CN111051630A - Electric lock control system, electric lock system, control method for electric lock control system, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

The object of the invention is to improve the safety performance. An electric lock control system (1) comprising: a lock-side communication unit (13) for performing wireless communication with the key device (2); and a lock-side control unit (11) for controlling the electric lock (3) on the basis of information received by the lock-side communication unit (13) from the key device (2). The lock-side control unit (11) performs a first process of closing or opening the electric lock (3) in a case where a determination condition is found to be satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device (2) is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the communication quality between the lock-side communication unit (13) and the key device (2). On the other hand, when the key device (2) is present in the communication range and the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time or longer, the lock-side control unit (11) performs a predetermined second process different from the first process.

Description

Electric lock control system, electric lock system, control method for electric lock control system, and program

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to an electric lock control system, an electric lock system, a control method of an electric lock control system, and a program. More particularly, the present invention relates to an electric lock control system, an electric lock system, a control method of an electric lock control system, and a program all configured or designed to control an electric lock for locking or unlocking an opening/closing member provided to a building.

Background

Electric lock systems for locking and unlocking doors of buildings are known (for example, see patent document 1). The electric lock system described in patent document 1 includes a controller for controlling the closing and opening of a main lock and an auxiliary lock provided for a door. The controller transmits an activation signal for turning ON (ON) the electronic key at regular intervals. Upon receiving the activation signal, the electronic key becomes on and transmits the ID information to the controller. Upon receiving the ID information from the electronic key, the controller performs authentication based on the received ID information. In the case of successful authentication, the controller opens the closed primary and secondary locks.

In the electric lock system of patent document 1, as long as a user holding an electronic key stays within a range in which the electronic key can receive an activation signal from a controller, ID information is transmitted from the electronic key to the controller. In case of successful authentication, the primary and secondary locks are opened. This may allow a third party who happens to be in the vicinity of the door at that time to open the door and enter the building.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1: japanese laid-open patent publication 2016-20606

Disclosure of Invention

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an electric lock control system, an electric lock system, a control method of an electric lock control system, and a program, all of which contribute to improvement in safety performance.

An electric lock control system according to an aspect of the present invention includes a lock-side communication unit and a lock-side control unit. The lock-side communication unit wirelessly communicates with a key device. The lock-side control unit controls the electric lock according to information received by the lock-side communication unit from the key device. The electric lock is used for locking or unlocking an opening/closing member provided at an opening portion of a building. The lock-side control unit is configured to perform a first process of closing or opening the electric lock in a case where a determination condition is found to be satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the communication quality between the lock-side communication unit and the key device. On the other hand, when the key device is present in the communication range and the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied is found to continue for a predetermined waiting time or longer, the lock-side control unit performs a predetermined second process different from the first process.

An electric lock system according to another aspect of the present invention includes: the electric lock control system; and an electric lock controlled by the lock-side control unit.

A control method of an electric lock control system according to still another aspect of the present invention includes performing a first process and performing a predetermined second process. The first processing includes: the electric lock is closed or opened in a case where the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the communication quality with the key device. The second process is different from the first process and is performed when a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time or longer in a state in which the key device is present in the communication range.

A program according to still another aspect of the present invention is designed to cause a computer system to execute a first process and a predetermined second process. The first processing includes: the electric lock is closed or opened in a case where the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the communication quality with the key device. The second process is different from the first process and is performed when a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time or longer in a state in which the key device is present in the communication range.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an electric lock system including an electric lock control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

figure 2 illustrates how the electric lock system may be used;

FIG. 3 illustrates how the electric lock system may be used;

fig. 4 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure in which the electric lock system performs the first process;

fig. 5 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure in which the electric lock system performs the second process;

fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing an exemplary flow of the operation of the electric lock control system according to a fourth modification of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

fig. 7 is a sequence diagram showing another exemplary flow of the operation of the electric lock control system according to the fourth modification.

Detailed Description

(1) Overview

An overview of an electric lock system including an electric lock control system according to an exemplary embodiment will be described. As shown in fig. 1, an electric lock system 10 according to the present embodiment includes an electric lock control system 1 and a key device 2. The electric lock system 10 further comprises an electric lock 3 controlled by the electric lock control system 1.

The electric lock control system 1 according to the present embodiment is a system for controlling an electric lock 3. The electric lock 3 is a device for locking or unlocking the opening/closing member 5 (see fig. 2 and 3). The opening/closing member 5 is provided at the opening portion 40 of the building 4. As used herein, "open/close member 5" refers to a door or window that separates an interior of building 4 (hereinafter "interior 41") from an exterior of building 4 (hereinafter "exterior 42"), and may be, for example, a main entry door, a back door (which may be a hinged or sliding door), or a patio door. In the present embodiment, the opening/closing member 5 is a main entrance/exit door. The electric lock control system 1 and the electric lock 3 are mounted on the opening/closing member 5. The electric lock control system 1 is configured to be ready to communicate with the key device 2. The electric lock control system 1 is also configured to electrically switch the state of the electric lock 3 from the closed state (in which the opening/closing member 5 is locked) to the open state (in which the opening/closing member 5 is unlocked) and vice versa by communicating with the key device 2.

The key device 2 has the ability to communicate with the electric lock control system 1. In the present embodiment, the communication method between the electric lock control system 1 and the key device 2 is wireless communication via radio waves. The key device 2 is for example a battery-operated mobile telecommunication device. In this embodiment, the electric lock control system 1 is also powered by a battery. In the present embodiment, the building 4 may be a single-family house, for example. Thus, the user 6 is someone who holds the key device 2 and may be the resident of the building 4 or anyone of his or her family members, relatives, friends or acquaintances. In the case where there are a plurality of users 6, each of the plurality of users 6 may hold the key device 2. In this case, the electric lock system 10 includes a plurality of key devices 2.

The electric lock 3 electrically locks or unlocks the opening/closing member 5 in accordance with a locking signal or an unlocking signal supplied from a lock-side control unit 11 (to be described later) of the electric lock control system 1. In other words, the electric strike 3 switches from the closed state (in which the opening/closing member 5 is locked) to the open state (in which the opening/closing member 5 is unlocked) and vice versa, according to the locking signal or the unlocking signal supplied from the lock-side control unit 11.

The electric lock control system 1 and the electric lock system 10 according to the present embodiment have the following structures to improve the safety performance.

As shown in fig. 1, the electric lock control system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a lock-side communication unit 13 and a lock-side control unit 11.

The lock-side communication unit 13 wirelessly communicates with the key device 2.

The lock-side control unit 11 controls the electric lock 3 for locking or unlocking the opening/closing member 5, based on the information received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2. The lock-side control unit 11 determines whether the key device 2 exists within a predetermined communication range a1 (see fig. 2 and 3) based on the communication quality between the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2. As used herein, the "predetermined communication range a 1" may refer to, for example, a range in which a Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of a wireless signal received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2 is equal to or greater than a predetermined first threshold value. In the present embodiment, the "first threshold value" may be set to a value corresponding to a received signal strength indication of a wireless signal received from the key device 2 located at a distance of several meters from the installation site of the electric lock control system 1.

When the finding determination condition is satisfied in a state where it is detected that the key device 2 is present in the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 performs the first process. The "first process" is a process of turning off or turning on the electric lock 3. On the other hand, when the key device 2 is present in the communication range a1 and the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for the predetermined waiting time T1 or longer, the lock-side control unit 11 performs a predetermined second process different from the first process.

In the present embodiment, the "waiting time T1" may be, for example, 1 to 5 minutes, and may be appropriately changed according to the setting of the communication range A1 and the operating environment, for example.

The "determination condition" is a condition for locking or unlocking the electric lock 3. Examples of the determination condition include a condition that the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 should be equal to or larger than a predetermined second threshold value, and a condition that a command should be input into a lock-side operation unit 15 (to be described later) of the electric lock control system 1. In this case, the "key device 2" may be, for example, a key device authorized to close or open the electric lock 3.

The "second threshold" is set to a value larger than the first threshold. In the exterior 42, an authentication area a2 narrower than the communication range a1 is provided in the vicinity of the opening 40. The authentication zone a2 here refers to a range of distances from/to the closure member 5 within about 1 meter. The second threshold value is set so that the intensity of the signal received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2 present within the authentication area a2 becomes equal to or greater than the second threshold value. Therefore, examples of the determination conditions described above include a condition that the key device 2 should exist within the authentication area a2, and in the present embodiment, a condition that a command should be input into the lock-side operation unit 15.

The "second process" is different from the first process of turning off or turning on the electric lock 3. For example, the second process may be a process of changing the determination condition. This prevents the first process of closing or opening the electric lock 3 from being performed in the case where the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for the predetermined wait time T1 or longer in the state in which the key apparatus 2 is present within the communication range a1 as described above, thereby improving the security performance.

In the present embodiment, the second process is a process of changing the determination condition so that the determination condition is not easily satisfied, and may be a process of changing the threshold value of the received signal strength indication (second threshold value) to a value larger than the threshold value before the determination condition is changed. In this case, the threshold value of the received signal strength indication (second threshold value) is changed to a value larger than the threshold value before the change of the determination condition, so that the authentication area a2 becomes an area a22 narrower than the area a21 before the change of the determination condition (see fig. 2 and 3). In the following description, the authentication zone a2 before the second process is performed (i.e., before the determination conditions are changed) will hereinafter also be referred to as "authentication zone a 21", and the authentication zone a2 after the second process is performed (i.e., after the determination conditions are changed) will hereinafter also be referred to as "authentication zone a 22". For example, in the case where the user 6 is present inside the authentication area a21 but outside the authentication area a22, the second process may be performed to change the determination condition such that the authentication area a2 is narrowed from the authentication area a21 to the authentication area a 22. Then, the determination condition is not satisfied. In this case, the electric lock 3 is not opened, thereby improving safety.

(2) Detailed description of the invention

Next, the structures of the electric lock control system 1 and the electric lock system 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

(2.1) electric Lock control System

As shown in fig. 1, the electric lock control system 1 includes a lock-side control unit 11, a detection unit 12, a lock-side communication unit 13, a notification unit 14, a lock-side operation unit 15, and a lock-side storage unit 16. In the electric lock control system 1 according to the present embodiment, the lock-side control unit 11, the detection unit 12, the lock-side communication unit 13, the notification unit 14, the lock-side operation unit 15, and the lock-side storage unit 16 are accommodated in a single housing 17 (see fig. 2 and 3).

The detection unit 12 detects the opening or closing of the opening/closing member 5 (which may be a main entrance/exit door in the present embodiment). The detection unit 12 includes: a magnet attached to a door frame of the main entrance/exit door; and a magnetic sensor installed on the main entrance/exit door so as to face the magnet when the main entrance/exit door is closed. The detection unit 12 determines whether the main entrance door (the opening/closing member 5) is opened or closed based on the detection result of the magnetism of the magnetic sensor, and outputs the detection result to the lock-side control unit 11.

The lock-side communication unit 13 includes, for example, an antenna and a communication circuit, and establishes wireless communication via radio waves. The lock side communication unit 13 is configured to establish bluetooth compliance

Short-range wireless communication of a low power consumption (BLE) protocol. BLE is compliant as a wireless Personal Area Network (PAN) technology standard

Of a set of low power specifications (version 4.0 or any other subsequent version). 13 lock-side communication unitsThe broadcast signal (beacon signal) is intermittently (for example, at intervals of 1 second) transmitted in accordance with an instruction from the lock-side control unit 11. In addition, the lock-side communication unit 13 also receives an Acknowledgement (ACK) signal transmitted from a key-side communication unit 22 (to be described later) in response to the broadcast signal. That is, the lock-side communication unit 13 has signal transmission and reception capabilities, and is configured to perform bidirectional communication with the key-side communication unit 22. The lock-side communication unit 13 also has the capability of measuring the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of the received wireless signal (radio wave signal) Sig 1. Upon receiving the wireless signal Sig1 from the key device 2, the lock-side communication unit 13 outputs information such as key information contained in the wireless signal Sig1 and a received signal strength indication (measured value) of the wireless signal Sig1 (received signal) to the lock-side control unit 11.

The notification unit 14 includes a display unit, which may be implemented as an LED (light emitting diode), for example, and a buzzer. The notification unit 14 has a capability of notifying the user 6 whether the opening/closing member 5 is locked. The notification unit 14 may, for example, cause the display unit to indicate the operating state of the electric lock 3. Specifically, the notification unit 14 may cause the LED to light (ON) or blink when the opening/closing member 5 is locked or unlocked by the electric strike 3. On the other hand, if the opening/closing member 5 is not locked by the electric strike 3, the notification unit 14 may sound a buzzer. This enables the user 6 to know whether the opening/closing member 5 is locked or not based on the information provided by the notification unit 14. Note that the notification unit 14 is not an essential constituent element of the electric lock control system 1, and may be omitted as appropriate.

The lock-side operation unit 15 has a capability of accepting a command input by the user 6 (i.e., a person). The lock-side operation unit 15 may include, for example, a push switch provided for the housing 17 in such a manner as to be exposed to the outside 42 of the building 4. Alternatively, the lock-side operation unit 15 may also be provided for a door handle (joystick) of the opening/closing member 5 (i.e., the main entrance/exit door), or may also be implemented as a touch screen sensor configured to sense that the user 6 puts his or her hand on the door handle. Upon receiving the command input by the user 6, the lock-side operation unit 15 outputs a command signal representing his or her command to the lock-side control unit 11.

The lock-side storage unit 16 includes an electrically programmable nonvolatile memory such as an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). The lock-side storage unit 16 stores key information relating to one or more key devices 2 authorized to control the electric lock 3 as authentication information. A plurality of different key information is assigned to a plurality of key devices 2. Thus, the lock-side storage unit 16 stores the identification information of the key device 2 and the pieces of key information assigned to the key device 2 in association with each other. The lock-side storage unit 16 also stores determination conditions before the second processing is performed, determination conditions after the second processing is performed, and cancellation conditions for canceling the second processing.

The lock-side control unit 11 controls the electric lock 3 for locking or unlocking the opening/closing member 5. The lock side control unit 11 is realized, for example, as a microcomputer including a processor and a memory. In other words, since the lock-side control unit 11 is configured as a computer system including a processor and a memory, the computer system performs various functions of the lock-side control unit 11 (such as functions of the authentication unit 111 and the determination unit 112) by causing the processor to execute the memory or a program stored in the lock-side storage unit 16. The program may be stored in advance in the memory of the microcomputer or the lock-side storage unit 16, or may be downloaded via a telecommunication line such as the internet or distributed after having been stored on a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

The authentication unit 111 compares the key information received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2 with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16 to determine whether the key device 2 that has transmitted the key information is one of the key devices 2 authorized to control the electric lock 3.

The determination unit 112 determines whether or not to perform the first process and the second process based on the information received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2. Upon receiving the wireless signal Sig1 from the key device 2, the lock-side communication unit 13 outputs information contained in the wireless signal Sig1 received from the key device 2 and a received signal strength indication (measured value) of the wireless signal Sig1 to the lock-side control unit 11. The decision unit 112 compares the received signal strength indication provided by the lock side communication unit 13 with a first threshold value. Upon finding that the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the determination unit 112 determines that the key device 2 should exist within the communication range a1, and causes the authentication unit 111 to authenticate the key device 2.

When the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the key device 2 is detected to be present in the communication range a1, the determination unit 112 performs the first process. Specifically, in a case where the determination condition is satisfied before the elapse of the predetermined waiting time from the predetermined timing is found in a state where the presence of the key apparatus 2 is detected within the communication range a1, the determination unit 112 performs the first processing. As described above, when the key device 2 enters the communication range a1, the authentication unit 111 performs an authentication process of comparing the key information of the key device 2 with the authentication information. As used herein, "predetermined timing" refers to timing at which the key device 2 whose key information has been successfully verified by the authentication unit 111 enters the authentication area a 2. That is, the "predetermined timing" is a timing at which the determination unit 112 determines that the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 whose key information has been successfully verified by the authentication unit 111 should be equal to or greater than the second threshold value. In the case where the key device 2 enters the authentication area a2 before the key information is successfully verified by the authentication unit 111, the "predetermined timing" is the timing at which the key information of the key device 2 that has entered the authentication area a2 is successfully verified by the authentication unit 111. In the present embodiment, the "determination condition" is: the received signal strength indication (measured value) of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 should be equal to or greater than the second threshold value; and a command should be input into the lock-side operation unit 15 by a person. Therefore, in the case where it is found that the lock-side operation unit 15 is operated in a state where the key device 2 is present in the authentication zone a2 before the wait time T1 elapses from the predetermined timing, the determination unit 112 determines that the determination condition should be satisfied, and performs the first process.

On the other hand, in a case where it is found that the lock-side operation unit 15 has not been operated even when the waiting time T1 has elapsed since the predetermined timing, the determination unit 112 determines that the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for the waiting time or more, and performs the second processing. The second process is a process of changing the determination condition, and may be a process of changing the second threshold value to a value larger than a value before the determination condition is changed. When the determination unit 112 performs the second process, the authentication area a2 is changed to an authentication area a22 that is narrower than the authentication area a21 before the determination condition is changed.

(2.2) Key device

The key device 2 is implemented as a mobile telecommunication device such as a smartphone or the like. As shown in fig. 1, the key device 2 includes a key-side control unit 21, a key-side communication unit 22, a key-side operation unit 23, a key-side storage unit 24, and a display unit 25.

The key-side control unit 21 is realized, for example, as a microcomputer including a processor and a memory. In other words, since the key-side control unit 21 is configured as a computer system including a processor and a memory, the computer system functions as the key-side control unit 21 by causing the processor to execute an appropriate program. The program may be stored in the memory in advance, or may be downloaded via a telecommunication line such as the internet or distributed after having been stored on a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card.

The key-side communication unit 22 includes, for example, an antenna and a communication circuit. The key-side communication unit 22 is configured to establish short-range wireless communication conforming to, for example, a BLE protocol with the lock-side communication unit 13. The key-side communication unit 22 transmits an Acknowledgement (ACK) signal in accordance with an instruction given by the key-side control unit 21. The key-side communication unit 22 also receives the broadcast signal transmitted from the lock-side communication unit 13. Upon receiving the broadcast signal, the key-side communication unit 22 transmits an ACK signal confirming the secure reception of the broadcast signal to the electric lock control system 1. That is, the key-side communication unit 22 has a signal transmission function and a signal reception function, and is configured to perform bidirectional communication with the lock-side communication unit 13. When the lock-side communication unit 13 of the electric lock control system 1 receives the ACK signal from the key device 2, the electric lock control system 1 and the key device 2 start communication for performing a connection process for confirming the state of the key device 2.

The key-side operation unit 23 has a capability of accepting a command input by the user 6. The key-side operation unit 23 may be realized, for example, as a push-button switch (or a lever) provided for a housing of the key device 2. In the present embodiment, the key-side operation unit 23 includes a touch screen panel provided for a display device serving as the display unit 25. The touch screen panel includes a touch screen sensor such as a capacitive touch screen sensor or a pressure-sensitive (or resistive) touch screen sensor. When the user 6 performs some operation (such as a tap operation or a swipe operation) of touching the display device of the display unit 25, the key-side operation unit 23 outputs a signal indicating the type of the performed operation to the key-side control unit 21.

The key-side storage unit 24 includes an electrically programmable nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM. The key-side storage unit 24 stores identification information individually assigned to each key device 2 and key information provided by the electric lock control system 1. The key-side storage unit 24 also stores programs to be executed by the computer of the key device 2. The program may be stored in the memory in advance. Alternatively, the program may also be downloaded via a telecommunication line such as the internet or distributed after having been stored on a non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card. In the case where the key device 2 is implemented as a smartphone as in the present embodiment, the key-side storage unit 24 can store applications arbitrarily installed by the user 6.

The display unit 25 may be implemented as a thin display device such as a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescent display (OELD). The content of the display unit 25 is controlled by the key-side control unit 21.

In the following description of the present embodiment, the key device 2 is implemented as a mobile telecommunication device such as a smartphone. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Rather, the key device 2 may be implemented as any other type of device. For example, the key device 2 may also be implemented as, for example, a tablet computer, as long as the mobile telecommunication device is capable of executing a program (application) that causes its computer to function as a key for the electric lock control system 1. Alternatively, the key device 2 is also implemented as a dedicated remote control for use in the electric lock control system 1, such as an electronic tag (tag) or the like that may be contained in the bag of the user 6 or any other item on his or her person, or attached to the bag of the user 6 or any other item on his or her person. In the case where the key device 2 is implemented as a dedicated remote controller such as an electronic tag or the like, the key-side operation unit 23 may be implemented as a button switch, for example, and the display unit 25 may be implemented as an LED, for example.

(2.3) electric Lock

The electric strike 3 locks and unlocks an opening/closing member 5 (e.g., a main entrance door in the present embodiment). The electric lock 3 includes a bolt, a driving unit, and a driving circuit. The drive circuit generates a drive signal from a control signal (which may be an unlock signal or a lock signal) supplied from the lock-side control unit 11, and outputs the drive signal to the drive unit. The drive unit includes an electric motor, and a transmission mechanism for transmitting a driving force of the electric motor to the bolt. The drive unit drives the drive motor in accordance with a drive signal supplied from the drive circuit. The driving force of the driving motor is transmitted to the bolt via the transmission mechanism so that the bolt is moved to the lock position or the unlock position. In this case, when the keeper is moved to the locking position, the keeper is at least partially inserted into a keeper hole cut in a door frame supporting the opening/closing member 5. In this state, the opening/closing member 5 remains closed. That is, the opening/closing member 5 is locked. On the other hand, when the door bolt is moved to the unlocked position, the door bolt is completely disengaged from the bolt hole. In this state, the opening/closing member 5 is ready to be opened or closed. That is, the opening/closing member 5 is unlocked.

(3) Operation of

First, how the electric lock control system 1 performs the first process will be described with reference to fig. 4.

In the electric lock control system 1, the lock-side communication unit 13 transmits a broadcast signal at regular intervals (for example, every second) (step S1).

It is assumed that a user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her has approached the opening 40 of the building 4 to enter the interior 41 from the outside 42. In a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her and remains outdoors (outside 42) has come close enough to the opening 40 of the building 4 for the key device 2 to receive the broadcast signal from the lock-side communication unit 13, the key device 2 transmits a confirmation signal to the lock-side communication unit 13 in response to the broadcast signal (step S2).

The lock side control unit 11 compares the received signal strength indication (measured value) of the signal received at the lock side communication unit 13 with a first threshold value. Upon finding that the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should exist within the communication range a1 (i.e., detects the key device 2 within the communication range a1) (step S3).

Upon detecting the presence of the key device 2 within the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to establish communication therebetween at regular intervals (e.g., every 0.1 second) to monitor the state of the key device 2 (step S4: monitoring processing).

Once the lock-side communication unit 13 initiates communication with the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 performs authentication processing on the key device 2 (step S5). The lock-side control unit 11 instructs the lock-side communication unit 13 to request the key device 2 to provide the key information. When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the key information transmitted from the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 compares the key information with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16. When the key information is found to match the authentication information (i.e., when the key information is successfully verified), the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should be a device authorized to control the electric lock 3. On the other hand, when the key information and the authentication information are found not to match, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should be a device that is prohibited from controlling the electric lock 3.

In the case where the key information is successfully verified, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to periodically communicate with each other. Subsequently, upon finding that the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 is equal to or larger than the second threshold value, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should now exist within the authentication area a2 (step S6).

Thereafter, when the user 6 inputs a command through the lock-side operation unit 15 before the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should exist in the authentication area a2 and the predetermined waiting time T1 elapses, a command signal is output from the lock-side operation unit 15 to the lock-side control unit 11 (step S7). Upon receiving the command signal from the lock-side operation unit 15 before the elapse of the waiting time T1, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the determination condition should be satisfied (step S8), and outputs the unlock signal to the electric lock 3 (step S9). Upon receiving the unlock signal from the lock-side control unit 11, the electric lock 3 unlocks the open/close member 5 (step S10). That is, the lock-side control unit 11 performs the first process of unlocking the opening/closing member 5. This enables the user 6 carrying the key device 2 with him or her to open the opening/closing member 5 and enter the interior 41. Note that, in the case where a certain amount of time has elapsed since the electric lock 3 has been unlocked, the lock-side control unit 11 may output a lock signal to the electric lock 3 to lock the electric lock 3.

Next, how the electric lock control system 1 performs the second process will be described with reference to fig. 5.

In the electric lock control system 1, the lock-side communication unit 13 transmits a broadcast signal at regular intervals (step S11).

It is assumed that a user 6 carrying the key device 2 with him or her has approached the opening 40 of the building 4 to enter the interior 41 from the outside 42. In a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her and remains outdoors (outside 42) has come close enough to the opening 40 of the building 4 so that the key device 2 receives the broadcast signal from the lock-side communication unit 13, the key device 2 transmits a confirmation signal to the lock-side communication unit 13 in response to the broadcast signal (step S12).

The lock side control unit 11 compares the received signal strength indication of the signal received at the lock side communication unit 13 with a first threshold value. Upon finding that the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should exist within the communication range a1 (i.e., detects the key device 2 within the communication range a1) (step S13).

Upon detecting the presence of the key device 2 within the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to establish communication therebetween at regular intervals to monitor the status of the key device 2 (step S14: monitoring process).

Once the lock-side communication unit 13 initiates communication with the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 performs authentication processing on the key device 2 (step S15). The lock-side control unit 11 instructs the lock-side communication unit 13 to request the key device 2 to provide the key information. When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the key information transmitted from the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 compares the key information with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16.

Upon successful verification of the key information, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to periodically communicate with each other. Subsequently, upon finding that the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should now exist within the authentication area a2(a21) (step S16).

At this time, even if the lock-side operation unit 15 has not been operated after the wait time T1 has elapsed since the key device 2 was determined to be present in the authentication area a21 (i.e., when the state in which the determination condition is found to be not satisfied continues for the wait time T1 or more), the lock-side control unit 11 performs the second process (step S17). In this case, the second process is a process for changing the determination condition, more specifically, changing the second threshold value to a value larger than the value before the determination condition is changed, so that the authentication zone a2 becomes an authentication zone a22 narrower than the authentication zone a21 before the determination condition is changed. The lock-side control unit 11 that has performed the second process determines whether the open/close member 5 should be locked or unlocked based on the determination condition that has changed.

For example, in a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her is in a stopped state inside the authentication area a21 but outside the authentication area a22, the user 6 is located outside the authentication area a22 after the determination conditions have changed. In this case, even if the lock-side operation unit 15 is operated by a third party, the determination condition is not satisfied. This reduces the chance of a third party not authorized to open the electric lock 3 opening the electric lock 3, thereby improving security performance.

Thereafter, when the user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her moves to the authentication area a22, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 authorized to close or open the electric lock 3 should now exist within the authentication area a22 based on the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the key device 2 (step S18). If the user 6 inputs a command through the lock-side operation unit 15 in this state (step S19), a command signal is output from the lock-side operation unit 15 to the lock-side control unit 11. Upon receiving the command signal from the lock-side operation unit 15, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the determination condition should be satisfied (step S20), and outputs an unlock signal to the electric lock 3 (step S21). Upon receiving the unlock signal from the lock-side control unit 11, the electric lock 3 unlocks the open/close member 5 (step S22). That is, the lock-side control unit 11 performs the first process of unlocking the opening/closing member 5. This enables the user 6 carrying the key device 2 with him or her to open the opening/closing member 5 and enter the interior 41. Note that, in the case where a certain amount of time has elapsed since the electric lock 3 has been unlocked, the lock-side control unit 11 may output a lock signal to the electric lock 3 to lock the electric lock 3.

As can be seen from the above description, even after the determination conditions are changed by performing the second process, the electric lock control system 1 determines whether or not to perform the first process based on the updated determination conditions. Thus, even after the determination condition is changed by the second process, the electric lock 3 can be unlocked or controlled using the key device 2. This improves the safety performance while keeping the electric lock control system 1 sufficiently convenient to use.

Further, in the case where the authentication process is successfully performed based on the key information of the key device 2 and the electric lock 3 is unlocked after the second process is performed, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that a predetermined cancellation condition should be satisfied, and cancels the second process to restore the original state (specifically, the original parameters) before the second process is performed (step S23). Specifically, the lock-side control unit 11 restores the determination condition to the original determination condition that is not changed by the second processing, and also restores the second threshold value to the original value. As a result, the authentication zone a2 recovers from the authentication zone a22 after the determination condition has changed to the authentication zone a 21. That is, the state in which the authentication area a2 is restricted does not last for a long time, thereby making the electric lock control system 1 more convenient to use.

(4) Modification example

Note that the above-described exemplary embodiment is only one of various embodiments of the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting. On the contrary, the exemplary embodiments may be easily modified in various ways according to design choice or any other factors without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention. The functions of the electric lock control system 1 may also be implemented as a method for controlling the electric lock control system 1, a computer program, or a non-transitory storage medium storing the computer program.

A control method according to an aspect includes performing a first process and performing a second process. The program according to another aspect is designed to cause a computer system to execute a first process and a second process. The first process includes: in the case where the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device 2 is detected in accordance with the communication quality with the key device 2 being within the predetermined communication range a1, the electric lock 3 is turned off or on (processing step S8 shown in fig. 4). The second process is different from the first process and is performed in a case where the determination condition is not satisfied even when the waiting time T1 has elapsed since the presence of the key device 2 was detected within the communication range a1 (process step S17 shown in fig. 5).

Next, variations of the exemplary embodiment will be enumerated one by one. Note that modifications to be described below can be combined and employed as appropriate.

(4.1) first modification

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the received signal strength indication for use in the determination processing by the determination unit 112 is a received signal strength indication of the wireless signal Sig1 received from the key device 2. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the received signal strength indication may also be a received signal strength indication of a wireless signal received from the electric lock control system 1. In this case, the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal received from the electric lock control system 1 is measured by the key device 2, and the measurement result is transmitted from the key device 2 to the electric lock control system 1. In response, the determination unit 112 of the electric lock control system 1 performs determination processing based on the received signal strength indication (measured value) of the signal received at the key device 2.

Alternatively, a determination unit may be provided for the key device 2. In this case, the received signal strength indication for use in the determination processing by the determination unit may be a received signal strength indication of the wireless signal Sig1 transmitted from the key device 2 to the electric lock control system 1, or a received signal strength indication of a wireless signal transmitted from the electric lock control system 1 to the key device 2, whichever is appropriate. In the former case, the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal Sig1 sent from the key device 2 to the electric lock control system 1 is measured by the electric lock control system 1, and the measurement result is sent from the electric lock control system 1 to the key device 2. In the latter case, the received signal strength indication of the wireless signal sent from the electric lock control system 1 to the key device 2 is measured by the key device 2. Then, the determination unit of the key device 2 may perform the determination processing based on the received signal strength indication thus acquired.

(4.2) second modification

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the second process is a process of changing the second threshold value which is the threshold value of the received signal strength indication. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the second process may also be a process of changing the authentication area a2 by changing the sensitivity of the lock-side communication unit 13 or the key-side communication unit 22. In the case where the lock-side control unit 11 changes the sensitivity of the key-side communication unit 22 of the key device 2, a control signal for lowering the sensitivity may be transmitted from the lock-side communication unit 13 to the key device 2, and the reception sensitivity may be changed at the key device 2.

Still alternatively, the second process may also be a process of changing the detection condition for determining whether or not any key device 2 exists. For example, the second process may be a process of: the communication range a1 (i.e., the range in which it should be determined whether or not there is any key device 2) is narrowed from the original range before the detection condition is changed, for example, by increasing the first threshold value or decreasing the transmission output of the broadcast signal.

Still alternatively, the second process may also be a process of changing the time interval at which the lock-side communication unit 13 communicates with the key device 2 existing within the communication range a 1. For example, the second process may include changing the communication time interval to a time interval (e.g., 1 second) longer than the original interval. In this case, the number of communications (frequency of occurrence) per unit time decreases. This allows the number of communications between the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to be reduced, thereby reducing power consumption of the electric lock control system 1 and the key device 2.

(4.3) third modification

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the cancellation condition for canceling the second process is that the authentication process should be successfully performed based on the key information of the key device 2 to unlock the electric lock 3. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the cancellation condition for canceling the second process may be that the authentication process should be successfully performed based on the key information of the key device 2 to lock the electric lock 3.

In this case, if the electric lock control system 1 includes a plurality of key devices 2, the cancellation condition for canceling the second process may be that the electric lock should be locked or unlocked using the key device 2 in question that caused the second process to be performed. This prevents any other key device 2 from canceling the second process, thereby improving the security performance.

Still alternatively, the cancellation condition for canceling the second process may also be that the electric lock 3 should be successfully locked or unlocked in any key device 2 of the plurality of key devices 2. This enables any of the plurality of key devices 2 to cancel the second process, thereby making the electric lock system 10 more convenient to use.

Still alternatively, the cancellation condition for canceling the second process may also be that the communication quality between the key apparatus 2 and the lock-side communication unit 13 should change. For example, the cancellation condition may be that the received signal strength indication of the signal received by the lock-side communication unit 13 from the key device 2 should be less than the first threshold value, i.e. that the key device 2 should exceed the communication range a 1.

Still alternatively, the cancellation condition may also be that the lock-side communication unit 13 should not be able to communicate with the key device 2, for example, that the key device 2 should have moved to a location too far away from the lock-side communication unit 13 to receive the broadcast signal from the lock-side communication unit 13.

Furthermore, the cancellation condition may specify that the second processing should be cancelled for all key devices 2 or only for a specific key device 2. For example, if the cancellation condition specifies that the electric lock 3 should be successfully locked or unlocked, the lock-side control unit 11 cancels the second process for all the key devices 2 existing in the authentication area a 2. On the other hand, if the cancellation condition specifies that the key device 2 should exceed the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 cancels the second process only for the key device 2 that has exceeded the communication range a 1. In this case, if any other key device 2 should exist within the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 does not cancel the second process for these key devices 2 existing within the communication range a 1.

(4.4) fourth modification

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the determination conditions before the second process is performed, the determination conditions after the second process is performed, and the cancellation conditions are stored in advance in the lock-side storage unit 16 of the electric lock system 10. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the determination condition and the cancellation condition may be set by the key device 2.

In the following example, how a user 6 who carries the key device 2 with him or her and remains outdoors (outside 42) moves to the installation site of the electric lock control system 1 and sets the determination condition using the key device 2 will be described with reference to fig. 6.

In the electric lock control system 1, the lock-side communication unit 13 transmits a broadcast signal at regular intervals (step S31). Upon receiving the broadcast signal from the lock-side communication unit 13, the key device 2 transmits a confirmation signal to the lock-side communication unit 13 in response to the broadcast signal (step S32).

The lock side control unit 11 compares the received signal strength indication (measured value) of the signal received at the lock side communication unit 13 with a first threshold value. Upon finding that the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, the lock-side control unit 11 determines that the key device 2 should exist within the communication range a1 (i.e., detects the key device 2 within the communication range a 1).

Upon detecting the presence of the key device 2 within the communication range a1, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side communication unit 13 and the key device 2 to establish communication therebetween at regular intervals to monitor the status of the key device 2 (step S33: monitoring process).

Once the lock-side communication unit 13 initiates communication with the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 performs authentication processing on the key device 2 (step S34). The lock-side control unit 11 instructs the lock-side communication unit 13 to request the key device 2 to provide the key information. When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the key information transmitted from the key device 2, the lock-side control unit 11 compares the key information with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16. At this time, if the key information of the key device 2 is successfully verified, the user 6 can set the determination condition and the cancellation condition using the key device 2.

If a user 6 carrying the key device 2 with him or her uses the key device 2 to set the determination condition and the cancellation condition, the user 6 can start an application installed in the key device 2 to control the electric lock 3, for example. When the user 6 performs an operation of setting the determination condition using the key-side operation unit 23, the determination condition setting information is transmitted from the key device 2 to the electric lock control system 1 (step S35). In this case, the timing of starting the application installed in the key device 2 to control the electric lock 3 does not have to be the timing at which the user 6 performs the operation of setting the determination condition. Alternatively, the application to control the electric lock 3 may be automatically started before the user 6 performs an operation to set the determination condition, or may be run in the background. Note that, if the verification of the key information fails, the key device 2 issues an error message on the display unit 25 that the verification of the key information has failed so that the user cannot set the determination condition, and does not transmit the determination condition setting information.

Upon receiving the determination condition setting information transmitted from the key device 2, the lock-side communication unit 13 outputs the determination condition setting information to the lock-side control unit 11. Upon receiving the determination condition setting information from the key device 2 whose key information has been successfully verified, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side storage unit 16 to store the specific setting of the determination condition on the basis of the determination condition setting information (step S36).

This enables the user 6 to set the determination condition using the key device 2. In other words, the user 6 can set the determination conditions according to his or her preference, which makes the electric lock system 10 more user-friendly. Also, this enables the user 6 to set the cancellation condition using the key device 2. In other words, the user 6 can set the cancel condition according to his or her preference.

Alternatively, in the case where the electric lock control system 1 includes a plurality of key devices 2, the user 6 may set mutually different determination conditions and cancellation conditions for these key devices 2 on an individual basis.

As an example, how the user 6 can set the determination condition using two key devices 2(2A,2B) will be explained with reference to fig. 7.

In a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2A with him or her is to use the key device 2A to set the determination condition or the cancel condition of the electric lock control system 1, he or she approaches the electric lock control system 1 in a state where he or she carries the key device 2A with him or her. When the user 6 who carries the key device 2A with him or her enters the communication range a1, the key device 2A receives the broadcast signal transmitted from the electric lock control system 1 (step S41). In response to the broadcast signal, the key device 2A transmits a confirmation signal to the lock-side communication unit 13 (step S42).

Upon receiving the confirmation signal from the key device 2A, the lock-side control unit 11 performs a monitoring process to communicate with the key device 2A existing within the communication range a1 at regular intervals (step S43).

The lock-side control unit 11 that has initiated communication with the key device 2A performs an authentication process on the key device 2A (step S44). The lock-side control unit 11 instructs the lock-side communication unit 13 to request the key device 2A to provide the key information. When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the key information transmitted from the key device 2A, the lock-side control unit 11 compares the key information with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16. At this time, in the case where the key information of the key device 2A is successfully verified, the user 6 can set the determination condition and the cancellation condition using the key device 2A.

In a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2A with him or her sets the determination condition and the cancellation condition using the key device 2A, the user 6 can start an application installed in the key device 2A to control the electric lock 3. When the user 6 performs an operation of setting the determination condition using the key-side operation unit 23 (step S45), the determination condition setting information is transmitted from the key device 2 to the electric lock control system 1 (step S46). In this case, the timing of starting the application installed in the key device 2A to control the electric lock 3 does not have to be the timing at which the user 6 performs the operation of setting the determination condition. Alternatively, the application to control the electric lock 3 may be automatically started before the user 6 performs an operation to set the determination condition, or may be run in the background. Note that, in the case where the verification of the key information fails, the key device 2A issues an error message on the display unit 25 that the verification of the key information has failed so that the user cannot set the determination condition, and does not transmit the determination condition setting information.

When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the determination condition setting information transmitted from the key device 2A, the lock-side communication unit 13 outputs the determination condition setting information to the lock-side control unit 11. Upon receiving the determination condition setting information from the key device 2 whose key information has been successfully verified, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side storage unit 16 to store the specific setting of the determination condition on the basis of the determination condition setting information (step S47).

Next, in a case where the user 6 who carries the key device 2B with him or her sets the determination condition or the cancellation condition of the electric lock control system 1 using the key device 2B, he or she approaches the electric lock control system 1 in a state where he or she carries the key device 2B with him or her. When the user 6 who carries the key device 2B with him or her enters the communication range a1, the key device 2B receives the broadcast signal transmitted from the electric lock control system 1 (step S48). In response to the broadcast signal, the key device 2B transmits a confirmation message to the lock-side communication unit 13 (step S49).

Upon receiving the confirmation signal from the key device 2B, the lock-side control unit 11 performs a monitoring process to communicate with the key device 2B existing within the communication range a1 at regular intervals (step S50).

The lock-side control unit 11 that has initiated communication with the key device 2B performs an authentication process on the key device 2B (step S51). The lock-side control unit 11 instructs the lock-side communication unit 13 to request the key device 2B to provide the key information. When the lock-side communication unit 13 receives the key information transmitted from the key device 2B, the lock-side control unit 11 compares the key information with the authentication information stored in the lock-side storage unit 16. At this time, in the case where the key information of the key device 2B is successfully verified, the user 6 can set the determination condition and the cancellation condition using the key device 2B.

If the user 6 who carries the key device 2B with him/her sets the determination condition and the cancellation condition using the key device 2B, the user 6 can start an application installed in the key device 2B to control the electric lock 3. When the user 6 performs an operation of setting the determination condition using the key-side operation unit 23 (step S52), the determination condition setting information is transmitted from the key device 2B to the electric lock control system 1 (step S53). In this case, the timing of starting the application installed in the key device 2 to control the electric lock 3 does not have to be the timing at which the user 6 performs the operation of setting the determination condition. Alternatively, the application to control the electric lock 3 may be automatically started before the user 6 performs an operation to set the determination condition, or may be run in the background. Note that, in the case where the verification of the key information fails, the key device 2B issues an error message on the display unit 25 that the verification of the key information has failed so that the user cannot set the determination condition, and does not transmit the determination condition setting information.

Upon receiving the determination condition setting information transmitted from the key device 2B, the lock-side communication unit 13 outputs the determination condition setting information to the lock-side control unit 11. Upon receiving the determination condition setting information from the key device 2B whose key information was successfully verified, the lock-side control unit 11 causes the lock-side storage unit 16 to store the specific setting of the determination condition according to the determination condition setting information (step S54).

This makes it possible to set respective determination conditions for the two key devices 2A and 2B and store these determination conditions in the lock-side storage unit 16 of the electric lock control system 1 to determine whether to perform the first processing and the second processing based on the determination conditions that have been set using the key devices 2A and 2B. This enables the user 6 to set appropriate determination conditions for the respective key devices 2A and 2B using the key devices 2A and 2B. Thus, the user 6 can set the determination condition according to his or her preference, which makes the electric lock system 10 more user-friendly. Also, this enables the user 6 to set appropriate cancellation conditions for the respective key apparatuses 2A and 2B using the key apparatuses 2A and 2B. Thus, the user 6 can set the cancellation condition according to his or her preference, which makes the electric lock system 10 more user-friendly.

In addition, in the case where a single building 4 has a plurality of openings 40 each equipped with an electric lock control system 1, the user can set the determination condition for each electric lock control system 1 using the key device 2. In this case, the user may set the same determination condition for a plurality of electric lock control systems 1, or set different determination conditions for each electric lock control system 1, whichever is appropriate.

Alternatively, only at least one key device 2 selected from the plurality of key devices 2 may be authorized to set the determination condition, and only the authorized key device 2 may set the determination condition for the electric lock control system 1.

(4.5) other modifications

Next, other modifications will be enumerated one by one.

The agent performing the function of the electric lock control system 1 according to the invention comprises a computer system. In this case, the computer system may include a processor and a memory as main hardware components. The functions of the electric lock control system 1 according to the present invention or the functions of the agents performing the control method may be performed by causing a processor to execute a program stored in a memory of a computer system. The program may be stored in advance in the memory of the computer system. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded through a telecommunication line or distributed after having been recorded in some non-transitory storage medium such as a memory card, an optical disk, or a hard disk drive (any of these storage media is readable by a computer system). The processor of the computer system may be constituted by a single or a plurality of electronic circuits including a semiconductor Integrated Circuit (IC) or a large scale integrated circuit (LSI). These electronic circuits may be integrated together on a single chip or may be distributed over a plurality of chips, whichever is appropriate. These multiple chips may be integrated together in a single device or may be distributed among multiple devices without limitation.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the lock side control unit 11 is implemented as a single circuit. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the lock-side control unit 11 may also be implemented as two or more circuits. For example, the functions of the lock side control unit 11 may be distributed in two or more circuits. Further, the function of the lock-side control unit 11 may be performed by constituent elements of a single device accommodated in a single housing, or constituent elements distributed among a plurality of devices, whichever is appropriate. Still alternatively, at least some of the functions of the lock side control unit 11 may also be implemented as a cloud computing system.

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the lock-side control unit 11, the lock-side communication unit 13, and the lock-side operation unit 15 are accommodated in the single housing 17. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the lock-side control unit 11, the lock-side communication unit 13 and the lock-side operating unit 15 may also be distributed in two or more housings 17.

Further, in the above-described exemplary embodiment, the electric lock control system 1 includes the notification unit 14. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the key device 2 may include a notification unit. In this case, even if it is assumed that the user 6 carries the key device 2 with him, the user 6 can be notified of the locking of the opening/closing member 5 by the electric lock 3 by the notification unit of the key device 2. The notification by the notification unit may be performed, for example, by issuing a message that the opening/closing member 5 is locked on the display unit 25 of the key apparatus 2, or by issuing a verbal message that the opening/closing member 5 is locked via a speaker of the key apparatus 2. Of course, it is also possible to sound a buzzer or any other alarm of the key device 2 to inform the user 6 that the opening/closing member 5 is locked.

In the above-described exemplary embodiment, the key device 2 is capable of both the operation of unlocking the opening/closing member 5 and the operation of locking the opening/closing member 5. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the key device 2 may also be configured to perform only the operation of unlocking the opening/closing member 5. In other words, the key device 2 may be configured to perform at least an unlocking operation of the operation of locking the opening/closing member 5 and the operation of unlocking the opening/closing member 5.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the opening/closing member 5 is implemented as a door (which may be a hinged door or a sliding door) or a window that separates the interior 41 and exterior 42 of the building 4 from each other. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the opening/closing member 5 may also be a door that partitions the inside and outside of a certain unit of the building 4. For example, in the case where the building 4 is implemented as a multi-family house having a plurality of dwelling units, a multi-tenant building having a plurality of tenant stores, or an office building having a plurality of offices, the opening/closing member 5 may be a door that separates the inside and outside of each unit (which may be a dwelling unit, tenant store, or office) from each other.

In the above embodiment, the electric lock system 10 is applied to a single family house. However, this is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting. Alternatively, the electric lock system 10 may be applied to each dwelling unit of a multi-family dwelling, for example. Still alternatively, the electric lock system 10 may also be applied to a main entrance door of a public area of a multi-family house or a non-residential building 4 such as an office, a shop, or a factory.

(Abstract)

As can be seen from the above description, the electric lock control system (1) according to the first aspect includes a lock-side communication unit (13) and a lock-side control unit (11). The lock-side communication unit (13) wirelessly communicates with the key device (2). The lock-side control unit (11) controls the electric lock (3) on the basis of information received by the lock-side communication unit (13) from the key device (2). The electric lock (3) is used for locking or unlocking an opening/closing member (5) provided at an opening (40) of a building (4). In the case where the determination condition is found to be satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device (2) is detected within a predetermined communication range (A1) on the basis of the communication quality between the lock-side communication unit (13) and the key device (2), the lock-side control unit (11) performs a first process of closing or opening the electric lock (3). On the other hand, when a state in which the key device (2) is present in the communication range (A1) and a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time (T1) or longer, the lock-side control unit (11) performs a predetermined second process that is different from the first process.

This prevents the first process of closing or opening the electric lock (3) from being performed in a case where the determination condition is not satisfied even when the waiting time (T1) has elapsed since the detection of the presence of the key device (2), thereby improving the security performance.

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a second aspect which may be realized in combination with the first aspect, the determination condition includes that the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. The received signal strength indication is at least one of a received signal strength indication of a signal received by the lock side communication unit (13) from the key device (2) and a received signal strength indication of a signal received by the key device (2) from the lock side communication unit (13).

This makes the determination condition unsatisfied in the case where the key device (2) exists outside the range where the received signal strength indication is equal to or greater than the threshold value, thereby improving the security performance.

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a third aspect that may be implemented in combination with the first aspect or the second aspect, the second process includes a change process of changing the determination condition.

This enables the determination condition for determining whether to perform the first process to be changed even when the determination condition is satisfied when the wait time (T1) has elapsed since the detection of the presence of the key device (2), thereby improving the safety performance by changing the determination condition. In addition, when the determination condition thus changed is found to be satisfied, the lock-side control unit (11) performs a first process of closing or opening the electric lock (3). This contributes to an improvement in safety performance while not reducing but maintaining the ease of use of the electric lock control system (1).

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a fourth aspect that may be implemented in combination with any one of the first to third aspects, the second process includes a process of changing a detection condition for determining whether the key device (2) is present.

This enables the detection condition to be changed even when the determination condition is not satisfied even when the waiting time (T1) has elapsed since the detection of the presence of the key device (2), thereby enabling the communication range (a1) to be adjusted by changing the detection condition.

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a fifth aspect that may be implemented in combination with any one of the first to fourth aspects, the second process includes changing a time interval at which the lock-side communication unit (13) communicates with the key device (2) that is present within the communication range (a 1).

This makes it possible to change the time interval at which the lock-side communication unit (13) communicates with the key device (2) existing within the communication range (a1) even when the determination condition is not satisfied even when the wait time (T1) has elapsed since the detection of the presence of the key device (2). For example, as the time interval of communication is extended, the number of times of communication per unit time between the lock-side communication unit (13) and the key device (2) is reduced, thereby reducing the power consumption of the lock-side communication unit (13) and the key device (2).

In the electric lock control system (1) according to a sixth aspect that may be implemented in combination with any one of the first to fifth aspects, the lock-side control unit (11) restores the original state before the second process is performed, in a case where it is found that the predetermined cancellation condition is satisfied.

This enables the lock-side control unit (11) to restore the original state before the second process is performed in the case where the cancellation condition is satisfied, thereby making the electric lock control system (1) more convenient to use.

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a seventh aspect that may be implemented in combination with the sixth aspect, the cancellation condition includes: the closing or opening of the electric lock (3) is completed and/or the quality of the communication between the key device (2) and the lock-side communication unit (13) varies.

This enables the lock-side control unit (11) to recover the original state before the second process is performed, in the case where the closing or opening of the electric lock (3) is completed or in the case where the communication quality between the key device (2) and the lock-side communication unit (13) changes. This makes the electric lock control system (1) more convenient to use.

In an electric lock control system (1) according to an eighth aspect that may be implemented in combination with any one of the first to seventh aspects, the lock-side control unit (11) sets the determination condition based on the setting information received by the lock-side communication unit (13) from the key device (2).

This enables the user (6) to set the determination condition using the key device (2).

In an electric lock control system (1) according to a ninth aspect that may be realized in combination with the eighth aspect, the key device (2) includes a plurality of key devices (2), and the lock-side control unit (11) sets the determination condition for each key device (2) of the plurality of key devices (2).

This makes it possible to set a determination condition for each of a plurality of key devices (2) in the case where the electric lock control system (1) is used together with the plurality of key devices (2), thereby making the electric lock control system (1) more convenient to use.

An electric lock system (10) according to a tenth aspect includes: an electric lock control system (1) according to any one of the first to ninth aspects; and an electric lock (3) controlled by a lock-side control unit (11).

This provides an electric lock system (10) which helps to improve safety performance.

An electric lock system (10) according to an eleventh aspect, which may be realized in combination with the tenth aspect, further comprises a key device (2) for closing or opening the electric lock (3).

This provides an electric lock system (10) which helps to improve safety performance.

A control method of an electric lock control system (1) according to a twelfth aspect includes performing a first process and performing a predetermined second process. The first process includes: the electric lock (3) is closed or opened in a case where the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device (2) is detected within a predetermined communication range (A1) according to the communication quality with the key device (2). The second process is different from the first process, and is performed when a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time (T1) or longer in a state in which the key device (2) is present within the communication range (A1).

This contributes to an improvement in safety performance.

The program according to the thirteenth aspect is designed to cause the computer system to execute the first process and the predetermined second process. The first process includes: the electric lock (3) is closed or opened in a case where the determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device (2) is detected within a predetermined communication range (A1) according to the communication quality with the key device (2). The second process is different from the first process, and is performed when a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time (T1) or longer in a state in which the key device (2) is present within the communication range (A1).

This contributes to an improvement in safety performance.

Note that the constituent elements according to the second to ninth aspects are not essential elements of the electric lock control system (1), and may be omitted as appropriate. The constituent elements according to the eleventh aspect are not essential elements of the electric lock system (10), and may be omitted as appropriate.

List of reference numerals

1 electric lock control system

2,2A,2B key device

3 electric lock

4 building

5 opening/closing member

10 electric lock system

11 lock side control unit

13 Lock side communication Unit

40 opening part

A1 communication Range

A2, A21, A22 authentication zone

Claims (13)

1. An electric strike control system comprising:

a lock-side communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with a key device; and

a lock-side control unit configured to control an electric lock for locking or unlocking an opening/closing member provided at an opening portion of a building, in accordance with information received by the lock-side communication unit from the key device,

the lock side control unit is configured to:

performing a first process of closing or opening the electric lock in a case where a determination condition is found to be satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the communication quality between the lock-side communication unit and the key device; and

when the key device is present in the communication range and a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied is found to continue for a predetermined waiting time or longer, a predetermined second process different from the first process is performed.

2. An electric strike control system according to claim 1 wherein,

the determination conditions include: at least one of a received signal strength indication of a signal received by the lock-side communication unit from the key device and a received signal strength indication of a signal received by the key device from the lock-side communication unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value.

3. An electric strike control system according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein,

the second processing includes changing processing of changing the determination condition.

4. An electric strike control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein,

the second processing includes processing of changing a detection condition to determine whether or not the key device exists.

5. An electric strike control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein,

the second process includes a process of changing a time interval at which the lock-side communication unit communicates with the key device existing in the communication range.

6. An electric strike control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein,

the lock-side control unit is configured to restore an original state before the second processing is performed, in a case where it is found that a predetermined cancel condition is satisfied.

7. An electric strike control system according to claim 6 wherein,

the cancellation condition includes: the closing or opening of the electric lock is completed and/or the quality of communication between the key device and the lock-side communication unit varies.

8. An electric strike control system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein,

the lock-side control unit is configured to set the determination condition based on setting information received by the lock-side communication unit from the key device.

9. An electric strike control system according to claim 8 wherein,

the key device includes a plurality of key devices, an

The lock-side control unit is configured to set the determination condition for each of the plurality of key devices.

10. An electric lock system comprising:

an electric strike control system according to any one of claims 1 to 9; and

an electric lock configured to be controlled by the lock-side control unit.

11. An electric strike system according to claim 10 further comprising key means for closing or opening the electric strike.

12. A control method of an electric lock control system, the control method comprising:

performing a first process of closing or opening the electric lock in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the quality of communication with the key device, in a case where the determination condition is satisfied; and

when the state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time or longer in a state in which the key device is present in the communication range, a predetermined second process different from the first process is performed.

13. A program for causing a computer system to execute:

a first process for closing or opening the electric lock in a case where a determination condition is satisfied in a state where the presence of any key device is detected within a predetermined communication range according to the quality of communication with the key device; and

and a predetermined second process that is different from the first process and is performed when a state in which the determination condition is not satisfied continues for a predetermined waiting time or longer in a state in which the key device is present in the communication range.

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