JP2018186330A - Control device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a control device capable of preventing a machine from being controlled by an operation made by a user other than a specific user.SOLUTION: A control device 10 comprises: a housing which can be attached to a wall of a facility; a touch panel display unit 15b at a part of which is disposed in the housing; and a control unit 12 configured to control a machine disposed in a facility 101 corresponding to an operation made by a user on the display unit 15b. The control unit 12 performs an operation in a function limit mode in which the control of a machine as an object to be limited which is at least a part of the machine disposed in the facility 101 until a first condition is satisfied.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to a control device that controls equipment arranged in a facility.

  Conventionally, a technique for remotely operating a device by wireless communication is known. Patent Document 1 discloses a peripheral device that can save the time and effort required for the device administrator or the user to set the device in advance.

JP 2014-209342 A

  By the way, there is a case where it is better to allow only a specific user to operate the control device that controls the device. For example, if a child who does not understand how to use the control device touches the control device to control the device, there may be a risk depending on the operation of the device.

  The present invention provides a control device capable of suppressing devices from being controlled based on an operation of a user other than a specific user.

  A control device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing that can be attached to a structure included in a facility, a touch panel display unit at least partially disposed in the housing, and a user operation on the display unit. And a control unit that controls the device arranged in the facility according to the limitation, and the control unit is at least a part of the device arranged in the facility until the first condition is satisfied The operation of the function restriction mode that restricts the control is performed.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it will be suppressed that an apparatus will be controlled based on operation of users other than a specific user.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a device control system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a front view of the control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for controlling the air conditioner. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for scene control. FIG. 6 shows another example of an image for scene control. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image requesting input of a release code in the function restriction mode. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the device control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the transition to the operation in the function restriction mode. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image on which an operation for shifting to the operation in the function restriction mode is performed. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image requesting the user to touch the identification information acquisition unit. FIG. 12 is a first diagram for explaining an example of estimating whether or not the user is a child. FIG. 13 is a second diagram for explaining an example of estimating whether or not the user is a child. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for designating a device to be excluded from the control target in the function restriction mode. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a switch mode image during operation in the function restriction mode. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of the switch mode image during the operation in the function restriction mode. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for designating scene control prohibited by the user in the function restriction mode.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that each of the embodiments described below shows a comprehensive or specific example. The numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, arrangement positions and connecting forms of the constituent elements, steps, order of steps, and the like shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, among the constituent elements in the following embodiments, constituent elements that are not described in the independent claims indicating the highest concept are described as optional constituent elements.

  Each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily shown strictly. Moreover, in each figure, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to substantially the same structure, and the overlapping description may be abbreviate | omitted or simplified.

(Embodiment)
[Overall configuration of device control system]
First, the configuration of the device control system according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a device control system according to an embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the device control system 100 is a system for controlling devices provided in a facility 101 and arranged in the facility 101. The facility 101 is, for example, a detached house. The facility 101 includes a plurality of rooms partitioned by walls and doors. Specifically, the plurality of rooms are a room 102, a room 102a, and a room 102b.

  The control device 10 included in the device control system 100 is a controller for the user to control a plurality of devices arranged in the room 102. The plurality of devices include, for example, the lighting device 20, the air conditioning device 30, the electric curtain 40, the electric shutter 50 (not shown in FIG. 1), and the like. The control device 10 also functions as a so-called wall switch (wall switch device) for the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the control device 10. FIG. 3 is a front view of the control device 10.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 10 is disposed on the wall 103 of the room 102. The wall 103 is an example of a structure provided in the facility 101. The control device 10 is fixed to the wall 103 in a state where at least a part of the housing 18 is accommodated in the switch box 104 embedded in the wall 103. The mounting method of the control device 10 is almost the same as that of a general-purpose wall switch, and the switch box 104 can be used for a wall switch.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 10 functions as a so-called GUI (Graphical User Interface), and an image including an icon (button) is displayed on the display unit 15b of the control device 10, for example. In the following, the image shown in FIG. 3 is also referred to as a switch mode image. The user can turn on and off the power supply to each device of the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40 by tapping the icon portion of the display unit 15 b (touch panel).

  Note that an image for performing detailed control of each device is also displayed on the display unit 15b of the control device 10. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for controlling the air conditioner 30. According to the image shown in FIG. 4, the user can switch the operation mode of the air conditioner 30 and change the set temperature. The switching of the operation mode of the air conditioner 30 and the change of the set temperature may be performed through different images. Although not shown, the display unit 15b opens and closes a dedicated image for performing dimming control and toning control of the lighting device 20, a dedicated image for opening and closing the electric curtain 40, and the electric shutter 50. A dedicated image may be displayed.

  Such an image for controlling the air conditioner 30, an image for controlling the lighting device 20, an image for controlling the electric curtain 40, and an image for controlling the electric shutter 50 are displayed, for example. Only one is selectively displayed in the part 15b. For example, each time the user performs a swipe operation on the display unit 15b (touch panel), the currently displayed image is switched to another image.

  An image for scene control is also displayed on the display unit 15b of the control device 10. 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating an example of an image for scene control.

  The scene control is control for operating at least some of a plurality of devices arranged in the facility 101 in order to bring the facility 101 closer to a predetermined indoor environment. In the scene control, for example, a plurality of devices having different types or functions are collectively controlled. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, an image including an icon including the characters “good morning” (hereinafter also referred to as a “good morning icon”) is an image for scene control that is executed mainly when the user wakes up. When the good morning icon is tapped, the control device 10 transmits a control signal, whereby the lighting device 20 is turned on, the electric curtain 40 and the electric shutter 50 are opened, and the air conditioner 30 is turned on. That is, control suitable for the user's getting up is performed with one touch.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 6, an image including an icon including the characters “outing” (hereinafter also referred to as an outing icon) is a scene control image that is mainly executed when the user goes out. When the outing icon is tapped, the control device 10 transmits a control signal to turn off the lighting device 20, close the electric curtain 40 and the electric shutter, and turn off the air conditioner 30. That is, control suitable for the user's going out is performed with one touch.

  As other scene control, there is scene control executed mainly when the user goes to bed, which is executed by tapping an icon including the characters “good night” (hereinafter also referred to as “good night icon”). There is also scene control that is executed mainly when the user returns home, which is executed by tapping an icon including the characters “Okaeri”. These scene controls may be executed immediately after the icon is tapped, or may be executed after a predetermined period has elapsed since the icon was tapped.

  In FIGS. 5 and 6, an image including one scene control icon is displayed on the display unit 15b. However, an image including a plurality of scene control icons is displayed on the display unit 15b. Good. The same applies to the icon for device control.

  The display unit 15b of the control device 10 is selected from the switch mode image, the illumination device 20, the air conditioner 30, the electric curtain 40, the image for controlling the electric shutter 50, the image for scene control, and the like. One image thus displayed is displayed. For example, each time the user performs a swipe operation on the display unit 15b (touch panel 15a), the currently displayed image is switched to another image.

  Note that such a screen transition may be performed according to an operation other than the swipe operation. For example, an icon for screen transition may be included in the image, and the screen transition may be performed by a tap operation on the icon for screen transition. Further, the control device 10 may include a hardware key (button) for screen transition, and screen transition may be performed by operating the hardware key. That is, the screen transition may be performed based on an operation on the control device 10.

  The control device 10 also operates in a normal mode in which control of the devices arranged in the facility 101 is not restricted at all, and a function restriction mode that restricts control of a restriction target device that is at least a part of the devices arranged in the facility 101. The operation of is selectively executed.

  The function restriction mode is a child lock mode that suppresses device control based on a user who does not understand how to use the control device 10 such as a child (infant) operating the control device 10 without permission. During operation in the function restriction mode, for example, an image as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display unit 15b of the control device 10, and the user cannot control the device unless the release code is input. . FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image requesting input of a release code in the function restriction mode.

[Detailed configuration of device control system]
Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of the device control system 100 will be described. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the device control system according to the embodiment.

  The device control system 100 is an example of a display system. As shown in FIG. 8, the device control system 100 specifically includes a control device 10, a lighting device 20, an air conditioner 30, an electric curtain 40, an electric shutter 50, a distribution board 60, And an information terminal 90. In FIG. 8, a power system 70 that is an external power supply is also illustrated. Hereafter, each component which comprises the apparatus control system 100 is demonstrated, mainly referring FIG.1 and FIG.8.

[Control device]
As described above, the control device 10 is, for example, a controller that is arranged in the room 102 and controls the devices arranged in the room 102 by the user. Specifically, the control device 10 controls the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, the electric curtain 40, and the electric shutter 50. In other words, the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, the electric curtain 40, and the electric shutter 50 are examples of devices to be controlled by the control device 10.

  Specifically, the control device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a control unit 12, a storage unit 13, a power supply unit 14, a touch panel 15a, a display unit 15b, an identification information acquisition unit 15c, and a timing unit 15d. The human sensor 15e and the switch unit 17 are provided. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the control device 10 includes a housing 18.

  The communication unit 11 performs wireless communication with devices arranged in the facility 101. Specifically, the communication unit 11 wirelessly transmits a control signal to the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40 based on the control of the control unit 12. The communication unit 11 can also communicate with the information terminal 90. The communication unit 11 may communicate with the information terminal 90 via a communication network used when communicating with devices arranged in the facility 101, or a wide area network such as the Internet that is larger than the communication network. Communication with the information terminal 90 may be performed.

  Specifically, the communication unit 11 is realized by a communication module (communication circuit). The communication unit 11 includes a plurality of communication modules such as a communication module for performing wireless communication with a device arranged in the facility 101 and a communication module for performing communication with a device located outside the facility 101 via a wide area network. Realized by a communication module.

  The control unit 12 performs signal processing related to device control. Specifically, the control unit 12 is realized by a processor, a microcomputer, or a dedicated circuit.

  The control unit 12 controls the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, the electric curtain 40, and the electric shutter 50 by causing the communication unit 11 to wirelessly transmit a control signal. That is, the expressions “control” and “control” include outputting a control signal or the like. Moreover, the control part 12 controls the switch part 17 based on operation to the display part 15b (touch panel 15a). That is, the control unit 12 controls on / off of power supply to the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40.

  The control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display the switch mode image, the device individual control image, the scene control image, and the image requesting the input of the release code. Specifically, the control unit 12 generates a video signal, and outputs the generated video signal to the display unit 15b, thereby causing the display unit 15b to display an image.

  Further, the control unit 12 selectively executes the operation in the normal mode and the operation in the function restriction mode. During the operation in the normal mode, the control of the devices arranged in the facility 101 is not restricted at all. In the function restriction mode, control of restriction target devices that are at least part of the devices arranged in the facility 101 is restricted. In other words, in the operation in the function restriction mode, some devices are excluded from the control targets among the plurality of devices to be controlled in the normal mode operation.

  The storage unit 13 stores information that is a source of an image displayed on the display unit 15b (information that is a source of a video signal), a control program executed by the control unit 12, and the like. Specifically, the storage unit 13 is realized by a semiconductor memory or the like.

  The power supply unit 14 includes a power receiving unit (for example, a power receiving terminal) that receives AC power supplied from the power system 70, and converts the power received by the power receiving unit into DC power suitable for the operation of the control device 10. It converts and supplies to each component with which the control apparatus 10 is provided. The AC power received by the power supply unit 14 is, for example, AC power for an existing wall switch (a power switch of a device arranged in the facility 101). Specifically, the power supply unit 14 is a power supply circuit including an AC / DC converter or a DC / DC converter.

  The touch panel 15a is a detection device that detects a user operation on the display unit 15b (touch panel 15a). The touch panel 15a may be a capacitive touch panel, or may be another type touch panel such as a resistive film type.

  The display unit 15b is a touch panel type display unit in which the touch panel 15a is overlaid. The display unit 15 b displays an image for scene control based on the control of the control unit 12. The images displayed by the display unit 15b are exemplified in FIGS. Specifically, the display unit 15b is realized by a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL panel, or the like.

  The identification information acquisition unit 15 c acquires the identification information of the user who is operating the control device 10. The identification information acquisition unit 15c is specifically a fingerprint sensor, and acquires user fingerprint information as user identification information. The identification information acquisition unit 15c may be a biometric sensor that acquires other biometric information such as a sensor that detects a vein pattern. The identification information acquisition unit 15c may be an imaging device that acquires an image of the user's face as identification information. In this case, the user is identified by image processing including face recognition processing.

  The time measuring unit 15d is a time measuring device that measures the current date and time (including date). Specifically, the timer unit 15d is a real time clock (RTC) or the like, but may be in any form.

  The human sensor 15e is a pyroelectric sensor that detects infrared rays (space temperature change) emitted from the human body. As shown in FIG. 2 and the like, the human sensor 15e is disposed on the upper side of the bezel portion. The human sensor 15e is used for estimating whether or not the user operating the display unit 15b is a child. A specific method of using the human sensor 15e will be described later.

  The switch unit 17 turns on and off the power supply from the power system 70 to each of the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40 based on an operation on the display unit 15 b (touch panel 15 a). That is, the switch unit 17 turns on and off the main power supply of the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40. Specifically, the switch unit 17 is controlled by the control unit 12 based on an operation on the display unit 15b (touch panel 15a). The switch unit 17 includes three switch elements that are directly controlled by the control unit 12 without performing wireless communication, corresponding to the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40.

  The switch element is located on the branch circuit 72 (on the power line) from the power system 70 to each device of the lighting device 20, the air conditioner 30, and the electric curtain 40, and is electrically connected to the power system 70 and each device. On and off. In other words, the switch element switches the presence / absence of power supply to the devices arranged in the facility 101. The switch element may be an element that structurally opens and closes electrical contacts such as a relay element, or may be a semiconductor switching element such as a power transistor. In addition, the switch part 17 should just be provided with at least 1 switch element. That is, the switch unit 17 only needs to be able to directly turn on and off the power supply to at least one device.

  The housing 18 (shown in FIG. 2) accommodates the communication unit 11, the control unit 12, the touch panel 15a, the display unit 15b, the identification information acquisition unit 15c, the time measurement unit 15d, the human sensor 15e, and the switch unit 17. The housing 18 is made of, for example, resin, but a part or all of it may be made of metal. As described above, at least a part of the housing 18 is embedded in the wall 103 of the facility 101. The casing 18 may be directly attached to the wall of the facility 101 or may be indirectly attached via an attachment member or the like. The casing 18 may be attached to a structure such as the wall 103 of the facility 101.

  The configuration of the control device 10 has been described above. The configuration of the control device 10 described is an example. For example, the controller 10 may be a controller that does not include a component (such as the switch unit 17) for functioning as a wall switch.

[Lighting device]
The lighting device 20 is an example of a device arranged in the facility 101, and specifically is arranged in the room 102. The lighting device 20 is a so-called ceiling light that illuminates a room. The specific aspect of the illuminating device 20 is not specifically limited, A downlight, a pendant light, a spotlight, a bracket light, etc. may be sufficient.

  Specifically, the illumination device 20 includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode) as a light source. The illumination device 20 may include a semiconductor light emitting element such as a fluorescent tube or a semiconductor laser, or a solid light emitting element such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) or an inorganic EL as a light source.

  Although not illustrated, the lighting device 20 includes a communication module (communication circuit) for performing wireless communication with the control device 10 and receives a control signal transmitted by the communication unit 11 included in the control device 10. That is, the illumination device 20 can emit light or extinguish based on the control signal received from the control device 10. For example, when the light control rate (light control ratio) is specified in the control signal, the lighting device 20 emits light at the specified light control rate. When the color temperature is specified in the control signal, the lighting device 20 emits light at the specified color temperature. In addition, on / off (lighting and extinguishing) of power supply from the power system 70 to the lighting device 20 is controlled by the switch unit 17.

[Air conditioner]
The air conditioner 30 is an example of a device disposed in the facility 101, and specifically is disposed in the room 102. The air conditioner 30 is a general household air conditioner. The air conditioner 30 is an air conditioner capable of adjusting the temperature of the wind sent from the air conditioner 30 by having a heat exchanger (not shown) and the like. That is, the air conditioner 30 has an air blowing function and an air conditioning function. The air conditioner 30 is not limited to a general home air conditioner, and may be an industrial air conditioner.

  The air conditioner 30 includes a temperature / humidity measuring unit 31. The temperature / humidity measuring unit 31 measures the temperature and humidity of the room 102 and outputs temperature information indicating the measured temperature (room temperature) and humidity information indicating the measured humidity. The temperature / humidity measuring unit 31 includes a thermistor or a thermocouple as an element for measuring temperature, and a polymer resistance humidity sensor or a polymer capacitive humidity as an element for measuring humidity. It has a sensor. Note that a temperature / humidity measurement unit 31 that is separate from the air conditioner 30 may be used to measure the temperature and humidity in the facility 101. Further, a temperature measuring unit separate from the air conditioner 30 and a humidity measuring unit separate from the air conditioner 30 may be used for measuring the temperature and humidity in the facility 101.

  Although not illustrated, the air conditioner 30 includes a communication module (communication circuit) for performing wireless communication with the control device 10 and receives a control signal transmitted by the communication unit 11 included in the control device 10. That is, the air conditioner 30 can switch the operation mode and change the set temperature based on the control signal received from the control device 10. In addition, the air conditioner 30 transmits the temperature information and the humidity information output by the temperature / humidity measurement unit 31 to the communication unit 11 included in the control device 10. On / off of power supply from the power system 70 to the air conditioner 30 is controlled by the switch unit 17.

[Electric curtain]
The electric curtain 40 is an example of a device arranged in the facility 101 and is arranged in the room 102 to open and close the curtain. Although not illustrated, the electric curtain 40 includes a communication module (communication circuit) for performing wireless communication with the control device 10 and receives a control signal transmitted by the communication unit 11 provided in the control device 10. That is, the electric curtain 40 opens and closes the curtain based on the control signal received from the control device 10. On / off of power supply from the power system 70 to the electric curtain 40 is controlled by the switch unit 17.

[Electric shutter]
The electric shutter 50 is an example of a device disposed in the facility 101 and is disposed outside the window of the facility 101 and opens and closes. The electric shutter 50 includes a communication module (communication circuit) for performing wireless communication with the control device 10 and receives a control signal transmitted by the communication unit 11 included in the control device 10. That is, the electric shutter 50 opens and closes based on the control signal received from the control device 10. The electric shutter 50 is disposed outside the window where the electric curtain 40 is disposed, for example, but is not illustrated in FIG. The electric shutter 50 may be arranged outside the window where the electric curtain 40 is not arranged.

[Distribution panel]
The distribution board 60 has a main breaker 61 for turning on or off the power supply from the power system 70 through the main line 71. The main breaker 61 is a breaker that stops the supply of power from the power system 70 when a current exceeding a predetermined current (current based on power determined by a contract with the power company) flows from the power system 70.

  In addition, the distribution board 60 has a plurality of branch breakers 62 corresponding to the plurality of branch circuits 72 branched from the main line 71. That is, the distribution board 60 includes a branch breaker 62 for each branch circuit 72. The branch breaker 62 is a breaker that stops supplying power to the branch circuit 72 when an overcurrent flows through the branch circuit 72 connected to the branch breaker 62.

  The distribution board 60 may have a power consumption measuring function and a wireless communication function for transmitting the measured power consumption. The power consumption measurement function in this case may be a function that measures only the power consumption in the main line 71 or may be a function that measures both the power consumption in the main line 71 and the power consumption for each branch circuit 72. . In addition, the device control system 100 may include a power consumption measuring device that is separate from the distribution board 60. The separate power consumption measuring device may measure only the power consumption in the main line 71 or may measure both the power consumption in the main line 71 and the power consumption for each branch circuit 72.

[Information terminal]
The information terminal 90 is an information communication terminal carried by the user, and specifically, a portable terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a wearable terminal. Wearable terminals include glasses-type terminals, bracelet-type terminals, wristwatch-type terminals, and the like. The information terminal 90 may be an information terminal other than a portable terminal such as a personal computer. Although not shown, the information terminal 90 includes a communication module (communication circuit) for communicating with the control device 10. In the device control system 100, the information terminal 90 is used for inputting a release code or a lock code to the control device 10.

[Transition to operation in function restriction mode]
Next, the transition to the operation of the function restriction mode of the control device 10 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the transition to the operation in the function restriction mode.

  First, the control unit 12 performs a normal mode operation (S11). In the operation in the normal mode, control of devices arranged in the facility 101 is not restricted at all. Therefore, the user can instruct the control device 10 to perform all of the above-described switch mode control, individual device control, and scene control by operating the display unit 15b of the control device 10.

  Next, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the second condition is satisfied (S12). For example, the control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied when an operation for instructing the transition to the operation of the function restriction mode is detected by the touch panel 15a (Yes in S12), and from the normal mode to the function restriction mode. The operation proceeds to (S13). The control unit 12 continues the operation in the normal mode until an operation for instructing the shift to the operation in the function restriction mode is detected by the touch panel 15a (No in S12).

  Here, the operation for shifting to the operation of the function restriction mode is not particularly limited, but for example, is an operation of inputting a lock code. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image on which an operation for shifting to the operation in the function restriction mode is performed.

  The control unit 12 displays an image as shown in FIG. 10 on the display unit 15b. When the correct lock code is input by the user while the image is displayed, the control unit 12 shifts to the operation in the function restriction mode. . The correct lock code is stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13, and the control unit 12 determines whether the lock code input by the user matches the lock code stored in the storage unit 13. Thus, it can be determined whether or not the correct locking code has been input by the user.

  During the operation in the function restriction mode, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the first condition is satisfied (S14). For example, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when an operation that instructs the display unit 15b to release the operation of the function restriction mode (transition to the operation of the normal mode) is detected by the touch panel 15a. (Yes in S14), the operation is shifted from the operation in the function restriction mode to the operation in the normal mode (S11). The control unit 12 continues the operation in the function restriction mode until an operation for instructing the release of the function restriction mode is detected by the touch panel 15a (No in S14).

  The operation for instructing the release of the operation in the function restriction mode (the shift to the operation in the normal mode) is, for example, an operation for inputting a correct release code. In other words, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when a correct release code is input to the control device 10 from the outside.

  For example, in the operation in the function restriction mode, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display an image for the user to input the release code, for example, as shown in FIG.

  In the function restriction mode, screen transition is not performed unless a release code is input. That is, the user cannot perform any device control via the control device 10. In the function restriction mode, it is only necessary to restrict the control of the restriction target device that is at least a part of the devices arranged in the facility 101, and it is not essential that the control of all the devices becomes impossible.

  On the other hand, when the correct cancellation code is input by the user while the image as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed, the control unit 12 shifts to the operation in the normal mode. That is, the operation in the function restriction mode is canceled and the user can control the device via the control device 10.

  The correct release code is stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13, and the control unit 12 determines whether the release code input by the user matches the release code stored in the storage unit 13. It can be determined whether or not a correct release code has been input.

  Note that the lock code and the release code need not be managed separately, and both the transition to the function restriction mode operation and the release of the function restriction mode operation may be performed by a single code. Good.

  As described above, when the second condition is satisfied, the control unit 12 operates in the function restriction mode until the first condition is satisfied. In the operation in the function restriction mode, control of restriction target devices that are at least a part of devices arranged in the facility 101 is restricted.

  Thereby, it is suppressed that an apparatus will be controlled based on operation of users other than the specific user who knows the 1st condition.

  In the description of FIG. 9 above, the release code input operation is performed directly on the control device 10. That is, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when a release code is input from the user (outside of the control device 10) to the control device 10, and releases the operation in the function restriction mode. The release code is an example of predetermined information. However, the release code input operation may be performed via the information terminal 90. That is, the user may perform a release code input operation on the information terminal 90.

  In this case, the information terminal 90 transmits mode designation information for designating the normal mode to the control device 10 in response to an operation on the information terminal 90. The control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when mode designation information is input from the information terminal 90 (outside of the control device 10) to the control device 10, and cancels the operation in the function restriction mode. The mode designation information is another example of predetermined information.

  The same applies to the lock code input operation. The lock code input operation may be performed via the information terminal 90. That is, the user may perform a lock code input operation on the information terminal 90.

  In this case, the information terminal 90 transmits mode designation information for designating the function restriction mode to the control device 10 in response to an operation on the information terminal 90. The control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied when the mode designation information (predetermined information) is input from the information terminal 90 (outside of the control device 10) to the control device 10, and functions from the operation in the normal mode. Move to restricted mode operation.

  As described above, the control unit 12 may selectively execute the operation in the normal mode and the operation in the function restriction mode according to the mode designation information.

[Other examples of the first condition and the second condition]
In the description of FIG. 9, the first condition is that the release code input operation is performed, and the lock code input operation is the second condition. And an example of the second condition. For example, the first condition and the second condition may be that a long press operation to an arbitrary place in the display area of the display unit 15b is performed. The long press operation is a touch operation (long tap operation) performed continuously for a predetermined period or longer. The predetermined period here is, for example, 5 seconds, but the length of the predetermined period is not particularly limited.

  In this case, when it is detected that the long press operation is performed by the touch panel 15a, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition or the second condition is satisfied. As a result, every time a long press operation is detected, switching between the normal mode and the function restriction mode is performed.

  The first condition may be that a predetermined period elapses after the operation in the function restriction mode is started. The control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when a predetermined period has elapsed after the operation in the function restriction mode is started, cancels the function restriction mode operation, and shifts to the normal mode operation. Also good. That is, the control unit 12 may automatically shift to the normal mode operation after a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation in the function restriction mode was started.

  Similarly, the second condition may be that a predetermined period elapses after the operation in the normal mode is started. The control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied when a predetermined period has elapsed since the operation in the normal mode is started, and cancels the operation in the normal mode and shifts to the function restriction mode operation. Good. That is, the control unit 12 may automatically shift to the function restriction mode operation after a lapse of a predetermined period from the start of the normal mode operation.

  Specifically, the control unit 12 can determine whether or not a predetermined period has elapsed based on the current time measured by the time measuring unit 15d.

  The first condition may be that the current time belongs to a first time zone, and the second condition may be that the current time belongs to a second time zone different from the first time zone. That is, the control unit 12 may selectively execute the operation in the normal mode and the operation in the function restriction mode according to the time zone. Also in this case, the control unit 12 can determine whether the current time belongs to the first time zone or the second time zone based on the current time measured by the timer unit 15d.

  For example, for the purpose of suppressing the control of the device by the operation of a child or the like, the control unit 12 performs the function restriction mode operation during the day when the child is awake and operates in the normal mode at night when the child is sleeping. Can be done. Therefore, in such a case, the first time zone is nighttime (for example, 21: 0 to 9:00), and the second time zone is daytime (for example, 9:00 to 21:00). The first time zone and the second time zone are stored in advance in the storage unit 13 on the basis of user designation or the like.

[Release function restriction based on user identification information]
Further, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when the fingerprint information of the user stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13 is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 15c, and operates in the function restriction mode. May shift to normal mode operation. User fingerprint information is an example of user identification information.

  For example, when it is detected by the touch panel 15a that the display unit 15b is operated during the operation in the function restriction mode, the control unit 12 displays an image requesting the user to touch the identification information acquisition unit 15c on the display unit 15b. Display. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image requesting the user to touch the identification information acquisition unit 15c.

  When the user touches the identification information acquisition unit 15c, the identification information acquisition unit 15c acquires the fingerprint information of the user. The control unit 12 determines whether or not the acquired fingerprint information of the user matches the fingerprint information stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13.

  When the acquired fingerprint information of the user matches the fingerprint information stored in advance in the storage unit 13, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied, cancels the function restriction mode operation, and Move to the operation. When the acquired fingerprint information of the user does not match the fingerprint information stored (registered) in the storage unit 13 in advance, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is not satisfied, and the function restriction mode is set. Continue operation.

  As described above, if the first condition is that the fingerprint information that matches the fingerprint information stored in advance in the storage unit 13 is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 15c, the user other than the specific user in which the fingerprint information is stored in advance. The device is suppressed from being controlled based on the user's operation.

  Fingerprint information is an example of identification information. As described above, biometric authentication information other than fingerprint information or an image of a user's face may be used as identification information.

  Further, the user's fingerprint information stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13 may be acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 15c as a second condition. That is, the control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied when the fingerprint information of the user stored (registered) in advance in the storage unit 13 is acquired by the identification information acquisition unit 15c during the operation in the normal mode. Then, the operation may be shifted from the normal mode operation to the function restriction mode operation.

[Functional restrictions based on whether the user is a child]
Further, when it is estimated that the user operating the display unit 15b is a child, the control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied, and shifts from the operation in the normal mode to the operation in the function restriction mode. May be. 12 and 13 are diagrams for explaining an example of estimating whether or not the user is a child.

  In the example of FIGS. 12 and 13, the control unit 12 estimates whether or not the user is a child using the detection result of the human sensor 15 e.

  As described above, the human sensor 15e is disposed on the upper side of the bezel portion. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 12, when a tall adult user operates the display unit 15b, the user is positioned in the detection range 16 of the human sensor 15e, and thus the infrared sensor is detected by the human sensor 15e. The When the infrared sensor is detected by the human sensor 15e, the operation on the display unit 15b is estimated to be performed by an adult. When an operation on the display unit 15b estimated to be performed by such an adult is detected by the touch panel 15a, the control unit 12 performs a normal mode operation.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13, when the user of a short child operates the display unit 15 b, the user is not located in the detection range 16 of the human sensor 15 e. Therefore, infrared rays are not detected by the human sensor 15e. Thus, the operation on the display unit 15b when the infrared sensor is not detected by the human sensor 15e is presumed to be an operation by a child. When an operation on the display unit 15b that is estimated to be performed by a child is detected by the touch panel 15a, the control unit 12 determines that the second condition is satisfied, and changes from the operation in the normal mode to the operation in the function restriction mode. Transition.

  As described above, the control unit 12 may determine that the second condition is satisfied when an operation on the display unit 15b estimated to be performed by a child is detected. Thereby, it is suppressed that an apparatus is controlled based on operation of a child.

  In addition, it is not essential that the human sensor 15e is used for estimating whether or not the operation is performed by a child. In order to estimate whether or not the operation is performed by a child, a sensor that can detect whether or not there is a person or an obstacle considered to be a person at a position facing the top of the control device 10 may be used. For example, an ultrasonic sensor may be used instead of the human sensor 15e.

  The contact area of the user's hand (finger) detected by the touch panel 15a may be used for estimating whether or not the operation is performed by a child. In this case, if the contact area at the time of operation is less than or equal to a predetermined value, it is estimated that the operation is an operation by a child.

  In addition, when the user operating the display unit 15b is estimated to be an adult during the operation in the function restriction mode, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied, and operates in the function restriction mode. May shift to normal mode operation.

[Restrictions on control of some devices]
As described above, in the function restriction mode, it is only necessary to restrict the control of the restriction target device that is at least a part of the devices arranged in the facility 101, and it is not essential that the control of all the devices becomes impossible. Absent. For example, some of the plurality of devices arranged in the facility 101 may be excluded from the control target of the control device 10.

  The device excluded from the control target may be determined in advance, or the device excluded from the control target may be designated (selected) by the user when shifting to the operation of the function restriction mode. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for designating a device to be excluded from the control target in the function restriction mode.

  If an image as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the display unit 15b, the user is likely to be at risk from the user in the facility 101 due to erroneous control such as the electric curtain 40 and the electric shutter 50. Only the device can be selectively excluded from the control target of the control device 10. Note that when a lock code input operation is performed via the information terminal 90, an image as shown in FIG. 14 may be displayed on the display unit of the information terminal 90.

  Further, when some devices are excluded from the control target of the control device 10, the control unit 12 is an object for the user to instruct control of the devices excluded from the control target, for example, in the operation of the function restriction mode. Is not displayed on the display unit 15b. The object is, for example, an image or an icon. The image is displayed in the entire display area of the display unit 15b, and the icon is displayed in a part of the display area of the display unit 15b.

  For example, the image of the switch mode in the normal mode is an image as shown in FIG. 3, but during the operation of the function restriction mode in which the electric curtain 40 is excluded from the control target of the control device 10, the image shown in FIG. As shown, the icon for turning on and off the power supply to the electric curtain 40 is not displayed. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a switch mode image during operation in the function restriction mode.

  On the other hand, in the operation of the function restriction mode, the control unit 12 is a device other than the device excluded from the control target among the devices arranged in the facility 101 (for example, the lighting device 20 and the air conditioner 30 that are not excluded from the control target). ) Is displayed on the display unit 15b.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can make a user recognize the apparatus excluded from the control object.

  Note that when the electric curtain 40 is excluded from the control target of the control device 10, it is only necessary for the user to know that an icon for turning on and off the power supply to the electric curtain 40 cannot be used. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the icon may be displayed in a different manner from other icons, such as being grayed out. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example of the switch mode image during the operation in the function restriction mode.

  In addition, although the icon which is not displayed was demonstrated, the image itself may not be displayed. For example, during operation in the function restriction mode in which the electric curtain 40 is excluded from the control target of the control device 10, a dedicated image for opening and closing the electric curtain 40 is not displayed on the display unit 15b. Even when the user performs a screen transition operation, a dedicated image for opening and closing the electric curtain 40 does not appear.

[Limitation of some control contents]
Further, in the function restriction mode, a part of the control content that can be performed by the control device 10 may be prohibited. For example, when the device whose function is restricted is the air conditioner 30, some control contents may be prohibited such that the wind direction can be changed but the set temperature cannot be changed.

  In addition, when the device whose function is restricted is the air conditioner 30, some of the plural types of scene controls that operate the air conditioner 30 may be prohibited. That is, the controller 12 does not have to execute a part of the plural types of scene control that can be executed in the normal mode in the operation of the function restriction mode.

  The prohibited control content may be determined in advance, or the prohibited control content may be designated (selected) by the user when shifting to the operation of the function restriction mode. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image for designating scene control prohibited by the user in the function restriction mode.

  If an image as shown in FIG. 17 is displayed on the display unit 15b, the user can prohibit the execution of some types of scene control. Note that when a lock code input operation is performed via the information terminal 90, an image as shown in FIG. 17 may be displayed on the display unit of the information terminal 90.

  When some control details are prohibited, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display an object for the user to instruct the prohibited control details, for example, in the operation in the function restriction mode. For example, the prohibited scene control icon may not be displayed, and the prohibited scene control image itself may not be displayed. In addition, the prohibited scene control icon may be displayed in a different form from the prohibited scene control icon. On the other hand, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display an object for the user to designate control details that are not prohibited in the operation of the function restriction mode.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can make a user recognize the prohibited control content.

[Effects]
As described above, the control device 10 according to the above-described embodiment includes the casing 18 that can be attached to the wall 103 included in the facility 101 and the touch panel display 15b that is at least partially disposed in the casing 18. And a control unit 12 that controls devices arranged in the facility 101 in response to a user operation on the display unit 15b. The wall 103 is an example of a structure provided in the facility 101. Until the first condition is satisfied, the control unit 12 performs an operation in a function restriction mode that restricts control of restriction target devices that are at least part of the devices arranged in the facility 101.

  As a result, only a specific user who knows the content of the first condition can instruct control of the device without restriction, and thus the device is controlled based on the operation of a user other than the specific user. It is suppressed.

  Further, for example, the control device 10 further includes a power receiving unit that receives power supplied for a power switch of a device arranged in the facility 101.

  Thereby, the control apparatus 10 can operate | move using the electric power supplied for power switches.

  In addition, for example, the control device 10 further includes a switch element that switches presence / absence of power supply to the devices arranged in the facility 101.

  Thereby, the control apparatus 10 can operate | move as a power switch.

  For example, the control unit 12 does not cause the display unit 15b to display an object for the user to instruct the control of the restriction target device in the operation in the function restriction mode.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can make a user recognize the apparatus (restriction object apparatus) excluded from the control object.

  Further, for example, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display an object for the user to instruct control of devices other than the restriction target devices among the devices arranged in the facility 101 in the operation in the function restriction mode.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can make a user recognize the apparatus of a control object.

  For example, when the second condition is satisfied, the control unit 12 shifts from the operation in the other mode to the operation in the function restriction mode. The other mode is, for example, the normal mode of the above embodiment.

  Thereby, the control apparatus 10 can selectively perform operation | movement of another mode and operation | movement of a function restriction | limiting mode.

  Further, for example, the control unit 12 may determine that the second condition is satisfied when an operation on the display unit 15b estimated to be performed by a child is detected.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can restrict | limit control of a restriction | limiting object apparatus, when operation to the display part 15b presumed by a child is detected.

  In addition, for example, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when a predetermined period has elapsed after starting the operation in the function restriction mode, and cancels the operation in the function restriction mode.

  As a result, the operation in the function restriction mode is automatically canceled after a predetermined period.

  For example, the control unit 12 determines that the first condition is satisfied when predetermined information is input to the control device 10 from the outside, and cancels the operation in the function restriction mode.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can cancel | release operation | movement of a function restriction | limiting mode according to the input of predetermined information.

  For example, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 15b to display a screen for the user to input predetermined information in the operation in the function restriction mode.

  Thereby, the user can input predetermined information.

  In addition, for example, the control unit 12 can execute a plurality of types of scene control for operating at least the restriction target device to bring the inside of the facility 101 close to a predetermined indoor environment. As a restriction, a part of the plural types of scene control that can be executed is not executed.

  Thereby, the control part 12 can restrict | limit execution of some scene control in operation | movement of a function restriction | limiting mode.

(Other embodiments)
Although the embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

  The communication method between apparatuses described in the above embodiment is an example. The communication method between apparatuses is not particularly limited. Between devices, for example, wireless communication using a communication standard such as specific low-power radio, ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark) is performed. Note that the wireless communication is specifically radio wave communication or infrared communication.

  In addition, instead of wireless communication, wired communication such as power line communication (PLC: Power Line Communication) or communication using a wired LAN may be performed between apparatuses.

  Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, another processing unit may execute a process performed by a specific processing unit. Further, the order of the plurality of processes may be changed, and the plurality of processes may be executed in parallel.

  In the above-described embodiment, each component may be configured by dedicated hardware or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or a processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

  Each component may be a circuit (or an integrated circuit). These circuits may constitute one circuit as a whole, or may be separate circuits. Each of these circuits may be a general-purpose circuit or a dedicated circuit.

  The general or specific aspect of the present invention may be realized by a recording medium such as a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a computer-readable CD-ROM. Further, the present invention may be realized by any combination of a system, apparatus, method, integrated circuit, computer program, and recording medium. For example, the present invention may be realized as a device control system according to the above embodiment, may be realized as a device control restriction method executed by a control device (computer), and device control is performed on a computer. It may be realized as a program for executing.

  The order of the plurality of processes in the operation of the control device described in the above embodiment is an example. The order of the plurality of processes may be changed, and the plurality of processes may be executed in parallel.

  In addition, it is realized by variously conceiving various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art for each embodiment, or by arbitrarily combining the components and functions in each embodiment without departing from the spirit of the present invention. This form is also included in the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Control apparatus 12 Control part 15a Touch panel 15b Display part 18 Case 101 Facility 103 Wall

Claims (11)

A housing that can be attached to the structure of the facility;
A touch panel display unit at least partially disposed in the housing;
A control unit that controls equipment arranged in the facility in response to a user operation on the display unit;
The control unit performs an operation in a function restriction mode for restricting control of a restriction target device that is at least a part of devices arranged in the facility until the first condition is satisfied. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a power receiving unit that receives power supplied for a power switch of a device arranged in the facility. Furthermore, the control apparatus of Claim 2 provided with the switch element which switches the presence or absence of the power supply to the apparatus arrange | positioned in the said facility. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit does not display an object for the user to instruct control of the restriction target device on the display unit in the operation in the function restriction mode. . The control unit causes the display unit to display an object for the user to instruct control of devices other than the device to be restricted among devices arranged in the facility in the operation of the function restriction mode. The control apparatus of any one of -4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the second condition is satisfied, the control unit shifts from an operation in another mode to an operation in the function restriction mode. The control device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit determines that the second condition is satisfied when an operation on the display unit estimated to be performed by a child is detected. The control unit determines that the first condition is satisfied when a predetermined period has elapsed after starting the operation in the function restriction mode, and releases the operation in the function restriction mode. The control device according to any one of claims. The control unit determines that the first condition is satisfied when predetermined information is input from the outside to the control device, and releases the operation in the function restriction mode. The control device according to item. The control device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit displays a screen for the user to input the predetermined information on the display unit in the operation in the function restriction mode. The controller is
It is possible to execute a plurality of types of scene control for operating at least the restriction target device and bringing the inside of the facility closer to a predetermined indoor environment,
The operation according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in the operation in the function restriction mode, a part of the plurality of types of scene control that can be executed is not executed as a restriction on the control of the restriction target device. apparatus.

Images