JP2023142742A - Notification device, notification control device, notification control method, and notification control system - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a notification device capable of suppressing the effort of a user to go to a target area and determine whether the target area is crowded.SOLUTION: A notification device 10 includes a determination portion 112 and a notification portion 12. The determination unit 112 determines the degree of congestion in a specific area A of a building BL on the basis of presence information regarding the presence of people in the specific area A. The notification portion 12 notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the specific area A. Preferably, the notification device 10 further includes an acquisition portion 15 and a notification control portion 113. Preferably, the acquisition portion 15 acquires the presence information. It is preferable that the notification control portion 113 controls the notification portion 12 to notify the degree of congestion in the specific area A on the basis of the determination result of the determination portion 112.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a notification device, a notification control device, a notification control method, and a notification control system.

The lighting control system described in Patent Document 1 includes a lighting control device, a lighting fixture, and a monitoring device. The monitoring device sends a control signal including a lighting fixture on/off schedule to the lighting control device. The lighting equipment turns on/off the lights. The lighting fixtures are dimmable. The lighting control device controls the lighting equipment. The lighting control device is capable of communicating with the lighting fixtures. The lighting control device controls the lighting equipment based on the operation signal received from the monitoring device. The lighting equipment is controlled by a lighting control device to turn on/off and dim.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-143460

However, the lighting control system described in Patent Document 1 cannot notify the degree of congestion in the area where the lighting equipment irradiates light. Therefore, the user has to go to the target area and judge whether the target area is crowded or not.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a notification device, notification control device, and notification control that can reduce the effort of a user to go to a target area and judge whether or not the target area is crowded. The present invention aims to provide a method and a notification control system.

The notification device disclosed in this application includes a determination section and a notification section. The determination unit determines the degree of congestion in the specific area of the building based on presence information regarding the presence of people in the specific area of the building. The notification unit notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the specific area.

It is preferable that the notification device disclosed in the present application further includes an acquisition section and a notification control section. It is preferable that the acquisition unit acquires the presence information. It is preferable that the notification control unit controls the notification unit to notify the degree of congestion in the specific area based on the determination result of the determination unit.

In the notification device disclosed in the present application, the notification control is performed depending on whether the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded or the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded. It is preferable that the notification units have different notification modes.

In the notification device disclosed in the present application, it is preferable that the notification section includes a light source section that emits light. When the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, it is preferable that the notification control unit controls the light source unit so that the light source unit executes the first process. When the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded, the notification control unit controls the light source unit so that the light source unit executes a second process different from the first process. is preferred. It is preferable that the first process and the second process refer to processes in which at least one of the amount of light, the color of the light, and the period during which the light is emitted is changed. The first process and the second process preferably differ in at least one of the amount of light, the color of the light, and the period during which the light is emitted.

In the notification device disclosed in the present application, if the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded after the light source unit executes the first process, the notification control unit may Preferably, the light source unit is controlled so as to notify the user that the work is to be performed.

In the notification device disclosed in the present application, the notification control unit controls the light source so that the light source unit executes the second process when a predetermined time has elapsed since the light source unit executed the first process. It is preferable to control the portion.

In the notification device disclosed in the present application, it is preferable that the light source section includes a first light source section and a second light source that emits light in a direction different from that of the first light source section. When the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, it is preferable that the notification control unit controls the second light source unit.

In the notification device disclosed in this application, it is preferable that the presence information indicates a physical quantity related to the presence of a person. It is preferable that the determination unit determines whether the physical quantity is greater than a threshold value. When the physical quantity is greater than the threshold value, it is preferable that the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded. If the physical quantity is not greater than the threshold value, it is preferable that the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded.

The notification control device disclosed in this application includes a determination section and a notification section. The determination unit determines the degree of congestion in the specific area of the building based on presence information regarding the presence of people in the specific area of the building. The notification unit notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the specific area.

The notification control method disclosed in this application includes a determining step and a controlling step. In the determining step, the determining unit determines whether the specific area of the building is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of people in the specific area of the building. In the controlling step, the notification control section controls the notification section according to the determination result of the determination section.

The notification control system disclosed in this application includes a notification device and a notification control device. The notification device reports the degree of crowding in a specific area of the building. The notification control device controls the notification device. The notification device includes a notification section and a first communication section. The notification unit notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the specific area. The first communication unit transmits presence information regarding the presence of a person in the specific area to the notification control device. The notification control device includes a second communication section, a determination section, and a notification control section. The second communication unit receives the presence information transmitted from the first communication unit. The determination unit determines the degree of congestion in the specific area based on the presence information. The notification control unit controls the notification unit to notify the degree of congestion in the specific area based on the determination result of the determination unit.

According to the notification device, notification control device, notification control method, and notification control system of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the effort of the user to go to the target area and judge whether or not the target area is crowded. .

1 is a diagram showing a notification control system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 1 is a diagram showing a floor surface of a building in which a notification control system according to a first embodiment is installed; FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface of a building in which a notification control system according to Embodiment 1 is installed; FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of processing executed by the notification control system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a notification unit of a third notification device of the notification control system according to the first embodiment. 7 is a diagram illustrating the floor of a building in which a notification control system according to modification 1 is installed. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of rental items rented out in the building of Modification 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a notification control system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a display unit of the notification control system of Embodiment 2. 7 is a diagram showing a floor surface of a building according to Embodiment 3. FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface of a building in which a first notification device according to a third embodiment is installed. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a first notification device according to a third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a floor surface of a building according to Embodiment 4. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface of a building in which a first notification device according to a fourth embodiment is installed. It is a figure showing the notification control system concerning Embodiment 4.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or corresponding parts, and the description will not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
First, a notification control system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a notification control system 1 according to the first embodiment. The notification control system 1 includes a notification control device 100, a first notification device 10, a second notification device 20, a third notification device 30, a fourth notification device 40, a first acquisition device 15, and a second acquisition device. It includes a device 25, a third acquisition device 35, and a fourth acquisition device 45.

The notification control device 100 can communicate with the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40. For example, the notification control device 100 may be connected to the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 by wire. Further, for example, the notification control device 100 may communicate with the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 via a network. The network is the Internet, LAN (Local Area Network), or WAN (Wide Area Network). Various communication devices are connected to the network. Various communication devices include, for example, routers, bridges, access points, hubs, and repeaters. Further, the notification control device 100 uses a communication method for short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) to connect the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the like. It may also communicate with the fourth notification device 40.

The notification control device 100 controls at least one of the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40.

The first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 each notify the user of the degree of congestion. In this embodiment, the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 are, for example, lighting fixtures. The first acquisition device 15, the second acquisition device 25, the third acquisition device 35, and the fourth acquisition device 45 each acquire presence information regarding the presence of a person. The first acquisition device 15, the second acquisition device 25, the third acquisition device 35, and the fourth acquisition device 45 each correspond to an example of an “acquisition unit”.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a floor surface BL1 of a building BL in which the notification control system 1 according to the first embodiment is installed. The floor surface BL1 is, for example, the floor surface of a food court in a shopping mall or the like. A plurality of desks T and a plurality of chairs C are arranged on the floor surface BL1. Specifically, a first desk T1, a plurality of second desks T2, and a plurality of third desks T3 are arranged on the floor surface BL1. The first desk T1 is a long desk extending in the direction of the entrance/exit. The second desk T2 has a substantially circular shape. The third desk T3 has a rectangular shape. Furthermore, specifically, a plurality of first chairs C1, a plurality of second chairs C2, and a plurality of third chairs C3 are arranged on the floor surface BL1. The first chair C1 is used as a chair for the first desk T1. The second chair C2 is used as a chair for the second desk T2. The third chair C3 is used as a chair for the third desk T3.

Floor surface BL1 includes a first area A1, a second area A2, a third area A3, and a fourth area A4. The first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4 each correspond to an example of a "specific area."

The first area A1 is adjacent to the second area A2 and the third area A3. A part of the first desk T1, a plurality of first chairs C1, a plurality of second desks T2, and a plurality of second chairs C2 are arranged in the first area A1.

The second area A2 is an area closer to the entrance than the first area A1. The second area A2 is adjacent to the first area A1 and the fourth area A4. A part of the first desk T1, a plurality of first chairs C1, a plurality of second desks T2, and a plurality of second chairs C2 are arranged in the second area A2.

The third area A3 is adjacent to the first area A1 and the fourth area A4. A plurality of third desks T3 and a plurality of third chairs C3 are arranged in the third area A3.

The fourth area A4 is an area closer to the entrance than the third area A3. The fourth area A4 is adjacent to the second area A2 and the third area A3. A plurality of third desks T3 and a plurality of third chairs C3 are arranged in the fourth area A4.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface BL2 of the building BL in which the notification control system 1 according to the first embodiment is installed. Ceiling surface BL2 includes a first ceiling area A10, a second ceiling area A20, a third ceiling area A30, and a fourth ceiling area A40.

The first ceiling area A10 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the first area A1 shown in FIG. 2. The first ceiling area A10 is adjacent to the second ceiling area A20 and the third ceiling area A30. A plurality of first notification devices 10 and a plurality of first acquisition devices 15 are arranged in the first ceiling area A10. That is, the first acquisition device 15 acquires the presence information of the building BL in the first area A1. The first notification device 10 also reports the degree of congestion in the first area A1.

The second ceiling area A20 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the second area A2 shown in FIG. 2. The second ceiling area A20 is adjacent to the first ceiling area A10 and the fourth ceiling area A40. A plurality of second notification devices 20 and a plurality of second acquisition devices 25 are arranged in the second ceiling area A20. That is, the second acquisition device 25 acquires the presence information of the building BL in the second area A2. Further, the second notification device 20 reports the degree of congestion in the second area A2.

The third ceiling area A30 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the third area A3 shown in FIG. 2. The third ceiling area A30 is adjacent to the first ceiling area A10 and the fourth ceiling area A40. A plurality of third notification devices 30 and a plurality of third acquisition devices 35 are arranged in the third ceiling area A30. That is, the third acquisition device 35 acquires the presence information of the building BL in the third area A3. Further, the third notification device 30 reports the degree of congestion in the third area A3.

The fourth ceiling area A40 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the fourth area A4 shown in FIG. 2. The fourth ceiling area A40 is adjacent to the second ceiling area A20 and the third ceiling area A30. A plurality of fourth notification devices 40 and a plurality of fourth acquisition devices 45 are arranged in the fourth ceiling area A40. That is, the fourth acquisition device 45 acquires the presence information of the building BL in the fourth area A4. Further, the fourth notification device 40 reports the degree of congestion in the fourth area A4.

Next, the notification control system 1 will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. In this embodiment, the first acquisition device 15, the second acquisition device 25, the third acquisition device 35, and the fourth acquisition device 45 have the same configuration. Therefore, the first acquisition device 15 will be described, and the description of the second acquisition device 25, third acquisition device 35, and fourth acquisition device 45 will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the first acquisition device 15 includes a human sensor. The human sensor detects whether a detection target such as a person exists within the detection area. Specifically, the human sensor is a passive infrared sensor including a pyroelectric element. That is, the human sensor detects a detection target by detecting infrared rays emitted from the detection target. Specifically, the human sensor of the first acquisition device 15 detects a person based on the amount of change in infrared light in the first area A1.

Note that in this embodiment, the first acquisition device 15 includes a human sensor, but is not limited to this. For example, the first acquisition device 15 may include an infrared thermography or a CO ₂ sensor. Infrared thermography includes an infrared camera. Infrared thermography uses an infrared camera to detect infrared rays emitted from an object. The CO ₂ sensor measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in the first area A1. A CO ₂ sensor can detect the concentration of carbon dioxide depending on the number of people. Furthermore, when detecting the number of people, for example, an imaging device may be used to detect the number of people. In this case, for example, still images or videos may be photographed at predetermined time intervals in the first area A1, the amount of change in the color or light intensity of the photographed image may be calculated, and the amount of change may be regarded as the number of people.

The human sensor of the first acquisition device 15 detects a detection target such as a person in the first area A1 of the building BL. In other words, the human sensor of the first acquisition device 15 acquires the presence information of the building BL in the first area A1. The first acquisition device 15 then outputs the presence information to the first notification device 10.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the first notification device 10 includes a first communication section 11, a notification section 12, a control section 13, and a storage section 14.

The first communication unit 11 communicates with the notification control device 100. The first communication unit 11 transmits the presence information acquired by the first acquisition device 15 to the notification control device 100. The first communication unit 11 also receives control information for controlling the notification unit 12 from the notification control device 100.

The notification unit 12 notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the first area A1. In this embodiment, the notification section 12 is, for example, a light source section LS. The light source section LS emits light. The light source section LS includes a light emitting element that emits light. The light emitting element is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In this case, for example, the light source section LS is an SMD (surface mount device) element or a COB (chip on board) element.

The control unit 13 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may include a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

For example, the control unit 13 controls the light source unit LS. Specifically, the control unit 13 changes at least one of the amount of light emitted by the light source LS, the color of the light emitted by the light source LS, and the period during which the light source LS emits light. . Further, the control unit 13 may measure time.

The storage unit 14 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 14 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) as semiconductor memories. Alternatively, the storage device may be a semiconductor memory such as flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). ). The storage unit 14 stores a control program that controls each component of the first notification device 10.

The second notification device 20 includes a first communication section 21, a notification section 22, a control section 23, and a storage section 24. The first communication unit 21, the notification unit 22, the control unit 23, and the storage unit 24 of the second notification device 20 are the first communication unit 11, the notification unit 12, the control unit 13, and the storage unit 14 of the first notification device 10. , so the explanation is omitted.

The third notification device 30 includes a first communication section 31, a notification section 32, a control section 33, and a storage section 34. The first communication unit 31, the notification unit 32, the control unit 33, and the storage unit 34 of the third notification device 30 are the first communication unit 11, the notification unit 12, the control unit 13, and the storage unit 14 of the first notification device 10. , so the explanation is omitted.

The fourth notification device 40 includes a first communication section 21, a notification section 22, a control section 23, and a storage section 24. The first communication unit 41, the notification unit 42, the control unit 43, and the storage unit 44 of the fourth notification device 40 are the first communication unit 11, the notification unit 12, the control unit 13, and the storage unit 14 of the first notification device 10. , so the explanation is omitted.

In this embodiment, the notification control device 100 includes a control section 101, a storage section 102, and a second communication section 103.

The second communication unit 103 communicates with the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40. Specifically, the second communication unit 103 includes the first communication unit 11 of the first notification device 10, the first communication unit 21 of the second notification device 20, the first communication unit 31 of the third notification device 30, and It communicates with the first communication unit 41 of the fourth notification device 40 .

The second communication unit 103 receives presence information from each of the first communication units 11 to 41. Specifically, the second communication unit 103 receives the presence information acquired by the first acquisition device 15 from the first communication unit 11 . The second communication unit 103 receives the presence information acquired by the second acquisition device 25 from the first communication unit 21 . The second communication unit 103 receives the presence information acquired by the third acquisition device 35 from the first communication unit 31 . The second communication unit 103 receives the presence information acquired by the fourth acquisition device 45 from the first communication unit 41 .

Further, the second communication unit 103 transmits control information to each of the first communication unit 11 to first communication unit 41. Specifically, the second communication unit 103 transmits control information for controlling the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to the first communication unit 11 of the first notification device 10. The second communication unit 103 transmits control information for controlling the notification unit 22 of the second notification device 20 to the first communication unit 21 of the second notification device 20 . The second communication unit 103 transmits control information for controlling the notification unit 32 of the third notification device 30 to the first communication unit 31 of the third notification device 30. The second communication unit 103 transmits control information for controlling the notification unit 42 of the fourth notification device 40 to the first communication unit 41 of the fourth notification device 40 .

Control unit 101 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may have a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA or an ASIC. The control unit 101 controls the light source unit LS using, for example, a DALI (registered trademark: Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) control method. The control unit 101 outputs a DALI signal in accordance with the DALI protocol. The DALI signal corresponds to the control value of the dimming signal and the control value of the toning signal. The dimming signal indicates, for example, a control value that controls the amount of light (e.g., dimming rate) emitted from the first notification device 10. The color adjustment signal indicates a control value for controlling the color of light emitted from the first notification device 10. Therefore, the first notification device 10 generates light corresponding to the dimming signal and the toning signal.

The storage unit 102 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage device may include ROM and RAM as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the storage device may include flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM (registered trademark) as the semiconductor memory. The storage device stores a control program that controls each component of the notification control device 100.

Continuing with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the processing performed by the notification control system 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 includes a determination unit 112 and a notification control unit 113. The microcomputer of the control unit 101 functions as the determination unit 112 and the notification control unit 113 by executing a control program stored in a storage device.

The determining unit 112 determines whether or not a specific area is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of a person located in a specific area of the building BL. For example, the determining unit 112 determines whether the first area A1 is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of people located in the first area A1.

The notification control unit 113 controls the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to notify the determination result of the determination unit 112. Therefore, the user who receives the notification from the notification unit 12 can know the degree of congestion in the first area A1 without heading to the first area A1. As a result, it is possible to reduce the effort required for the user to go to the target area and determine whether or not the target area is crowded.

Specifically, the notification control unit 113 generates control information that controls the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 so as to notify the determination result of the determination unit 112. Then, the control unit 101 controls the second communication unit 103 so that the second communication unit 103 transmits the control information to the first communication unit 11 of the first notification device 10.

Then, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 controls the notification unit 12 based on the control information received from the second communication unit 103. Specifically, based on the control information, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 controls the notification unit 12 so that the notification unit 12 reports the determination result of the determination unit 112. That is, the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 reports the degree of congestion in the first area A1.

For example, if a user wants to avoid crowding during a period when infectious diseases such as influenza are prevalent, the user can know the degree of crowding in the first area A1 by looking at the color of the light emitted from the light source LS. be able to. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the light source section LS is arranged on the ceiling surface BL2, the user can visually check the degree of congestion in the first area A1 even from a distance.

Further, the notification control unit 113 may control a plurality of first notification devices 10 arranged in the first ceiling area A10. That is, the plurality of first notification devices 10 arranged in the first ceiling area 10A each notify the degree of congestion in the first area A1. Therefore, the user can more easily recognize the degree of congestion in the first area A1.

Also, the notification control unit 113 controls the notification unit 12 depending on whether the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded or the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded. The mode of notification will be different. Therefore, the user can judge whether the first area A1 is crowded or not depending on the notification mode of the notification unit 12. As a result, it is possible to easily determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded.

Specifically, for example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the first process. Further, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes a second process different from the first process. . The first process and the second process refer to processes in which at least one of the amount of light, the color of light, and the period during which light is emitted is changed. The first process and the second process differ in at least one of the amount of light, the color of light, and the period during which light is emitted. Therefore, the user can determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on the difference in the amount of light from the light source section LS, the color of the light, and the period during which the light is emitted. As a result, it is possible to more easily determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded.

For example, the amount of light emitted by the light source section LS is different depending on whether the first area A1 is crowded or not. Specifically, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 executes a first process to increase the amount of light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. Then, the light source section LS is controlled. For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, second area A2, third area A3, and fourth area A4, the first area A1 is the second area Brighter than the fourth area A4. That is, the light source part LS of the first area A1 irradiates people in the first area A1 with a large amount of light, so compared to the case where the first area A1 is irradiated with a small amount of light, the light source part LS in the first area A1 Many people can see the first area A1. Therefore, the user knows that the first area A1 is crowded.

Further, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source so as to execute a second process of reducing the amount of light to be smaller than the amount of light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. control section LS. For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4, Also, the first area A1 is dark. That is, the light source units LS of the second area A2 to fourth area A4 illuminate the people in the second area A2 to fourth area A4 with a larger amount of light than the first area A1. People in area A4 can be easily recognized. Therefore, the user can see that the first area A1 is not crowded by comparing the first area A1 and the second to fourth areas A2 to A4. In other words, the user can determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on the difference in the amount of light from the light source section LS. As a result, users can be encouraged to avoid the crowded second area A2 to fourth area A4 and use the first area A1. In addition, by displaying a combination of the light intensity of the light source unit LS in each area and the degree of congestion according to the light intensity at entrances and exits, it can be used to determine whether each area is crowded or not. This is preferable because it makes it easier for people to understand.

Furthermore, by increasing the amount of light from the light source unit LS in a crowded area, it may be possible to stimulate the sympathetic nerves of people in that area. When people have their sympathetic nervous system stimulated, they tend to become more active psychologically. For example, in the case of a food court as in this embodiment, users who are in an active psychological state may want to shorten their stay in the food court and actively use other stores in the shopping mall. It may happen. This is advantageous for the shopping mall because it increases the number of users per unit time in the food court.

Further, for example, the color of the light emitted by the light source section LS is different depending on whether the first area A1 is crowded or not. Specifically, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 executes a first process of increasing the color temperature of the light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. The light source section LS is controlled as follows. That is, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the first process of changing the color of the light emitted by the light source unit LS to a cool color or white. control section LS. For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, second area A2, third area A3, and fourth area A4, the first area A1 is the second area The color temperature of the light is higher than that in the fourth area A4. Therefore, the user knows that the first area A1 is crowded.

Further, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 executes a second process to lower the color temperature of the light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. Controls the light source section LS. That is, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 executes the first process of changing the color of the light emitted by the light source unit LS to warm color or orange. Controls the light source section LS. For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, second area A2, third area A3, and fourth area A4, the first area A1 is the second area The color temperature of the light is lower than that in the fourth area A4. Therefore, the user knows that the first area A1 is not crowded. In other words, the user can determine whether the first area A1 is crowded or not based on the difference in the color of the light from the light source section LS. In addition, by displaying a combination of the light color of the light source unit LS in each area and the degree of congestion according to the light color at entrances and exits, users can easily check whether each area is crowded. This is preferable because it makes it easier to judge whether or not.

Furthermore, by increasing the color temperature of the light source section LS in a crowded area, it may be possible to stimulate the sympathetic nerves of people in that area. When people have their sympathetic nervous system stimulated, they tend to become more active psychologically. For example, in the case of a food court as in this embodiment, users who are in an active psychological state may want to shorten their stay in the food court and actively use other stores in the shopping mall. It may happen. This is advantageous for the shopping mall because it increases the number of users per unit time in the food court.

Further, for example, the period during which the light source section LS emits light differs depending on whether the first area A1 is crowded or the first area A1 is not crowded. Specifically, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 executes a first process in which the first period is the period during which the light source unit LS emits light. Then, the light source section LS is controlled. The first period is, for example, "3 seconds". For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, second area A2, third area A3, and fourth area A4, the light source section LS of the first area A1 Flashes every second. Therefore, the user knows that the first area A1 is crowded.

Further, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source so as to execute a second process in which the period in which the light source unit LS emits light is the second period. control section LS. The second period is, for example, "10 seconds". For example, when a user stands at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 and looks around the first area A1, second area A2, third area A3, and fourth area A4, the light source section LS of the first area A1 is Flashes every second. Therefore, the user knows that the first area A1 is not crowded. In other words, the user can determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on the difference in the period during which the light source section LS emits light. In addition, by posting at entrances and exits, etc., information indicating the period in which the light source unit LS in each area emits light and the combination of the degree of congestion according to the period in which light is emitted, the user can This is preferable because it becomes easier to judge whether each area is crowded or not.

In addition, when the light source unit LS of each area emits light for different periods to notify whether it is crowded or not, a configuration may be adopted in which the light of the main lighting that illuminates the area is controlled, but the light of the indicator lighting may be controlled. Preferably controlled. By controlling the light of the indicator lighting, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the user. Note that the indicator lighting is, for example, a light source that is provided integrally with the main lighting fixture and emits red light.

Further, the presence information acquired by the first acquisition device 15 is indicated by a physical quantity related to the presence of the person. The physical quantity related to the presence of people is, for example, the amount of change in infrared rays depending on the number of people. The human sensor of the first acquisition device 15 acquires the amount of change in infrared radiation according to the number of people located in the first area A1.

Therefore, the determination unit 112 determines whether the amount of change in infrared light is greater than the threshold value. If the amount of change in infrared rays is greater than the threshold, the determining unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded. If the amount of change in infrared radiation is not greater than the threshold, the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded. Therefore, the determination accuracy of the determination unit 112 is improved. As a result, users can be informed of the degree of congestion with high accuracy. The threshold value is, for example, a value indicating the amount of change in infrared light per minute.

If the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded after the light source unit LS executes the first process, the notification control unit 113 notifies the user that work will be performed in the first area A1. The light source section LS is controlled so as to notify. The work is, for example, cleaning. Cleaning is performed by the worker on the floor surface BL1, desk T, and chair C. That is, the worker cleans the floor surface BL1 of the first area A1, the first desk T1, the second desk T2, the first chair C1, and the second chair C2. Therefore, it is possible to inform the user that the desk T and chair C located in the first area A1 cannot be used only during the period when the work is being performed. As a result, workers can work smoothly.

For example, when cleaning the first area A1, the notification control section 113 controls the light source section LS so that the period in which the light source section LS emits light is the third period. The third period is, for example, "1 second". That is, when the light source part LS blinks every second, it is possible to notify the user that cleaning will be performed in the first area A1. Therefore, it is possible to notify the user that the first area A1 cannot be used during the period when work is being performed.

When a predetermined period of time has passed since the light source section LS executed the first process, the notification control section 113 controls the light source section LS so that the light source section LS executes the second process. The predetermined time is, for example, "30 minutes". The predetermined time can be set to any time. The predetermined time is set, for example, based on the usage time of desk T and chair C. Therefore, the second process can be executed at a time when congestion is alleviated. As a result, users can be notified that congestion has eased.

Next, the processing executed by the notification control system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of processing executed by the notification control system 1 according to the first embodiment. The processing executed by the notification control system 1 includes steps S11 to S37. The processing executed by the notification control system 1 includes the processing executed by the first notification device 10 and the processing executed by the notification control device 100. In FIG. 4, a case where the notification control device 100 controls the first notification device 10 will be described as an example.

In step S11, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 controls the first communication unit 11 to transmit the presence information acquired by the first acquisition device 15 to the second communication unit 103 of the notification control device 100. . The process advances to step S13.

In step S13, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 controls the second communication unit 103 so that the second communication unit 103 receives the presence information. That is, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 acquires the presence information. The process advances to step S15.

In step S15, the determination unit 112 of the notification control device 100 determines the degree of congestion in the first area A1 based on the presence information. Specifically, the determination unit 112 determines whether the first area A1 is crowded based on the presence information. If the first area A1 is not crowded (No in step S15), the process proceeds to step S35. If the first area A1 is crowded (Yes in step S15), the process advances to step S17.

If Yes in step S15, in step S17, the notification control device 100 generates control information for the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to execute the first process. The process proceeds to step S19.

In step S19, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 controls the second communication unit 103 so that the second communication unit 103 transmits control information to the first communication unit 11. The process proceeds to step S21.

In step S21, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 controls the first communication unit 11 so that the first communication unit 11 receives the control information. The process proceeds to step S23.

In step S23, the control unit 13 controls the notification unit 12 so that the notification unit 12 executes the first process. Specifically, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the control unit 13 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the first process. In other words, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the first process. The process proceeds to step S25.

In step S25, the notification control unit 113 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the light source unit LS executed the first process. If the predetermined time has not elapsed since the light source unit LS executed the first process (No in step S25), the process repeats step S25 until the predetermined time has elapsed. If a predetermined time has elapsed since the light source unit LS executed the first process (Yes in step S25), the process proceeds to step S27.

If Yes in step S25, in step S27, the notification control device 100 generates control information for the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to execute the second process. The process proceeds to step S29.

In step S29, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 controls the second communication unit 103 so that the second communication unit 103 transmits the control information to the first communication unit 11. The process advances to step S31.

In step S31, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 controls the first communication unit 11 so that the first communication unit 11 receives the control information. The process advances to step S33.

In step S33, the control unit 13 controls the notification unit 12 so that the notification unit 12 executes the second process. Specifically, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the control unit 13 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the second process. In other words, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so that the light source unit LS executes the second process. Processing ends.

If No in step S15, in step S35, the notification control device 100 generates control information for the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to perform the second process. The process proceeds to step S37.

In step S37, the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 controls the second communication unit 103 so that the second communication unit 103 transmits the control information to the first communication unit 11. The process advances to step S31.

Note that, similarly to the first notification device 10, the notification control device 100 controls the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40, respectively. For example, the notification control device 100 and the second notification device 20 execute steps S11 to S37.

Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment will be described in more detail. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the notification unit 32 of the third notification device 30 of the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment. The notification section 32 includes a first light source section LSA and a second light source section LSB. The first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB each emit light in different directions. Specifically, the first light source section LSA emits the light LA toward the floor surface BL1.

The second light source section LSB is arranged at a different position from the first light source section LSA. Specifically, the second light source section LSB is arranged on the opposite side of the first light source section LSA. The second light source section LSB emits light LB toward the ceiling surface BL2.

For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the second light source unit LSB. Therefore, instead of controlling the first light source section LSA that illuminates the floor surface BL1, the second light source section LSB that illuminates the ceiling surface BL2 is controlled. As a result, the degree of congestion in the third area A3 can be reported without giving a sense of discomfort to people located in the third area A3.

Note that the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB may have different light distribution angles. The light distribution angle is classified into, for example, diffused light, diffused light, wide angle, medium angle, and included angle. The larger the light distribution angle, the more the light diffuses. For example, the beam angle of the diffused light is 90 degrees or more. The beam angle of the divergence is 60 degrees or more and less than 90 degrees. The wide-angle beam angle is 30 degrees or more and less than 60 degrees. The medium angle beam angle is 15 degrees or more and less than 30 degrees. The included angle beam angle is less than 15 degrees. For example, the second light source section LSB emits light with a different light distribution angle from that of the first light source section LSA. Specifically, the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB each have a light distribution section. The light distribution section determines the light distribution angle of the light. The light distribution section has a reflective surface. A reflective surface reflects light. The reflective surfaces are attached to the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB at an arbitrary angle by the designer. By being reflected by the reflective surface, the light is emitted in a direction desired by the designer. Therefore, instead of controlling the first light source section LSA that illuminates the floor surface BL1, the second light source section LSB that illuminates a surface different from the floor surface BL1 is controlled. As a result, the degree of congestion in the third area A3 can be reported without giving a sense of discomfort to people located in the third area A3.

Further, the notification control unit 113 may control the second light source unit LSB so that the second light source unit LSB emits light of a different color from the first light source unit LSA. For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 determines that the second light source LSB is higher than the color temperature of the light emitted by the second light source LSB during normal times. The light source unit LS is controlled to execute a first process of increasing the color temperature of the emitted light. For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 determines that the color temperature of the light emitted by the second light source unit LSB is higher than that of the light emitted by the second light source unit LSB in normal times. The light source section LS is controlled to execute a second process of reducing the color temperature of the light. Therefore, instead of controlling the first light source section LSA that illuminates the floor surface BL1, the second light source section LSB that illuminates a surface different from the floor surface BL1 is controlled. As a result, the degree of congestion in the third area A3 can be notified by the color of the light without giving a sense of discomfort to people located in the third area A3.

Further, the notification control unit 113 may control the second light source unit LSB so that the period in which the first light source unit LSA emits light is different from the period in which the second light source unit LSB emits light. For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 determines that the second light source unit LSB emits less light than the period in which the second light source unit LSB emits light in normal times. The light source unit LS is controlled so as to execute a first process of lengthening the period during which the light is emitted. Further, for example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 determines that the second light source unit LSB emits light during normal times rather than during the period in which the second light source unit LSB emits light during normal times. The light source unit LS is controlled to execute a second process of shortening the period during which light is emitted. Therefore, instead of controlling the first light source section LSA that illuminates the floor surface BL1, the second light source section LSB that illuminates a surface different from the floor surface BL1 is controlled. As a result, the degree of congestion in the third area A3 can be notified by the light emission period without giving a sense of discomfort to people located in the third area A3.

Although the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB each emit light in different directions, the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB may emit light in the same direction. good. Even if the light is emitted in the same direction, when the first light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB respectively irradiate different surfaces, the light source section LSA and the second light source section LSB can emit light in the third area A3 without giving a sense of discomfort to people located in the third area A3. The level of congestion can be reported.

[Modification 1]
Next, a first modification of the notification control system 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. The notification control system 1 of this embodiment and the first modification differ in the first acquisition device 15 to the fourth acquisition device 45. Specifically, the first to fourth acquisition devices 15 to 45 each include an imaging device.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a floor surface BL1 of a building BL in which the notification control system 1 of Modification 1 is installed. The floor surface BL1 is, for example, the floor surface of a food court in a shopping mall or the like. In FIG. 6, a plurality of desks T and a plurality of chairs C are arranged on the floor surface BL1. Specifically, on the floor surface BL1, there are a first desk T1, a plurality of second desks T2, a plurality of third desks T3, a plurality of first chairs C1, a plurality of second chairs C2, and a plurality of third desks. Chair C3 is placed.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of rental items LD in the building BL. The rental item LD is rented out at the food court. The rental item LD is, for example, a tray LD1 for carrying tableware. Further, the rental item LD is, for example, a cup LD2. A barcode CD is attached to each of the tray LD1 and the cup LD2. The barcode CD is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). Note that the rental item LD may be, for example, tableware or a notification device that notifies the completion of cooking.

As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of rental items LD are arranged at the first desk T1. A plurality of rental items LD are arranged at the second desk T2. A plurality of rental items LD are arranged at the third desk T3.

In Modification 1, each of the first to fourth acquisition devices 15 to 45 includes an imaging device. The imaging device captures still images. For example, the imaging device of the third acquisition device 35 images the third area A3 of the building BL. The third acquisition device 35 outputs presence information to the third notification device 30 using the captured image of the third area A3 of the building BL as presence information. Then, the first communication unit 31 of the third notification device 30 transmits the presence information to the notification control device 100.

The control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 detects a barcode CD from the captured image, which is presence information. Then, the determination unit 112 determines whether the number of detected barcode CDs is greater than a threshold value. If the number of detected barcode CDs is greater than the threshold, the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is crowded. If the number of detected barcode CDs is not greater than the threshold, the determination unit 112 determines that the third area A3 is not crowded. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the third area A3 is crowded based on the number of detected barcode CDs, and to notify the user of the determination result.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, the notification control system 1 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 8, and 9. The notification control system 1 of the second embodiment differs from the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment in the arrangement of the first acquisition device 15. Hereinafter, in the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly explained.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the notification control system 1 according to the second embodiment. The notification control system 1 includes a notification control device 100, a first notification device 10, a second notification device 20, a third notification device 30, and a fourth notification device 40. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the display unit 151 of the notification control system 1 according to the second embodiment.

The notification control device 100 can communicate with the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40. For example, the notification control device 100 may be connected to the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 by wire. Further, for example, the notification control device 100 may communicate with the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 via a network.

The notification control device 100 controls at least one of the first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40.

The first notification device 10, the second notification device 20, the third notification device 30, and the fourth notification device 40 each notify the user of the degree of congestion.

In this embodiment, the first notification device 10 includes a first communication section 11, a notification section 12, a control section 13, and a storage section 14. The second notification device 20 includes a first communication section 21, a notification section 22, a control section 23, and a storage section 24. The third notification device 30 includes a first communication section 31, a notification section 32, a control section 33, and a storage section 34. The fourth notification device 40 includes a first communication section 21, a notification section 22, a control section 23, and a storage section 24.

In this embodiment, the notification control device 100 is placed at the entrance shown in FIG. 2 . The notification control device 100 includes a first acquisition device 15, a control section 101, a storage section 102, and a second communication section 103. The first acquisition device 15 includes a display section 151 and an operation section 152.

Display unit 151 includes a screen. The display unit 151 displays any image on the screen. The display section 151 may be a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL display device. The user can visually recognize the image displayed on the screen of the display unit 151.

As shown in FIG. 9, the display unit 151 displays a first image G1 and a second image G2. The first image G1 is an image showing the floor surface BL1 of the building BL. The first image G1 includes a first desk image GT1, a chair image GC, a second desk image GT2, and a third desk image GT3. The second image G2 is an image that prompts the user to select a seat to use. In addition, the display unit 151 further displays the third image G3. Specifically, the display unit 151 displays the third image G3 on the first image G1. The third image G3 is an image showing that the desk is in use.

The operation unit 152 accepts operations from the user. The operation unit is, for example, a touch sensor. The touch sensor detects user operations. The touch sensor is transparent. The touch sensor is provided overlapping the display section 151. The touch sensor detects, for example, a position touched by a user's finger. The touch sensor outputs information indicating the operating position to the control unit 101. Note that the operation unit 152 may include, for example, a button. The button accepts user operations.

As shown in FIG. 8, the control section 101 controls the storage section 102, the second communication section 103, the display section 151, and the operation section 152.

The control unit 101 selects the first desk image GT1, the second desk image GT2, or the third desk image GT3 depending on the operating position. Further, when the first desk image GT1, the second desk image GT2, or the third desk image GT3 is selected, the control unit 101 controls the display unit 151 so that the display unit 151 displays the third image G3. Control.

The control unit 101 includes an acquisition unit 111, a determination unit 112, and a notification control unit 113. The microcomputer of the control unit 101 functions as an acquisition unit 111, a determination unit 112, and a notification control unit 113 by executing a control program stored in a storage device.

The acquisition unit 111 acquires presence information regarding the presence of a person. Specifically, the acquisition unit 111 acquires presence information based on information indicating the operating position detected by the touch sensor.

The determining unit 112 determines whether or not a specific area is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of a person located in a specific area of the building BL. For example, the determination unit 112 determines whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of people located in the first area A1 shown in FIG.

The notification control unit 113 controls the notification unit 12 of the first notification device 10 to notify the determination result of the determination unit 112. Therefore, the user who receives the notification from the notification unit 12 can know the degree of congestion in the first area A1 without heading to the first area A1. As a result, it is possible to reduce the effort required for the user to go to the target area and determine whether or not the target area is crowded.

[Embodiment 3]
Next, the notification control system 1 of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. The first notification device 10 of the third embodiment differs from the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a determination unit 112 and a notification control unit 113 included in the control unit 101 of the notification control device 100. Further, in the third embodiment, the first notification device 10 reports the degree of congestion in the area corresponding to the desk T.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the floor surface BL1 of the building BL according to the third embodiment. The floor surface BL1 is, for example, the floor surface of a food court in a shopping mall or the like. A plurality of desks T and a plurality of chairs C are arranged on the floor surface BL1. Specifically, a plurality of third desks T3 and a plurality of third chairs C3 are arranged on the floor surface BL1.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface BL2 of a building BL in which the first notification device 10 according to the third embodiment is installed. As shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of first notification devices 10 are installed on the ceiling surface BL2. Specifically, the plurality of first notification devices 10 correspond to the plurality of desks T. Specifically, the plurality of first notification devices 10 are arranged above the desk T, respectively. That is, in the third embodiment, the first notification device 10 is arranged for each third desk T3.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the first notification device 10 according to the third embodiment. The first notification device 10 notifies users of the degree of congestion. Specifically, the first notification device 10 reports the degree of congestion in the area where the desk T corresponding to the first notification device 10 is arranged. The first notification device 10 includes a notification section 12 , a control section 13 , a storage section 14 , and a first acquisition device 15 .

The notification unit 12 notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the area where the desk T corresponding to the user is placed. In this embodiment, the notification section 12 is, for example, a light source section LS. The light source section LS includes a light emitting element that emits light. The light emitting element is, for example, an LED.

The control unit 13 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may have a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA or an ASIC.

The storage unit 14 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 14 may include a ROM and a RAM as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the storage unit 14 may include a flash memory, an EPROM, or an EEPROM (registered trademark) as a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 14 stores a control program that controls each component of the first notification device 10.

The first acquisition device 15 acquires presence information in the area corresponding to the desk T. The first acquisition device 15 includes a human sensor. The area corresponding to desk T corresponds to an example of a specific area.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 12, the control unit 13 of the third embodiment will be described in more detail. The control unit 13 includes a determination unit 112 and a notification control unit 113. The microcomputer of the control unit 13 functions as the determination unit 112 and the notification control unit 113 by executing a control program stored in a storage device.

The determining unit 112 of the third embodiment determines whether the area corresponding to the desk T is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of a person located in the area corresponding to the desk T.

The notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS of the first notification device 10 so as to notify the determination result of the determination unit 112. Therefore, the user who receives the notification from the light source section LS can know the degree of congestion in the area corresponding to the desk T without having to go to the area corresponding to the desk T. As a result, it is possible to reduce the effort required for the user to go to the target area and determine whether or not the target area is crowded.

[Embodiment 4]
Next, the notification control system 1 of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15. The first acquisition device 15 of the fourth embodiment is different from the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment in that the first acquisition device 15 is disposed on the seat of the chair C.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the floor surface BL1 of the building BL according to the fourth embodiment. The floor surface BL1 is, for example, the floor surface of a food court in a shopping mall or the like. A plurality of desks T and a plurality of chairs C are arranged on the floor surface BL1. Specifically, a plurality of third desks T3 and a plurality of third chairs C3 are arranged on the floor surface BL1.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a ceiling surface BL2 of the building BL in which the first notification device 10 according to the fourth embodiment is installed. As shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of first notification devices 10 are installed on the ceiling surface BL2. Specifically, the plurality of first notification devices 10 correspond to the plurality of desks T. Specifically, the plurality of first notification devices 10 are arranged on the desk T, respectively. That is, in the fourth embodiment, the first notification device 10 is arranged for each third desk T3.

FIG. 15 shows a notification control system 1 according to the fourth embodiment. The notification control system 1 according to the fourth embodiment includes a notification control device 100, a first notification device 10, and a first acquisition device 15.

The notification control device 100 can communicate with the first notification device 10 and the first acquisition device 15. For example, the notification control device 100 may be connected to the first notification device 10 and the first acquisition device 15 by wire. Further, for example, the notification control device 100 may communicate with the first notification device 10 and the first acquisition device 15 via a network. Further, the notification control device 100 may communicate with the first notification device 10 and the first acquisition device 15 using a communication method for short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth.

The first notification device 10 notifies users of the degree of congestion. Specifically, the first notification device 10 reports the degree of congestion in the area where the desk T corresponding to the first notification device 10 is arranged. The first notification device 10 includes a first communication section 11, a notification section 12, a control section 13, and a storage section 14.

The first communication unit 11 communicates with the notification control device 100. Specifically, the first communication unit 11 receives control information from the notification control device 100.

The notification unit 12 notifies the user of the degree of congestion in the area where the desk T corresponding to the user is placed. In this embodiment, the notification section 12 is, for example, a light source section LS. The light source section LS includes a light emitting element that emits light. The light emitting element is, for example, an LED.

The control unit 13 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may have a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA or an ASIC.

The storage unit 14 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 14 may include a ROM and a RAM as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the storage unit 14 may include a flash memory, an EPROM, or an EEPROM (registered trademark) as a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 14 stores a control program that controls each component of the first notification device 10.

The first acquisition device 15 acquires presence information in the area corresponding to the desk T. The area corresponding to desk T corresponds to an example of a specific area. In the fourth embodiment, the first acquisition device 15 is placed on the seat of the chair C, as shown in FIG.

The first acquisition device 15 includes an acquisition section 155, a control section 156, a storage section 157, and a third communication section 158.

The acquisition unit 155 detects the presence of a person sitting on the chair C. Information indicating the presence of a person corresponds to an example of presence information in the area corresponding to the desk T. The acquisition unit 155 is, for example, a pressure sensor. That is, when a user sits on chair C, the pressure sensor detects the presence of the person. In other words, the pressure sensor can obtain presence information regarding the presence of a person.

Further, the acquisition unit 155 may be, for example, a push switch. When the push switch is in the ON state, it detects the presence of a person. When the push switch is in the OFF state, it does not detect the presence of a person. The acquisition unit 155 outputs information indicating the presence of the detected person to the control unit 156. Note that the acquisition unit 155 may detect the weight of the person sitting on the chair C.

Control unit 156 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may have a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA or an ASIC. The control unit 156 controls the acquisition unit 155, the storage unit 157, and the third communication unit 158.

The storage unit 157 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 157 may include a ROM and a RAM as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the storage unit 157 may include a flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM (registered trademark) as a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 157 stores a control program that controls each configuration of the first acquisition device 15.

The third communication unit 158 communicates with the notification control device 100. Specifically, under the control of the control unit 156, the third communication unit 158 transmits the presence information acquired by the acquisition unit 155 to the second communication unit 103.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 15, the notification control device 100 of the fourth embodiment will be described in more detail. The notification control device 100 of the fourth embodiment includes a control section 101, a storage section 102, and a second communication section 103.

The second communication unit 103 communicates with the first communication unit 11 of the first notification device 10 and the third communication unit 158 of the first acquisition device 15. The second communication unit 103 receives presence information from the third communication unit 158. The second communication unit 103 transmits control information to the first communication unit 11.

Control unit 101 may include, for example, a microcomputer. A microcomputer may have a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Alternatively, it may include an integrated circuit such as an FPGA or an ASIC.

The storage unit 102 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage device may include ROM and RAM as semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the storage device may include flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM (registered trademark) as the semiconductor memory. The storage device stores a control program that controls each component of the notification control device 100.

The control unit 101 of the notification control device 100 includes a determination unit 112 and a notification control unit 113. The microcomputer of the control unit 101 functions as the determination unit 112 and the notification control unit 113 by executing a control program stored in a storage device.

The determination unit 112 of the fourth embodiment determines whether the area corresponding to the desk T is crowded based on the presence information acquired by the acquisition unit 155 installed on the chair C. That is, depending on the number of people sitting on chair C, it can be determined whether the area of desk T corresponding to chair C is crowded.

The notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS of the first notification device 10 so as to notify the determination result of the determination unit 112. Therefore, the user who receives the notification from the light source section LS can know the degree of congestion in the area corresponding to the desk T without having to go to the area corresponding to the desk T. As a result, it is possible to reduce the effort required for the user to go to the target area and determine whether or not the target area is crowded.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit thereof. Moreover, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the plurality of components disclosed in each of the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be combined as appropriate. For ease of understanding, the drawing mainly shows each component schematically, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the diagram may differ from the actual one for convenience of drawing. is different. Further, the speed, material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not particularly limited, and various changes may be made without substantially departing from the configuration of the present invention. It is possible.

(1) Although the first acquisition device 15 of the first embodiment outputs the presence information to the first notification device 10, the first acquisition device 15 may output the presence information to the notification control device 100. Specifically, the first acquisition device 15 may include a communication section. The communication unit of the first acquisition device 15 transmits the presence information to the second communication unit 103 of the notification control device 100.

(2) Although the notification control system 1 of the first embodiment includes the notification control device 100, the first notification device 10, and the first acquisition device 15, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the notification control system 1 may include a notification control device 100 and a first notification device 10. In this case, the first notification device 10 includes a first communication section 11 , a notification section 12 , a control section 13 , a storage section 14 , and a first acquisition device 15 .

(3) The processing executed by the notification control device 100 of the first embodiment may be executed by the first notification device 10. In this case, the first notification device 10 includes a first communication section 11 , a notification section 12 , a control section 13 , a storage section 14 , and a first acquisition device 15 . Further, the control unit 13 of the first notification device 10 includes a determination unit 112 and a notification control unit 113.

(4) Although the first acquisition device 15 in Embodiment 1 is arranged on the ceiling surface BL2 of the building BL, the present invention is not limited thereto. The first acquisition device 15 is, for example, a lighting device. The lighting device is a desk light. A desk light is placed on the desk T. The desk light includes an ON/OFF switch. That is, when the ON/OFF switch is in the ON state, the first acquisition device 15 can acquire presence information regarding the presence of a person.

(5) In Embodiments 1 to 4, the first notification device 10 is a lighting device, but the invention is not limited to this. The first notification device 10 may be, for example, an audio output device. The audio output device is, for example, a speaker. The audio output device can notify the degree of congestion by outputting audio. Further, the first notification device 10 may be, for example, a mobile terminal having a display section. The mobile terminal is, for example, a smartphone. The display unit can notify the user of the degree of congestion by displaying an image showing the congestion.

(6) The first acquisition device 15 of Embodiments 1 to 4 may acquire position information of a mobile terminal. Specifically, the first acquisition device 15 acquires position information from a mobile terminal owned by a person located on the floor surface BL1 of the building BL. Location information is an example of "presence information." In other words, the determination unit 112 can determine whether or not a specific area is crowded based on the location information. Specifically, it can be determined whether a specific area is crowded or not, depending on the number of acquired location information.

(7) In the first embodiment, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the light source unit LS is controlled to execute the first process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the light source unit LS may be controlled to execute the second process. In other words, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so as to execute the second process of reducing the amount of light to be smaller than the amount of light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. control section LS. That is, since the light source unit LS of the first area A1 irradiates the first area A1 with a small amount of light, it is easier to visually recognize a person located in the first area A1 than when the first area A1 is irradiated with a large amount of light. It becomes difficult. On the other hand, since the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4 are irradiated with light with a larger amount of light than the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4 are This makes it easier to visually recognize people located in the area. Therefore, the user can see that the first area A1 is crowded by comparing the first area A1 with the second to fourth areas A2 to A4. In other words, the user can determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on the difference in the amount of light from the light source section LS. As a result, users can be encouraged to avoid the crowded first area A1 and use the second area A2 to fourth area A4.

Further, in the first embodiment, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the light source unit LS is controlled to execute the second process, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the light source unit LS may be controlled to perform the first process. That is, when the determination unit 112 determines that the first area A1 is not crowded, the notification control unit 113 controls the light source unit LS so as to execute the first process of increasing the amount of light larger than the amount of light emitted by the light source unit LS during normal times. control section LS. That is, since the light source unit LS of the first area A1 irradiates the first area A1 with a large amount of light, the number of people located in the first area A1 is reduced compared to the case where the first area A1 is irradiated with a small amount of light. It becomes easy to visually recognize. On the other hand, since the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4 are irradiated with light with a smaller amount of light than the first area A1, the second area A2, the third area A3, and the fourth area A4 are It becomes difficult to see people located in In other words, the user can determine whether or not the first area A1 is crowded based on the difference in the amount of light from the light source section LS. As a result, users can be encouraged to avoid the crowded second area A2 to fourth area A4 and use the first area A1.

The present invention provides a notification device, a notification control device, a notification control method, and a notification control system, and has industrial applicability.

1 : Notification control system 11 : First communication part 12 : Notification part 13 : Control part 21 : First communication part 22 : Notification part 23 : Control part 31 : First communication part 32 : Notification part 33 : Control part 41 : First 1 communication section 42: notification section 43: control section 100: notification control device 101: control section 103: second communication section 111: acquisition section 112: determination section 113: notification control section 151: display section 155: acquisition section 156: control Section BL: Building C: Chair LS: Light source section LSA: First light source section LSB: Second light source section

Claims (13)

a determination unit that determines the degree of congestion in the specific area of the building based on presence information regarding the presence of people in the specific area;
A notification device comprising: a notification unit that notifies a user of the degree of congestion in the specific area. an acquisition unit that acquires the presence information;
The notification device according to claim 1, further comprising: a notification control unit that controls the notification unit to notify the degree of congestion in the specific area based on the determination result of the determination unit. The notification control unit controls the notification of the notification unit depending on whether the determination unit determines that the specific area is congested or the determination unit determines that the specific area is not congested. The notification device according to claim 2, having different aspects. The notification section includes a light source section that emits light,
When the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, the notification control unit controls the light source unit so that the light source unit executes the first process,
If the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded, the notification control unit controls the light source unit so that the light source unit executes a second process different from the first process,
The first processing and the second processing refer to processing in which at least one of the amount of light, the color of the light, and the period for emitting the light is changed,
The notification according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first process and the second process differ in at least one of the amount of light, the color of the light, and the period during which the light is emitted. Device. If the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded after the light source unit executes the first process, the notification control unit may notify the user that work will be performed in the specific area. 5. The notification device according to claim 4, wherein the light source section is controlled to notify the user. 5. The notification control unit controls the light source unit so that the light source unit executes the second process when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the light source unit executed the first process. Notification device described. The light source section includes a first light source section and a second light source section that emits light in a different direction from the first light source section,
The notification device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein when the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, the notification control unit controls the second light source unit. The light source section includes a first light source section and a second light source section that emits light at a different light distribution angle from the first light source section,
The notification device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein when the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, the notification control unit controls the second light source unit. The light source section includes a first light source section and a second light source section that emits light of a different color from the first light source section,
The notification device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein when the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded, the notification control unit controls the second light source unit. The presence information indicates a physical quantity related to the presence of the person,
The determination unit determines whether the physical quantity is greater than a threshold;
If the physical quantity is greater than the threshold, the determination unit determines that the specific area is crowded;
The notification device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the determination unit determines that the specific area is not crowded if the physical quantity is not greater than the threshold. a determination unit that determines whether or not the specific area is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of a person located in the specific area of the building;
An information control device comprising: a notification control unit that controls a notification unit to notify a determination result of the determination unit. a step in which the determination unit determines whether the specific area is crowded based on presence information regarding the presence of a person in the specific area of the building;
A notification control method comprising the steps of: a notification control section controlling a notification section according to a determination result of the determination section. An information control system comprising: a notification device that reports the degree of crowding of people in a specific area of a building; and a notification control device that controls the notification device.
The notification device includes:
a notification unit that notifies users of the degree of congestion in the specific area;
a first communication unit that transmits presence information regarding the presence of a person in the specific area to the notification control device;
The notification control device includes:
a second communication unit that receives the presence information transmitted from the first communication unit;
a determination unit that determines the degree of congestion in the specific area based on the presence information;
An information control system comprising: a notification control section that controls the notification section to notify the degree of congestion in the specific area based on a determination result of the determination section.

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