JPH08242435A - Usage reservation management system for communication equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To easily and efficiently confirm and reserve a use reservation state of plural communication equipments. CONSTITUTION: A management equipment 3 manages centralizingly the use reservation state of video communication equipments 1a, 1b, 1c interconnected by a communication line 2 and is provided with an input output means and a database 4, and reserved data 5a, 5b, 5c are stored in the database 4 for each of the video communication equipments 1a, 1b, 1c. The operator 6 confirms and reserves the use reservation state of a video communication equipment with respect to the management equipment 3 on request from planners 7, 8 of a video conference.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communication device use reservation management system for centrally managing the use reservation status of a plurality of communication devices by a management device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art When it is necessary to use a plurality of video communication devices at the same time, such as a video conference, conventionally,
The use reservation status of each video communication device is confirmed and reserved by the method as shown in FIG. In the figure, 1a, 1
b is a video communication device installed at an arbitrary point, 1c is a video communication device installed at another point, and the use reservation status of each video communication device 1a, 1b, 1c is a schedule provided for each device. It is managed individually by the books 80a, 80b, 80c. Planners 7, 8 who plan video conferences
First, check the schedule book of each video communication device you want to use and grasp the usage reservation status (in the figure,
(Indicated by (1)). After that, the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference call each other to report the use reservation status of each video communication device, and the time period for the video conference is selected from the time period in which a plurality of video communication devices can be used at the same time. Determine ((2) in the figure)
). And finally, each of the videoconference planners 7 and 8 enters the determined reservation content in the schedule book of the video communication device used for the videoconference (in the figure,
(Indicated by (3)).

[0003]

However, in this type of usage reservation management method for video communication equipment, a plurality of people are required to check the schedule books of the video communication equipment distributed in various places, and the reservation is completed. It took a lot of actions and a lot of time until. If multiple video communication devices that you want to use at the same time cannot be reserved, you must manually check the schedule book of the next candidate video communication device again to check the usage reservation status. Checking the reservation status for using the device and making reservations were very complicated.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problem. By centrally managing the use reservation status of communication devices such as a plurality of video communication devices by a management device, the use reservation status of the communication device can be confirmed and reserved. It is an object of the present invention to provide a use reservation management system for a communication device, which can be performed extremely easily and efficiently.

[0005]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a usage reservation management system for centrally managing the usage reservation status of a plurality of communication devices by a management device. The management device stores, as reservation data, an input unit for specifying a communication device used for mutual communication and inputting a date and time to be reserved for use, and a date and time input by the input unit for each communication device. Storage means, a confirmation means for inquiring the use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device, and when there is an inquiry from the confirmation means, calls the reservation data for the corresponding communication device from the storage means, Data processing means for processing and outputting necessary information as a response to the inquiry.

According to another aspect of the communication device use reservation management system in the present invention, the communication device is a video communication device for video conference capable of transmitting and receiving image information.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a usage reservation management system comprising a management device for centrally managing the usage reservation status of a plurality of communication devices, and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the management device. . The terminal device has an input unit for specifying a communication device used for mutual communication and inputting a date and time for which a use reservation is desired, and a confirmation unit for inquiring a use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device. It has and. Further, the management device stores the date and time input by the input means of the terminal device as reservation data for each communication device, and the storage means when the confirmation device of the terminal device makes an inquiry. Data processing means for calling up reservation data for a corresponding communication device, processing necessary information as a response to the inquiry, and outputting the processed information to the terminal device.

According to another aspect of the communication device use reservation management system of the present invention, the communication device is a video communication device for a video conference capable of transmitting and receiving image information.

[0009]

When the date and time to be reserved for use is specified by specifying the communication device used for mutual communication by the input unit of the management device, the date and time input for each communication device is stored as the reservation data by the storage unit. To be done. Further, when the use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device is inquired using the confirmation device of the management device, the data processing device calls the reservation data of the communication device from the storage device, and the inquiry is made. Is output after being processed into necessary information as a response to.

In the communication device use reservation management system according to the second aspect, the date and time input for each communication device is stored as reservation data for the video communication device for video conference. Further, in response to an inquiry about the video communication device managed by the management device, the corresponding reservation data is called, processed into necessary information as a response, and output.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a communication device use reservation management system, wherein when inputting means of a terminal device specifies a communication device to be used for mutual communication and inputs a date and time for which a use reservation is desired, a storage means of the management device is provided. Thus, the date and time input for each communication device is stored as reservation data. Also,
When inquiring about the use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device using the confirmation device of the terminal device, the data processing device of the management device calls the reservation data for the communication device from the storage device, It is processed into necessary information as an answer to the inquiry and is output to the terminal device.

In the communication device use reservation management system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the date and time input from the terminal device of the video communication device for video conference is stored as reservation data for each communication device. Further, in response to an inquiry about a video communication device managed by the management device, the corresponding reservation data is called by the management device, processed into necessary information as a response, and output to the terminal device.

[0013]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS FIG. 1 shows an outline of a use reservation management system of a video communication device for a video conference according to a first embodiment of the present invention. If it is used, it can be applied to other communication devices. In FIG. 1, A and B are video conference rooms provided at a certain point, C is a video conference room provided at another point, and each of the video conference rooms A, B, and C has a video communication device 1a, 1b and 1c are provided respectively, and the video communication devices 1a, 1b and 1c are connected to each other by a communication line 2. M is a management center including the management device 3. The management device 3 is a video communication device 1a, 1b, 1c.
For centrally managing the usage reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c in the database 4 of the management device 3.
Reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c for each is recorded. Since the management device 3 is operated by the operator 6, the video conference planners 7 and 8 call the operator 6 by telephone 9.
First, the user is requested to confirm the reservation status of the video communication device to be used and to input the reservation.

FIG. 2 shows an electrical configuration of the management device 3. The management device 3 has a central processing unit (indicated by “CPU” in the drawing and hereinafter the same) 16 as a control body, and the CP
In U16, a ROM 17 in which fixed data such as a program is stored and a RAM 18 used for reading and writing data
Is connected as a main storage device. I / O channel 1
A keyboard 20 as a input device, a bar code reader 21, a database 4 as an auxiliary storage device, a CRT display 22 and a printer 23 as output devices, etc. are connected via 9.

The CPU 16 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 17 to read / write data from / to the RAM 18, and perform input / output operations to / from the input / output device and the database 4.
9 to control in series.

The bar code reader 21 is for simplifying input processing of inquiry conditions and reservation contents for confirming use reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c, and is managed by the management device 3. The specific input contents such as the respective video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c and the time zone are bar-coded in advance and registered in the management device 3, and the bar-codes and the meanings thereof are listed in association with each other. Prepare the barcode sheet that you made. At the time of input processing, a bar code corresponding to the content to be input is selected from the bar code sheet and read by the bar code reader 21.

The database 4 is a video communication device 1
Reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c for each a, 1b, 1c, equipment information of the video conference rooms A, B, C in which each video communication device 1a, 1b, 1c is installed, each video communication device 1
Information such as configurations and functions of a, 1b, and 1c is recorded, and various keys can be used to efficiently search for necessary information.
It is configured so that the recorded contents can be updated easily and accurately.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the management device 3. The input means 26 is for inputting inquiry conditions and reservation contents for confirming the use reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c to the management device 3, and the keyboard 20 and the bar code in FIG. Leader 2
1. A bar code sheet or the like corresponds to this. Depending on the contents input by the input means 26, the confirmation means 27, the reservation means 28, the deletion means 29, the change means 30, and the update means 3
Either of the above 1 is activated.

The storage means 33 includes the video communication devices 1a and 1a.
The reservation data 5a, b
Recorded as 5b, 5c or video conference room A, B, C
For recording facility information and information on the configuration and function of each video communication device 1a, 1b, 1c, and the database 4 in FIG. 2 corresponds to this.

The confirmation means 27 operates when the input means 26 inputs an inquiry condition for confirming the use reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c, and the inquiry condition from the storage means 33. Reservation data 5a, 5 of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c corresponding to
Call b, 5c.

The reservation means 28 operates when the reservation content of the video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1c is inputted by the input means 26, and the inputted reservation date and time are stored in the video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1c. Reservation data 5a, 5b, 5 for each
It is edited in the format of c and recorded in the storage means 31.

The deleting means 29 operates when the input means 26 inputs an instruction to cancel the reservation of the video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1c, and the reservation for each equipment recorded in the storage means 33. The reservation data corresponding to the cancellation condition input from the data 5a, 5b, 5c is deleted.

The changing means 30 operates when the input means 26 inputs an instruction to change the reservation content of the video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1c, and the reservation for each equipment recorded in the storage means 33. The corresponding reservation data is called from the data 5a, 5b, 5c, and the input change content is reflected.

The updating means 31 uses the input means 26 to manage the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1 managed by the management device 3.
c additional registration, deletion, change and each video communication device 1a, 1
b, 1c and the video conference rooms A, B, and C, which is activated when an input is made to update the recorded contents other than the reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c, such as a change in the information, and is stored based on the input data. The contents of the means 33 are updated.

The data processing means 32, in accordance with the contents input by the input means 26, the confirmation means 27, the reservation means 28,
Any one of the deleting means 29, the changing means 30, and the updating means 31 operates to refer to the contents of the storage means 33, add, delete, change or update the result into information necessary for outputting as an answer. Is.

The above-mentioned confirmation means 27 and reservation means 2
8. The deleting unit 29, the changing unit 30, the updating unit 31, and the data processing unit 32 are functions realized by the CPU 16 executing the program stored in the ROM 17 using the RAM 18.

The output means 34 is the data processing means 32.
Is for displaying the output data that has been processed into necessary information as an answer to the input contents by the CR in FIG.
The T display 22 and the printer 23 correspond to this.

FIG. 4 shows the video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1 according to the use reservation management system for the video communication equipment of the first embodiment.
The procedure for confirming the usage reservation status of c and making a reservation is shown. In the figure, the right side of the dotted line shows the processing procedure performed by the video conference planner 7 or 8, and the left side shows the processing procedure of the management device 3 operated by the operator 6. In addition, arrows pointing from the right side to the left side or from the left side to the right side of the dotted line are between the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference and the management device 3.
The exchange of information performed via the operator 6 is shown.

First, the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference confirm the contents of the request for reservation of the video communication device with the other party who conducts the video conference in step (indicated by "ST" in the figure, the same applies hereinafter) 1. , ST2, the operator 6 of the management device 3 is notified of the contents of the reservation request by telephone.

In the management device 3, in order to confirm the use reservation status of the video communication device for which the reservation is desired, the operator 6 inputs the inquiry condition according to the contents of the reservation desired from the input means 26 in ST3. With this input,
In ST4, the confirmation means 27 is operated to perform the search processing, and the video communication equipment 1a recorded in the storage means 33,
From among the reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c for each 1b, 1c,
The reservation data corresponding to the input inquiry conditions is called.

The called reservation data is the following ST5,
After being subjected to data editing processing by the data processing means 32 and processed into necessary information as a response to the inquiry, it is displayed on the CRT display 22 or the printer 23 as the output means 33 in ST6. The operator 6 informs the planners 7, 8 of the video conference about the displayed contents. It should be noted that the inquiry conditions that are input and the answers to them will be described later.

At ST7, the video conference planners 7 and 8
Based on the confirmation result of the usage reservation status of the video communication device, it is determined whether it is necessary to re-inquire. At this time, it is impossible to make a reservation as desired, and if it is necessary to inquire about the use reservation status again for the next desired reservation content, the determination becomes "YES", and the process returns to ST2 and the operator next obtains the next desired reservation content. Tell. Operator 6
Inputs the inquiry condition according to the content of the new reservation request (ST4) and performs the search process (ST5) again.

Further, if the desired reservation can be made or the desired reservation cannot be made, but the content of the next desired reservation has not been decided yet, the judgment in ST7 is "NO".
And move to ST8.

At ST8, the video conference planners 7 and 8
At this stage, it is determined whether or not the processing is finished. At this time, if the desired reservation cannot be made but the next desired reservation content has not been decided yet, the determination becomes “YES”, the process proceeds to ST12, and the video conference planners 7 and 8 ask the operator 6. This process is ended by notifying that the process will be ended. The management device 3 also receives ST12, performs an end process (ST13) by the operation of the operator 6, and then ends the process.

As a result of checking the use reservation status of the above-mentioned video communication device, if the reservation as desired can be made, it is necessary to make a reservation with respect to the management device 3, and therefore the judgment in ST8 is "NO". Video conference planners 7 and 8 are ST9
Then, the operator 6 is notified of the finally decided reservation content.

In response to this, the management device 3 instructs the operator 6 in ST10 to set the video communication device to be used, the date,
Reservation contents such as a time zone and a reservation person are input from the input means 26. In the subsequent ST11, the reservation means 28 is operated to perform reservation processing, and the inputted reservation content is edited in the form of reservation data for each video communication device and recorded in the database 4 as the storage means 33.

When the reservation process in ST11 is completed, the planners 7, 8 of the video conference inform the operator 6 that the process is to be ended (ST12), and the management device 3 performs the end process (ST13) by the operation of the operator 6. After that, the process ends. The video conference planners 7 and 8 also end this process after informing the operator 6 of the end of the process in ST12.

FIG. 5 shows a procedure for canceling the use reservation of the video communication device recorded in the management device 3 by the use reservation management system for the video communication device of the first embodiment. Similar to FIG. 4, the right side of the dotted line shows the processing procedure performed by the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference, and the left side shows the processing procedure of the management device 3 operated by the operator 6, respectively.

First, the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference are ST2.
The content of the cancellation of the reservation of the video communication device is confirmed to the other party who performs the video conference in 1 and the operator 6 of the management center 3 is notified to the operator 6 of the management center 3 by telephone 9 in ST22.

In ST23, the operator 6
Thus, the content of the reservation cancellation is input from the input means 26. The content of this reservation cancellation is, for example, "Reservation date,
The reservation data to be canceled can be specified from the reservation data already recorded in the storage means 33, such as "time zone and video communication device".

In ST24, by inputting the contents of the cancellation of the reservation, the deleting means 27 is operated to perform the search processing, and the video communication equipments 1a, 1b, 1 recorded in the storage means 33.
From the reservation data 5a, 5b, and 5c for each c, the reservation data that matches the input content of the reservation cancellation is called.

The called reservation data is followed by ST2.
In step 5, the data is processed by the data processing means 32 and processed into a format suitable for confirming the content of the reservation data to be canceled. In ST26, the CRT display 22 or the printer 23 as the output means 34 is processed. Is displayed. The operator 6 informs the videoconference planners 7 and 8 of the displayed reservation data to be canceled.

In ST27, the video conference planners 7, 8
Checks the content of the reservation data to be canceled which is being displayed on the output means 34, and judges whether or not the reservation data may be canceled. At this time, if the reservation data to be canceled is correct, the determination is “YES”, and the videoconference planners 7 and 8 inform the operator 6 in step ST28 that the reservation data may be canceled. If the reservation data to be canceled is incorrect, the determination is “NO” and ST2
Returning to 2, the video conference planners 7 and 8 again notify the operator 6 of the contents of cancellation of the reservation of the video communication device.

When the management device 3 receives ST28, the S
At T29, a command for canceling the reservation data currently displayed is input. Then, in the subsequent ST30, the deleting means 29 is operated to perform the cancel processing, and the reservation data is deleted from the reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c for each of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c recorded in the storage means 33. It

When the canceling process in ST30 is completed, the TV conference planners 7 and 8 notify the operator 6 in ST31 that the process is completed, and the process is completed. The management device 3 performs an ending process in ST32 by the operation of the operator 6 and ends the process.

FIGS. 6 and 7 show a procedure for changing the reservation contents of the video communication device recorded in the database 4 of the management apparatus 3 by the use reservation management system for the video communication device of the first embodiment. As in FIGS. 4 and 5, the right side of the dotted line shows the processing procedure performed by the videoconference planners 7 and 8, and the left side shows the processing procedure of the management device 3 operated by the operator 6.

First, the videoconference planners 7 and 8 enter ST4.
In step 1, the contents of the reservation change of the video communication device are confirmed to the other party who holds the video conference, and in ST42, the operator 6 of the management center 3 is notified by telephone 9 of the reservation contents of the video communication device to be changed.

In the management device 3, the operator 6 in ST43.
By this, the contents of the reservation to be changed are input means 2
Input from 6. The input may be, for example, “Reservation date,
The reservation data to be changed can be specified from the reservation data already recorded in the storage means 33, such as "time zone and video communication device".

In ST44, by inputting the reservation content to be changed, the changing means 30 is operated to perform the search processing, and the video communication equipment 1a recorded in the storage means 33,
From among the reservation data 5a, 5b, 5c for each 1b, 1c,
Reservation data that matches the reservation content to be changed is called.

The above-mentioned reservation data that has been called is followed by ST4.
In step 5, the data is processed by the data processing means 32 and processed into a format suitable for confirming the content of the reservation data to be changed, and in ST46, the CRT display 22 or the printer 23 as the output means 34 is processed. Is displayed. The operator 6 informs the planners 7, 8 of the video conference about the contents of the displayed reservation data to be changed.

In ST47, the video conference planners 7, 8
Confirms the contents of the reservation data to be changed displayed on the output means 34, and determines whether or not the contents of the reservation data may be changed. At this time, if the contents of the reservation data being displayed may be changed, the determination in ST47 is "YES".
Then, the video conferencing planners 7 and 8 are ST4 following FIG.
At 8, the operator 6 is notified of the contents of the change in the reservation data. If the reservation data being displayed is different from the desired reservation data, the determination in ST47 is "NO", and ST42
Returning to, video conferencing planners 7 and 8 are operators 6
Tell again the reservation details of the video communication device you want to change to.

In the management device 3, upon receipt of the ST48, the operator 6 inputs the change contents for the currently displayed reservation data in ST49. This input causes ST5
When the confirmation means 27 operates at 0, the reservation data 5 for each video communication device 1a, 1b, 1c recorded in the storage means 33.
The a, 5b, and 5c are searched for whether or not there is a match between the changed reservation data and the contents other than the reservation person.

At ST51, as a result of the search at ST50, it is determined whether or not there is a matching reservation data in the storage means 33. If there is reservation data that matches at this time, the judgment is “YES”, and the changed reservation contents have already been reserved by another reservation person, and it is impossible to change as desired,
CRT display 2 as output means 34 in ST52
2 and the printer 23 display that the change is impossible.

If there is no matching reservation data in the storage means 33 as a result of the search processing in ST50, the determination in ST51 becomes "NO", and in ST53, the changing means 30 operates to perform the changing processing. The changed reservation content is edited in the reservation data format and recorded in the database 4 as the storage unit 33, and the reservation data before the change is deleted.

At ST54, the video conference planners 7, 8
Determines whether the changes have been completed. At this time, if the desired change is possible and the change process is completed, the determination is “YES”, and the video conference planners 6 and 7 notify the operator 6 of the end of the process in ST56, and the process is finished. . Also, the management device 3 side that has received ST56 also performs an end process in ST58 and ends this process.

In ST54, if the desired change cannot be made and the change process is not completed, the determination is "NO", the process proceeds to ST55, and it is determined whether another change is input. . At this time, if another change content is input, the determination is “YES”, and ST48
Then, the operator 6 is notified of the changed contents again. Also,
If it is not necessary to re-enter with another change content, the judgment is “NO”.
Then, I moved to ST56 and planned the video conference 6,7
Notifies the operator 6 of the end of this process and ends the process.
The management device 3 side receiving this also performs the ending process in ST57, and then ends this process.

8 to 10 show examples of response information output screens when the management device 3 is inquired about the use reservation status of the video communication device by the procedure shown in ST3 to ST6 of FIG. In these examples, each video communication device installed in the video conference room is shown by using the name of the video conference room when inputting the inquiry condition and outputting the answer information.

First, in the example shown in FIG. 8, as the inquiry conditions, the date column 40, the time zone column 41, and the place column 4 of the screen are displayed.
In 2, the date, the time zone, and the name of the video conference room for which the reservation status is to be confirmed are entered, and if the confirmation means 27 searches the storage means 33 and there is reservation data that matches the inquiry condition, "not possible" If there is no such answer, the answer of “OK” is edited and output. The answer information "OK" in the status column 43 indicates that the reservation according to the inquiry condition is possible, and the answer information "INHIBIT" indicates that the reservation according to the inquiry condition is impossible.

It is possible to enter a plurality of video conference room names in the location column 42, and in that case, only when the input video conference rooms are all available at the date and time of the inquiry condition. The answer information “OK” is edited / outputted in the status column 43, and otherwise, the answer information “NO” is edited / outputted.

In the example shown in FIG. 9, the date and the video conference room for which the use reservation status is to be confirmed are entered in the date column 45 and the place column 43 of the screen as inquiry conditions. 33 is searched, and all the reservation data having the same reservation date as the date of the inquiry condition are read out from the reservation data of the video communication device corresponding to the video conference room of the inquiry condition. Then, by the data processing means 32,
Schedule 4 showing the reservation status on the day of the inquiry condition
It is edited in 7 format and output.

This schedule table 47 is edited on a daily basis for each video conference room, and the horizontal axis of the table is time, and the time zones in which use reservations are already made are indicated by mutual arrows, and reservations are made. The non-existing time periods are indicated by shading. In addition, the date column 45 can be specified within a range of several days, and the location column 4
When a plurality of video conference room names are input in 3, the schedule table 47 of each video conference room is displayed side by side for each date, and the screen is scrolled as necessary to confirm the contents.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, as an inquiry condition, the date column 50, the time zone column 51, and the area column 52 on the screen indicate the date, time zone, and area name in which the video conference room for which the reservation status is to be confirmed exists. Is entered.
The area is a group of a plurality of video communication devices existing in the neighborhood area in advance, and each area is given an area name.

By the input, the confirmation means 27 is operated to search the storage means 33, and from the reservation data of the video communication equipment existing in the inquiry condition area, the same reservation date and time as the inquiry condition date and time zone are set. All reservation data having a reservation time zone is read out. Then, the data processing means 32 edits it in the form of a list 53 showing video conference rooms that can be reserved in the area of the inquiry condition and outputs it as answer information. It is also possible to enter a plurality of area names in the area column 52, and in that case, a list 53 showing video conference rooms that can be reserved for each area is edited and output.

FIG. 11 shows an outline of a use reservation management system for video communication equipment for a video conference room according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In this system, instead of the telephone 9 of the first embodiment, a terminal device 62 is provided at the hands of the planners 7, 8 of the video conference, and the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the first embodiment. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted. In addition, when the management device 61 of the second embodiment and the terminal device 62M installed in the management center M are combined, it becomes the same as the management device 3 of FIG.

A workstation is used as the terminal device 62, and each terminal device 62 and the management device 61 are connected by a communication line. Therefore, the videoconference planners 7 and 8 operate the terminal device 62 by themselves,
It is possible to directly access the database 4 of the management device 3 without going through the operator 6 to confirm the use reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c and input reservations.
Also, since the terminal device 62M is provided together with the operator 6 on the side of the management device 3, the operator 6 confirms the use reservation status of the video communication devices 1a, 1b, 1c and inputs the reservation, as in the case of the first embodiment. Is also possible.

FIG. 12 shows the electrical construction of the use reservation management system for video communication equipment of the second embodiment. In this system, a management device 61 and a terminal device 62 are connected to a data transmission system 66.
The management device 61 is in charge of data processing, the terminal device is in charge of input / output, and the data transmission system 66 is in charge of data exchange between the management device 61 and the terminal device 62.

The management device 61 has a CPU 16 as a main control unit, is connected to a ROM 17 or a RAM 18 as a main storage device, and is connected to a database 4 as an auxiliary storage device via an input / output channel 19. CPU of management device 61
In response to a request from the terminal device 62 transmitted via the data transmission system 66, 16 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 17, reads / writes data to / from the RAM 18, and writes data to the database 4. It controls the input / output operation of (1) through the input / output channel 19 and outputs the result of data processing to the terminal device 62.

The terminal device 62 is mainly controlled by the CPU 16, ROM 17 and RAM 18 are connected as a main storage device, and a keyboard 20 and a bar code reader 21 as an input device via an input / output channel 19 and a CRT display as an output device. 22 and the printer 23 are connected. The CPU 16 of the terminal device 62 decodes and executes the program stored in the ROM 17 to read / write data from / to the RAM 18, while inputting the input device 20, 2
I / O channel 19
The control request is output via the input device 20, 21 to the management device 61, and the reply from the management device 61 is received.

The data transmission system 66 is for transmitting the processing request output from the terminal device 62 to the management device 61 and for transmitting the processing result output from the management device 61 to the terminal device 62. Control device 63 (hereinafter, "C
CU), a digital service unit 64 (hereinafter referred to as “DSU”), and a digital communication line 65.

The CCU 63 is for controlling the exchange of data performed through the communication line 65. The CCU 63 puts data on the line, collects the data sent on the line, searches for transmission control characters, and transmits data. It functions as transmission control for checking data errors and interface control for controlling the input / output channel 19.

The DSU 64 is a line terminating device for communication using a digital line, and is a management device 61.
And a procedure for starting or ending communication between the terminal devices 62 is performed.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a use reservation management system for video communication equipment according to the second embodiment.
The components having the same functions as the components of the management device 3 shown in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Further, the transmission means 67 in the figure is for exchanging data between the terminal device 62 and the management device 61, and is the CCU 63, DSU of FIG.
64 and the communication circuit 65 correspond.

In this system, any one of the confirming means 27, the reservation means 28, the deleting means 29, the changing means 30 and the updating means 31 is activated depending on the input content from the input means 26 of the terminal device 62. And confirmation means 27
When is activated, a processing request for calling the reservation data of the video communication device corresponding to the input inquiry condition from the storage means 33 is issued and sent to the management device 61 through the transmission means 67.

When the reservation means 28 operates, a processing request is made to edit the input reservation date and time into the reservation data format for each video communication device and store it in the storage means 33, together with the input reservation content. , Is transmitted to the management device 61 through the transmission means 67.

When the deleting means 29 is activated, a processing request for deleting the reservation data corresponding to the cancel condition inputted from the reservation data for each video communication device stored in the storing means 33 is issued and inputted. It is sent to the management device 61 through the transmission means 67 together with the canceled condition.

When the changing means 30 is activated, the corresponding reservation data is called from the reservation data for each video communication device stored in the storage means 33, and a processing request for reflecting the inputted change contents is issued. Then, it is sent to the management apparatus 61 through the transmission means 67 together with the input change content.

When the updating means 31 is activated, a processing request for updating the contents of the storage means 33 is issued based on the inputted updating contents, and the updating contents are sent together with the inputted updating contents to the management device 61 through the transmitting means 67. To be

In the management device 61, the storage means 33 is processed according to the processing request from the terminal device 62, and the processing result is processed by the data processing means 32 into necessary information as an answer to the input. It The reply information is sent to the terminal device 62 through the transmission means 67 and displayed by the output means 24.

The video communication equipment 1a, 1b, 1c is used by using the use reservation management system for the video communication equipment of the second embodiment.
The procedure for confirming and reserving the usage reservation status, canceling the reservation content, and changing the reservation content is as shown in FIG.
~ It is similar to the case of the system of the first embodiment shown in FIG. However, in the case of the second embodiment, the right side of the dotted line in the drawing is the procedure performed by the planners 7 and 8 of the video conference, and the left side is the management device 6.
1 and the procedure performed by the terminal device 62 are shown respectively, and the exchange of information between the right side and the left side of the dotted line is performed directly without the operator 6.

In the above two embodiments, the management device 3,
Although the use reservation of the video communication device is centrally managed by 61, the use reservation of the video communication device and a dedicated line connecting the same can be centrally managed as shown in FIG.

In FIG. 14, A and B are video conference rooms provided at a certain point, C is another point, D and E are still another point, F, G, and H are still another point. The video conference rooms 1a to 1 are provided in respective video conference rooms.
The video conference rooms A to H each having h are connected to each other by a communication line. The public line 72 and the private lines V to Y are used as the communication lines. The public line 72
Is the same as a line connecting a general telephone, and it is possible to connect any of the video communication devices 1a to 1h, and a fee is charged according to the usage time of the line. On the other hand, leased line V ~
Y always connects between predetermined places exclusively for the user, and the usage fee is charged for each line regardless of the usage time of the line. Reference numeral 70 in the figure is a changer for switching connection between a private line and a public line.

With such a configuration, for example, when a conference is held between the video conference rooms C and D, the public conference line A is used to connect the D and E directly to each other. In some cases, the line usage fee may be lower if the dedicated line X and the public lines 72, 72 are used via the changer 70 installed at the location. In such a case, in addition to the video communication devices 1c and 1d to be used, the use reservation status of the dedicated line X is confirmed and reservations are made.

The management of reservations for use of the dedicated line is the same as in the case of the video communication devices 1a to 1h, and the reservation data 71v to 71y for each dedicated line is recorded in the database 4 of the management device 3 and the management device is controlled. By operating, it is possible to confirm the use reservation status of the leased lines V to Y and make reservation input.

[0084]

As described above, according to the present invention, the management device is provided with the input means for specifying the communication equipment used for mutual communication and inputting the date and time for which the use reservation is desired, and the input means. Storage means for storing the date and time as reservation data for each communication device, confirmation means for inquiring the usage reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device, and when the confirmation means makes an inquiry, the storage means Since the reservation data of the corresponding communication device is called, and the data processing means for processing and outputting the necessary information as the answer to the inquiry is provided, the use reservation status of a plurality of communication devices is centrally managed. Inquiries regarding reservations and reservations can be made easily by operating the management device. Further, it is possible to easily, quickly and accurately make an inquiry about the reservation status of a plurality of communication devices or make a reservation.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the management device centrally manages the use reservation status of the video communication device for video conference capable of transmitting and receiving the image information. Inquiries and reservations regarding the usage reservation status of communication devices can be made easily, quickly, and accurately.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the terminal device is provided with input means for specifying a communication device used for mutual communication and inputting a date and time for which a use reservation is desired, and a communication device managed by the management device. A confirmation unit for inquiring the usage reservation status is provided, and a storage unit for storing the date and time input from the input unit of the terminal device as reservation data for each communication device in the management device, and a storage unit for the terminal device. When there is an inquiry from the confirmation means, data reservation means for calling the reservation data for the corresponding communication device from the storage means, processing it into necessary information as a response to the inquiry, and outputting it to the terminal device are provided. Since centralized management of the reservation status of use of other communication devices, inquiries about any communication device and reservation input can be easily performed by operating the terminal device. Ukoto can. Further, it is possible to easily, quickly and accurately make an inquiry about the reservation status of a plurality of communication devices or make a reservation. Furthermore, since the management device is operated using the terminal device, if the terminal device is installed at a nearby place, even if the management device is in a remote place, it is possible to directly and easily inquire about the reservation status of communication devices. You can make reservations.

In the invention of claim 4, since the management device centrally manages the use reservation status of the video communication device for video conference capable of transmitting and receiving the image information, the video image for the video conference dispersed in each region. Easy reservation of communication equipment,
Can be done quickly and accurately. Further, by installing the terminal device in an appropriate place such as each video conference room, it is possible to easily make an inquiry or make a reservation about the reservation status of the communication device at a necessary place.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a usage reservation management system for a video conference video communication device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system configuration of a usage reservation management system for the video communication device of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a use reservation management system for the video communication device of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure of confirming a reservation status of use of the video communication device and making a reservation.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure for canceling a reservation for use of a video communication device.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure for changing a use reservation of a video communication device.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure for changing a use reservation of a video communication device.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a confirmation screen of a use reservation status of the video communication device.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a confirmation screen for confirming the usage reservation status of the video communication device.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a confirmation screen for confirming the usage reservation status of the video communication device.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a usage reservation management system for a video communication device for a video conference according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a usage reservation management system for the video communication device of FIG.

13 is a functional block diagram of a usage reservation management system for the video communication device of FIG.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of a use reservation management system for a video communication device and a dedicated line.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a conventional method for reserving use of a video communication device for a video conference.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1a-1c Communication equipment 3,61 Management device 26 Input means 27 Confirmation means 32 Data processing means 33 Storage means 62 Terminal device

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A usage reservation management system for centrally managing the usage reservation status of a plurality of communication devices by a management device, wherein the management device identifies and uses communication devices used for mutual communication. An input unit for inputting a date and time to be reserved, a storage unit for storing the date and time input by the input unit as reservation data for each communication device, and for inquiring the use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device And a data processing unit that, when an inquiry is received from the confirmation unit, calls reservation data for the corresponding communication device from the storage unit, processes the information into necessary information as a response to the inquiry, and outputs the information. Reservation management system for communication equipment. 2. The use reservation management system for a communication device according to claim 1, wherein the communication device is a video communication device for video conference capable of transmitting and receiving image information. 3. A usage reservation management system comprising: a management device for centrally managing the usage reservation status of a plurality of communication devices; and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the management device, wherein the terminal device comprises: It is equipped with input means for specifying the communication device used for mutual communication and inputting the date and time for which the use reservation is desired, and confirmation means for inquiring the use reservation status of the communication device managed by the management device. The management device stores a date and time input from the input device of the terminal device as reservation data for each communication device, and a confirmation device of the terminal device makes an inquiry,
A reservation reservation management system for communication equipment, comprising: data reservation means for calling the reservation data for the corresponding communication equipment from the storage means, processing it into necessary information as a response to the inquiry, and outputting it to the terminal device. 4. The use reservation management system for a communication device according to claim 3, wherein the communication device is a video communication device for video conference capable of transmitting and receiving image information.