JP2000134679A - Communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a communication system which is effective for realizing smooth communication between a terminal and server. SOLUTION: The communication timing of a server 12 is stored in each terminal 10, which fixes a call originating timing to the server 12, based on the stored information. By such a constitution, each terminal 10 can originate a call by avoiding a period in which the server 12 communicated with another terminal. For example, a PHS(personal handyphone system) monitoring station is connected to a gas meter at each home to periodically transmit the value of the gas meter to a server machine provided at a gas company through a PHS base station. The PHS monitoring station stores the communication timing of the server machine and when a fault such as gas leakage is caused, judges a communicable time based on this stored contents and informs the server machine of a warning.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a communication system, and more particularly to a communication system effective for realizing smooth communication between a terminal and a server.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art With the recent development of communication technology, a communication system in which a plurality of terminals are managed by a server has been put to practical use. Such a communication system is used in various applications according to the needs of the user. For example, mobile phones and PH
A monitoring system using the S telephone system has recently attracted attention. This monitoring system is a system for automatically collecting values indicated by a water meter or a gas meter provided in a home. In this system, a terminal is connected to a water meter or a gas meter, and the terminal notifies the server of the value of each meter periodically.

In the above-described monitoring system, the number of terminals is generally much larger than the number of connection lines of the server. For this reason, in this system, one connection line is shared by a plurality of terminals.

[0004]

However, in the above system configuration, even if a failure occurs in any terminal and communication with the server becomes necessary, the connection line is already in use. , There is a problem that communication is not established.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a communication system effective for realizing smooth communication between a terminal and a server.

[0006]

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a communication system including a terminal and a server for managing the operation of the terminal. A server-side communication unit that performs communication; and a server communication timing setting unit that sets communication timing with the terminal. The terminal includes a terminal-side communication unit that performs communication with the server, and the server communication. Server communication timing storage means for storing communication timing set by the timing setting means, and transmission timing determination means for determining transmission timing to the server based on the communication timing stored in the server communication timing storage means. It is characterized by the following.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the transmission timing determining means determines the transmission timing again according to a communication state with the server. .

The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a system management unit for managing the communication system, wherein the terminal-side communication unit communicates with the server. It communicates with the system management unit according to a communication state.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the transmission timing determining means determines a timing for notifying the server of an operation state of the terminal. It is characterized by doing.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the terminal-side communication section includes an identification code of the terminal in communication data and transmits the identification code to the server. Transmitting, the server communication timing setting means sets the terminal identification code and the communication timing with the terminal in association with each other, and the server receives the identification code from the terminal side communication unit,
Comparing the communication timing associated with the identification code set by the server communication timing setting means,
It is characterized by comprising a terminal operation state determining means for determining the operation state of the terminal.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, there are provided a plurality of connection lines connecting the server and the terminal, wherein the terminal There is provided connection line selection means for selecting one connection line, and the terminal-side communication section communicates with the server via the connection line selected by the connection line selection means.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the server includes a priority setting means for setting a priority in communication contents with the terminal. Determining, based on the priority set by the priority setting means, a priority between an incoming call from the terminal and execution of communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means, and determining a communication order with each terminal; And a communication order determining means for determining the communication order.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the seventh aspect, the communication order determining means gives priority to an incoming call from the terminal over execution of communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means. It is characterized by doing.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the terminal and the server are connected via an ISDN, and communicate using the call setting information of the ISDN. It is characterized by doing.

[0015]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Outline of the Invention) A feature of the present invention is that the communication timing of the server 12 is stored in each terminal 10, and each terminal 10 determines the transmission timing to the server 12 based on the stored information. It is in. With such a configuration, each terminal 10 can make a call while the server 12 is communicating with another terminal (see FIG. 1).

(First Embodiment) A first embodiment of the present invention is an invention relating to an appropriate determination of a timing at which a terminal transmits to a server. As described above, generally, a plurality of terminals are connected to a server. Therefore, in order to smoothly communicate between each terminal and the server, it is necessary to set the communication timing of the server so that the communication timing between each terminal and the server does not overlap in time.

Further, in order to reliably establish an emergency communication, it is necessary for each terminal to perform a calling process while avoiding the server communication timing set as described above.

The first aspect of the present invention is an invention configured from the above viewpoint, and provides a technique for appropriately determining a timing at which a terminal transmits to a server.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the communication system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The server 12 is connected to the plurality of terminals 10, receives information transmitted from each of the terminals 10, and manages the received information. For example, the values of the water meter and gas meter collected by each terminal 10 are totaled, converted into a water charge or gas charge, and notified to each home.

The server-side communication unit 14 is connected to a terminal-side communication unit 18 provided in the terminal 10 and is connected to the terminal-side communication unit 1.
The data transmission / reception is executed by the same communication method as that of the data communication system 8. The server-side communication unit 14 communicates with each terminal 10 at the communication timing set by the server communication timing setting unit 16.

The server communication timing setting means 16 comprises:
The communication timing with each terminal 10 is set and output to the server side communication unit 14. The communication timing is set as a time at which the server-side communication unit 14 executes a communication process with one of the terminals 10, a time at which communication is started, and a time at which communication is ended.

FIG. 2 is a time chart showing an example of the communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16 shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the server communication timing setting means 16 sets the usage time so that the communication with each terminal 10 (in the example shown in the figure, terminal A, terminal B, terminal C) does not overlap with time. Allocate and secure free time in case of emergency call.

Each terminal 10 notifies the server 12 of the information individually collected. For example, a wireless terminal such as a mobile phone or a PHS is used as the terminal 10 and connected to a water meter or gas meter in each home, and the value indicated by each meter is notified to the server 12. The terminal 10 and the server 12 are connected by using a known connection form regardless of wireless or wired. When the terminal 10 and the server 12 are wirelessly connected, a communication service can be used via a public base station laid by a communication carrier, so that the above-described monitoring system can be easily constructed.

The terminal-side communication section 18 is connected to the server-side communication section 14 provided in the server 12, and transmits and receives data to and from the server-side communication section 14 by a predetermined communication method. For example, the values of the above-described water meter and gas meter are transmitted to the server-side communication unit 14.

The server communication timing storage means 20
The communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16 is stored, and the stored content is output to the transmission timing determining means 22. When the server communication timing setting means 16 sets the communication timing of the server 12 according to a predetermined pattern, the server communication timing storage means 20 stores the pattern. For example,
When the server 12 is set to sequentially communicate with each terminal on a daily basis, the server communication timing storage unit 20 stores the communication order of the terminal 10 and the daily communication interval.

When the server communication timing setting means 16 frequently updates the communication timing, the communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16 is used when the server 12 and the terminal 10 communicate.
2 to the terminal 10 and store it in the server communication timing storage means 20.

The transmission timing determining means 22 determines the transmission timing to the server 12 based on the communication timing stored in the server communication timing storage means 20, and outputs the transmission timing to the terminal side communication unit 18. For example, when the server communication timing storage means 20 stores the communication timing as shown in FIG. 2, the timing corresponding to the idle time is notified to the terminal side communication unit 18 as the transmission timing, and the emergency communication is performed. Let it be done during this free time.

The timing determined by the transmission timing determining means 22 includes not only the emergency transmission timing but also the operation state of the terminal 10, for example, whether the communication is executed according to the timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16. And the like, and the notification timing of the operation state.

The transmission timing determining means 22 determines the transmission timing in accordance with the communication state with the server 12 and outputs the transmission timing to the terminal side communication section 18. For example, if communication with the server 12 is not established even when the transmission process is performed at the timing determined by the transmission timing determination unit 22 as described above, the transmission timing is shifted,
The terminal-side communication unit 18 performs the transmission process again.

According to the first embodiment of the present invention described above, since the communication timing of the server 12 is stored in each terminal 10, each terminal 10 is in a time zone in which communication with the server 12 is possible. Can be selected to perform outgoing call processing.

(Second Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention relates to an emergency connection of the terminal 10. As described above, even when each terminal 10 performs a transmission process while avoiding communication with the server 12, communication may not be established due to a shift in communication timing or the like. When such communication failure occurs in any of the terminals 10,
It also affects the communication timing of the other terminals 10 and may cause the smooth operation of the system to be impaired. Therefore,
There is a need for a means of repairing the system if it becomes unstable.

The second embodiment of the present invention is an invention configured from the above viewpoint, and provides a technique for preventing divergence of the system.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the communication system according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The terminal side communication section 18 informs the system management section 24 when communication with the server 12 is difficult to be established, for example, when connection is not established even after retransmission several times by shifting transmission timing. Notice. At this time, the terminal 10
If a failure has occurred, the fact that a failure has occurred may be notified directly.

The system management unit 24 includes the terminal-side communication unit 18
The server 12 accesses the server 12 and checks or corrects the communication timing, or, when notified of a failure from the terminal 10, repairs the terminal 10 to achieve smooth operation of the system. .

Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to the above-described second embodiment of the present invention, since each terminal 10 can access the system management unit 24, even when communication with the server 12 is difficult to be established,
The system can be operated smoothly.

(Third Embodiment) A third embodiment of the present invention relates to detection of the operation state of the terminal 10. As described above, in a communication system in which a plurality of terminals 10 are connected, the communication timing between the terminal 10 and the server 12 may be shifted from a desired setting state. In order to ensure smooth operation of the system, it is preferable to immediately detect and deal with such a shift in communication timing.

The third embodiment of the present invention is an invention constituted from the above viewpoint, and provides a technique for detecting a shift in communication timing and for smoothly operating a system.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the communication system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The server communication timing setting means 16
The identification code of each terminal 10 and the communication timing with each terminal 10 are set in association with each other, the set communication timing is output to the server side communication unit 14, and the communication timing associated with the identification code is set in the terminal operation. Output to the state determination means 26.

When communicating with the server 12, the terminal-side communication unit 18 includes the identification code of the terminal 10 in the communication data and transmits the communication data to the server-side communication unit 14.

The server side communication unit 14 is a terminal side communication unit 1
An identification code is extracted from the communication data received from the communication device 8 and output to the terminal operation state determination means 26 together with the timing at which the identification code is received.

The terminal operation state determining means 26 selects a communication timing corresponding to the identification code output from the server-side communication section 14 from the communication timing output from the server communication timing setting means 16, and The timing is compared with the timing at which the server-side communication unit 14 receives the identification code. Then, it is determined whether or not the terminal 10 is operating normally in accordance with these timing shifts, and this determination result is output to the server communication timing setting means 16 as necessary.

The server communication timing setting means 16
If necessary, the communication timing is corrected based on the operation state determined by the terminal operation state determination unit 26. For example, when the difference from the timing at which the server-side communication unit 14 receives the identification code is large, measures such as increasing the idle time shown in FIG. 2 are performed.

The other structure is the same as that of the first embodiment.

According to the third embodiment of the present invention described above, the timing at which data is received from the terminal 10 is compared with the timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16, so that a shift in communication timing is detected. be able to. As a result, restoration such as resetting of communication timing is appropriately performed, and stable operation of the system is achieved.

(Fourth Embodiment) The fourth embodiment of the present invention relates to an emergency connection of the terminal 10. As in the first embodiment described above, even when each terminal 10 performs a calling process while avoiding communication with the server 12, the server 12
Connection with the server may not work. As a method of avoiding such a state, a method of appropriately selecting a connection line connecting the server 12 and the terminal 10 can be considered.

The fourth embodiment of the present invention is an invention configured from the above viewpoint, and provides a technique for improving the connection probability between the terminal 10 and the server 12.

FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The connection line 28 is connected to the server 12 and each terminal 1
0 between the server 12 and each terminal 10
And connect. The connection line 28 is identified by a code that does not overlap with each other, such as a telephone number.

The terminal side communication section 18 outputs the communication status with the server 12 to the connection line selecting means 30. For example, information such as communication failure with the server 12 and a predetermined number of calls is output to the connection line selecting means 30.

The connection line selecting means 30 is provided in each terminal 10 and selects the connection line 28 in accordance with the communication status output from the terminal side communication unit 18 and outputs the result to the terminal side communication unit 1.
8 is output. For example, when it is difficult to establish communication with the server 12, processing such as switching to another connection line 28 is performed. At this time, when two or more connection lines 28 are provided, a priority may be set for each connection line 28 and the connection line 28 may be selected according to the priority. Further, one of the connection lines 28 can be used as an emergency line.

The terminal side communication section 18 is connected to the connection line selecting means 3.
0 communicates with the server 12 via the selected connection line 28.

The other structure is the same as that of the first embodiment.

According to the above-described fourth embodiment of the present invention, the connection line 28 is appropriately selected according to the communication situation, so that the connection probability between the server 12 and the terminal 10 can be improved.

(Fifth Embodiment) The fifth embodiment of the present invention relates to the determination of the communication order. In a communication system in which a plurality of terminals 10 are connected to a server 12, the server 1
Even in the case where 2 is communicating with another terminal, there is a case where it is desired to interrupt the communication in an emergency. In order to realize such processing, a configuration that appropriately determines the communication order is required.

The fifth embodiment of the present invention is an invention constituted from the above viewpoint, and provides a technique for appropriately determining the communication order of each terminal 10 and constructing a highly convenient system.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the communication system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The priority setting means 32 sets priorities for the contents of communication with the terminal 10 and outputs them to the communication order determining means 34. For example, the emergency call from the terminal 10 is set as priority 1, the time adjustment between the terminal 10 and the server 12 is set as priority 2, and the periodic communication between the terminal 10 and the server 12 is set as priority 3.

When receiving an incoming call from the terminal 10, the server-side communication section 14 outputs the contents received from the terminal 10 to the communication order determining means 34.

The communication order determining means 34 determines the priority between the incoming call from the terminal 10 and the execution of the communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means 16 based on the priority set by the priority setting means 32. Then, the communication order is determined and output to the server side communication unit 14.

The server side communication section 14 executes communication with each terminal 10 in the communication order determined by the communication order determining means 34. For example, during execution of regular communication with one terminal 10,
When there is an incoming call from another terminal 10, the regular communication with the one terminal 10 is interrupted, and the other terminal 10
, And then resume regular communication with the one terminal 10.

Here, since the incoming call from the terminal 10 is often an emergency, it is preferable to set the incoming call from the terminal 10 to the highest priority.

The other structure is the same as that of the first embodiment.

According to the fifth embodiment of the present invention described above, the order of communication is determined according to the contents of communication with the terminal 10, so that important communication can be given priority.

(Sixth Embodiment) The sixth embodiment of the present invention relates to the use of call setting information. In principle, the communication between the server 12 and the terminal 10 is performed after the link between the server 12 and the terminal 10 is established. In this way, after a link is established between the server 12 and one terminal 10, the other terminals 10 are not connected until the link is released.
Cannot interrupt the link.

However, exceptionally, if the call setup information of ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is used, it is possible to interrupt the calling process from another terminal 10.

The sixth embodiment of the present invention is an invention constituted from the above viewpoint, and uses the call setting information to store the information in the server 12.
And a technique for connecting the terminal 10 and the terminal 10.

FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the communication system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

Each terminal 10 is connected to the server 12 via the ISDN 36, and executes communication with the server 12 according to the ISDN protocol. When connecting to the server 12 via the ISDN 36, it is preferable to use the PHS as the terminal 10.

The terminal-side communication section 18 transmits the call setting information of the ISDN 36 to the server-side communication section 14 including the communication data. For example, information such as an operation state of the terminal 10 or a failure notification is added to the user information area of the call setting information as information, and transmitted to the server-side communication unit 14.

The server-side communication section 14 is connected to the ISDN 36 via a terminal adapter or the like, and extracts communication data from the received call setting information. Similarly, when transmitting data from the server 12 to the terminal 10, the server-side communication unit 14 includes communication data in the call setting information,
Transmit to terminal 10.

The other structure is the same as that of the first embodiment.

According to the sixth embodiment of the present invention described above, since communication between each terminal 10 and server 12 is performed using call setting information, other terminals 10 are communicating with server 12. Even in this case, the transmission process can be interrupted.

[0078]

A PHS monitoring station 48 is connected to the gas meter 46 of each home, and the value of the gas
It transmits to the server machine 56 provided in the gas company via the S base station 50. The PHS monitoring station 48 stores the communication timing of the server machine 56, and when a failure such as a gas leak occurs, determines the communicable time based on the stored content and notifies the server machine 56 of a warning. (See FIG. 8).

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a monitoring system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, the configuration of the monitoring system will be described with reference to FIG.

The PHS monitoring station 48 is connected to the gas meter 46 of each home and the valve 45 provided in the gas pipe 44, acquires the value indicated by the gas meter 46, and controls the opening and closing of the valve 45. As shown in the figure, the gas meter 46 is connected to the gas pipe 44, detects the amount of gas used, and outputs the detected value to the PHS monitoring station 48.

The PHS monitoring station 48 is connected to the PHS base station 50 via a radio line, and transmits the value obtained from the gas meter 46 to the PHS base station 50 at a predetermined timing. The PHS base station 50 is connected to the ISDN public network 52 and transmits data received from the PHS monitoring station 48 to the ISDN public network 52.
The data is transmitted to the server machine 56 via the DN public network 52.

The server machine 56 is connected to the ISDN public network 52 via a terminal adapter A 54a, a terminal adapter B 54b and a terminal adapter C 54c corresponding to PIAFS, which is a PHS data communication system. Receive the value of. A database 58 is connected to the server machine 56, and the value of the gas meter 46 of each home is stored in the database 58.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of PHS monitoring station 48 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, based on FIG.
The configuration of the HS monitoring station 48 will be described.

The antenna 60 receives the radio wave emitted by the PHS base station 50, transmits the received radio wave to the RF unit 64, and transmits the high-frequency signal generated by the RF unit 64 as a radio wave to the PHS base station 50. I do.

The RF unit 64 converts the radio wave received by the antenna 60 into an electric signal and outputs it to the data communication unit A66, and converts the signal received from the data communication unit A66 into a high-frequency signal and outputs it to the antenna 60. .

The data communication unit A66 exchanges communication data between the main controller A68 and the RF unit 64.

The main controller A68 operates as a function center of the PHS monitoring station 48, and mainly performs processing of communication data.

The radio control unit 62 includes the RF unit 64,
This is a block including a data communication unit A66 and a main controller A68.

The memory A 70 stores communication data and other parameters. The value stored in the memory A70 is accessed from the main controller A68.

The activation controller 72 controls the power supply to the radio control unit 62 based on the time indicated by the clock A 74 and the contents stored in the memory A 70, detects the remaining amount of the battery 76, and determines the result of the detection. Main controller A6
8 is output.

The clock A 74 is operated by a dedicated internal battery, and outputs the measured time to the activation controller 72.

The battery 76 is provided so as to be replaceable,
Supply power to units other than 74.

The A / D converter 78 converts an analog signal output from the gas meter 46 into a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the main controller A68.

The valve controller 80 responds to a valve opening / closing instruction from the main controller A68 to open the valve 4
5 is controlled to open and close.

FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of memory A70 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.
Stores various parameters required for control of the PHS monitoring station 48. Hereinafter, the parameters shown in FIG.

The monitoring station ID is an identification code of the PHS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in FIG.
It relates to the monitoring station 48.

The start time is a time at which power is supplied to the radio control unit 62 and the communication function of the PHS monitoring station 48 is started. In the example shown in FIG.
Starts.

The stop time is a time at which the power supply to the radio control unit 62 is stopped and the communication function of the PHS monitoring station 48 is put into a sleep state. In this state, the consumption of the battery 76 is reduced. In the example shown in the figure, the wireless control unit 62 stops at 12:20.

The standby start time is a time at which the PHS monitoring station 48 enters a standby state. In the example shown in FIG.
At 2:00:10 the standby state is established.

The standby end time is a time at which the PHS monitoring station 48 releases the standby state. In the example shown in the figure, the standby state is released at 12:00:20.

The standby start time adjustment value is an amount by which the standby start time is manipulated when communication is difficult to be established.
In the example shown in the figure, the standby start time is advanced by 5 seconds.

The activation state indicates the purpose of activation of the PHS monitoring station 48, and indicates a “battery alarm” indicating that the PHS monitoring station 48 has been activated to warn the server machine 56 that the remaining amount of the battery 76 is low, and a standby state. There are three types of states, “standby” indicating that the server machine 56 has been activated for communication, and “synchronous call” indicating that the server machine 56 has been activated for time synchronization. In the example shown in FIG.

The number of non-connections is a parameter indicating the number of times that communication with the server machine 56 has not been established, and is incremented each time a connection fails. In the example shown in the figure, the number of non-connections is one.

The number of recalls is a parameter indicating the number of recalls when communication with the server machine 56 has not been established, and is incremented each time a recall is made. In the example shown in the figure, the number of recalls is zero.

The allowable number is a parameter indicating an allowable value of the number of times of non-connection with the server machine 56. When the number of times of non-connection exceeds this value, the activation controller 72 forcibly activates the radio control unit 62, Perform calling processing. In the example shown in the figure, when the number of disconnections exceeds 5, the activation controller 72 forcibly activates the wireless control unit 62.

The number of times of communication is the number of times that communication with the server machine 56 has been established. In the example shown in the figure, 20 times of communication are performed.

The communication timing storage table A 90 a
The communication timing of the server machine 56 is stored for each PHS monitoring station 48.

FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of the communication timing storage table A90a shown in FIG. Less than,
Based on the figure, the communication timing storage table A90a
Will be described.

The monitoring station ID is an identification code of the PHS monitoring station 48 managed by the server machine 56. In the example shown in the figure, PHS monitoring stations 48 with monitoring station IDs 1 to 5 are managed by the server machine 56.

The call start time is determined by the server machine 56
It is time to call the HS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in the figure, the time when the server machine 56 calls the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 1 is 12: 00: 00: 00 on January 1.
0 second, the time of calling the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 2 is 11:00:00 on February 1, and calling the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 3. Time is 3
It is 22:00:00 on the first day of the month, and the time to call the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 4 is 06:00:00 on April 1, and the monitoring station ID is 5: PHS monitoring station 4
The time to call 8 is 09:00:00 on May 1.

The call end time is determined by the server machine 56
This is the time when the call to the HS monitoring station 48 ends. In the example shown in FIG.
The time to terminate the call to the HS monitoring station 48 is 12:00:30 on January 1, and the time to terminate the call to the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 2 is February. PHS monitoring station 4 having a monitoring station ID of 3 at 11:00:30 in the day
8 is 22:00:30 on March 1 and the time at which the call to the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 4 is ended on April 1. It is 06:00:30, and the time at which the call to the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 5 ends is 09:00:30 on May 1.

FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of the connection destination storage table 92 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration of the connection destination storage table 92 will be described with reference to FIG.

The line ID is an identification code of the terminal adapter A 54a, the terminal adapter B 54b and the terminal adapter C 54c shown in FIG. 8. In the example shown in FIG. 8, A, B and C are stored, respectively.

The telephone numbers are the telephone numbers of the terminal adapter A 54a, the terminal adapter B 54b, and the terminal adapter C 54c shown in FIG. 8, and in the example shown in FIG.
2-627-3687 "and" 030-812-52 "
37 "is stored.

The use status is a parameter indicating which connection line is currently being used. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the terminal adapter A 54a is used.

FIG. 13 shows the server machine 56 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration of the server machine 56 will be described with reference to FIG.

The data communication unit B82 is connected to the terminal adapter A 54a, the terminal adapter B 54b, and the terminal adapter C 54c.
Functions as an interface with

The main controller B84 operates as a function center of the server machine 56, and mainly performs processing of communication data and control of communication timing.

[0120] The memory B86 stores communication data and other parameters. The value stored in the memory B86 is accessed from the main controller B84.

The clock B88 is operated by a dedicated internal battery, and outputs the measured time to the main controller B84.

FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of memory B86 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG.
6 stores various parameters necessary for controlling the server machine 56. Hereinafter, the parameters shown in FIG.

The activation time is a time at which power is supplied to the data communication unit B82 and the communication function of the server machine 56 is activated. In the example shown in the figure, the data communication unit B82 starts at 11:55.

The stop time is a time when the power supply to the data communication unit B82 is stopped and the communication function of the server machine 56 is set to the sleep state. In the example shown in FIG.
At 0 minutes, the data communication unit B82 stops.

The call start time adjustment value is an amount by which the call start time is manipulated when communication is difficult to be established. In the example shown in the figure, the call start time is earlier by 5 seconds.

The call cycle adjustment value is an amount for manipulating the cycle of the call signal when communication is difficult to be established. In the example shown in the figure, the calling cycle is shortened by one second.

The allowable number of times is a parameter indicating an allowable value of the number of times of non-connection with the PHS monitoring station 48. When the number of times of non-connection exceeds this value, the main controller B84 outputs a control signal to the data communication unit B82. , Forcibly initiates a call to the PHS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in the figure, when the number of disconnections exceeds 5, the main controller B84
A control signal is output to the data communication unit B82.

The communication timing storage table B90b is
Each PHS monitoring station 48 stores a unique communication timing.

FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of the communication timing storage table B90b shown in FIG. Less than,
Based on the figure, the communication timing storage table B90b
Will be described. The monitoring station ID, the call start time and the call end time in the communication timing storage table B90b are stored in the communication timing storage table A9 shown in FIG.
The description is omitted because it has the same configuration and the same contents as those of Oa.

The number of times of non-connection is a parameter indicating the number of times that communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 has not been established, and is incremented each time a connection fails. In the example shown in the figure, the number of disconnections with the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 1 is one, and the number of disconnections with the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 2 is zero. The number of times of disconnection with the PHS monitoring station 48 whose station ID is 3 is 2 times, the number of times of disconnection with the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 4 is 0, and the PHS monitoring station whose monitoring station ID is 5 The number of non-connections with 48 is zero.

The number of times of communication is the number of times that communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 has been established. In the example shown in the figure, 20 times of communication have been performed with the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 1. Communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 2 has been performed ten times, and the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 3 has been performed.
Has been communicated 15 times and the monitoring station ID is 4
The communication with the HS monitoring station 48 is performed five times, and the communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 5 is performed ten times.

FIG. 16 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of the monitoring station management table 94 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, the configuration of the monitoring station management table 94 will be described with reference to FIG.

The monitoring station ID is an identification code of the PHS monitoring station 48 managed by the server machine 56, and corresponds to the identification code shown in FIG.

The PHS monitoring station authentication data is data for authenticating the PHS monitoring station 48 and functions as a password. In the example shown in FIG.
The monitoring station 48 determines “1sjftga0rjkhpdi
d ", and the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 2
Is authenticated by “1sjfhtga1mnopqrst”, and the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 3 transmits “1sjfga
htga0rstuvkmn "and the monitoring station ID
Is a PHS monitoring station 48, “1sjftga2rs
The PHS monitoring station 48 that has been authenticated by “tuvkop” and has a monitoring station ID of 5 is “1sjfhtga3rstuwkmp”
It is authenticated by.

The remaining battery level indicates the remaining capacity of the battery 76 provided in the PHS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in the figure, the remaining battery level of the PHS monitoring station 48 having the monitoring station ID of 1 is 11. 5 volts, the remaining battery level of the PHS monitoring station 48 with the monitoring station ID of 2 is 12.5 volts,
The remaining battery level of the S monitoring station 48 is 11.0 volts, and the remaining battery level of the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 4 is 11.
The remaining battery level of the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 5 is 12.2 volts.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of the priority order storage table 96 shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, priorities are set for each communication content in the priority order storage table 96. In the example shown in the figure, the PHS monitoring station 4
8, the "battery alarm" transmitted when the remaining battery level becomes low has a priority of 1, and the "time adjustment" that synchronizes the clock A74 of the PHS monitoring station 48 with the clock B88 of the server machine 56 has a priority of 2. “Periodic communication” that is periodically executed by the PHS monitoring station 48 and the server machine 56 is set to the third priority.

FIG. 18 shows the activation controller 7 shown in FIG.
2 is a flowchart illustrating a process executed by the second embodiment. Less than,
An operation example of the activation controller 72 will be described with reference to FIG.

The start controller 72 firstly operates the battery 76
Is detected (step S50), and when the remaining amount of the battery 76 is small (YES in step S52), the memory A70 is accessed and the activation state is set to "battery alarm" (step S54).

If there is no problem in the remaining capacity of the battery 76 (NO in step S52), the time of the clock A74 and the memory A70
Is compared with the activation time stored in the storage device (step S56). If they do not match (NO in step S56),
It returns to step S50.

If the time of the clock A74 matches the activation time stored in the memory A70 (YES in step S56), it is determined whether or not the radio control unit 62 should make a synchronous call (step S58). If the call is not to be made (NO in step S58), access is made to memory A70, and the activation state is set to "standby". Wireless control unit 6
2 to make a synchronous call (YE in step S58).
S): Access the memory A70 and set the activation state to "synchronous calling" (step S62).

After the activation state is set, the communication timing storage table A90a is accessed to determine whether it is possible to call the server machine 56 (step S6).
3). The determination as to whether a call can be made is made based on whether the time indicated by the clock A74 is temporally overlapped with the contents of the communication timing storage table A90a.

Thereafter, if it is not the callable time (NO in step S63), the communication timing storage table A90
While referring to “a”, the next callable time is acquired, and the activation time stored in the memory A 70 is changed to the acquired time (step S65).

On the other hand, if it is possible to make a call (step S
63, YES), the battery 76 and the wireless control unit 62 are connected, and power is supplied to the wireless control unit 62 (step S6).
4). Then, it waits until the stop time is reached or the communication with the server machine 56 is completed while the power is supplied to the wireless control unit 62 (NO in step S66).

Stop time or server machine 5
6 has been completed (YES in step S66),
The next start time is stored in the memory A70 (step S6).
8) The power supply to the wireless control unit 62 is stopped (step S70).

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a first process executed by radio control section 62 shown in FIG. Less than,
An operation example of the wireless control unit 62 will be described with reference to FIG.

The radio control unit 62 includes an activation controller 72
When power is supplied by (YES in step S72)
S), while executing processing such as location registration, receiving a control signal from the PHS base station 50,
It is determined whether or not communication is possible (step S74).
If it is possible to communicate with the PHS base station 50 (YES in step S74), the active state is loaded from the memory A 70 (step S76), and it is determined whether the loaded active state is "standby" (step S76). S78).

If the activation state is not "standby" (NO in step S78), it is determined whether or not a control signal is used for calling the server machine 56 (step S78).
87) If the control signal is not used (step S8)
(NO at 7), and immediately initiates a calling process to server machine 56 (step S88). On the other hand, when the control signal is used for calling the server machine 56 (YES in step S87), step S50 shown in FIG.
Go to 0.

If the startup state loaded in step S76 is "standby" (YES in step S78)
S), and waits until the time of the clock A74 reaches the standby start time stored in the memory A70 (N in step S80).
O).

When the time of the clock A74 becomes the standby start time (YES in step S80), the state shifts to the standby state (step S82), and the time of the clock A74 is stored in the memory A.
The process waits until the standby end time stored in step 70 is reached (NO in step S84).

When the clock A74 reaches the standby end time (YES in step S84), the standby state is released (step S86).

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the second processing executed by radio control section 62 shown in FIG. The processing shown in FIG.
This is performed after 88.

After canceling the standby state (step S86) or starting the calling process (step S88), the radio control unit 62 determines whether or not communication with the server machine 56 has been established (step S90). .

If the communication with the server machine 56 has been established (YES in step S90), the time of the clock A74, the remaining amount of the battery 76, and the indicated value of the gas meter 46 are obtained (step S92), and the obtained data is obtained. Is included in the communication data and transmitted to the server machine 56, and the communication data transmitted from the server machine 56 is received (step S94). At this time, if there is received data (YES in step S96), the received data is processed (step S98). These processes from step S94 to step S98 are repeated until the communication with the server machine 56 ends (NO in step S100).

When the communication with server machine 56 is completed (YES in step S100), the communication line is disconnected (step S102), and the time of clock A74 is made to match the time of clock B88 received from server machine 56 (step S104). ).

Thereafter, if the data received from the server machine 56 has a designation such as a start time or a standby start time, the designated time is stored in the memory A 70. The start time and the like are updated (step S106). Then, a power stop request is output to the activation controller 72 to stop the power (step S108).

If the communication with the server machine 56 has not been established in step S90, it is determined whether or not the unestablished communication was a recall (step S10).
9) If it is a re-call (YES in step S109),
The process proceeds to step S530 shown in FIG. If it is not a re-call (NO in step S109), the number of disconnections of the memory A 70 is incremented (step S110), and it is determined whether the incremented value exceeds the allowable number (step S112).

If the number of non-connections does not exceed the allowable number (NO in step S112), the process proceeds to step S530 shown in FIG. 22, and if the number of non-connections exceeds the allowable number (YES in step S112). After waiting for a predetermined time (step S114), the non-connection counter is cleared (step S116), and a process for calling the server machine 56 is executed (step S118). And again,
It is determined whether communication has been established (step S9).
0).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a third process executed by radio control section 62 shown in FIG. The process shown in FIG. 19 is performed subsequent to step S87 in FIG.

Radio control section 62 first determines whether to use the user information area of the call setting information (step S500). If the user information area is not to be used (NO in step S500), the call control information To the caller ID, that is, the monitoring station ID (step S50).
8) Call is made by the control signal (step S51)
2).

If the user information area is to be used (YES in step S500), it is determined whether the control signal requires device information, for example, a gas meter value or a remaining battery level (step S502). Is unnecessary (NO in step S502), the operation state of the PHS monitoring station 48 is added to the user information area (step S510), and a call is made by a control signal (step S5).
12).

If the device information is necessary (YES in step S502), the necessary device information is acquired (step S504), and the acquired device information is added to the user information area (step S506), and the control is performed. A call is made by a signal (step S512).

After making a call based on the control signal, the control signal is released (step S514). If the control signal includes data received from the server machine 56 (YES in step S516), the control signal is received. The data is processed (step S518), and step S104 shown in FIG.
Proceed to. If the control signal does not include the data received from the server machine 56 (N in step S516)
O), and instruct the activation controller 72 to stop the power supply (step S520), and return to step S72 in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a fourth process executed by radio control section 62 shown in FIG. The processing shown in the figure is performed in steps S109 and S112 of FIG.
It is performed following.

The wireless control unit 62 first accesses the connection destination storage table 92, and determines whether or not there is a connection destination whose use status is “unused” (step S530). If there is no “unused” connection destination (N in step S530)
O), instruct the activation controller 72 to stop the power supply (step S542), and return to step S72 in FIG.

If there is an "unused" connection destination (YES in step S530), it is determined whether a standby start time adjustment value is set in memory A70 (step S532), and the standby start time adjustment value is determined. If it is set (YES in step S532), the set value is obtained, the standby start time is adjusted, and the start time stored in memory A70 is updated to the next start time. . The updated start time is set so as not to temporally overlap with the contents of the communication timing storage table A90a. Then, the activation controller 72
19 is instructed to stop the power supply (step S542), and FIG.
The process returns to step S72.

If the standby start time adjustment value has not been set (NO in step S532), the connection destination of "unused" is changed to "in use" (step S534).
The number of disconnections is set to 0 (step S536), and the calling process is started (step S538). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S90 shown in FIG. 20, and it is determined whether communication has been established.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a first process executed by main controller B84 shown in FIG. Hereinafter, based on the figure, the main controller B8
Operation example 4 will be described.

The main controller B84 has a clock B88.
Is coincident with the activation time stored in the memory B86 (YES in step S120), it is determined whether there is an incoming call from the PHS monitoring station 48 (step S12).
1) If there is an incoming call (YE in step S121)
S), and proceeds to step S600 shown in FIG. If there is no incoming call from the PHS monitoring station 48 (N in step S121
O), the power of the data communication unit B82 is turned on (step S122). Then, it accesses the communication timing storage table B90b constructed in the memory B86, and
Is selected (step S124). And the I
It is determined whether or not the stop time of D and the time of the clock B88 match (step S126). If they match (YES in step S126), the data communication unit B82
Is stopped (step S128), and the process ends.

If the stop time of the monitoring station ID selected in step S124 is different from the time of clock B88 (NO in step S126), the call start time of the ID and the clock B
It is determined whether or not the time of step 88 matches (step S130), and if they do not match (step S13).
0, NO), another monitoring station ID is selected (step S1).
24).

If the calling start time of the monitoring station ID selected in step S124 matches the time of clock B88 (YES in step S130), the PHS having the monitoring station ID until the calling end time is reached. A call signal is transmitted to the monitoring station 48 (steps S132 and S134), and when the call end time comes (YES in step S134), the call processing ends (step S136).

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a second process executed by main controller B84 shown in FIG. The processing shown in FIG. 23 is performed subsequent to step S136 in FIG.

After terminating the calling process (step S136), main controller B84 determines whether or not communication with PHS monitoring station 48 has been established (step S13).
8).

If the communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 is established (YES in step S138), the time of the clock B88 and the instruction value of the operation timing of the PHS monitoring station 48 are included in the communication data, and the PHS monitoring station is set. And the communication data transmitted from the PHS monitoring station 48 (step S140). At this time, if there is received data (YES in step S142), the received data is processed (step S144). These processes from step S140 to step S144 are repeated until the communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 ends (step S1).
NO at 46).

When the communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 is completed (YES in step S146), the communication line is disconnected (step S148), and the contents of the memory B86 such as the activation time are updated (step S150). Then, the power supply of the data communication unit B82 is stopped (step S152).

If the communication with the PHS monitoring station 48 has not been established in step S138, the number of disconnections of the memory B86 is incremented (step S160), and it is determined whether the incremented value exceeds the allowable number. (Step S162).

If the number of disconnections does not exceed the allowable number (NO in step S162), data communication unit B82
Power supply is stopped (step S152). On the other hand, if the number of non-connections exceeds the allowable number (step S16
After the disconnection counter is cleared (step S164), the communication timing storage table B90 is determined based on the call start time adjustment value stored in the memory B86.
The call start time of b is adjusted (step S166), and the call cycle is adjusted based on the call cycle adjustment value stored in the memory B86 (step S168).

After that, the power supply of the data communication unit B82 is stopped (step S152), and the process is terminated.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a third process executed by main controller B84 shown in FIG. The processing illustrated in FIG. 23 is performed subsequent to step S121 in FIG.

First, the main controller B 84 accesses the priority order storage table 96 and checks the PHS monitoring station 4.
8 is given priority (step S
600), when giving priority to the incoming call (step S600)
YES), the start time of the PHS monitoring station 48 that was to start communication at the start time of step S120 shown in FIG. 23 is shifted (step S602), and the incoming call processing is started (step S604). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S140 shown in FIG. 24 to execute data communication.

When the incoming call from the PHS monitoring station 48 is not given priority (NO in step S600), the priority of the communication content of the incoming call and the communication content scheduled to start at the start time of step S120 shown in FIG. To determine which priority is higher (step S608). As a result of the determination, if the priority of the incoming call is high (YES in step S608), the process proceeds to step S602, and if the priority of the incoming call is low (N in step S608).
O), the start time of the transmitting PHS monitoring station 48 is shifted (step 610), and the process proceeds to step S122 in FIG.

FIG. 26 is a conceptual diagram showing a format example of data transmitted from the server machine 56 to the PHS monitoring station 48. Hereinafter, the configuration of the data will be described with reference to FIG.

The start bit and the end bit are bits for synchronizing data, and in the example shown in the figure, both use "011111111110".

The server machine authentication data is data for authenticating the server machine 56, and functions as a password. In the example shown in FIG.
Is authenticated by "abcdefgh09988555".

The monitoring station ID is an identification code of the PHS monitoring station 48 that is currently communicating, and in the example shown in the figure, the data is transmitted to the PHS monitoring station 48 whose monitoring station ID is 1.

The time of the clock B is the time indicated by the clock B88 provided in the server machine 56, and in the example shown in the figure, the clock B88 indicates "12:10:00".

The communication data indicates the contents of the request to the PHS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the server machine 56 requests the indicated value of the gas meter 46.

FIG. 27 is a conceptual diagram showing a format example of data transmitted from the PHS monitoring station 48 to the server machine 56. Hereinafter, the configuration of the data will be described with reference to FIG.

The start bit and the end bit are bits for synchronizing data, and in the example shown in the figure, both use "011111111110".

The PHS monitoring station authentication data is data for authenticating the PHS monitoring station 48 and functions as a password. In the example shown in FIG.
It is authenticated by "1sjfhtga0rjkhpdid".

The time of the clock A is the time indicated by the clock A74 provided in the PHS monitoring station 48, and in the example shown in the figure, the clock A74 indicates "12:10:01".

The remaining battery capacity indicates the remaining capacity of the battery 76 provided in the PHS monitoring station 48. In the example shown in FIG.
6 is 11.5 volts.

The communication data indicates the contents of the answer to the request from the server machine 56. In the example shown in FIG. 19, "250 liters" is returned in response to the request for the indicated value of the gas meter 46 from the server machine 56. I have.

FIG. 28 shows a first example of the monitoring system shown in FIG.
6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the above. Hereinafter, the first operation example will be described with reference to FIG.

When the PHS monitoring station 48 detects that gas is leaking from the gas pipe 44 (step S200),
The server machine 56 is called to notify the fact (step S202). At this time, if the server machine 56 is in a call and communication is not established, the PHS monitoring station 48 calls the server machine 56 again after a predetermined time has elapsed (step S204). Also at this time, if the server machine 56 is in a call and communication is not established, the connection line is changed (step S2).
06), a call is made again (step S208).

The server machine 56 that has received the call from the PHS monitoring station 48 returns a response signal to the PHS monitoring station 48 (step S210). P that received this response signal
The HS monitoring station 48 notifies the server machine 56 of the gas leak (step S212). The server machine 56 that has received the notification of the gas leak transmits a disconnection request to the PHS monitoring station 48 (step S214), and the PHS monitoring station 48 that has received the request returns a call end signal to the server machine 56 (step S216). ).

FIG. 29 shows a second example of the monitoring system shown in FIG.
6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the above. Hereinafter, the second operation example will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the PHS monitoring station A 48a and the server machine 56 are started synchronously at a predetermined cycle (step S30).
0, S302). Thus, a call starts between the PHS monitoring station A 48a and the server machine 56 (step S
304).

Here, the PHS monitoring station B48b is connected to the gas pipe 4
4 is detected (step S)
306), the server machine 56 is called to notify the fact (step S308). At this time, if the server machine 56 is in a call and the communication is not established, the PHS monitoring station B48b shifts to a standby state (step S310).

Upon receiving the call from the PHS monitoring station B 48b, the server machine 56 interrupts the call with the PHS monitoring station A 48a and determines the time at which the PHS monitoring station A 48a will make a call again (step S312). Then, after transmitting the determined re-calling time to the PHS monitoring station A48a (step S314), a disconnection request is transmitted to the PHS monitoring station A48a (step S316). Upon receiving the disconnection request from the server machine 56, the PHS monitoring station A48a returns an end signal to the server machine 56 (step S31).
8).

The server machine 56 has a PHS monitoring station A4
After the communication with the PHS monitoring station 8a is completed, the PHS monitoring station B48b is called again (step S320). The PHS monitoring station B48b that has received the re-call from the server machine 56 transmits a response signal to the server machine 56 (step S32).
2), a gas leak is notified (step S324).

The server machine 56 that has received the gas leak notification from the PHS monitoring station B48b
Is transmitted (step S326). PHS monitoring station B4 receiving the disconnection request from the server machine 56
8b returns an end signal to the server machine 56 (step S328).

[0202] The PHS monitoring station A48a executes step S31.
When the re-call time received in step 4 comes, the server machine 5
6 is called again (step S330). PHS monitoring station A
The server machine 56 receiving the re-call from 48a
A response signal is returned to the HS monitoring station A 48a (step S
332. As a result, the suspended PHS monitoring station A48a
The call between the server and the server machine 56 resumes (step S
334).

FIG. 30 shows a third example of the monitoring system shown in FIG.
6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the above. Hereinafter, the third operation example will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the PHS monitoring station A 48a and the server machine 56 are synchronously activated at a predetermined cycle (step S40).
0, S402). Thus, a call starts between the PHS monitoring station A 48a and the server machine 56 (step S
406).

[0205] Here, the PHS monitoring station B48b is connected to the gas pipe 4
4 is detected (step S)
408), the server machine 56 is called to notify the fact (step S410). At this time, if the server machine 56 is in a call and the communication is not established, the PHS monitoring station B48b adds warning information to the call setting information (step S412), and issues the server machine 56 using the control signal. Call (step S414).

Next, the PHS monitoring station B48b transmits an open signal to the server machine 56 (step S41).
6). Upon receiving the control signal from the PHS monitoring station B48b, the server machine 56 extracts the warning information included in the control signal and executes a predetermined process (step S41).
8).

The server machine 56 has a PHS monitoring station A4
After the communication with the PHS 8a is completed, a disconnection request is transmitted to the PHS monitoring station A48a (step S420). PHS monitoring station A48a that has received the disconnection request from the server machine 56
Returns the end signal to the server machine 56 (step S422), and ends the communication.

[0208]

As described above, according to the present invention,
A communication system effective for realizing smooth communication between the terminal and the server can be provided.

Further, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, since the communication timing of the server is stored in each terminal, each terminal selects a time zone in which communication with the server is possible and makes a call. Processing can be performed.

Further, according to the second embodiment of the present invention, since each terminal can access the system management unit, even if communication with the server is difficult to be established, the system can be operated smoothly.

According to the third embodiment of the present invention, the timing at which data is received from the terminal is compared with the timing set by the server communication timing setting means, so that a shift in communication timing can be detected. . As a result, restoration such as resetting of communication timing is appropriately performed, and stable operation of the system is achieved.

Further, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the connection line is appropriately selected according to the communication situation, so that the connection probability between the server and the terminal can be improved.

Further, according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the order of communication is determined according to the contents of communication with the terminal, so that important communication can be given priority.

Further, according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, since communication between each terminal and the server is performed using the call setting information, even when another terminal is communicating with the server. , The transmission process can be interrupted.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a server communication timing setting means 1 shown in FIG.
6 is a time chart illustrating an example of a communication timing set by a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a configuration of a communication system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a fourth mode of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a fifth mode of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a communication system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a monitoring system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a PHS monitoring station 48 shown in FIG.

10 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a memory A70 shown in FIG.

11 is a communication timing storage table A shown in FIG.
It is a conceptual diagram which shows the content of 90a.

12 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a connection destination storage table 92 shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a server machine 56 shown in FIG.

14 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a memory B86 shown in FIG.

15 is a communication timing storage table B shown in FIG.
It is a conceptual diagram which shows the content of 90b.

16 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a monitoring station management table 94 shown in FIG.

17 is a conceptual diagram showing the contents of a priority order storage table 96 shown in FIG.

18 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the activation controller 72 shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a first process executed by a wireless control unit 62 shown in FIG. 9;

20 is a flowchart showing a second process executed by the wireless control unit 62 shown in FIG.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a third process executed by the wireless control unit 62 shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a fourth process executed by the wireless control unit 62 illustrated in FIG. 9;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a first process executed by a main controller B84 shown in FIG.

24 is a flowchart showing a second process executed by the main controller B84 shown in FIG.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a third process executed by the main controller B84 shown in FIG.

FIG. 26 is a conceptual diagram showing a format example of data transmitted from the server machine 56 to the PHS monitoring station 48.

FIG. 27 is a conceptual diagram showing a format example of data transmitted from the PHS monitoring station 48 to the server machine 56.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a first operation example of the monitoring system shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a second operation example of the monitoring system shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a third operation example of the monitoring system shown in FIG. 8;

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Terminal, 12 ... Server, 14 ... Server side communication part, 16 ... Server communication timing setting means, 18 ... Terminal side communication part, 20 ... Server communication timing storage means,
22: transmission timing determination means, 24: system management unit, 26: terminal operation state determination means, 28: connection line, 3
0 ... connection line selecting means, 32 ... priority setting means, 34
... communication order determination means, 36 ... ISDN, 44 ... gas pipe,
45: Valve, 46: Gas meter, 48: PHS monitoring station, 48a: PHS monitoring station A, 48b: PHS monitoring station B, 50: PHS base station, 52: ISDN public network, 54
a ... terminal adapter A, 54b ... terminal adapter B, 54c ... terminal adapter C, 56 ... server machine, 58 ... database, 60 ... antenna, 62 ...
Radio control unit, 64 RF unit, 66 Data communication unit A, 6
8: Main controller A, 70: Memory A, 72: Start controller, 74: Clock A, 76: Battery, 78: A
/ D converter, 80: valve controller, 82: data communication unit B, 84: main controller B, 86: memory B, 88: clock B, 90a: communication timing storage table A, 90b: communication timing storage table B, 92 …
Connection destination storage table 94 monitoring station management table 96
… Priority order storage table

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F-term (reference) 5K101 KK12 LL03 LL12

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A communication system comprising a terminal and a server that manages the operation of the terminal, wherein the server sets a server-side communication unit that performs communication with the terminal, and sets communication timing with the terminal. Server communication timing setting means, wherein the terminal executes a communication with the server; a terminal communication section; a server communication timing storage means for storing communication timing set by the server communication timing setting means; A communication timing determining unit for determining a transmission timing to the server based on the communication timing stored in the server communication timing storage unit. 2. The communication system according to claim 1, wherein the transmission timing determining means determines the transmission timing again according to a communication state with the server. 3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising a system management unit that manages the communication system, wherein the terminal-side communication unit communicates with the system management unit according to a communication state with the server. 1 or Claim 2
A communication system as described. 4. The communication system according to claim 1, wherein said transmission timing determining means determines a timing at which an operation state of said terminal is notified to said server. 5. The terminal-side communication section transmits the terminal identification code included in communication data to the server, and the server communication timing setting means includes: the terminal identification code, a communication timing with the terminal. The server compares the timing at which the identification code is received from the terminal-side communication section with the communication timing associated with the identification code set by the server communication timing setting means, and The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a terminal operation state determination unit that determines an operation state of the terminal. 6. The server comprises a plurality of connection lines for connecting the server and the terminal, the terminal comprises connection line selection means for selecting one of the connection lines, and the terminal-side communication section comprises: The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the communication is performed with the server via a connection line selected by a line selection unit. 7. The server, comprising: a priority setting unit configured to set a priority order in communication contents with the terminal; and a priority order set by the priority order setting unit.
A communication order determining unit that determines a priority order between an incoming call from the terminal and execution of the communication timing set by the server communication timing setting unit, and determines a communication order with each terminal. The communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein 8. The communication system according to claim 7, wherein said communication order determination means gives priority to an incoming call from said terminal over execution of communication timing set by said server communication timing setting means. 9. The communication system according to claim 1, wherein the terminal and the server are connected via an ISDN and communicate using call setting information of the ISDN.