JP2015230569A - Notification method and notification system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a notification method capable of shortening a standby time of a person existing in a predetermined area, and efficiently notifying the existence of the person.SOLUTION: A notification method in a notification system includes: an image acquisition step of acquiring an image in a predetermined area; a stay detection step of detecting the stay of a person included in the image; a notification step of notifying a predetermined notification destination of stay notification information for notifying that the stay is detected; a time measurement step of measuring a time after the stay is detected; and a notification destination change step of, after the lapse of a predetermined time since the stay is detected, notifying a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination of the stay notification information.

Description

  The present invention relates to a notification method and a notification system.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a store clerk calling system that performs broadcast communication when a customer presses a transmitter button provided on a table in a store is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this clerk calling system, when a button on the transmitter is pressed, a ringing sound corresponding to the identification information on the table is notified to the headset attached to the clerk's head.

JP 2009-048390 A

  In the store clerk calling system described in Patent Document 1, the customer calls the store clerk by pressing a button on the transmitter. Therefore, the customer waits until the store clerk is in contact with the customer after pressing the button.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a notification method and a notification system that can shorten the waiting time of a customer existing in a predetermined area and can efficiently notify the presence of the customer.

  The notification method of the present invention is a notification method in a notification system, in which an image acquisition step for acquiring an image in a predetermined area, a stay detection step for detecting a stay of a person included in the image, and the stay are detected. A notification step for notifying a predetermined notification destination of the stay notification information for notifying that, a time measurement step for measuring the time after detecting the stay, and when the detected stay time has passed a predetermined time, A notification destination changing step of notifying the stay notification information to a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination.

  The notification system of the present invention detects an stagnation by receiving an stagnation information from an imaging unit that captures an image in a predetermined area, a stagnation detection unit that detects stagnation of a person included in the image, and the stagnation detection unit. A notification unit for notifying the stay notification information, and when the notification unit receives the stay information, the notification unit notifies the first notification device of the stay notification information and receives the stay information. When a predetermined time elapses, the second notification device is notified of the stay notification information.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the waiting time of the customer who exists in a predetermined area can be shortened, and the presence of a customer can be notified efficiently.

The block diagram which shows the structural example of the salesclerk call system in embodiment (A)-(C) The schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of each apparatus installed in the area of the monitoring object in embodiment. (A), (B) Schematic diagram showing an example of the on / off timing of the stay detection function in the embodiment 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure of the camera according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation procedure of the camera according to the embodiment. The flowchart which shows an example of the operation | movement procedure of the server apparatus in embodiment The flowchart which shows an example of the operation | movement procedure of the server apparatus in embodiment (continuation of FIG. 6) The schematic diagram which shows the example of whole operation | movement of the salesclerk call system in embodiment in time series (A), (B) The schematic diagram which shows an example of the log produced | generated by the server apparatus in embodiment, and a report

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a salesclerk call system 5 in the embodiment. The salesclerk calling system 5 includes, for example, a camera 10, a server device 20, a speaker control device 30, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) communication control device 35, a viewer 40, and a button device 45 connected via a communication network. Composed. At least one of the speaker control device 30, the PHS communication control device 35, the Viewer 40, and the button device 45 may be omitted.

  The store clerk calling system 5 is a system for calling a store clerk in order to respond to customer service, for example, when a customer is considering purchasing (staying) in the vicinity of a product shelf in a large store. The salesclerk calling system 5 is an example of a notification system, and the camera 10 is an example of an imaging device.

  The camera 10 captures an area (range) to be detected, detects the stay of an object (for example, a person (for example, a customer)) from the captured image, and notifies the server device 20 of the stay detection information. The camera 10 includes an imaging unit 11, a stay detection unit 12, a stay level determination unit 13, a notification unit 14, a reception unit 15, and a schedule management unit 16.

  The imaging unit 11 captures an image of a detection target area (hereinafter also referred to as a “detection area”) at a predetermined frame rate (for example, 10 fps (frame per second)).

  The stay detection unit 12 captures an image (captured image) taken by the image pickup unit 11, determines whether a person is staying in the image, and notifies the stay level determination unit 13 of the result. Note that the notification timing is periodically (for example, every second) until it is detected that a person is staying and then no longer staying. Although a method for detecting the stay of a person will be described later, face detection or the like can be used.

  Here, since the inside of the store is assumed, the staying object is considered to be a person (for example, a customer or a store clerk). Therefore, it is possible to use the detection of staying of an object. The stay detection unit 12 is an example of a human detection unit.

  The stay level determination unit 13 measures the stay time in which a person stays in the image by a timer (not shown) built in the stay level determination unit 13. When the stay level determination unit 13 receives a notification that a person has stayed from the stay detection unit 12, the stay level determination unit 13 starts the determination of the stay level, and the stay level (for example, stay levels 1 to 3) according to the measured stay time. Judging. The stay level determination unit 13 changes the stay level, for example, according to the measured stay time. The stay level determination unit 13 is an example of a time measurement unit.

  The notification unit 14 notifies the server device 20 of notification information including the stay level in addition to the captured image via the communication network. This notification information includes the stay level and the identification information of the camera 10. This notification information may include area identification information.

  The receiving unit 15 receives predetermined information from the server device 20. The predetermined information includes, for example, operation information of the button device 45 and schedule information described later from the server device 20.

  The schedule management unit 16 uses, for example, a time zone in which the stay detection function for detecting stay in a predetermined period (for example, one day) is mainly enabled (on) and a time zone in which it is mainly disabled (off) as a schedule. Remember and manage.

  For example, the server device 20 controls the external devices (for example, the speaker control device 30, the PHS communication control device 35, and the Viewer 40) in accordance with the stay level notified from the camera 10 or the operation information notified from the button device 45. To do. The server device 20 includes a receiving unit 21, a control unit 22, and a notification unit 23.

  The receiving unit 21 receives various information. The receiving unit 21 receives, for example, notification information from the camera 10 (including the stay level, for example) and operation information of the button device 45.

  The control unit 22 includes, for example, a storage unit 22a in which a schedule is registered, and controls the overall operation of the server device 20 according to the schedule. The storage unit 22a has a schedule for each camera 10 and shares each schedule with each camera. The schedule of each camera 10 is notified to each camera 10 as necessary.

  When the stay detection function of the camera 10 is set to ON, the control unit 22 sets the alert mode. In the alert mode, the control unit 22 notifies the occurrence of the stay. When the stay detection function of the camera 10 is set to OFF, the control unit 22 sets the non-warning mode. In the non-warning mode, the control unit 22 does not notify the occurrence of the stay.

  The control unit 22 derives and sets a warning level (for example, a warning level 0 to 3) according to the staying level received from the camera 10. For example, the control unit 22 selects at least one of the plurality of external devices according to the alert level, and generates control information for controlling the selected external device. This control information includes, for example, information for instructing operation of an external device and notification of retention, or information for instructing release of notification of retention by stopping operation of the external device. This control information is an example of stay notification information for notifying stay in the area. Therefore, the control unit 22 is an example of a notification destination changing unit that changes the notification destination of the stay notification information.

  When the control unit 22 receives one notification of the stay level within a predetermined time, for example, when receiving the notification of the stay level when the alert level is 0, the alert level 1 to 3 corresponding to the stay level 1 to 3 is received. Is derived.

  When receiving a plurality of stay level notifications within a predetermined time, for example, when the control unit 22 receives another stay level notification in the case of the alert level 1 to 3, the control unit 22 derives the alert level as follows, for example.

  For example, the control unit 22 may derive a warning level corresponding to a stay level that is equal to or higher than a predetermined level (for example, the highest). For example, the control unit 22 may derive a warning level based on a newer (for example, the latest acquired) stay level among the plurality of stay levels, that is, with a post-priority.

  For example, the control unit 22 sets a warning level according to operation information from the button device 45, and generates control information based on the set warning level.

  The notification unit 23 notifies the external device selected by the control unit 22 of the control information generated by the control unit 22. The control information includes, for example, identification information of an area where stagnation has occurred and identification information of the camera 10 that has captured an image where stagnation has been detected.

  For example, the notification unit 23 sends a predetermined sound (for example, a designated background music (BGM)) from the speaker 32 (see FIG. 2) to the speaker control device 30 in accordance with the control information (sound output). To instruct. As the predetermined sound, BGM is mainly exemplified, but it is sufficient that the change of the alert level can be understood by the sound. For example, business broadcasting may be used.

  For example, the notification unit 23 instructs the PHS communication control device 35 to make a call or send an email according to the control information.

  For example, the notification unit 23 instructs the Viewer 40 to display an alarm according to the control information.

  The speaker control device 30 is, for example, a device that allows an unspecified person (store clerk) in the store to be notified at a time. The speaker control device 30 controls a plurality of speakers 32 (see FIG. 2) arranged in the monitored area. Audio information (for example, BGM) flows from each speaker 32 under the control of the speaker control device 30. The speaker 32 is an example of a first notification device. The speaker control device 30 is an example of an external device. The unspecified person includes, for example, a clerk who does not have PHS, and also includes a clerk who has PHS.

  As will be described later, when the staying level is changed, for example, the BGM music flowing from the speaker 32 is changed. The BGM flowing from the speaker 32 is changed every time a stay detection event (for example, stay level notification, button device 45 is pressed) occurs.

  Instead of the speaker control device 30, for example, a lamp may be disposed on the register counter 61 (see FIG. 2) so that a store clerk can check. Further, instead of the speaker control device 30, a display device may be arranged at a predetermined position so that a salesclerk of each sales floor can check. For example, when the control information from the server device 20 is received, the display displays the area included in the control information or the identification information of the camera 10. That is, this display device has the same function as a cordless chime receiver, for example.

  The PHS communication control device 35 controls communication of the PHS 37 possessed by a specific person (some shop assistants). The PHS communication control device 35 can transmit a telephone call, mail, or the like to the PHS 37. Instead of the PHS 37, a mobile terminal (for example, a smartphone) other than the PHS 37 may be used. Further, the mobile terminal may transmit an e-mail, or may transmit an image captured by the camera 10 as an attachment. The PHS 37 is an example of a mobile terminal. The PHS communication control device 35 is an example of an external device. The specific person is, for example, a store clerk (for example, a person in charge of the monitoring target area) who owns the PHS. In addition, as a method of notifying a specific person, the above-mentioned speaker may be provided with a business broadcast in which the person himself / herself is specified by the name of the store clerk at 32.

  The Viewer 40 is, for example, a monitor device installed in a backyard 55 (for example, a monitoring room for monitoring a store) (see FIG. 2). For example, the Viewer 40 displays a predetermined image (for example, an alarm display), and notifies the guard 73 (may be a store manager or the like) that the stay is detected in the predetermined area.

  Instead of the Viewer 40, for example, a patrol lamp may be provided in the backyard 55. The Viewer 40 may be disposed, for example, in a sales area (for example, in the vicinity of the cashier counter 61). The Viewer 40 is an example of an external device.

  The button device 45 is, for example, installed on the register counter 61 and has a button that can be operated (for example, pressed). The button device 45 transmits operation information including that the button has been operated to the server device 20. The button device 45 may be placed not in the vicinity of the cashier counter 61 but in the backyard 55, for example. The button device 45 is an example of an external device.

  Instead of providing the button device 45, for example, the function of the button device 45 may be incorporated in a register installed in the register counter 61. In this case, the cash register notifies the server device 20 of the pressing information.

  For example, when receiving the operation information of the button device 45, the server device 20 sets the stay detection function by the camera 10 to be valid or invalid. Therefore, the button device 45 can switch the stay detection function on and off by accepting the button operation.

  Note that the operation information may be transmitted to the server device 20 by using a portable terminal such as a portable PHS 37 instead of the fixedly arranged button device 45. For example, when a store clerk operates a predetermined key of the mobile terminal, the mobile terminal may transmit operation information corresponding to the operated key to the server device 20. In the mobile terminal, the key corresponding to the corresponding button and the key corresponding to the corresponding completion button may be different. Thereby, a portable terminal can be used effectively and the installation place of the apparatus which has the function similar to a button becomes unquestioned.

  The number and type of external devices are not particularly limited and are arbitrary.

  FIGS. 2A to 2C are schematic diagrams illustrating an arrangement example of each device installed in an area to be monitored. 2A and 2B, the devices arranged in the two areas (area 1 and area 2) are registered in the server device 20 as groups G1 and G2, for example. Areas 1 and 2 have different business hours, for example.

  For example, for each group, the server device 20 stores and manages the group identification information, the area identification information, and the identification information of each device (for example, the camera 10 and the speaker 32) in association with each other. This correspondence information is held in the storage unit 22a, for example.

  In area 1 shown in FIG. 2A, for example, four sales floors A to D partitioned by a cross-shaped central passage 65 (65A) are provided. Cameras 10 (10A to 10D) are installed in the sales floors A to D, respectively. The cameras 10A to 10D capture the detection areas 1A to 1D set in the sales floors A to D, respectively. In each area, there are a customer 71 and a store clerk 72.

  In the sales floors B and C, for example, speakers 32 (32Q and 32R) are installed. In the sales floor A, for example, a cashier counter 61 (61A) is provided. In the vicinity of the register counter 61A, for example, a button device 45 (45A) is installed.

  In FIG. 2A, one customer 71 exists in the passage 65A. There is one customer 71 at the sales floor B. In the sales floor A, there is one clerk 72A who does not have a PHS. The sales floor D has one store clerk 72B who owns the PHS 37 (37A). The clerk 72A and the clerk 72B are included in the clerk 72.

  Similarly, in the area 2 shown in FIG. 2B, for example, four sales floors E to H partitioned by a cross-shaped central passage 65 (65B) are provided. Cameras 10 (10E to 10H) are installed in the sales floors E to H, respectively. The camera 10 (10E to 10H) images the detection areas 2E to 2H set in the sales floors E to H, respectively.

  In the sales floors F and G, for example, speakers 32 (32S and 32T) are installed. In the sales floor G, for example, a cash register counter 61 (61B) is provided. In the vicinity of the register counter 61B, for example, a button device 45 (45B) is installed. In FIG. 2B, the sales floor H has one store clerk 72B who owns the PHS 37 (37B).

  For example, the server device 20, the viewer 40, the speaker control device 30, and the PHS communication control device 35 are installed in the backyard 55 shown in FIG. For example, a guard 73 is resident in the backyard 55. The security guard 73 recognizes, for example, the customer 40, the clerk 72, or the suspicious person by confirming the Viewer 40, for example.

  The arrangement of the camera 10, the register counter 61, the button device 45, and the speaker 32 is not limited to the number illustrated in FIGS. For example, one or more cameras 10, a register counter 61, a button device 45, and a speaker 32 may be installed for each of the detection areas A to H.

  The area 1 shown in FIG. 2A and the area 2 shown in FIG. 2B may be, for example, adjacent areas, separate areas, or areas with different floors.

  In the group G1, the register counter 61A, the button device 45A, and the speakers 32Q and 32R are used in common, for example, and have the same function. Similarly, in the group G2, the register counter 61B, the button device 45B, and the speakers 32S and 32T are used in common and have the same function, for example. That is, for example, in each group G1, G2, the BGM flowing from the speaker is the same. Therefore, for example, when a human stagnation is detected in images captured by different cameras 10 in the same group, the same external device is notified of the stagnation.

  Although it has been described above that the areas 1 and 2 are set as the groups G1 and G2, respectively, the server device 20 may register and manage the group G1 and the group G2 as a group G3. The server device 20 may be managed individually as groups G1 and G2.

  Further, a plurality of cameras 10 may be installed in any one of the detection areas A to H, and each camera 10 may detect stay and notify the result individually. Thereby, operational flexibility can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, for example, the cross-shaped passages 65A and 65B passing through the centers of the areas 1 and 2 are outside the range of the detection areas A to H. The sales floors A to H including a narrow passage, such as between the product shelf 68 and the product shelf 68, are the targets of the detection area.

  That is, the staying detection by the camera 10 is not performed on the assumption that the customer 71 in the passage 65A in the area 1 is the customer 71 that does not require customer service. As the customer 71 who does not require customer service, for example, the customer 71 sitting on a chair installed in the passage 65A or the customer 71 moving to the restroom by moving the passage 65A can be considered.

  In the present embodiment, external devices that are controlled according to the alert level are registered in the server device 20 in advance for each group. The alert level is determined for each group G1, G2, for example.

  For example, in the detection area 1 </ b> B, when the camera 10 </ b> B finds a staying person (such as the staying customer 71), the camera 10 </ b> B notifies the server device 20 of an alarm at the staying level 1. Upon receiving the stay level 1 alarm, the server device 20 controls an external device registered in advance. Thereby, for example, the BGM flowing from the speakers 32Q and 32R belonging to the group G1 is changed.

  The server device 20 may change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32Q near the camera 10B that has detected the stay, or the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 (32Q to 32T) including another group (for example, the group G2). May be changed. The server device 20 may be dedicated to the camera 10B so that the server device 20 can recognize that a staying person has been found in the camera 10B. Thereby, the clerk 72 can grasp the approximate position of the staying person.

  The server device 20 may change the BGM that flows according to the alert level. Thereby, the salesclerk 72 can recognize the alert level.

  Next, the relationship between the alert level set in the server device 20 and the external device will be described.

  When the camera 10 detects staying and a predetermined time has elapsed, it is determined that the staying level 1 and notification information including the staying level 1 information is transmitted to the server device 20. The server device 20 sets the alert level 1 when the information of the staying level 1 is included in the notification information from the camera 10.

  At the alert level 1, for example, the server device 20 selects an external device registered in advance. For example, the server device 20 selects the speaker control device 30 that can notify an unspecified number of people (store clerk 72A, store clerk 72B) as an external device instead of the PHS 37 possessed by some store clerk 72B.

  The speaker control device 30 outputs BGM to each speaker 32. By using the speaker 32, not a specific person but a large number of unspecified persons can be notified. Therefore, for example, a clerk 72 near the area where the stay is detected or a clerk 72 who can afford can quickly respond to the customer.

  When there is no customer response by the store clerk 72 at the warning level 1 and the stay detection by the camera 10 continues, the camera 10 notifies the server device 20 of notification information including the stay level 2 information. When the notification information from the camera 10 includes information on the stay level 2, the server device 20 sets the alert level 2.

  At the alert level 2, for example, the server device 20 selects an external device registered in advance. For example, the server device 20 selects the PHS communication control device 35 as an external device. The PHS communication control device 35 makes a telephone call to the PHS 37 or sends it by e-mail. As a result, for example, the person in charge of the sales floor that owns the PHS 37 can recognize the necessity of dealing with the customer. Note that the portable terminal such as the PHS 37 has an image transfer function, for example, regardless of the telephone function or the mail function, and may transfer a captured image acquired from the camera 10.

  When there is no customer response by the store clerk 72 at the alert level 2 and the stay detection by the camera 10 continues, the camera 10 notifies the server device 20 of notification information including the stay level 3 information. When the notification information from the camera 10 includes information on the stay level 3, the server device 20 sets the alert level 3.

  At the alert level 3, for example, the server device 20 notifies the viewer 40 of an alarm at the alert level 3 in order to notify the guard 73 resident in the backyard 55 (see FIG. 2). The Viewer 40 displays warning information corresponding to a warning level 3 alarm. Note that, for example, a supervisor of the backyard 55 and a store manager may be stationed in the backyard 55.

  Assume that the store clerk 72 presses the button device 45 installed in the cashier counter 61 in response to one of the notifications corresponding to the alert levels 1, 2 and 3, and responds to the staying person (customer 71 or the like). In this case, the server device 20 cancels the warning mode and transitions to the non-warning mode. At the same time, the camera 10 is instructed to turn off the staying function (instruction to turn off the staying detection function), and as a result, the camera 10 turns off the staying detection function. Accordingly, the server device 20 changes the BGM and the like flowing from the speaker 32 according to the release of the alert mode. By changing BGM or the like, the other clerk 72 can confirm that the customer 71 has been handled.

  On the other hand, when the response to the customer 71 or the like is completed and the store clerk 72 leaves the spot (for example, the vicinity of the customer 71), when the button device 45 is pressed again, the camera 10 turns on the stay detection function, and the server device 20 Is set to the alert mode (here, alert level 0).

  Next, an operation example of the clerk calling system 5 will be described.

  First, the stay detection function installed in the camera 10 will be described.

  The stay detection unit 12 of the camera 10 captures an image captured by the imaging unit 11, recognizes the face of a person (for example, a customer 71) from the image using face recognition technology, and until the face disappears in the captured image. Measure the time between. When the measured time continues for a predetermined time T1 (for example, 20 seconds), the stay detection unit 12 detects that the person is staying, and notifies the stay level determination unit 13 that the stay has been detected (stay detection). Notice. This notification is periodically (for example, every second) until the face of the person disappears from the captured image after the stay detection.

  The stay detection only needs to be able to determine whether or not there is a customer in the target area, and in addition to the face recognition described above, stay may be detected by flow line detection, or stay may be detected from a difference in images. .

  When the stay level determination unit 13 receives a notification that stay is detected from the stay detection unit 12, the stay level determination unit 13 notifies the server device 20 of notification information including the stay level 1 information via the notification unit 14.

  In the server device 20, the receiving unit 21 receives notification information from the camera 10. The control unit 22 sets the alert level 1 when the notification information includes information on the stay level 1.

  When the stay detection unit 12 stops detecting stay after the stay is detected, the stay detection unit 12 does not notify the stay level determination unit 13 that the stay is detected, and the stay level determination unit 13 also The staying level is not notified to the server device 20 via the notification unit 14. When the server device 20 does not receive the stay level for a predetermined time (for example, several minutes), the server device 20 cancels the warning mode and sets the non-warning mode.

  When the stay detection unit 12 detects a stay again after a certain period of time has elapsed since the stay detection is not performed, the stay detection unit 12 determines that a new stay has been detected and is similar to the stay detection described above. Perform the operation. For example, when the object stays in the detection area for a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds), the object once goes out of the detection area, and the object enters the detection area again, the stay detection unit 12 detects as another stay. .

  In addition, when face detection technology is used as in this embodiment, it is possible to identify a person who once goes out of the detection area and enters the detection area again, so when the same person is detected within a few seconds The stay detection unit 12 may make the stay the same before leaving the detection area and after entering the area again. That is, the stay detection unit 12 may make a stay determination by adding up the stay time.

  When there is no notification from the stay detection unit 12 that the stay is detected, the stay level determination unit 13 resets the measured stay time and waits again until a notification is received from the stay detection unit 12.

  According to the store clerk calling system 5, the waiting time (for example, waiting for cash register, waiting for customer service) of the customer 71 can be shortened and the customer can be served smoothly by notifying the stay level from the camera 10 to the server device 20. Further, since the clerk calling system 5 is notified only when customer service is required, the work efficiency can be improved, and even a small number of staff can efficiently serve customers. 72 people can be reduced. Moreover, since the store clerk responds by stay detection, it leads to crime prevention such as prevention of theft, and it is possible to suppress a decrease in security of each area due to the absence of the store clerk.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of the valid (on) / invalid (off) period of the stay detection function.

  In the schedule management unit 16 of the camera 10, for example, a time zone for detecting stay in one day is managed as a schedule.

  In the case of the group G1 illustrated in FIG. 3A, the stay detection unit 12 refers to the schedule and sets the stay detection function to ON (stay detection period) at the opening time 8:00 to 10:00. Similarly, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to OFF (non-stay detection period) at time 10:00 to time 20:00. The stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to ON during the time from 20:00 to 22:00.

  In this way, for example, during the opening, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to ON in a time zone in which the number of customers 71 is expected to be small in the store, and in a time zone in which many people are expected to enter and exit. , Set the stay detection function off. In this case, for example, the stay alarm is not notified to the server device 20 in a time zone in which the customer 71 is frequently in and out, and the customer can be handled without worrying about the alarm, so that the customer can be smoothly implemented.

  In the case of the group G2 shown in FIG. 3B, the stay detection unit 12 refers to the schedule, and the time zone 9: in which the customer 71 is expected to be small in the time zone 9: 0 to 21:00 during the opening of the store. At 00 to 10:00 and 19: 0 to 21:00, the stay detection function is set to ON.

  In the group G1, an alarm, that is, stagnation occurs in the captured image in the time period from 8:00 to 10:00 when the stagnation detection function is on. When stagnation occurs, for example, when the store clerk 72 presses the button device 45 to start an alarm response (customer response), the stagnation detection unit 12 sets the stagnation detection function to OFF. When the clerk 72 completes the alarm response and presses the button device 45 again, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to ON again.

  In the group G1, in the time zone of 10:00:00 to 20:00 when the stay detection function is off, for example, when the store clerk 72 leaves the sales floor, when the button device 45 is pressed, the stay detection unit 12 performs the stay detection function. Set to on. When the clerk 72 returns to the sales floor and presses the button device 45 again, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to off.

  In this way, for example, the stay detection period is a time period in which the number of customers is expected to be less than other time periods, such as several hours after opening and several hours before closing, and non-staying detection period in other time periods. Thus, the schedule management unit 16 can set a schedule. Thereby, even if the number of salesclerks is reduced in accordance with the number of customers, customers can be served without waiting unnecessarily, and at the same time, a decrease in security due to the absence of salesclerks can be suppressed.

  Thus, for example, a button operation (response completion button) that is pressed when the alarm response is completed and a button operation (separation button) that is pressed when the store clerk 72 leaves the sales floor, for example, both turn on the stay detection function. Button operation.

  Similarly, for example, a button operation (corresponding button) that is pressed when alarm response is started and a button (return button) that is pressed when the store clerk 72 returns to the sales floor, for example, are buttons that turn off the stay detection function. It becomes operation.

  Note that the schedule management unit 16 may appropriately change the schedule in accordance with the past record of stay detection. For example, if a large number of customers 71 stay at the date and time when the customer 71 is thought to be less in and out (for example, before closing on Wednesday) and the alarm is frequently notified, the stay detection function of the next week schedule The on / off time zone may be changed. The notification of the alarm frequently includes, for example, the notification of the alarm for a predetermined number of times or more, or for a predetermined time or more.

  For example, the administrator may instruct change of the schedule via the operation unit or the like, and may be reflected in the schedule held by the schedule management unit 16. Further, the schedule may be changed by the control unit 22 of the server device 20 or the schedule management unit 16 of the camera 10 and reflected in the schedule held by the schedule management unit 16.

  4 and 5 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation procedure of the camera 10. FIG. The processes in FIGS. 4 and 5 are performed for each captured image captured by the imaging unit 11.

  Here, as an example, when the camera 10 is activated, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to OFF, for example, according to a schedule (S1).

  The stay detection unit 12 waits until there is an event of a schedule for setting the stay detection function on according to the schedule registered in the schedule management unit 16 (S2). When there is an event of this schedule, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to ON (S3). The presence of a schedule event is an event indicating a stay detection period.

  The stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not a person (face) is detected in the captured image (S4). If no person is detected, the camera 10 returns to the process of S4.

  On the other hand, when a person is detected in S4, the stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not a predetermined time T1 (for example, 20 seconds) has elapsed since the person was detected (whether it is T1 or more), and the stay time. If the predetermined time T1 has elapsed, a notification to the effect that stagnation has been detected is transmitted to the stagnation level determination unit 13 (S6). If the dwell time has not passed the predetermined time T1, the camera 10 returns to the process of S4.

  When the stay level determination unit 13 receives the notification that the stay is detected from the stay detection unit 12, the stay level determination unit 13 notifies the server device 20 of the stay level 1 alarm via the notification unit 14 (S7). ). The alarm notification includes, for example, notification information including residence level information.

  After notifying the stay level 1 alarm, the stay detection unit 12 notifies the stay level determination unit 13 that the stay has been detected periodically while the stay is continuing. Then, the stay level determination unit 13 determines whether or not the stay is continuing based on the notification from the stay detection unit 12 (S8). When the stay is not continued, the stay detection unit 12 does not notify the stay, so the stay level determination unit 13 determines that the stay is not continued, and the camera 10 returns to the process of S4.

  On the other hand, when the stay is continued, the stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not the button device 45 is pressed (S9). Whether or not the button device 45 is pressed is determined based on the pressing information of the button device 45. The pressing information of the button device 45 is notified from the button device 45 via the server device 20, for example.

  When the button device 45 is not pressed, the staying level determination unit 13 determines whether or not a predetermined time T2 (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed as the staying time from the processing of S7 (S10).

  If the residence time has not passed the predetermined time T2, the residence level determination unit 13 returns to the process of S8. On the other hand, when the predetermined time T2 has elapsed, the stay level determination unit 13 notifies the server device 20 of the stay level 2 alarm via the notification unit 14 (S11).

  After notifying the stay level 2 alarm, the stay level determination unit 13 determines whether or not the person stays in the same manner as in S8 (S12). If the stay is not continued, the camera 10 returns to the process of S4.

  On the other hand, when the stay is continued, the stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not the button device 45 is pressed (S13).

  When the button device 45 is not pressed, the staying level determining unit 13 determines whether or not a predetermined time T3 (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed as the staying time from the processing of S11 (S14).

  If the residence time has not passed the predetermined time T3, the residence level determination unit 13 returns to the process of S12. On the other hand, when the residence time has passed the predetermined time T3, the residence level determination unit 13 notifies the server device 20 of the residence level 3 alarm via the notification unit 14 (S15).

  After notifying the stay level 3 alarm, the stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not the person stays in the captured image (S16). If the stay is not continued, the camera 10 returns to the process of S4.

  On the other hand, when the stay is continued, the stay detection unit 12 determines whether or not the button device 45 is pressed (S17). When the button device 45 is not pressed, the staying level determination unit 13 returns to the process of S16.

  In any one of S9, S13, and S17, when the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button in order for the store clerk 72 to correspond to the customer 71, the stay detection unit 12 includes a message indicating that the button device 45 has been pressed. Receive information. This pressing information is received by the receiving unit 21 in the server device 20, and when notified from the notification unit 23, is transmitted to the stay detection unit 12 via the receiving unit 15 in the camera 10.

  When the stay detection unit 12 receives the pressing information of the button device 45, the stay detection unit 12 sets the stay detection function to off (S18). When the stay detection function is turned off, the stay level determination unit 13 does not notify the server device 20 of a stay level alarm. Accordingly, the control unit 22 of the server device 20 determines that the staying has ended, for example, when a state in which there is no notification of a staying level alarm continues for a predetermined time. When the stay detection function is turned off, the stay level determination unit 13 may explicitly notify the server device 20 of a stay level 0 alarm, that is, release of stay detection, through the notification unit 14. .

  Then, the stay detection unit 12 waits until the customer response by the clerk 72 is completed, the button device 45 is pressed again as a response completion button, and the pressing information is acquired (S19). When the button device 45 is pressed, the stay detection unit 12 returns to the process of S4.

  As described above, the staying detection function can be set to OFF or ON even when the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button and the pressing information is notified from the button device 45.

  The predetermined time T1 is simply a time considering the customer 71 passing through the passages 65A and 65B. The predetermined times T2 and T3 are times taking into account the time from when the predetermined store clerk 72, the responsible person, the guard 73, and the like arrive at the area where the stagnation occurs after being notified of the stagnation.

  The predetermined times T1, T2, and T3 may be set to an arbitrary length. Further, the length of the predetermined times T1, T2, and T3 may be set for each camera 10 or for each group.

  The button device 45 is mainly exemplified as a corresponding button and a corresponding completion button, but may be a separate button device.

  In addition, when the response completion button is not pressed for a predetermined time or longer after the response button is pressed, the stay detection unit 12 may set the stay detection function to ON and resume the state in which the stay detection is possible. Thereby, for example, even if the store clerk 72 forgets to press the response completion button after the response to the customer 71 is completed, the stay detection function becomes effective, so that a decrease in security can be suppressed.

  As described above, according to the operation example of the camera 10, for example, when the customer 71 is staying in a predetermined area, it is not necessary for the customer 71 to lead the store clerk 72 and the burden on the customer 71 can be reduced. Further, since the stay level is notified step by step according to the stay time of the customer 71, the server device 20 can notify the notification method and the notification destination that match the stay level that the stay has occurred. Therefore, the occurrence of stay can be notified efficiently, and the waiting time of the customer 71 can be shortened. In addition, security can be ensured even if the number of shop assistants 72 is reduced.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts illustrating an example of an operation procedure of the server device 20.

  Here, as an example, when the server device 20 is activated, the control unit 22 sets, for example, a non-warning mode (S31).

  The control unit 22 waits until there is a schedule event registered in the storage unit 22a (S32). When there is a schedule event, the control unit 22 sets the alert mode and alert level 0 (S33). The presence of a schedule event is an event indicating a warning period. The alert period is set, for example, in a schedule shared with the camera 10 corresponding to the stay detection period. The schedule shared with the camera 10 is synchronized with, for example, the schedule held by the camera 10.

  After the transition to the warning level 0, the control unit 22 determines whether or not an alarm of staying level 1 has been notified from the camera 10 via the reception unit 21 (S34). When the alarm of staying level 1 is not notified, the control unit 22 returns to S33 and sets the warning level to 0.

  The control unit 22 sets the alert level 1 when the stay level 1 alarm is notified. For example, the control unit 22 instructs the speaker control device 30 to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 via the notification unit 23 (S35). This instruction is included in the stay notification information, for example.

  The control unit 22 determines whether or not the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button within a predetermined time T4 (for example, 3 minutes) after the warning level 1 is set (S36). Information on pressing of the button device 45 is notified from the receiving unit 21 to the control unit 22. When the corresponding button is pressed, the control unit 22 proceeds to the process of S43.

  On the other hand, when the corresponding button is not pressed, the control unit 22 determines whether an alarm of staying level 2 is notified from the camera 10 via the receiving unit 21 (S37). When the alarm of staying level 2 is not notified, the control unit 22 returns to S33 and sets the warning level to 0.

  When notified of the stay level 2 alarm, the control unit 22 sets the alert mode to the alert level 2 (S38). The control unit 22 instructs the PHS communication control device 35 through the notification unit 23 such that the PHS 37 performs, for example, telephone call or mail transmission (S38). Here, the control unit 22 may instruct the speaker control device 30 to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32. These instructions are included in the stay notification information, for example.

  The control unit 22 determines whether or not the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button within a predetermined time T5 (for example, 3 minutes) after being set to the alert level 2 (S39). When the corresponding button is pressed, the control unit 22 proceeds to the process of S43.

  On the other hand, when the corresponding button is not pressed, the control unit 22 determines whether or not an alarm of staying level 3 is notified from the camera 10 via the receiving unit 21 (S40). When the alarm of staying level 3 is not notified, the control unit 22 returns to S33 and sets the warning level to 0.

  When notified of the stay level 3 alarm, the control unit 22 sets the alert mode to the alert level 3 (S41). The control unit 22 instructs the viewer 40 to display an alarm via the notification unit 23 (S41). The control unit 22 may instruct the speaker control device 30 to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32. These instructions are included in the stay notification information, for example.

  The control unit 22 determines whether or not the button device 45 has been pressed as a corresponding button after the warning level 3 is set (S42). When the corresponding button is pressed, the control unit 22 proceeds to the process of S43. On the other hand, when not pressed, the control unit 22 returns to the process of S40.

  In S36, S39, S42, for example, when the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button so that the store clerk 72 corresponds to the customer 71, the control unit 22 sets the non-warning mode (S43). In this case, the control unit 22 instructs the speaker control device 30 to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32. The BGM in the non-warning mode is different from the BGM in the warning level 0, for example. Thereby, the clerk 72 and the like can confirm whether the mode is the non-warning mode or the warning level 0, and can appropriately handle the customer.

  For example, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the store clerk 72 completes the response to the customer 71 and the button device 45 is pressed as a response completion button (S44). If the button device 45 is not pressed, the process of S44 is repeated. When the button device 45 is pressed, the control unit 22 returns to the process of S34.

  When the alarm of staying level 1 is not notified in S34, when the alarm of staying level 2 is not notified in S37, or when the alarm of staying level 3 is not notified in S40, the control unit 22 sets the alert level 0 ( S33). This is because the control unit 22 determines that the stay has ended in the camera 10 when a subsequent stay level alarm is not notified even after a predetermined time T4, T5 (for example, 3 minutes) has elapsed.

  According to the operation example of the server device 20, the notification method and the notification destination that the stagnation has occurred can be changed according to the stagnation level alarm notification from the camera 10. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently notify the occurrence of stagnation. Further, for example, since the BGM is changed by pressing the button device 45, the clerk 72 who pressed the button device 45 can recognize that the BGM has been changed, and can recognize that the button device 45 has been pressed reliably. .

  In this embodiment, the schedule illustrates that the stay detection period and the warning period are included in the time zone during the opening of the store, but the stay detection period may include a time zone during which the store is closed. For example, the camera 10 may detect a stay after the store is closed and notify an alarm, and the server device 20 may notify the responsible person or the guard 73. In this case, the control unit 22 may set the warning level 2 or the warning level 3 from the beginning of the transition to the warning mode. As described above, the server device 20 may change the external device to cooperate in accordance with the time zone.

  As will be described later, in the server device 20, the control unit 22 may output the occurrence of an event or the transition of the alert mode as a log, and may output a necessary log as a report.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the overall operation of the clerk calling system 5 in time series.

  FIG. 8 shows a case where the server device 20 is set to the alert mode by the store clerk 72 pressing the button device 45. Immediately after setting to the alert mode, the alert level is 0, and the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 is changed to a BGM corresponding to the alert level 0.

  When an object is detected by the camera 10, the stay is detected, and an alarm of stay level 1 is notified from the camera 10 to the server device 20, the server device 20 sets the alert level 1. In addition, the server device 20 controls the speaker control device 30 so as to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 to the BGM corresponding to the alert level 1.

  Furthermore, when the staying in the captured image continues and an alarm of staying level 2 is notified from the camera 10, the server device 20 is set to the alerting level 2, so that, for example, a telephone call or e-mail is sent to the PHS 37. The PHS communication control device 35 is controlled. In this case, the server device 20 may control the speaker control device 30 to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 to the BGM corresponding to the alert level 2.

  Further, when the staying in the captured image continues and the alarm of the staying level 3 is notified from the camera 10, the server device 20 controls to set the alerting level 3 and display the alarm on the Viewer 40. In this case, the server device 20 may control the speaker control device 30 so as to change the BGM flowing from the speaker 32 to the BGM corresponding to the alert level 3.

  When the clerk 72 corresponds to the customer 71 and the button device 45 is pressed as a corresponding button, the server device 20 sets the non-warning mode. In this case, the server device 20 controls the speaker control device 30 so as to change to BGM corresponding to the non-warning mode.

  When the clerk 72 completes the response to the customer 71 and the button device 45 is pressed as a response completion button, the server device 20 sets the alert mode or waits for the transition to the alert mode according to the schedule. To do.

Next, logs and reports generated by the server device 20 will be described.
9A and 9B are schematic diagrams illustrating examples of logs and reports generated by the server device 20.

  FIG. 9A shows a log 81 (for example, a system log). The server device 20 may record a log on a recording medium (not shown) in the server device 20, or may record it on an external recorder (not shown). In the log 81, events occurring in each device are recorded in time series for each group. The log 81 includes, for example, event occurrence time, group identification information, camera 10 identification information, and event content. As the log 81, for example, “time 08:33:45 group G1 device camera B level 2 alarm” is recorded. “Level 2 alarm” indicates a stay level 2 alarm.

  FIG. 9B shows the contents of the report 83. For example, predetermined information is selected from the log 81 and output to the report 83. This predetermined information is specified by, for example, the store clerk 72 or the person in charge, and specified via the operation unit. For example, it is possible to specify the occurrence of an alarm, a group, an area, and a time zone via the operation unit of the server device 20 and determine the content of the output report.

  The user can verify the contents of the log 81 or the report 83 and reflect the verification result in a stay detection schedule or the like. As a result, the occurrence of an alarm due to stay detection becomes moderate, and both user convenience and security can be ensured.

  Thus, in the camera 10, the imaging unit 11 captures an image in the detection area. The stay detection unit 12 detects stay of the customer 71 from the captured image. The stay level determination unit 13 measures the time during which the stay of the customer 71 is detected. The stay level determination unit 13 changes the stay level for notifying the stay of the customer 71 according to the measured time, and notifies the server device 20 via the notification unit 14.

  In the server device 20, the control unit 22 changes the external device that is a notification destination according to the stay level, and notifies the external device via the notification unit 23 of an alarm. As an external device, the speaker control device 30 changes the BGM flowing from the speaker 32. For example, the PHS communication control device 35 sends a telephone call or transmits a mail to the PHS 37. The Viewer 40 displays alarm information on the screen.

  Since the clerk calling system 5 notifies the stay notification information including the fact that the stay of the customer 71 is detected according to the stay time of the customer 71, the presence of the customer 71 can be notified efficiently. Further, the store clerk 72 or the like who has recognized the stay detection in the detection area can reduce the waiting time of the customer 71 and deal with the customer.

  For example, the salesclerk calling system 5 changes the notification destination from notification to the speaker control device 30 that notifies the unspecified salesclerk 72 to notification to the PHS communication control device 35 that notifies the specific salesclerk 72. To do. Thereby, it is possible to notify an unspecified store clerk 72 who does not have the PHS 37 that the stagnation has occurred, for example, using existing equipment. Therefore, existing equipment can be used effectively. Further, even a specific clerk 72 possessing the PHS 37 can be notified using the PHS 37.

  Contrary to the above, the clerk calling system 5 moves from notification to the PHS communication control device 35 that notifies the specific clerk 72 to notification to the speaker control device 30 that notifies the unspecified clerk 72. The notification destination may be changed. Thereby, even when the specific store clerk 72 cannot respond to the customer, for example, BGM or other unspecified store clerk 72 who has heard the predetermined broadcast can respond to the customer.

  Further, since the on / off of the stay detection function can be determined by the operation (for example, pressing) of the button device 45, the determination of the store clerk 72 or the like can be involved in the determination of the on / off of the stay detection function.

  Further, since an alarm is displayed by the Viewer 40, for example, the guard 73 of the backyard 55 can easily visually recognize the occurrence of staying in the detection area. The alarm display includes, for example, information indicating that the stay has been detected and an image captured by the camera 10 disposed in the detection area where the stay has occurred.

  In addition, the notification is switched from the unspecified clerk 72 to the specific clerk 72, but the unspecified clerk 72 can also notify the backyard 55 directly. Similarly, the back yard directly from the specific clerk 72 can be used. 55 can also be notified.

  While various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood.

  In the above-described embodiment, the direct communication is performed between the camera 10 and the server device 20 and between the server device 20 and the external device. However, any device (for example, a captured image or a log is accumulated). A recorder) may be interposed, and communication may be performed via this device.

  In the above embodiment, when the camera 10 has a mail transmission function, the camera 10 may transmit an alarm of stay level 2 to an external device without going through the server device 20. In this case, the camera 10 may communicate directly with an external device, or may communicate with another device (for example, a recorder). When the camera 10 and the external device communicate directly, the camera 10 may send an alarm to the server device 20 as well.

  In the said embodiment, it illustrated that the camera 10 performed stay detection and stay level judgment. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the camera 10 may capture an image, and the server device 20 may execute the stay detection and the stay level determination using the captured image obtained from the camera 10. Thereby, the structure of the camera 10 can be simplified.

  In the above embodiment, the camera 10 may have the function of the server device 20. In this case, even if the server device 20 is not provided, the external device can be notified when the stay is detected.

  In the said embodiment, the salesclerk call system 5 installed in the sales floor of the store was illustrated as a notification system. The notification system is not limited to this, and may be, for example, an unmanned store without a resident, a parking lot, a distribution warehouse, or a personnel call system in a factory, or other notification system.

(Overview of one embodiment of the present invention)
A notification method according to an aspect of the present invention is a notification method in a notification system, an image acquisition step of acquiring an image in a predetermined area, a stay detection step of detecting stay of a person included in the image, and the stay A notification step for notifying a predetermined notification destination of stay notification information for notifying that the stay has been detected, a time measuring step for measuring a time after the stay is detected, and a time for the detected stay being a predetermined time. And a notification destination changing step of notifying the stay notification information to a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination.

  According to this method, the person in charge in the area can recognize the stay by notifying the stay notice information, and the waiting time of the person (stay person, for example, customer) in the area is shortened. (For customer service, customer service, etc.) Further, by notifying the stay notification information in stages, it is possible to notify the person in charge of the occurrence of stay efficiently, and the number of persons in charge can be reduced. Even in this case, when the stay is detected, the stay notification information is notified, which leads to crime prevention and can secure the security of each area.

  In the notification method according to one aspect of the present invention, the predetermined notification destination is a first notification device capable of notifying an unspecified person, and the other notification destination is a second notification capable of notifying a specific person. A notification device,

  According to this method, it is possible to notify stay notification information even to an unspecified person (person in charge). Therefore, for example, it is not necessary to distribute the portable terminal possessed by a specific person to all the persons in charge, and the cost can be reduced. Moreover, the notification accuracy with respect to a specific person (person in charge) can be improved.

  In the notification method of one embodiment of the present invention, the first notification device is a speaker, and the second notification device is a mobile terminal.

  According to this method, the staying can be notified by the sound flowing from the speaker, and can be transmitted to many people (persons in charge). For example, even when residence notification information is notified in a large store, it is possible to notify an unspecified person without worrying about the position of the display device. In addition, the notification to the portable terminal can be received without depending on the location without worrying about the position of the speaker or the monitor, for example. Also, it can be easily confirmed even when a specific person is moving.

  In the notification method of one aspect of the present invention, the predetermined notification destination is a third notification device capable of notifying a specific person, and the other notification destination is a fourth notification capable of notifying an unspecified person. It is a notification device.

  According to this method, for example, even if a specific person cannot respond, an unspecified person can respond to a staying person.

  In the notification method of one embodiment of the present invention, the third notification device is a mobile terminal, and the fourth notification device is a speaker.

  According to this method, the notification to the mobile terminal can be received without depending on the location, for example, without worrying about the position of the speaker or the monitor. Also, it can be easily confirmed even when a specific person is moving. In addition, the sound that flows from the speaker can be notified of the stay, and can be conveyed to many people (persons in charge). For example, even when residence notification information is notified in a large store, it is possible to notify an unspecified person without worrying about the position of the display device.

  The notification method according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to enable or disable a step of receiving an operation notification from another device and a stay detection step for detecting the stay of the person when the operation notification is received. Steps.

  According to this method, it is possible to intervene human judgment as to whether to enable or disable the stay detection function, and convenience can be improved.

  The notification method according to one aspect of the present invention detects the stay of the person according to schedule information including a stay detection period for detecting the stay of the person and a non-stay detection period for not detecting the stay of the person. A function setting step including a step of setting the staying detection step for enabling or disabling to be valid or invalid.

  According to this method, for example, according to a schedule according to the business hours of the store (for example, the stay detection function is enabled in a time zone with few people in the area and the stay detection function is disabled in a time zone with many people). The stay detection function can be set without human judgment. Therefore, the convenience of the user (for example, the person in charge of the area, the person in charge, the guard) can be improved.

  The notification method according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first passage having a width smaller than a predetermined value, and is disposed between a second passage having a width larger than the predetermined value and an adjacent area. Does not include the third passage.

  According to this method, for example, a person who simply passes can be excluded from the stay detection target, and the stay detection accuracy can be improved.

  In the notification method of one aspect of the present invention, the identification information of each device in the notification system arranged in at least one area is registered in a storage unit, and a group is set. In an area included in the same group, A step of notifying the same notification device of the retention notification information when a human retention is detected in images captured by different imaging devices.

  According to this method, for example, the stay detection in each group can be easily managed.

  The notification method according to one aspect of the present invention provides a notification destination that notifies a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination and the other notification destination when a predetermined time has elapsed after the predetermined time has elapsed in the notification destination changing step. A re-modification step.

  According to this method, the notifications from the first notification device to the fourth notification device can be used for other notification devices even when they do not correspond to the staying person. Can be notified. Therefore, it is possible to recognize the necessity of dealing with the staying person and to secure security.

  A notification system according to an aspect of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image in a predetermined area, a stay detection unit that detects the stay of a person included in the image, and stay information received from the stay detection unit. A notification unit for notifying that the stay notification information is detected, and when the notification unit receives the stay information, the notification unit notifies the first notification device of the stay notification information, and the stay information When a predetermined time elapses, the stay notification information is notified to the second notification device.

  According to this configuration, the person in charge in the area can recognize the stay by notifying the stay notification information, and the waiting time of the person (stay person, for example, customer) in the area is shortened. (For customer service, customer service, etc.) Further, by notifying the stay notification information in stages, it is possible to notify the person in charge of the occurrence of stay efficiently, and the number of persons in charge can be reduced. Even in this case, when the stay is detected, the stay notification information is notified, which leads to crime prevention and can secure the security of each area.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is useful for a notification method, a notification system, and the like that can shorten the waiting time of a person existing in a predetermined area and can efficiently notify the presence of a person.

1, 2 area 1A-1D, 2E-2H detection area 5 clerk calling system 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G, 10H camera 11 imaging unit 12 stagnation detection unit 13 stagnation level determination unit 14, 23 Notification unit 15, 21 Reception unit 16 Schedule management unit 20 Server device 22 Control unit 22a Storage unit 30 Speaker control device 32Q, 32R, 32S, 32T Speaker 35 PHS communication control device 37 PHS
40 Viewer
45A, 45B Button device 55 Backyard 61A, 61B Cash register counter 65A, 65B Passage 68 Product shelf 71 Customer 72A, 72B Clerk 73 Security guard 81 Log 83 Report

The notification method of the present invention is a notification method in a notification system, in which an image acquisition step for acquiring an image in a predetermined area, a stay detection step for detecting a stay of a person included in the image, and the stay are detected. A notification step for notifying a predetermined notification destination of the stay notification information for notifying that, a time measurement step for measuring a time after detecting the stay, and when the detected stay time has passed a predetermined time, the residence notification information have a, a notification destination changing step of notifying the another notification destination from the predetermined notification destination, the predetermined notification destination, a first notification unit that can be notified to unspecified people The second notification device is a second notification device capable of notifying a specific person.

The notification system of the present invention detects an stagnation by receiving an stagnation information from an imaging unit that captures an image in a predetermined area, a stagnation detection unit that detects stagnation of a person included in the image, and the stagnation detection unit. A notification unit for notifying the stay notification information, and when the notification unit receives the stay information, the notification unit notifies the first notification device of the stay notification information and receives the stay information. When a predetermined time elapses, the second notification device is notified of the stay notification information , the first notification device can notify an unspecified person, and the second notification device notifies the specific person. Is possible.

The notification method of the present invention is a notification method in a notification system, in which an image acquisition step for acquiring an image in a predetermined area, a stay detection step for detecting a stay of a person included in the image, and the stay are detected. A notification step for notifying a predetermined notification destination of the stay notification information for notifying that, a time measurement step for measuring the time after detecting the stay, and when the detected stay time has passed a predetermined time, A notification destination changing step of notifying the stay notification information to a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination, wherein the predetermined notification destination is a first notification device capable of notifying an unspecified person. The second notification device is a second notification device capable of notifying a specific person.

Claims (11)

A notification method in a notification system,
An image acquisition step of acquiring an image in a predetermined area;
A stay detection step for detecting a stay of a person included in the image;
A notification step of notifying a predetermined notification destination of residence notification information for notifying that the residence has been detected;
A time measuring step for measuring a time after detecting the stay;
A notification destination changing step of notifying the residence notification information to a notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination when the detected residence time has passed a predetermined time;
A notification method. The notification method according to claim 1,
The notification method, wherein the predetermined notification destination is a first notification device capable of notifying an unspecified person, and the other notification destination is a second notification device capable of notifying a specific person. The notification method according to claim 2,
The notification method, wherein the first notification device is a speaker and the second notification device is a mobile terminal. The notification method according to claim 1,
The notification method, wherein the predetermined notification destination is a third notification device capable of notifying a specific person, and the other notification destination is a fourth notification device capable of notifying an unspecified person. The notification method according to claim 4,
The notification method, wherein the third notification device is a mobile terminal and the fourth notification device is a speaker. The notification method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising:
Receiving an operation notification from another device;
A function setting step for setting the stay detection step for detecting the stay of the person when the operation notification is received to be enabled or disabled;
A notification method. The notification method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Enable or disable the stay detection step for detecting the stay of the person according to the information of the schedule including the stay detection period for detecting the stay of the person and the non-stay detection period for not detecting the stay of the person. The notification method which has a function setting step which has the step set to. The notification method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The area includes a first passage having a width smaller than a predetermined value, a second passage having a width larger than the predetermined value, and a third passage disposed between adjacent areas. No notification method. The notification method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
Registering identification information of each device in the notification system arranged in at least one area in a storage unit and setting a group;
In the areas included in the same group, when the stay of a person is detected in images captured by different imaging devices, the step of notifying the stay notification information to the same notification device;
A notification method. The notification method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A notification destination re-changing step of notifying the notification destination different from the predetermined notification destination and the different notification destination when a predetermined time has passed after the predetermined time has elapsed in the notification destination changing step. An imaging unit that captures an image in a predetermined area;
A stay detection unit for detecting the stay of a person included in the image;
Receiving the stay information from the stay detection unit, and a notification unit for notifying the stay notification information for notifying that the stay has been detected,
The notification unit, when receiving the stay information, notifies the first notification device of the stay notification information, and when the predetermined time has elapsed after receiving the stay information, the notification unit notifies the second notification device of the stay notification information. system.

Images