a higher data rate.

[Embodiment 7]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be used. The process of FIG. 12 is also particularly similar to the process of FIG. 6, and corresponding portions are denoted by the same step numbers and description thereof is omitted.

  It should be noted that in this communication operation, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the processing in steps S111, S112, S211 to S115 is repeated to obtain image data. Although the image data is transmitted from the power line communication interface 29b to the secondary master unit 3 in step S111, the dummy data is transmitted from the wireless communication interface 29a to the secondary master unit in step S161. 3 to send.

  In step S261, the secondary master unit 3 receives the dummy data by the wireless communication interface 39a, and in step S262, measures the radio field strength by the RSSI unit provided in the wireless communication interface 39a. . In step S263, the measurement result is transmitted from power line communication interface 39b to base unit 2. In base unit 2, when the wireless field strength measurement result is received in step S162, after the communication in step S112 is completed, in step S163, the received wireless field strength measurement result is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. If it is less than the threshold value, the process returns to step S111 to continue the power line communication. If the value is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the process returns to step S101, and wireless communication is performed again.

  In this way, even if the communication of image data by radio is poor, even if the communication is switched to power line communication, dummy data is transmitted and the received electric field strength is monitored to improve the communication environment. Then, the optimal communication means can be selected quantitatively by switching to wireless communication.

[Embodiment 8]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be used.

  It should be noted that in this communication operation, if the reception result in step S102 is “NG” (bad) in step S103, the count operation is started unless the timer count operation is performed in step S171. If so, the counting operation is continued. In step S172, it is determined from the count value whether the specified standby time has elapsed, and if not, the process returns to step S101 to perform wireless communication. Continue sending image data via communication. On the other hand, if the specified standby time has passed with the reception result “NG” (bad), the base unit 2 uses the user interface such as the monitor 20 and the speaker 23b in step S173 to install the reception result. Notification is made to request readjustment of the position and / or the orientation of the antennas 29a ′ and 39a ′.

  As a result, the reception status (communication status) of the wireless communication in the environment where the master unit 2 and / or the secondary master unit 3 is installed can be confirmed, and the user can be prompted to install in an appropriate state. Both machines 2 and 3 can perform their intended functions.

[Embodiment 9]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation in the intercom system according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this intercom system, the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be used. This communication operation is similar to the communication operation shown in FIG.

  It should be noted that, in this communication operation, if the specified standby time has elapsed while the reception result remains “NG” (bad) in step S172, the master unit 2 receives power from the power line communication interface 29b in step S174. Then, a request signal for readjustment of the installation position and / or the orientation of the antennas 29a ′ and 39a ′ is transmitted to other home appliances that perform power line communication, such as a refrigerator, a microwave oven, and a television receiver, together with the own device address. . In step S271, the other home appliances that have received the request signal readjust the installation position and / or the orientation of the antennas 29a ′ and 39a ′ using a user interface such as a monitor or a speaker in step S272. Notification to request.

  Even in this case, it becomes possible to confirm the reception status (communication status) of the wireless communication in the environment where the master unit 2 and / or the secondary master unit 3 is installed, and prompt the user to install in an appropriate state. It is possible to make both machines 2 and 3 perform their intended functions. In particular, by displaying on a large screen, the method for improving the communication status can be conveyed to the user in more detail. You may make it perform the alerting | reporting process of the said step S173 with an own machine with the transmission process of the said step S174.

  By using the master unit 2 and the sub master unit 3 as described above, it is possible to construct an intercom system that does not require a dedicated signal line between the master unit 2 and the sub master unit 3. Thereby, the installation work can be simplified, and the secondary master unit 3 can be added as necessary, or the secondary master unit 3 can be carried to a necessary room.

  In the above description, communication from the master unit 2 to the sub master unit 3 has been described, but the same applies to communication from the sub master unit 3 to the master unit 2.

  Note that not only image, audio, and control signal communication but also power supply to the slave unit 1 may be performed by a pair of signal lines. In the above-described embodiment, the cameras 21 and 31 are also provided in the parent device 2 and the sub-parent device 3, but may be provided only in the child device 1.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the intercom system which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the intercom system of FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a communication operation according to the first embodiment of the present invention between a master unit and a sub master unit of the intercom system of FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining a more specific communication operation of FIG. 3. FIG. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining a more specific communication operation of FIG. 3. FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the other communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 6th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 7th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 8th Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the communication operation | movement in the intercom system which concerns on the 9th Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Sub-unit 2 Main unit 3 Sub-main unit 5, 6 Plug 7, 8 Outlet 9 Power line 10 Signal line 11, 21, 31 Camera 12, 22, 32 Operation unit 12a Call button 13, 23, 33 Voice input / output unit 13a, 23a, 33a Microphone 13b Speaker 14, 24, 34 Audio processing unit 15, 25a, 25b, 35a, 35b Video processing unit 16 Power receiving unit 20, 30 Monitor (user interface)
22a, 32a Call button 22b, 32b Monitor button 23b, 33b Speaker (user interface)
26, 36 Control unit (communication control unit, storage unit, reply unit)
27, 37 Power supply unit 28 Power supply unit 29a, 39a Wireless communication interface (wireless communication unit)
29b, 39b Power line communication interface (power line communication unit)
29a ', 39a' antenna

Claims (10)

In an intercom device that transmits an image together with sound by a wireless communication unit,
A power line communication unit that performs power line communication via the power line;
A communication control unit that causes the wireless communication unit to transmit image data on the transmission side, determines communication quality from the reception result on the reception side, and transmits the determination result to the transmission side via the power line communication unit. A featured intercom device.   The communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data causes the wireless communication unit to transmit at a reduced data rate when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad. The intercom apparatus according to claim 1.   The wireless communication unit performs communication by dividing the image data into packets, and the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data receives the wireless communication when the determination result received through the power line communication unit is bad. 3. The intercom apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the intercom apparatus transmits the image data with an increased number of packet divisions.   The communication control unit stops communication of image data and causes at least audio data to be communicated to the wireless communication unit when the determination result is poor even after the second transmission. 3. The intercom device according to 3. The image data transmission side includes a storage unit that stores at least a part of the audio signal to be transmitted, and the image data reception side receives the at least part of the received audio signal through the power line communication unit. It has a reply part that sends a reply to the data sender,
The communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data compares the audio signal stored in the storage unit with the audio signal returned through the power line communication unit, and the communication quality is a predetermined threshold value. The intercom apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein wireless communication is selected for communication of the audio signal if higher than that, and power line communication is selected if lower.   When the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad, the communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data tries to perform wireless communication again after a predetermined time has elapsed. The intercom apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein The communication control unit on the transmission side of the image data causes the wireless communication unit to wirelessly transmit dummy data even when the determination result received via the power line communication unit is bad,
The wireless communication unit on the reception side of the image data is provided with an electric field strength measurement unit that measures the electric field strength of the radio wave, and the communication control unit on the reception side of the image data is configured by the electric field strength measurement unit. The intercom apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein when the measurement result of the reception electric field strength of the dummy data is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, wireless communication is performed again.   If the wireless communication quality determination result is poor even after re-transmission according to claim 2 or 3, the communication control unit uses the user interface to set the installation position and / or the antenna orientation. An intercom apparatus characterized by performing a notification requesting readjustment of the intercom. If the determination result of wireless communication quality is poor even by re-transmission according to claim 2 or 3, the communication control unit, through the power line communication unit, includes a predetermined notification including its own address. Communicate to the destination device via the power line,
An interphone apparatus characterized in that a notification destination device uses a user interface to issue a notification requesting readjustment of the installation position and / or antenna orientation.   The interphone device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein one of the interphone devices according to any one of claims 1 to 9 serves as a parent device to which a child device is connected in a wired manner. One or a plurality of units are connected to a power source separately from the parent device, transmit images and sound to and from the parent device, and relay the parent device to and from the child device A video / audio compatible intercom system, characterized in that it becomes a sub-master unit capable of transmitting video and audio.

Images