JP2000333266A - Electronic device control system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To automatically and completely restrict utilization of an electronic device. SOLUTION: A utilization limit signal receiver 4 is assembled to the electronic device 3 such as a video camera and a computer by a manufacturer and the resulting electronic device is shipped. A utilization limit signal transmitter 1 is installed under an environment where the utilization restrict of the electronic device is requested such as a museum, an art gallery or a passenger aircraft. In the case of executing a utilization limit, the utilization limit signal transmitter 1 transmits a utilization limit signal. Upon the receipt of the utilization limit signal, the utilization limit signal receiver 4 executes a function limit of the electronic device such as interruption of power of the electronic device 3.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an environment in which use of electronic equipment is required to be restricted, for example, in an environment where photography is prohibited such as a museum or a museum, recording is prohibited as in a music concert hall. Electronic device control system to prevent unauthorized use of electronic devices in violation of usage regulations in environments where the use of electronic devices is prohibited during takeoff and landing such as in passenger aircraft It is.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, photography is generally prohibited in museums and art galleries, and photography and recording are prohibited in music concert venues. In addition, in passenger aircraft, use at the time of takeoff and landing is prohibited because electronic devices adversely affect the aircraft. However, since each electronic device operates independently, it is necessary to rely on the morals of the individual user when trying to regulate the use of electronic devices in facilities such as museums and transportation such as passenger aircraft. Thus, it has been possible to illegally use electronic devices contrary to usage regulations. In addition, to fully enforce the use of electronic devices,
There was no other way but to tighten the monitoring.

[0003]

As described above, conventionally,
Even when the use of electronic devices is restricted, there has been a problem that illegal use of electronic devices that violates the use restrictions cannot be prevented. In addition, the only way to completely regulate the use of electronic devices is to strictly monitor them, and there is a problem in that the number of observers must be increased. The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems, and in an environment in which use of electronic devices is required to be controlled, complete use control is not performed without relying on personal morals or monitoring of a user. It is an object of the present invention to provide an electronic device control system capable of performing the following.

[0004]

An electronic device control system according to the present invention is installed in an environment where it is necessary to restrict the use of an electronic device, and a use restriction signal for designating a use restriction on the electronic device. Electronic equipment (3, 3) including a use restriction signal transmitter (1, 1b, 1c) for transmitting (2) and a use restriction signal receiver (4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) for receiving the use restriction signal. 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d)
The function of the electronic device is restricted by the use restriction signal. All electronic devices, such as video cameras and computers, are shipped after the manufacturer has built in a usage-restriction signal receiver. The use restriction signal transmitter is installed in an environment where use restrictions on electronic devices are required, such as a museum, a museum, or a passenger aircraft. When the use restriction is performed, a use restriction signal is transmitted from the use restriction signal transmitter. When the usage restriction signal receiver receives the usage restriction signal, the function of the electronic device is restricted, such as turning off the power of the electronic device. As described above, according to the present invention, the use restriction signal is transmitted in an environment where the use restriction of the electronic device is required, and the use restriction is automatically applied to the electronic device when the electronic device receives the use restriction signal. Therefore, it is possible to realize automatic and complete use control of electronic devices that could not be realized conventionally.

As one configuration example of the electronic equipment control system, the use restriction signal transmitter includes registration means (5, 5) for registering use restriction type information (9) for defining a use restriction level of the electronic equipment. 5b, 5c) and transmission means (6, 6b, 6c) for transmitting a use restriction signal (2, 2b, 2c) according to the use restriction type information, and the use restriction signal receiver includes a use restriction signal. The function of the own electronic device is restricted according to the use restriction type information obtained from the electronic device. Further, as one configuration example of the electronic device control system, the use restriction signal transmitter registers the use restriction schedule information (8) that defines a time period for restricting the use of the electronic device. 5c) and control means (5, 5b, 5c) for controlling whether or not to transmit the use restriction signal (2, 2b, 2c) according to the use restriction schedule information.

As an example of the configuration of the electronic device control system, the use restriction signal receivers (4a, 4b, 4)
In d), when there is no release means for releasing the usage restriction, the function of the own electronic device is restricted, and when the release means is provided, the function of the own electronic device is not restricted. Further, as an example of the configuration of the electronic device control system described above, when the use restriction signal receiver (4c) has a release unit for releasing only a specific type of use restriction, the use restriction signal receiver (4c) may be used for a use restriction other than the specific type. The function of the own electronic device is restricted, and the function of the own electronic device is not restricted with respect to the above-mentioned specific type of use restriction.

Further, as one configuration example of the electronic device control system, the release means (7) includes an electronic device (3a).
The use-restriction signal receiver of the electronic device which is detachable with respect to the electronic device and is not equipped with the release means is provided with the use-restriction signal (2).
Function restriction of the own electronic device according to the usage restriction signal receiver (4) of the electronic device (3a) equipped with the release means.
In a), the function of the own electronic device is not restricted. As one configuration example of the electronic device control system described above, the use restriction signal transmitter (1b) includes identification information (1) of the electronic device (3b) to which the use restriction is not applied.
4) a registration unit (5b) for registering the usage restriction signal (2);
Transmission means (6) for transmitting the information by adding the identification information to b)
b), wherein the release means (15) stores the identification information of the own electronic device, and the use restriction signal receiver (4b) stores the identification information and the use restriction signal stored in the release means. When the identification information obtained from the server does not match, the function of the own electronic device is restricted according to the use restriction signal, and when the identification information matches, the function of the own electronic device is not restricted.

[0008] As one configuration example of the electronic device control system, the release means can store use restriction release information for invalidating the use restriction of the electronic device (3d). When the use restriction release information is not set in the release means, the restriction signal receiver (4d) restricts the function of the electronic device in accordance with the use restriction signal, and the use restriction release information is set in the release means. In such a case, the function of the own electronic device is not restricted. Further, as one configuration example of the electronic device control system, the use restriction signal transmitter (1c) includes the use restriction type information (9) that defines the use restriction level of the electronic device (3c) or the use of the electronic device. Usage restriction schedule information (8) for defining the time of restriction, or registration means (5c) for registering these two pieces of information, and generation means (5c) for generating registration identification information (16) at the time of registration. Transmission means (6c) for transmitting the identification information in addition to the use restriction signal (2c), wherein the release means (7c) is detachable from the electronic device and can store the identification information. The use restriction signal receiver of the electronic device to which the release means is not mounted implements the function restriction of the own electronic device according to the use restriction type information obtained from the use restriction signal, and the release means is mounted. Electronic If the identification information stored in the release means and the identification information obtained from the usage restriction signal do not match, the use restriction signal receiver of the device performs function restriction of the own electronic device according to the usage restriction type information, and If they match, the function restriction of the own electronic device is not performed on the usage restriction type information corresponding to the identification information.

[0009]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In the electronic device control system of FIG. 1, the use restriction signal transmitter 1 is installed in facilities or transportation where the use of the electronic device 3 is required to be restricted, for example, museums, museums, music concert venues, passenger aircraft, and the like. Is done.

When the use of the electronic device 3 is restricted, the use restriction signal 2 is transmitted using the use restriction signal transmitter 1 using an electromagnetic wave or the like as a medium.
Originated from The use restriction signal 2 is always transmitted from the use restriction signal transmitter 1 while restricting the use of the electronic device 3. Usage restriction signal receiver 4 built in electronic device 3
Activates the mechanism that restricts the function of the electronic device 3 upon receiving the use restriction signal 2. Thereby, the use of the electronic device 3 is restricted.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the use restriction signal transmitter 1 in the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal transmitter 1. The use restriction signal transmitter 1 includes a use restriction schedule unit 5 and a use restriction signal transmission unit 6.

First, in a facility or a transportation system, the electronic equipment 3
The use restriction setter who intends to restrict use of the information inputs the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 to the use restriction signal transmitter 1. The input use restriction schedule information 8 and use restriction type information 9 are registered in the use restriction schedule unit 5 (Step 101 in FIG. 3).

The usage restriction schedule information 8 is used, for example, to restrict the use of the electronic device 3 every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, or from immediately after the registration of the usage restriction schedule information 8 to the cancellation designation. Interval, electronic equipment 3
This is information that defines the time for which the use of the electronic device 3 is restricted, such as restricting the use of the electronic device 3.

The use restriction type information 9 indicates that, for example, when the target electronic device 3 is a music cassette deck having a recording / reproducing function, the device itself is turned off or only recording is disabled. Such information defines the level of use restriction of the electronic device 3, that is, how much the use of the electronic device 3 is restricted. As described later, the type of the use restriction signal 2 changes according to the use restriction type information 9.

Next, the use restriction schedule unit 5 determines whether or not the use of the electronic device 3 should be restricted at this time according to the registered use restriction schedule information 8 (step 102 in FIG. 3). Usage restriction schedule part 5
If the current time is registered in the use restriction schedule information 8, it is determined that the use of the electronic device 3 should be restricted.

The use restriction schedule unit 5, which has determined that the use of the electronic device 3 should be restricted, outputs the registered use restriction type information 9 to the use restriction signal transmission unit 6.
The use restriction signal transmitting unit 6 modulates the use restriction type information 9 to generate and transmit the use restriction signal 2 (step 10 in FIG. 3).
3).

As a method of modulating the usage restriction type information 9, any method such as AM modulation, FM modulation, or spread spectrum modulation may be used. The usage restriction signal transmitter 1 performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the use restriction schedule unit 5 in the present embodiment. The usage restriction schedule section 5 includes a usage restriction schedule table 10
, A timer 11, and a schedule management unit 12. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the usage restriction schedule table 10, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit 12.

The use restriction schedule table 10 is a database that stores use restriction schedule information 8 and use restriction type information 9 in association with each other. When the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 are input (step 104 in FIG. 5), the use restriction schedule table 10 includes the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 in its own registered contents. By adding, the registered contents are updated (step 105 in FIG. 5).

Next, the schedule management unit 12 uses the registered contents of the use restriction schedule table 10 and the current time 13 generated by the timer 11 (step 106 in FIG. 6).
It is determined whether it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3 (step 107 in FIG. 6).

When the use restriction schedule information 8 in which the current time is registered exists in the use restriction schedule table 10, the schedule management unit 12 determines that the use of the electronic device 3 should be restricted.

Then, the schedule management unit 12 that has determined that it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3 acquires the use restriction type information 9 corresponding to the corresponding use restriction schedule information 8 from the use restriction schedule table 10. This is output to the use restriction signal transmitting unit 6 (step 1 in FIG. 6).
08). The schedule management unit 12 performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4 in the present embodiment. The use restriction signal receiver 4 in the electronic device 3 is always in a reception state, and detects the reception of the use restriction signal 2.

When use restriction signal receiver 4 receives use restriction signal 2 transmitted from use restriction signal transmitter 1 (YES in step 109 in FIG. 7), use restriction signal 2 is demodulated to use restriction type information. 9 (step 110 in FIG. 7).

The use restriction signal receiver 4 restricts the function of the electronic device 3 based on the obtained use restriction type information 9. For example, if the usage restriction type information 9 is information that specifies a usage restriction of “recording not allowed”, the usage restriction signal receiver 4
Makes recording of the electronic device 3 impossible. The usage restriction signal receiver 4 performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a method of installing use restriction signal transmitter 1 in the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the inside of a facility (or transportation) 30 in which the use of the electronic device 3 is required to be restricted, and the hatched portion 31 in FIG. The section 3 where the use is restricted is shown, and the other sections are sections where the use is not restricted.

In order to realize the use restriction as shown in FIG. 8 (a), in FIG. 8 (b), the use restriction signal transmitter 1 is installed on a ceiling, a floor, a side surface or the like in a section where the use is restricted. I have. A hatched area 32 shown in FIG. 8B indicates a range in which the use restriction signal receiver 4 in the electronic device 3 can receive the use restriction signal 2. The hatched area 32 has a circular shape centered on each of the use restriction signal transmitters 1.

By arranging a plurality of use restriction signal transmitters 1 in this manner, it is possible to set a section for restricting use of the electronic device 3 in the facility 30. If the signal strength of the use restriction signal 2 transmitted from the use restriction signal transmitter 1 is reduced, the area of each hatched area 32 shown in FIG. 8B is reduced, so that a finer use restriction section can be set. is there.

Each use restriction signal transmitter 1 installed in the same use restriction section transmits the same use restriction signal 2. In other words, these use restriction signal transmitters 1 have the same use restriction schedule table 10.

According to the present embodiment, the use restriction signal transmitter 1 is installed in facilities or transportation where it is necessary to restrict the use of the electronic device 3, and when the use restriction is performed, the use restriction signal is transmitted. 2 is transmitted and the function of the electronic device 3 is restricted when the use restriction signal receiver 4 in the electronic device 3 receives this, so that the function of the electronic device 3 is automatically and completely performed in an environment where the use restriction of the electronic device 3 is required. Can be restricted.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 9 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to an embodiment. Also in this embodiment, the configuration other than the portions described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9A, the electronic device 3a has a built-in use restriction signal receiver 4a. The use restriction signal receiver 4a has means for connecting to an external device, and the use restriction release option part 7 can be connected to this connection means (FIG. 9B).

The use restriction release option part 7 serves as a key for releasing the use restriction of the electronic device 3a. As the use restriction cancellation option part 7,
For example, magnetic card, IC card, electronic lock key, LSI
For example, an electronic or magnetic key represented by a chip such as a chip, or a mechanical key made of metal or resin may be used.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4a in the present embodiment.
The use restriction signal receiver 4a first checks whether or not the use restriction release option part 7 is currently connected (step 201 in FIG. 10). When the use restriction release option part 7 is connected, the processing described below, that is, the use restriction of the electronic device 3a is not performed.

When the use restriction release option part 7 is not connected, the use restriction signal receiver 4a checks whether or not the use restriction signal 2 is currently received (FIG. 10).
Step 202). When the use restriction signal receiver 4a receives the use restriction signal 2 transmitted from the use restriction signal transmitter 1, the use restriction signal receiver 4a demodulates the use restriction signal 2 and uses the use restriction type information 9
(Step 203 in FIG. 10).

The use restriction signal receiver 4a restricts the function of the electronic device 3a based on the obtained use restriction type information 9. The use restriction signal receiver 4a performs the above operation at regular intervals.

According to the present embodiment, in addition to the use restriction of the electronic device realized in the first embodiment, a specially permitted electronic device (an electronic device to which the use restriction release optional part 7 is connected) 3a) can be excluded from the usage restrictions. For example, when entering a museum, a photographer specially permitted to take a picture from the museum uses the electronic device 3a by borrowing the use restriction release option part 7 from the museum and connecting it to its own electronic device 3a. It becomes possible.

[Third Embodiment] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electronic equipment control system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Also in this embodiment, the configuration other than the portions described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. The electronic device 3b includes a use restriction signal receiver 4b. Also, the electronic device 3b has an electronic device ID1 which is a unique identification number capable of uniquely identifying the electronic device.
4 is stored.

As the electronic device ID 14, for example, a device obtained by encoding a numerical value in which three types of a manufacturer code, a product number, and a serial number are linked is used. The electronic device ID 14 stored in the storage device 15 can be read from the outside, and can also be referred to from the use restriction signal receiver 4b in the electronic device 3b.

When the use of the electronic device is specifically permitted, first, the electronic device ID 14 stored in the electronic device 3b whose use restriction is to be released is read from the outside. FIG.
Is a block diagram showing a configuration of the use restriction signal transmitter 1b in the present embodiment, and FIG.
It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of b.

The use restriction signal transmitter 1b comprises a use restriction schedule section 5b and a use restriction signal transmission section 6b.
First, a use restriction setter who intends to restrict the use of the electronic device 3b in a facility or a transportation system inputs the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 to the use restriction signal transmitter 1b. At this time, if there is an electronic device 3b to which the use restriction to be registered is not applied, the use restriction setter sets the electronic device ID of this electronic device 3b.
14 are input simultaneously (step 301 in FIG. 13).

The input use restriction schedule information 8, the use restriction type information 9, and the electronic device ID 14 are registered in the use restriction schedule section 5b. Next, the use restriction schedule unit 5b determines whether it is time to restrict use of the electronic device 3b according to the registered use restriction schedule information 8 (step 302 in FIG. 13).

When the current time is registered in the usage restriction schedule information 8, the usage restriction schedule unit 5 b
It is determined that it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3b. The usage restriction schedule unit 5b that determines that the use of the electronic device 3b should be restricted outputs the registered usage restriction type information 9 and the electronic device ID 14 to the usage restriction signal transmission unit 6b. The use restriction signal transmission unit 6b modulates the use restriction type information 9 and the electronic device ID 14 to generate and transmit the use restriction signal 2b (step 303 in FIG. 13).

As a method of modulating the use restriction type information 9 and the electronic device ID 14, any method such as AM modulation, FM modulation, or spread spectrum modulation may be used. The usage restriction signal transmitter 1b performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the usage restriction schedule unit 5b in the present embodiment. The use restriction schedule unit 5b includes a use restriction schedule table 10b, a timer 11, and a schedule management unit 12b. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the usage restriction schedule table 10b, and FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit 12b.

The use restriction schedule table 10b is a database that stores the use restriction schedule information 8, the use restriction type information 9, and the electronic device ID 14 in association with each other.
When the use restriction schedule information 8, the use restriction type information 9, and the electronic device ID 14 are input (step 304 in FIG. 15), the use restriction schedule information 8, the use restriction type information 9, The registered content is updated by adding the electronic device ID 14 to its own registered content (step 305 in FIG. 15).

Next, the schedule management unit 12b uses the registered contents of the usage restriction schedule table 10b and the current time 13 generated by the timer 11 (step 30 in FIG. 16).
6) It is determined whether it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3b (step 307 in FIG. 16).

When the use restriction schedule information 8 in which the current time is registered exists in the use restriction schedule table 10b, the schedule management unit 12b determines that the use of the electronic device 3b should be restricted.

The schedule management unit 12b determines that it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3b, and stores the usage restriction type information 9 corresponding to the corresponding usage restriction schedule information 8 and the electronic device ID 14 in the usage restriction schedule. These are acquired from Table 10b and output to the use restriction signal transmission unit 6b (Step 308 in FIG. 16). The schedule management unit 12b performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4b in the present embodiment.
The use restriction signal receiver 4b in the electronic device 3b is always in a reception state, and detects reception of the use restriction signal 2b.

When use restriction signal receiver 4b receives use restriction signal 2b transmitted from use restriction signal transmitter 1b (YES in step 309 in FIG. 17), use restriction signal 2b is demodulated to use restriction type information. 9 and electronic equipment I
D14 is acquired (step 310 in FIG. 17).

Next, the usage restriction signal receiver 4b compares the electronic device ID 14 stored in the storage device 15 with the electronic device ID 14 obtained by demodulating the usage restriction signal 2b, and determines whether or not they match. (Step 31 in FIG. 17)
1).

When the electronic device IDs 14 match, the electronic device 3b is a device to which the use restriction is not applied, and when the electronic device IDs 14 do not match, the electronic device 3b is a device to which the use restriction is applied. Then, the use restriction signal receiver 4
If the electronic device IDs 14 do not match, the function b restricts the function of the electronic device 3b based on the obtained usage restriction type information 9. The use restriction signal receiver 4b performs the above operation at regular intervals.

According to the present embodiment, in addition to the use restriction of the electronic device realized in the first embodiment, a specially permitted electronic device (a use restriction setter uses the electronic device ID 14 to restrict the use of the electronic device ID 14). (Specified by registering with the signal transmitter 1b).

In order to exclude the use restriction,
There is no need to use special optional parts as in the second embodiment. For example, when entering a museum, a photographer who is specially authorized to take a picture from the museum can use his / her own electronic device 3b.
The electronic device ID of the electronic device 3b is read by the museum side, and the electronic device ID is registered in the usage restriction signal transmitter 1b by the museum side, so that the electronic device 3b can be used even in an environment where the electronic device usage is restricted. It is possible to do.

[Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this embodiment, the configuration other than the portions described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the configuration of use restriction signal transmitter 1c in the present embodiment, and FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of use restriction signal transmitter 1c.

The use restriction signal transmitter 1c comprises a use restriction schedule section 5c and a use restriction signal transmission section 6c.
First, a use restriction setter who intends to restrict use of the electronic device 3c in a facility or transportation enters the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 into the use restriction signal transmitter 1c.

The use restriction schedule unit 5c gives the use restriction registration ID 16 to the input use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 and stores them (step 401 in FIG. 20).

The use restriction registration ID 16 is an identification number for uniquely identifying registration information on the use restriction.
The use restriction registration ID 16 is generated from information such as the serial number of the registration process and the registration date and time. Or,
The usage restriction registration ID 16 may be generated by performing a predetermined operation on information that is a set of the usage restriction schedule information 8 and the usage restriction type information 9.

Next, the use restriction schedule section 5c determines whether or not it is time to restrict use of the electronic device 3c according to the registered use restriction schedule information 8 (step 402 in FIG. 20). When the current time is registered in the usage restriction schedule information 8, the usage restriction schedule unit 5c determines that it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3c.

The use restriction schedule unit 5c, which determines that the use of the electronic device 3c should be restricted, outputs the registered use restriction type information 9 and the use restriction registration ID 16 to the use restriction signal transmission unit 6c. Usage restriction signal transmitter 6
c modulates the use restriction type information 9 and the use restriction registration ID 16 to generate and transmit a use restriction signal 2c (step 403 in FIG. 20).

Use restriction type information 9 and use restriction registration ID 1
As the modulation method 6, any method such as AM modulation, FM modulation, or spread spectrum modulation may be used. The usage restriction signal transmitter 1c performs the above operation at regular intervals.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the use restriction schedule unit 5c in the present embodiment. The use restriction schedule unit 5c includes a use restriction schedule table 10c, a timer 11, and a schedule management unit 12c. FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the usage restriction schedule table 10c, and FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit 12c.

The use restriction schedule table 10c is a database that stores the use restriction registration ID 16, the use restriction schedule information 8, and the use restriction type information 9 in association with each other. When the use restriction schedule information 8 and the use restriction type information 9 are input to the use restriction schedule table 10c (step 404 in FIG. 22), the use restriction registration ID 16 corresponding to these is generated (step 405 in FIG. 22).

Then, the usage restriction schedule table 10c
Updates the registered contents by adding the input use restriction schedule information 8, the use restriction type information 9, and the generated use restriction registration ID 16 to its own registered contents (step 406 in FIG. 22).

Next, the schedule management unit 12c uses the registered contents of the usage restriction schedule table 10c and the current time 13 generated by the timer 11 (step 40 in FIG. 23).
7) It is determined whether it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3c (step 408 in FIG. 23). When the use restriction schedule information 8 in which the current time is registered exists in the use restriction schedule table 10c, the schedule management unit 12c determines that the use of the electronic device 3c should be restricted.

When the schedule management unit 12c determines that it is time to restrict the use of the electronic device 3c, the use restriction type information 9 and the use restriction registration ID 16 corresponding to the use restriction schedule information 8 are used. They are obtained from the schedule table 10c and output to the use restriction signal transmission unit 6c (step 409 in FIG. 23). The schedule management unit 12c performs the above operation at regular intervals.

Next, as shown in FIG. 18A, the electronic device 3c has a built-in use restriction signal receiver 4c. The use restriction signal receiver 4c has means for connecting to an external device, and the use restriction release option part 7c can be connected to this connection means (FIG. 18B).

The use restriction release option part 7c serves as a key for releasing the use restriction of the electronic device 3c. As the use restriction release option part 7c, for example, an electronic or magnetic key represented by a chip such as a magnetic card, an IC card, or an LSI is used. Then, the usage restriction registration ID 16 can be stored in the usage restriction release option part 7c.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction release option part 7c in the present embodiment. When permitting use of a specific electronic device 3c in an environment in which the use of electronic equipment is restricted, the use restriction setter uses the use restriction registration ID 16 assigned to the use restriction performed in this environment. An input is made to the release option part 7c (step 410 in FIG. 24).

The use restriction release option part 7c stores the input use restriction registration ID 16 (step 411 in FIG. 24). After the use restriction registration ID 16 is input, the use restriction release option part 7c is connected to the electronic device 3c whose use restriction is to be released.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4c in the present embodiment.
The usage restriction signal receiver 4c firstly outputs the usage restriction signal 2
c is received (step 4 in FIG. 25).
12). If not received, use restriction signal receiver 4c
Keeps waiting for use restriction signal reception detection.

When use restriction signal receiver 4c receives use restriction signal 2c transmitted from use restriction signal transmitter 1c (YES in step 412 in FIG. 25), use restriction signal 2c is demodulated to use restriction type information. 9 and the use restriction registration ID 16 are acquired (step 413 in FIG. 25).

Next, the usage restriction signal receiver 4c
It is checked whether the use restriction release option part 7c is connected (step 414 in FIG. 25). When the use restriction release option part 7c is connected, the use restriction signal receiver 4c outputs the use restriction release option part 7c.
The use restriction registration ID 16 stored in c is read, the use restriction registration ID 16 is compared with the use restriction registration ID 16 obtained by demodulating the use restriction signal 2c, and it is checked whether or not they match (step in FIG. 25). 415).

When the usage restriction release option part 7c storing the same value as the received usage restriction registration ID 16 is connected, the electronic device 3c uses the usage restriction registration ID.
This device is not applicable to the usage restrictions corresponding to No. 16. Therefore, the processing described below, that is, the restriction on the use of the electronic device 3c is not performed.

On the other hand, when the use restriction registration IDs 16 do not match, the electronic device 3c is a device to which the use restriction is applied. When the use restriction registration ID 16 does not match, the use restriction signal receiver 4c restricts the function of the electronic device 3c based on the use restriction type information 9 obtained by demodulating the use restriction signal 2c (step 416 in FIG. 25). .

Similarly, use restriction release option part 7
When c is not connected, the electronic device 3c is a device to which the usage restriction is applied. If the use restriction signal receiver 4c determines in step 414 that the use restriction release option part 7c is not connected, it restricts the function of the electronic device 3c based on the use restriction type information 9 (step 416 in FIG. 25). The use restriction signal receiver 4c performs the above operation at regular intervals.

According to the present embodiment, in addition to the electronic device use restriction realized in the first embodiment, a specially permitted electronic device (an electronic device to which the use restriction release optional part 7c is connected) 3c) can be excluded from the use restrictions. Further, as compared with the second and third embodiments, it is possible to perform control for each type of use restriction such that only a specific use restriction is released for a specific electronic device 3c.

For example, in a music concert, when a certain user is specially permitted to record, the concert organizer inputs the use restriction registration ID 16 corresponding to the recording restriction to the use restriction release option part 7c, and this use restriction is applied. The cancellation option part 7c is lent to the user. By connecting the use restriction release option part 7c, the user's electronic device 3c can perform recording even in an environment in which recording restriction is implemented.

Note that, when the photographing regulation is simultaneously performed, the electronic device 3c of the user cannot photograph. For example, when the electronic device 3c is a video camera with a recording function, video recording cannot be performed, and only recording can be performed. Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to flexibly set usage restrictions.

[Fifth Embodiment] FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electronic equipment control system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Also in this embodiment, the configuration other than the portions described below is the same as that of the first embodiment. The electronic device 3d includes a use restriction signal receiver 4d. The use restriction signal receiver 4d has a use restriction release information input unit 17 therein.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are flow charts showing the operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4d in the present embodiment. First, the operation at the time of registering the use restriction release information will be described with reference to FIG. The use restriction release information is information for disabling the use restriction function of the electronic device 3d, and is realized by, for example, password information.

It is possible to input the usage restriction release information from the outside to the usage restriction release information input section 17, and the usage restriction signal receiver 4d receives the usage restriction release information (step 501 in FIG. 27). ), And stores this usage restriction release information (FIG. 27, step 502).

Next, the normal operation of the use restriction signal receiver 4d will be described with reference to FIG. The use restriction signal receiver 4d first checks whether or not use restriction release information is stored therein (step 503 in FIG. 28). When the use restriction release information is stored therein, the use restriction signal receiver 4d checks whether the use restriction release information is valid information (step 504 in FIG. 28). Whether the use restriction release information is valid is determined, for example, by performing a predetermined operation on the use restriction release information and determining whether or not the calculation result is a predetermined result.

When the use restriction release information is valid, the electronic device 3d is a device that is not subject to the use restriction. Therefore, the processing described below, that is, the use restriction of the electronic device 3d is not performed. On the other hand, when the use restriction release information is not stored or when the use restriction release information is invalid, the electronic device 3c is a device to which the use restriction is applied.

In this case, the use restriction signal receiver 4d checks whether the use restriction signal 2 is currently received (step 505 in FIG. 28). Usage restriction signal receiver 4d
Receives the use restriction signal 2 transmitted from the use restriction signal transmitter 1, demodulates the use restriction signal 2 and acquires the use restriction type information 9 (step 506 in FIG. 28).

The use restriction signal receiver 4d restricts the function of the electronic device 3d based on the use restriction type information 9 obtained by demodulating the use restriction signal 2 (step 50 in FIG. 28).
7). The use restriction signal receiver 4d performs the operation as shown in FIG. 28 at regular intervals.

According to the present embodiment, in addition to the use restriction of the electronic equipment realized in the first embodiment, specially permitted electronic equipment (electronic equipment storing use restriction release information) is used. However, it is possible to exclude usage restrictions. Also, there is no need to use special optional parts as in the second embodiment in order to exclude the application of the usage restriction. For example, when a photographer is specifically permitted to take a picture, the museum inputs usage restriction release information into the photographer's electronic device. As a result, the electronic device 3d can be used even in an environment in which the use of the electronic device is restricted.

[0088]

According to the present invention, a use restriction signal is transmitted from a use restriction signal transmitter in an environment where the use restriction of electronic equipment is required, and the use restriction signal receiver of the electronic equipment is used by the use restriction signal receiver. When the electronic device is received, the function of the electronic device is restricted, such as turning off the power of the electronic device. Therefore, it is possible to automatically and completely restrict the use of the electronic device. As a result, there is no need for strict monitoring, and there is no need to increase the number of guards.

When the use restriction type information is registered in the registration means of the use restriction signal transmitter, a use restriction signal corresponding to the use restriction type information is transmitted from the transmission means, and the use restriction signal receiver of the electronic device is used by the use restriction signal receiver. Since the function of the own electronic device is restricted according to the usage restriction type information obtained from the restriction signal,
The level of use restriction of the electronic device can be specified, and flexible use control can be set.

When the use restriction schedule information is registered in the registration means of the use restriction signal transmitter, whether or not to transmit the use restriction signal is controlled according to the use restriction schedule information. Can be specified, and flexible use regulation can be set.

Further, by providing a release means for releasing the use restriction, a specific electronic device can be exempted from the use restriction, and the use restriction can be flexibly set.

Further, by providing a release means for releasing only a specific type of usage restriction, it is possible to control each type of usage restriction such as releasing only a specific type of usage restriction, and to flexibly set usage restrictions. Becomes possible.

Further, by providing a detachable release means with respect to the electronic device, a specific electronic device can be exempted from the use regulation.

Further, by providing the use restriction signal transmitter with registration means for registering the identification information of the electronic device to which the use restriction is not applied, and transmission means for adding the identification information to the use restriction signal and transmitting the information. In addition, the specific electronic device can be exempted from the use regulation, so that it is not necessary to attach an additional release means to the electronic device.

Further, by storing the use restriction release information in the release means, a specific electronic device can be exempted from the use restriction, and it is not necessary to attach a later-described release means to the electronic device.

Further, the use restriction signal transmitter generates registration identification information at the time of registration of the use restriction type information and the use restriction schedule information, adds the identification information to the use restriction signal, and transmits the signal to the electronic device. On the other hand, by storing the identification information in the detachable detachable means, it is possible to restrict use such as releasing only a specific type of use restriction with respect to a specific electronic device to which the release means is attached. It becomes possible.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a use restriction schedule unit in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation of a use restriction schedule table of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing a method of installing the use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a use restriction schedule unit of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the usage restriction schedule table of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit in FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 11;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the use restriction signal transmitter of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a use restriction schedule unit in FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the operation of the usage restriction schedule table of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the schedule management unit in FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the operation of a use restriction release option part of FIG. 18;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 18;

FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic device control system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an operation of the use restriction signal receiver of FIG. 26;

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 1b, 1c ... use restriction signal transmitter, 2, 2b, 2c
.. Use restriction signal, 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d electronic equipment, 4, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d use restriction signal receiver, 5, 5b, 5c use restriction schedule section, 6, 6
b, 6c: use restriction signal transmission unit, 7, 7c: use restriction release option part, 8: use restriction schedule information,
9 ... Usage restriction type information, 10, 10b, 10c ... Usage restriction schedule table, 11 ... Timer, 12, 12b, 12
c: schedule management unit, 13: current time, 14: electronic device ID, 15: storage device, 16: use restriction registration ID,
17 ... Use restriction release information input unit.

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Riki Horioka F-term (reference) in Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation 3-19-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 5K048 AA00 BA21 EA16 EB02 EB11 HA04 HA06

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A use restriction signal transmitter which is installed in an environment where use restriction of an electronic device is required and transmits a use restriction signal designating a use restriction to the electronic device, and receives a use restriction signal. An electronic device control system comprising an electronic device provided with a use restriction signal receiver, wherein the function of the electronic device is restricted by the use restriction signal. 2. The electronic device control system according to claim 1, wherein the use restriction signal transmitter registers use restriction type information that specifies a level of use restriction of the electronic device; Transmitting means for transmitting a usage restriction signal according to the electronic device, wherein the usage restriction signal receiver restricts a function of the electronic device according to usage restriction type information obtained from the usage restriction signal. Control system. 3. The electronic device control system according to claim 1, wherein the use restriction signal transmitter registers use restriction schedule information that specifies a time period for restricting use of the electronic device, and use restriction schedule information. Electronic device control system comprising control means for controlling whether or not to transmit a use restriction signal in accordance with 4. The electronic device control system according to claim 1, wherein the use restriction signal receiver performs function restriction of its own electronic device when there is no release unit for releasing the use restriction.
An electronic device control system characterized in that when the release device is provided, the function of the own electronic device is not restricted. 5. The electronic device control system according to claim 1, wherein the use restriction signal receiver has a release unit for releasing only a specific type of use restriction, and the use restriction signal receiver automatically controls the use restriction other than the specific type. Implement functional restrictions on electronic devices,
An electronic device control system, wherein the function restriction of the own electronic device is not implemented with respect to the specific type of use restriction. 6. The electronic device control system according to claim 4, wherein the release unit is detachable from the electronic device, and the usage restriction signal receiver of the electronic device to which the release unit is not attached includes a usage restriction. An electronic device control system, wherein a function restriction of an own electronic device is performed in response to a signal, and a use restriction signal receiver of the electronic device to which a release unit is mounted does not perform a function restriction of the own electronic device. 7. The electronic device control system according to claim 4, wherein the use restriction signal transmitter registers identification information of an electronic device to which the use restriction is not applied, and the use restriction signal includes the identification information. Transmitting means for additionally transmitting the identification information, the release means stores identification information of the own electronic device, and the use restriction signal receiver includes the identification information and the use restriction signal stored in the release means. Electronic device control characterized in that when the identification information obtained from the device does not match, the function of the own electronic device is restricted according to the use restriction signal, and when the identification information matches, the function of the own electronic device is not restricted. system. 8. The electronic device control system according to claim 4, wherein the release unit is capable of storing usage restriction release information for invalidating a usage restriction of the electronic device, and wherein the usage restriction signal receiver is used. If the use restriction release information is not set in the release means, the function of the own electronic device is restricted according to the use restriction signal, and if the use restriction release information is set in the release means, An electronic device control system, wherein the function is not restricted. 9. The electronic device control system according to claim 5, wherein the use restriction signal transmitter specifies use restriction type information that specifies a level of use restriction of the electronic device or a time period for which use of the electronic device is restricted. Usage restriction schedule information,
Or registration means for registering these two pieces of information, generation means for generating identification information for registration at the time of registration, and transmission means for transmitting the identification information by adding the identification information to a use restriction signal. The identification information is detachable from the electronic device and can store the identification information, and the usage restriction signal receiver of the electronic device to which the release unit is not attached is configured to respond to the usage restriction type information acquired from the usage restriction signal. The use restriction signal receiver of the electronic device equipped with the release means will use the function if the identification information stored in the release means does not match the identification information obtained from the use restriction signal. When the function restriction of the own electronic device is performed according to the restriction type information, and the identification information matches, the function restriction of the own electronic device is not performed for the usage restriction type information corresponding to the identification information. Electronic device control system to be.