JP3343816B2 - Emergency call system terminal equipment and emergency call system - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an emergency notification system terminal device, and an emergency notification system for mounting and operating the emergency notification system terminal device on a vehicle and communicating with a center that controls the emergency notification system in an emergency. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus having a function to cope with abnormalities such as an emergency notification system terminal device not operating.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, when an emergency notification system terminal device is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile and an accident or sudden illness occurs during driving, the terminal device is connected to a police station via a base station of a communication carrier. , And is used for communication with a center that has jurisdiction over an emergency call system such as an emergency call center.

FIG. 10 shows a transmitter of a conventional emergency notification system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-198592, and its operation will be described. As shown in FIG. 10, a transmitting device 70 of the emergency notification system includes a GPS receiving unit 71.
Main control means 72, emergency notification means 73,
It comprises input / display / communication means 74, storage means 75, abnormality detection means 76, and power supply 77, which are connected to each other via a data bus 700. The GPS receiving means 71 receives position information and the like via the GPS data link 701. The main control means 72 is the GPS receiving means 7
1 to periodically read out the received data, calculate time data and position data, and store them in the storage means 75. Further, the main control means 72 controls the entire transmitting device 70. The emergency notification means 73 connects the transmitting device 70 to the wireless public telephone line 7.
02, and performs input / display / communication means 7
Reference numeral 4 performs input and display of the telephone number of the other party, communication with the other party, input of control information to the transmitting device 70, and the like. The abnormality detecting means 76 detects an abnormality when, for example, an impact, heat, rotation, or the like is applied to a moving body such as an automobile on which the transmitting device 70 is mounted, and notifies the main control means 72 of the abnormality. The power supply 77 receives supply of main power from the moving body, and supplies the power to each unit. Also, the power supply 77
Functions as a backup power source for the transmitting device 70 when the main power source of the moving object is cut off.

In the configuration of the transmitting device 70, a GPS receiving means 71 receives position information via a GPS data link 701, and a main control means 72 periodically reads data received from the GPS receiving means 71, The time data and the position data are calculated based on the information, and the contents of the storage unit 75 are updated with the latest time data and the position data obtained by the calculation. We constantly monitor for abnormalities due to impact, heat, rotation, etc. on the moving object, and when that abnormality is detected,
The main control unit 72 notifies the main control unit 72 of the fact, and upon receiving the abnormality detection notification from the abnormality detection unit 76, the main control unit 72 controls the emergency call communication unit 73 to connect the dialing line to the center that controls the emergency call system. Is performed, and an abnormality occurrence message created based on the latest time data and position data stored in the storage means 75 is transmitted to the center. As a result, even if the driver cannot communicate with the outside due to a mobile accident, etc.,
The abnormality occurrence of the moving body can be promptly transmitted to the outside together with the position.

On the other hand, a technique for improving the safety of a vehicle such as an automobile by improving the reliability of the vehicle itself is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-151780. A microcomputer (microcomputer) is sometimes used for electronic control in an electronic control unit (ECU) such as an engine control unit that functionally shares various control objects in the vehicle. Also, when configuring a control system using microcomputers, instead of performing all controls with a single microcomputer, the control process is divided into multiple processes and a separate microcomputer is assigned to each process. In some cases, data of another microcomputer is configured in a form called a multi-microcomputer system in which data can be obtained through a communication path connecting the microcomputers. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of this multi-microcomputer system. Here, an electronic control unit 90 is composed of two microcomputers, a first microcomputer 91 and a second microcomputer 92, which are connected by a communication path 93. First control object 94, second control object 9
5 is controlled. By using such a configuration, it is possible for the microcomputers to monitor each other's abnormalities via the communication line 93 at the same time as the microcomputers exchange data with each other. This has the effect of increasing the reliability and, consequently, the reliability of the vehicle itself.

As described above, in order to ensure the safety of a mobile body such as an automobile, at the same time as improving the reliability of the vehicle itself, the emergency situation of the mobile body is immediately reported to the center responsible for the emergency report system from the emergency report system terminal device. An emergency call system has been implemented.

[0007]

In the above-described transmission device of the conventional emergency notification system, when an accident such as an automobile or a mobile body itself or an abnormality such as an sudden illness occurs,
The occurrence of the abnormality is reported to the center by the driver or the abnormality detecting means by the emergency report system. Further, the operation including the abnormality of the transmission device itself is managed by the main control means for controlling the entire transmission device. However, if an abnormality such as a failure occurs in the main control means, the main control means itself becomes abnormal, so that the abnormality cannot be transmitted to the user and the user is left in an abnormal state. Since it is not possible to keep a history, it has been difficult to determine the cause of the abnormality.

On the other hand, as described above, a means such as a multi-microcomputer system has been used as a means for improving the reliability of a vehicle such as a conventional automobile in order to enhance the safety of the vehicle itself. In other words, as a means for coping with a failure of a control unit such as an engine in a vehicle, two microcomputers that normally control a control target monitor each other's abnormalities, so that even if one becomes abnormal, the other can detect the abnormality. It is a means for detecting and taking measures such as promptly informing the driver. Efforts have been made to increase the reliability of vehicles that are considered important in safety as described above. Not enough measures have been taken to improve the reliability of the reporting system terminal itself. That is, when the main control means in the transmission device of the above-mentioned conventional emergency notification system becomes abnormal, the user cannot know the abnormality at that time,
When the emergency report system does not operate at the time of the emergency, the user is notified of the abnormality for the first time. However, there is a disadvantage that the emergency report system cannot be used in an emergency.

The present invention has been made in order to solve such a problem. Even if an emergency notification system terminal device itself becomes abnormal, it is necessary to promptly report the abnormality to the user and leave a history of the abnormality. This makes it possible to identify the cause, and also enables the abnormal control unit to return to the normal state, thereby providing an emergency notification system with higher reliability and safety. The purpose is to contribute to further improving the security of the entire mobile system.

[0010] Further, the conventional example of a multi-microcomputer system for improving the reliability of the above-mentioned conventional engine control unit and the like aims to prevent a vehicle accident before it occurs. Another object of the present invention is to prevent a situation in which an emergency call does not operate when a suddenly ill person appears.

[0011]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided:
Emergency call system terminal equipment is mounted on the vehicle,
Emergency call notification processing to the center responsible for the notification system
Emergency call system
Main control unit that controls the system terminal equipment, and external equipment
Sub-controller that controls communicationAnd the main control
Unit monitors the operation of the sub-control unitHave a configuration to
You. With this configuration,Usually controls each controlled object
The main control unit and sub-control unit
Monitoring of abnormal operation of the
Even if the control unit becomes abnormal, the main control unit
Anomaly can be detected and communicated to the user
You.

[0012]

[0013]

[0014]

Further, emergency call system terminal device according to claim 2 of the present invention includes a main control unit for monitoring the operation of the sub-control unit by monitoring the periodic communication signals from the sub-control unit. With this configuration, the main control unit normally controls the emergency notification system terminal equipment,
Since the operation status of the sub-control unit is regularly monitored, the main control unit can perform the original control process of the main control unit and the abnormality monitoring process of the sub-control unit with simple changes.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to the third aspect of the present invention, the periodic communication signal from the sub-control unit is a serial signal, and the sub-control is performed by data based on a predetermined format from the serial signal. It has a main control unit that monitors the operation of the unit. With this configuration, the operation of the sub-control unit can be easily monitored with only a few serial signal lines without increasing the number of wires such as a data bus.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 4 of the present invention, the periodic communication signal from the sub-control unit is a signal that changes periodically such as a clock waveform, and the periodic communication signal The main control unit has a configuration for monitoring the operation of the sub control unit. With this configuration,
A signal for monitoring the operation can be monitored by a digital method, and a malfunction due to noise or the like which becomes a problem when monitored by an analog method can be prevented.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to the fifth aspect of the present invention monitors the periodic communication signal from the sub-control unit, and if the monitored periodic communication signal is other than a normal signal, the sub-control unit It has a main control unit that determines that there is an abnormality. With this configuration, the main control unit can determine whether the operation state of the sub control unit is normal or abnormal.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 6 of the present invention, the main control unit monitors the periodic communication signal from the sub-control unit, and when the monitored periodic communication signal is not received, It has a main control unit that determines that the sub control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, even when the monitoring signal has not been received, the main control unit can detect that some abnormality has occurred in the sub control unit.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 7 of the present invention, the main control unit monitors the periodic communication signal from the sub-control unit, and the monitored periodic communication signal is a signal indicating an abnormality. In this case, a main control unit that determines that the sub control unit is abnormal is provided. With this configuration, the main control unit correctly indicates whether the sub control unit is normal or abnormal.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 8 of the present invention, when the sub-control unit is abnormal, the main control unit outputs a reset signal to the sub-control unit to reset the sub-control unit to the initial state. It has a main control unit that returns to resume operation. With this configuration, it is possible to automatically and quickly return the abnormality of the sub-control unit to the normal state,
In addition, since the operation is restored by returning to the initial state, it is possible to reduce a possibility that an abnormality occurs again when the operation is restored with some abnormality left.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention has a main control unit for performing a process of, when the sub-control unit is abnormal, storing the abnormality in the history. With this configuration, since the abnormality state of the sub-control unit is left in the history, abnormality diagnosis can be performed based on the history, and the diagnosis result can be used for improving the reliability of the sub-control unit.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 10 of the present invention, when the sub-control unit does not shift to the normal operation by the reset signal and continues the abnormal state, determines that the sub-control unit is abnormal. It has a main control unit that performs processing to leave it in the history. With this configuration, since the state of the abnormality of the sub-control unit is left in the history, the abnormality can be diagnosed based on the history, and the abnormality can be repaired at an early stage.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 11 of the present invention, the main control unit acquires history data recording an abnormality of the sub-control unit from a device connected to the outside of the emergency call system terminal device. It has a function to do. With this configuration, the main control unit can confirm the abnormal state at an early stage by a function of acquiring the history data of the abnormal state in the sub-control unit from an externally connected device, and can repair the abnormality at an early stage.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 12 of the present invention, the signal for outputting the history data to the outside is a serial signal. With this configuration, it is possible to easily confirm the abnormality history data of the sub control unit with only a few serial signal lines.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, when the sub-control unit is abnormal, the main control unit has a function of notifying a user that the sub-control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the abnormality of the sub-control unit can be promptly transmitted to the user, so that the user can know for the first time in an emergency without knowing the abnormality. Can be prevented from being unavailable.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 14 of the present invention, when the sub-control unit does not shift to the normal operation due to the reset signal and continues in the abnormal state, the main control unit determines that the sub-control unit is abnormal. It has a function to notify the user that With this configuration, the abnormality of the sub-control unit can be promptly transmitted to the user, so that the user does not need to know that the abnormality is continuing without knowing that the emergency has occurred for the first time. In this case, the inconvenience that the emergency call system cannot be used can be prevented.

Further, the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 15 of the present invention is mounted on a vehicle and has an emergency call system.
It is necessary to conduct emergency call notification processing to the center responsible for the system.
Emergency call system terminal equipment
Communication between the main control unit that controls external devices and external devices
A sub-control unit for performing control, wherein the sub-control unit is
It has a configuration for monitoring the operation of the main control unit . With this configuration, the main control unit and the sub-control unit that normally control the respective control targets can monitor the operation abnormality of the main control unit with the sub-control unit.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 16 of the present invention has a sub-control unit for monitoring the operation of the main control unit by monitoring a periodic communication signal from the main control unit. With this configuration, the operation status of the main control unit is periodically monitored while the sub control unit normally controls the emergency notification system terminal device. Therefore, the sub control unit performs the original control processing of the sub control unit. And the abnormality monitoring process of the main control unit can be performed with a simple change.

Furthermore, emergency call system terminal equipment according to claim 17, wherein the present invention, periodic communication signals from the main control unit is a serial signal, the data based on a predetermined format from the serial signal, the main control It has a sub-control unit for monitoring the operation of the unit. With this configuration, the operation of the main control unit can be easily monitored using only a few serial signal lines without increasing the number of wires such as a data bus.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 18 of the present invention, the periodic communication signal is a signal that changes periodically such as a clock waveform, and the sub-control unit is operated by the periodic communication signal. It has a configuration for monitoring the operation of the control unit. With this configuration, it is possible to monitor a signal for monitoring the operation by a digital method, and it is possible to prevent a malfunction due to noise or the like as in the analog method.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 19 of the present invention monitors the periodic communication signal from the main control unit, and when the monitored periodic communication signal is other than the normal signal, the main control unit. It has a sub-control unit that determines that there is an abnormality. With this configuration, the sub-control unit can determine whether the operation state of the main control unit is normal or abnormal.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 20 of the present invention, the sub-control unit monitors the periodic communication signal from the main control unit, and when the monitored periodic communication signal is not received, It has a sub control unit that determines that the main control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the sub-control unit
When the monitoring signal has not been received, the sub control unit can detect that some abnormality has occurred in the main control unit.

Furthermore, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 21 of the present invention, the sub-controller monitors a periodic communication signal from the main control unit, and the monitored periodic communication signal indicates an abnormality. In this case, a sub-control unit that determines that the main control unit is abnormal is provided. With this configuration, the sub-control unit can determine whether the main control unit is normal or abnormal.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 22 of the present invention, when the main control unit is abnormal, the sub control unit outputs a reset signal to the main control unit,
There is a sub-control unit for returning the main control unit to the initial state and restoring the operation. With this configuration, the sub control unit can automatically and promptly return the abnormality of the main control unit to the normal state, and return the operation by returning the main control unit to the initial state. It is possible to reduce the possibility that an abnormality occurs again when the apparatus is returned to the original state.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 23 of the present invention has a sub-control unit for performing a process of, when the main control unit is abnormal, recording the abnormality in the history. With this configuration, the sub-control unit leaves the state of the abnormality of the main control unit in the history, so that abnormality diagnosis can be performed based on the history, and the diagnosis result can be used for improving the reliability of the main control unit.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 24 of the present invention, when the main control unit does not shift to the normal operation due to the reset signal and continues in the abnormal state, the sub control unit may determine that the main control unit is abnormal. Is provided in the history. With this configuration, the sub-control unit leaves the state of the abnormality of the main control unit in the history, so that the abnormality can be diagnosed based on the history, and the abnormality can be repaired early.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to the twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention has a function of acquiring history data recording an abnormality of the main control unit from a device connected to the outside of the emergency notification system terminal device. With this configuration,
The sub-control unit can confirm the state of the abnormality at an early stage by a function of acquiring the history data of the abnormal state in the main control unit from an externally connected device, and can repair the abnormality at an early stage.

Furthermore, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 26 of the present invention, the signal for outputting the history data to the outside is a serial signal. With this configuration, it is possible to easily confirm the abnormality history data of the main control unit using only a few serial signal lines.

Further, the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 27 of the present invention has a function that, when the main control unit is abnormal, the sub-control unit notifies the user that the main control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the abnormality of the main control unit can be promptly transmitted to the user, so that the user can know for the first time in an emergency without knowing the abnormality. Can be prevented from being unavailable.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 28 of the present invention, when the main control unit does not shift to the normal operation due to the reset signal and continues in the abnormal state, the sub control unit determines that the main control unit is abnormal. It has a function to notify the user that With this configuration, the abnormality of the main control unit can be promptly transmitted to the user, so that the user does not need to know that the abnormality is continuing without knowing that an emergency situation has occurred for the first time. In this case, the inconvenience that the emergency call system cannot be used can be prevented.

An emergency call system according to claim 29 of the present invention, wherein said emergency call system terminal device and said emergency call system are integrated and said emergency call system receives an emergency call transmission signal from said emergency call system terminal device. And a center. With this configuration, even if the emergency notification system terminal itself becomes abnormal, the abnormality is immediately transmitted to the user, and the history of the abnormality is recorded, so that it is possible to verify the emergency notification system terminal device by identifying the cause. , Providing an emergency call system terminal device capable of returning to a normal state by applying a reset signal to an abnormal control unit, thereby providing an emergency call system with higher reliability and safety. This can contribute to further improving the safety of the entire mobile system such as an automobile.

Further, the terminal device for emergency call system according to claim 30 of the present invention has a configuration in which the operation of the airbag is monitored by connecting to the airbag and acquiring a periodic signal from the airbag. ing. With this configuration, it is possible to monitor the operation of the airbag by acquiring a periodic signal from the airbag.

Further, an emergency call system terminal device according to claim 31 of the present invention includes a main control unit for controlling an emergency call system and a sub control unit, and transmits a periodic signal from the airbag to the main control unit. The main control unit that has acquired the periodic signal from the airbag outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been acquired to the sub-control unit. It has a configuration for monitoring the operation of the main control unit. With this configuration, the operations of the airbag and the main control unit can be monitored by the sub control unit.

Further, an emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32 of the present invention includes a main control unit for controlling the emergency call system and a sub control unit, and transmits a periodic signal from the airbag to the sub control unit. The sub control unit that has acquired the periodic signal from the airbag outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been acquired to the main control unit. It has a configuration for monitoring the operation of the sub-control unit. With this configuration, the operation of the airbag and the sub-control unit can be monitored by the main control unit.

Furthermore, an emergency call system terminal device according to claim 33 of the present invention includes a main control unit for controlling an emergency call system and a sub control unit, and transmits a periodic signal from the airbag to the main control unit. The main control unit that has obtained the periodic signal from the airbag outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained to the sub-control unit, and the main control unit itself generates another periodic signal. By outputting, the operation of the airbag and the main control unit is monitored, and when the periodic signal is not input normally, the sub-control unit determines which of the airbag and the main control unit is abnormal. Has functions. With this configuration, the main control unit outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained to the sub-control unit, and the main control unit itself outputs another periodic signal, whereby the operation of the airbag and the main control unit is performed. And if the periodic signal is not normally input, the sub-control unit can determine which of the airbag and the main control unit is abnormal, and it is possible to approach the abnormality at an early stage.

Further, an emergency call system terminal device according to claim 34 of the present invention includes a main control unit for controlling the emergency call system and a sub control unit, and transmits a periodic signal from the airbag to the sub control unit. The sub-control unit that has acquired and acquired the periodic signal from the airbag outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been acquired to the main control unit, and the sub-control unit itself outputs another periodic signal. By doing so, it has a function of monitoring the operation of the airbag and the sub-control unit and determining which of the airbag and the sub-control unit is abnormal in the main control unit when the periodic signal is not input normally. . With this configuration, the sub-control unit outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained to the main control unit, and the sub-control unit itself outputs another periodic signal, whereby the airbag and the sub-control unit The main control unit can determine which of the airbag and the sub-control unit is abnormal, and can approach an early abnormality repair if the periodical signal is not normally input. Becomes

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 35 of the present invention, the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself are serial signals. The main control unit monitors the operation of the sub control unit based on data based on a specific format from the serial signal. With this configuration, the main control unit can monitor the operation of the sub control unit based on the data based on the specific format from the serial signal.

Furthermore, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 36 of the present invention, the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself have a clock waveform. The main control unit monitors the operation of the sub control unit based on the periodic signal. With this configuration, the main control unit can monitor the operation of the sub control unit by the periodic signal.

Furthermore, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 37 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A signal is monitored, and when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are other than the normal signal, it is determined that any of the airbag and the sub-control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are other than the normal signal, determines that the airbag and the sub control unit are abnormal. And an early approach to abnormal repair is possible.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 38 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A signal is monitored, and when the periodic signal indicating the status of the monitored airbag is other than a normal signal, it is determined that the airbag is abnormal. With this configuration, the main control unit
If the regular signal indicating the status of the airbag being monitored is other than the normal signal, it can be determined that the airbag is abnormal, and it is possible to approach an early abnormality repair. Become.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 39 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. It is configured to monitor the signal and determine that the sub-control unit is abnormal if another periodic signal output by the monitored sub-control unit is other than a normal signal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when another periodic signal output by the monitored sub-control unit is other than the normal signal, the main control unit can determine that the sub-control unit is abnormal. Thus, an early approach to abnormal repair can be achieved.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 40 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A signal is monitored, and when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are not received, it is determined that any of the airbag and the sub control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when the monitored periodic signal and another periodic signal are not received, determines that the airbag and the sub-control unit are abnormal. And an early approach to abnormal repair is possible.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 41 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A signal is monitored, and if the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are signals indicating an abnormality, it is determined that any of the airbag and the sub-control unit is abnormal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are signals indicating an abnormality, an abnormality of any of the airbag and the sub control unit is determined. It is possible to make a judgment, and an early approach to abnormal repair can be made.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 42 of the present invention, the main control unit outputs a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A configuration for performing a process of monitoring a signal and, when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are other than the normal signal, leaving a history indicating that any of the airbag and the sub-control unit is abnormal. Have. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors a periodic signal, and when the monitored periodic signal and the another periodic signal are other than the normal signal, it is an abnormality in one of the airbag and the sub control unit. It is possible to carry out a process of leaving the history in the history, and it is possible to facilitate repair work using the history.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 43 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit, and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. It has a configuration in which a signal is monitored, and if the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag is other than a normal signal, a process of recording in the history that the airbag is abnormal is performed. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag is other than a normal signal, can perform a process of recording in the history that the airbag is abnormal, Repair work using the history can be facilitated.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 44 of the present invention, the main control unit outputs a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. The sub-control unit is configured to monitor a signal and perform a process of leaving a history indicating that the sub-control unit is abnormal when another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit is other than a normal signal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and performs a process of recording in the history that the sub control unit is abnormal when another periodic signal output by the sub control unit is other than a normal signal. And the repair work using the history can be facilitated.

Further, in the emergency call system terminal device according to claim 45 of the present invention, the main control unit transmits history data in which abnormality of the sub control unit is recorded from a device connected to the outside of the emergency call system terminal device. It has a function to acquire. With this configuration, the main control unit can acquire the history data in which the abnormality of the sub-control unit is recorded from the externally connected device, and facilitates the analysis and repair work of the abnormality using the acquired history data. be able to.

Furthermore, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 46 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. It has a function of monitoring a signal and notifying the user of a malfunction of the airbag using a sound and an indicator when the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag is other than a normal signal. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag is other than the normal signal, notifies the user of the airbag abnormality using a sound and an indicator, By performing the repair in advance, it is possible to solve problems such as the inability to process an emergency call in the event of an accident or the like.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 47 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. It has a configuration that has a function of monitoring a signal and notifying a user using a sound and an indicator that the sub-control unit is abnormal when another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself is other than a normal signal. ing. With this configuration, the main control unit monitors the periodic signal, and when another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit is other than a normal signal, notifies the user of the abnormality of the sub-control unit using a sound and an indicator. By notifying and performing repairs in advance, problems such as the inability to process an emergency call in the event of an accident or the like can be resolved.

Further, in the emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 48 of the present invention, the main control unit includes a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. A signal is monitored, and a response signal is output for each of a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. With this configuration, it is possible to confirm whether the periodic signal is correctly processed by outputting a response signal to each of the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself. To enhance normal operation maintenance and detect abnormalities.

Further, an emergency call system according to claim 49 of the present invention controls the emergency call system terminal device according to any one of claims 33 to 51, and controls the emergency call system. And an emergency call center for receiving an emergency call transmission signal from the terminal device. With this configuration, even if the emergency notification system terminal itself becomes abnormal, the abnormality is immediately transmitted to the user, and the history of the abnormality is recorded, so that it is possible to verify the emergency notification system terminal device by identifying the cause. , Providing an emergency call system terminal device capable of returning to a normal state by applying a reset signal to an abnormal control unit, thereby providing an emergency call system with higher reliability and safety. This can contribute to further improving the safety of the entire mobile system such as an automobile.

[0063]

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

(First Embodiment) An emergency call system terminal device according to a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a main control unit for controlling the entire emergency call system terminal device, and an onboard LA.
A sub-control unit that controls communication with external devices installed in the vehicle by N (local area network) or the like is provided. Each of the main control unit and the sub-control unit monitors each other's control units and detects abnormalities. Is detected,
This is an emergency notification system terminal device having a control processing function of transmitting an abnormality to a user.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an emergency call system terminal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the emergency call system terminal device 1
In the event of an emergency such as a traffic accident or sudden illness, it is mounted on a vehicle such as a car and is assigned to a center (hereinafter referred to as a center) that has an emergency call system such as a police or emergency call center.
It is a device that transmits data such as current vehicle position information and registered vehicles to make an emergency vehicle dispatch request. The communication antenna 2 transmits a signal transmitted from the emergency report communication means 11 to the base station of the communication carrier and outputs a signal received from the communication carrier to the emergency report communication means 11. The emergency call transmission button 3 is a button that is pressed by a user in an emergency such as a traffic accident or sudden illness to generate a signal for starting an emergency call transmission process. The GPS antenna 4 is an antenna that receives data from a GPS satellite. The main battery 5
A battery that supplies power to the electrical equipment of the vehicle and also supplies power to the emergency notification system terminal device 1. The microphone 6 is a microphone that outputs a user's voice to the emergency notification system terminal device 1 at the time of voice call notification in the emergency notification notification process, and a microphone module including an amplification circuit and the like. The speaker 7 is a speaker for loudspeaking a voice signal received from the center at the time of voice call communication. The indicator 8 is an indicator for transmitting the operation state of the emergency notification system terminal device 1 to the user using a lighting device or the like.

In the emergency call system terminal device 1, the emergency call notification means 11 responds to the call request signal from the main control unit 12 via the base station or the like of the communication carrier according to the telephone number input from the main control unit 12. Then, a call originating process is started to the other party corresponding to the telephone number. When receiving a signal for shifting to a call, such as an outgoing call response from a call partner or a busy signal, the process shifts to voice call control or data communication control, and sends a signal indicating that the shift to a call has been made to the main control unit 12. Output to Further, the information such as the traveling direction and direction of the vehicle and the data such as the position information input from the main control unit 12 are transferred to a center corresponding to the telephone number corresponding to the telephone number via a communication carrier base station or the like. Perform the process of sending to.

The main control unit 12 includes a microcomputer,
In addition to controlling the recording of data such as the position information acquired from the position information acquisition processing unit 14 in the storage unit 15 and controlling the entire emergency call system terminal equipment, the operation of the sub-control unit 19 is monitored, and the indicator 8 The abnormality is communicated to the user using, for example,. Further, it is recognized from the operation signal from the emergency call transmission button 3 that an emergency call request has been made, and is obtained from the position information acquisition processing unit 14 and recorded in the storage unit 15 or the like in order to start the emergency call contact processing. Enter data such as location information. Further, from the storage unit 15,
Get the center phone number. Using the telephone number, a call origination request is made to the emergency call communication means 11. Further, when a response signal from the other party corresponding to the telephone number or a signal such as a busy signal which shifts to a busy state is received from the emergency call notification unit 11, it is recognized that the state has shifted to the talking state. Further, the position information acquisition processing unit 14
A signal for transmitting the position information history data obtained from the telephone number to the center corresponding to the telephone number corresponding to the telephone number via the base station of the telecommunications carrier, etc.
Perform processing to output to.

The gyro sensor 13 is a means for generating information such as the traveling direction and direction of the vehicle. The position information acquisition processing unit 14 outputs to the main control unit 12 data such as data from the gyro sensor 13 and data such as position information generated from data received from the GPS antenna 4 by the GPS receiver 16. The storage unit 15 is a memory for recording information such as the telephone number of the center, the registration number of the vehicle on which the emergency notification system terminal device 1 is mounted, and the position information generated by the position information acquisition processing unit 14. The data recorded according to the request signal from 12 is output. The GPS receiver 16 is a device that performs a process of outputting data such as position information to the position information acquisition processing unit 14 based on data obtained from the GPS antenna 4. The hands-free device 17 uses a signal processing and level adjustment function to transmit a voice signal from a user during a voice call, in order to realize a hands-free voice call during an emergency call contact process.
And a signal processing device that performs an echo cancellation process and a howling control process on the audio signal of the audio signal received from the center.

The power supply control device 18 is a power supply circuit for supplying power to the internal circuit of the emergency notification system terminal device 1.
The sub-control unit 19 performs communication control of the LAN by a microcomputer or the like, and performs a process of converting a received signal from the LAN or another external device as it is, or converting it into a desired signal format and outputting the signal to the main control unit 12. Further, an output signal from the main control unit 12 is monitored, and the main control unit 1
When the abnormality 2 is detected, the user is notified of the occurrence of the abnormality by using the indicator 8 or the like.

The operation of the terminal device of the emergency call system according to the first embodiment of the present invention configured as described above will be described. In FIG. 1, the position information acquisition processing unit 14 has the data from the gyro sensor 13 and the GPS receiver 16 has the GP
The position information data is generated based on data received from the S antenna 4 or the like. The main control unit 12 performs processing of periodically acquiring data such as position information from the position information acquisition processing unit 14 and recording the data in the storage unit 15.

The user presses the emergency call button 3 in an emergency such as a traffic accident or sudden illness. Emergency call button 3
Outputs a signal indicating that the button is pressed to the main control unit 12 by the user. The main control unit 12 recognizes from the operation signal from the emergency call transmission button 3 that an emergency call transmission request has been made, and starts the emergency call communication process.

When the sub-control unit 19 receives a signal requesting an automatic emergency report communication process such as an airbag deployment signal from the LAN, the sub-control unit 19 outputs a signal requesting the emergency report communication process to the main control unit 12. Also, the main control unit 12 starts the emergency call notification process.

The main control unit 12 obtains the data such as the position information accumulated from the storage unit 15 and the telephone number of the center, and makes a call request to the emergency call communication means 11 using the telephone number. Emergency call notification means 1
1 uses a communication antenna 2 to start a telephone call processing to a call partner corresponding to the telephone number via a base station of a communication carrier or the like.

When receiving an outgoing call response from the other party or a signal such as a busy signal that shifts to a busy state, the emergency call notification means 11 recognizes that the state has shifted to the talking state, and performs voice communication control or data communication. A transition is made to control and a signal notifying that the transition has been made during a call is output to the main control unit 12. The main control unit 12 determines that the call is successful, and transmits data such as position information to a center, which is a call partner corresponding to the telephone number, via a base station of a communication carrier or the like. I do.

The center is the emergency notification system terminal 1
When all of the position information data from the terminal has been received, a process for switching to a voice call is performed. When receiving a signal indicating that the communication has shifted to a voice call, the emergency notification communication unit 11 incorporated in the emergency notification system terminal device 1 outputs a signal indicating that the communication has shifted to a voice call to the main control unit 12. When the main control unit 12 receives the signal indicating the shift to the voice call, the main control unit 12 performs control to connect the emergency call notification unit 11 and the voice path of the hands-free device 17, and shifts to a voice call notification process.

At the time of voice call contact processing, the emergency call contact means 1
1 outputs a voice signal received from the center to the hands-free device 17. Using the signal processing circuit, the hands-free device 17 obtains an audio level and frequency characteristics from the received audio signal, performs processing such as increasing the audio level of the received audio signal, and outputs the result to the speaker 7. The speaker 7 performs a process of vocalizing a received voice signal input from the hands-free device 17 and transmits the signal to a user.

The microphone 6 obtains a voice signal from the user and a received voice signal loudspeaked from the speaker 7 and outputs them to the hands-free device 17. Hands-free device 17
Is a sound level obtained from a received sound signal, when a transmission signal having a signal component similar to the frequency characteristic is input,
Judgment is made on the echo component of the received voice signal input by the microphone 6, a process for removing the echo component is performed, and the result is output to the emergency notification communication unit 11. The emergency call notification means 11 performs a process of receiving a transmission voice signal from the hands-free device 17 and transmitting it to the center.

The main control unit 12 and the sub-control unit 19 perform periodic communication, and periodically check each other's operation using a periodically changing signal such as a serial signal or a clock waveform as a periodic communication signal. Continue and monitor each other's activities. When the main control unit 12 cannot output a normal signal due to abnormality or the like, that is, when the periodic communication signal is a signal indicating abnormality, a signal other than a signal indicating normal, or no signal output, the sub control unit 19 Is detected as an abnormality in the main control unit 12, and the user is notified of the occurrence of the abnormality using the indicator 8 or the like. Also,
When the sub-control unit 19 cannot output a normal signal due to abnormality or the like, that is, when the periodic communication signal is a signal indicating abnormality, a signal other than a signal indicating normal, or no signal output, the main control unit 12 , The abnormality is detected in the sub-control unit 19, and the user is notified that the abnormality has occurred by using the indicator 8 or the like.

The main control unit 12 and the sub control unit 19
The communication path is an independent path using a periodically changing signal such as a serial signal or a clock waveform as a periodic communication signal. However, the communication path may be performed via a data bus for performing data communication of each unit.

With the above-described configuration, it is possible to detect an abnormality in the main control unit 12 for controlling the emergency notification system terminal device 1 and an abnormality in the sub-control unit 19 for receiving an airbag deployment signal and the like from the in-vehicle LAN. This makes it possible to reliably perform system verification and to reliably transmit an abnormality to a user. That is,
Even when the main control unit 12 or the sub control unit 19 in the emergency call system terminal device 1 becomes abnormal, the user can quickly know the abnormality. As a result, it is possible to prevent such an inconvenience that the emergency notification system cannot be used in the event of an emergency when an abnormality is known only in an emergency. As described above, it is possible to provide an emergency notification system with higher reliability and safety, and to contribute to further improvement in the safety of the entire mobile system such as an automobile.

(Embodiment 2) In an emergency call system terminal device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, when the main control unit and the sub-control unit monitor each other and further detect an abnormality, In addition to recording the abnormality history in the storage unit,
The operation of the emergency notification system terminal device that transmits to the user using an indicator such as D will be described.

FIG. 2 shows the structure of an emergency call system terminal device that monitors the mutual relationship between the main control unit and the sub-control unit and, when an abnormality is detected, records the abnormality history in the storage unit and turns on the LED. It is a block diagram.

In FIG. 2, the emergency notification system terminal device 1 is the same as the emergency notification system terminal device 1 shown in FIG. In the emergency notification system terminal device 1 of FIG. 2, only blocks of abnormality detection and transmission means to the user are extracted and described. The indicator 8 is an indicator similar to the indicator 8 shown in FIG. The main control unit 12 is a main control unit similar to the main control unit 12 illustrated in FIG. The storage unit 15 is a memory device similar to the storage unit 15 illustrated in FIG. The sub-control unit 19 is a sub-control unit similar to the sub-control unit 19 shown in FIG. The external connection device 9 is an external communication device having a function of acquiring history data from the emergency notification system terminal device 1 by connecting to the emergency notification system terminal device 1 and displaying the contents of the history data.

In the emergency notification system terminal 1, the first diode 101 transmits a control signal from the main control unit 12 to the transistor 104 that supplies power to the indicator 8. In the emergency notification system terminal device 1, the second diode 102 transmits a control signal from the sub-control unit 19 to the transistor 104 that supplies power to the indicator 8. The first resistor 103 has a first resistance
And the control signal from the second diode 102 and the base terminal of the transistor 104 are connected in series. The transistor 104 is connected to the main control unit 1
2, and on / off control of power supply to the indicator 8 is performed according to a control signal from the sub control unit 19. In the indicator 8, the second resistor 81 includes an LED 82
The current to be input to is limited. The LED 82 is a lighting device that performs lighting control based on control signals from the main control unit 12 and the sub control unit 19.

The main control unit 12 and the sub control unit 19 monitor each other, and when an abnormality is detected, the history of the abnormality is recorded in the storage unit 15 and, in the control of turning on the LED 82, the main control unit 12 By a periodic communication signal using the communication method or a signal that changes periodically,
The sub controller 19 outputs a signal indicating that it is operating in a normal state. The sub control unit 19 includes the main control unit 12
The main controller 12 is monitored by a signal from the main controller 12. When the sub-control unit 19 receives a signal different from the main control unit 12 from the signal indicating that the sub-control unit 12 is operating in a normal state, the sub-control unit 19 determines that the operation is abnormal, and stores the data such as the history of the abnormality and A process for outputting to the storage unit 15 is performed. Storage unit 1
5 records data from the sub-control unit 19. Further, the sub control unit 19 outputs a control signal for turning on the transistor 104 via the second diode 102 and the first resistor 103. The transistor 104 is turned on by the control signal, and outputs power to the indicator 8. This power is supplied to the LED 82 via the second resistor 81, and turns on the LED 82.

Further, even when a signal for controlling ON is output from the sub-control unit 19, the control signal is cut off by the first diode 101 and the outflow to the main control unit 12 is prevented, thereby destroying the main control unit 12. Can be prevented.

Similarly to the main control unit 12, the sub-control unit 19 is operated by the main control unit 12 in a normal state by a periodic communication signal using a serial communication system or a signal that changes periodically. Output a signal indicating that The main control unit 12 monitors a signal from the sub control unit 19 and performs the same LED lighting control processing as the sub control unit 19.

When acquiring the abnormal date and time and the data indicating the abnormality recorded in the storage unit 15, the external connection device 9 is connected to the emergency notification system terminal device 1. External connection device 9
When the data acquisition request signal is output, the main control unit 12 and the sub control unit 19 acquire the data recorded in the storage unit 15 and output the acquired data to the externally connected device 9. The externally connected device 9 displays the time and the history data using the display unit or the like, so that the date and time when the abnormality has occurred and the content of the abnormality can be grasped. Communication between the emergency notification system terminal device 1 and the external connection device 9 can be easily realized by using a serial communication signal or the like.

FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing a monitoring process based on a periodic communication signal using serial communication or the like. 3, the main control unit 12 outputs a periodic communication signal, and the sub-control unit 19 outputs a periodic communication signal response to the periodic communication signal. The main control unit 12 sends the sub-control unit 19
Recognizes that is operating normally. Further, the main control unit 19 periodically outputs a periodic communication signal, and the sub-control unit 19 outputs a periodic communication signal response to the periodic communication signal. When the sub-control unit 19 receives a regular communication signal within a certain time, such as a regular communication signal, the sub-control unit 19 recognizes that the main control unit 12 is operating normally.

Further, when an abnormal signal is received from the sub-control unit 19 in response to the periodic communication signal from the main control unit 12, it is determined that the sub-control unit 19 is abnormal, and the process proceeds to an indicator lighting process and an abnormality history recording process. .

If a response signal cannot be received from the sub-control unit 19 for a certain period of time in response to the periodic communication signal from the main control unit 12, it is determined that the sub-control unit 19 is abnormal, and the indicator lighting process and the abnormality history recording process are performed. Move to

When the emergency notification system terminal device 1 has a device for generating an emergency notification transmission condition other than the emergency notification transmission button 3, such as an airbag, an electronic control unit (ECU) mounted on the airbag is used. When the status signal is acquired and a signal indicating that the airbag is deployed is acquired from the airbag, it is recognized that the airbag has been deployed due to a traffic accident or the like, and the process can proceed to an emergency call notification process. Further, by periodically acquiring the status signal from the airbag, it is possible to monitor whether the airbag is operating normally, or whether the airbag is in an abnormal state such as operation stop or disconnection.

The sub-control unit may use the periodically transmitted status signal input from the airbag as a trigger for outputting the periodic signal transmitted to the main control unit.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a sequence flow showing a monitoring process by the airbag periodic signal between the airbag, the sub-control unit and the main control unit. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow of FIG.

[0095] The sub control unit 19 controls
When a signal indicating normality is obtained, a periodic signal is transmitted to the main control unit 12. The main control unit 12 outputs a response signal to the periodic signal. Furthermore, the sub-control unit 19 uses its own timer or the like to
It outputs a signal indicating that it is a periodic signal output by itself. When the sub-control unit 19 outputs the periodic signal independently, it is possible to recognize the abnormality of the sub-control unit 19 and the abnormality of the airbag.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow between the respective devices when an abnormality occurs in the airbag in FIG. In FIG. 6, the main control unit 12 periodically transmits a signal acquired from the airbag to the sub control unit 19.
, And if both signals are input within a certain period, it is determined that the operation is normal and the monitoring process is continued. If a signal acquired from the airbag is not input even after a certain period of time, it is determined that the airbag is abnormal, and an abnormality warning process is performed using the indicator 8 or the like.

The main control unit 12 sends the response signal
By outputting a response signal to the signal acquired from the airbag and a response signal to the signal from the sub-control unit 19, and outputting a signal that can determine which signal is the response signal to, the sub-control unit 19 can be assured. Response confirmation can be performed.

The response signal may be output in another signal format. When a periodic signal is input from the sub-control unit 19 using a signal that changes periodically, the main control unit 1
2 can respond by changing the signal waveform of the periodically changing signal. Sub-control unit 19
Monitors the periodic signal transmitted from the main controller 12 and, when recognizing that the waveform has changed to a predetermined waveform within a certain period, determines that a response signal has been received and continues the monitoring operation. If the waveform does not change to a predetermined waveform even after a certain period of abnormality, it is determined that the main control unit 12 is abnormal, and an abnormality warning process is performed using the indicator 8 or the like.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow between the respective devices when an abnormality occurs in the sub-control unit in FIG. In FIG. 7, when both the signal obtained from the airbag and the signal from the sub-control unit 19 are not input after a certain period of time, the main control unit 19 determines that the sub-control unit 19 is abnormal and the indicator 8 The abnormality warning process is performed by using the method described above.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration for performing a monitoring process using a signal that changes periodically. In FIG. 8A, a signal that changes periodically is output from the main control unit 12. When the sub-control unit 19 receives the periodically changing signal from the main control unit 12, the sub-control unit 19
Recognize that is operating normally. Further, sub-control unit 1
9 outputs a signal that changes periodically. When the main control unit 12 receives a periodically changing signal from the sub control unit 19, the main control unit 12 recognizes that the sub control unit 19 is operating normally.

In FIG. 8B, the main control 12
When a signal that changes differently from the normal signal is received from the sub control unit 19, it is determined that the signal is abnormal, and the process proceeds to the indicator lighting process and the abnormality history recording process.

As described above, the main control unit monitors the regular communication signal from the sub-control unit or the sub-control unit monitors the periodic communication signal from the main control unit or a signal that changes periodically. When input, it is determined that an abnormality has occurred, the abnormality is recorded as a history, and an abnormal state can be transmitted to the user using an indicator or the like. In addition, by connecting an external connection device to the emergency call system terminal device, it is possible to acquire and display abnormality history data, identify the cause of the abnormality, and quickly repair the abnormality of the emergency call system terminal device Can be.

(Third Embodiment) In an emergency notification system terminal device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, when the main control unit and the sub-control unit monitor each other and further detect an abnormality, An operation of outputting a reset signal to a control unit having an abnormality and returning to a normal operation will be described.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the structure of an emergency call system terminal device that performs a reset process when the main control unit and the sub control unit monitor each other and detect an abnormality. 9 differs from FIG. 2 in that the main control unit 12 includes a control signal output terminal for resetting the sub-control unit 19, and the sub-control unit 19 further includes a control signal output terminal for resetting the main control unit 12. Is provided.

The main control unit 12 monitors the sub-control unit 19 with a periodic communication signal or the like, and outputs a reset signal to the sub-control unit 19 when an abnormality of the sub-control unit 19 is detected. The sub-control unit 19 shifts to the initialization state in response to the input of the reset signal, and returns to the normal operation again. If the sub control unit 19 does not return to the normal operation due to a failure or the like in response to the reset signal from the main control unit 12, the main control unit 12 determines that the sub control unit 19 is abnormal, and turns on the LED 82 lighting processing, The process proceeds to an abnormality history recording process for the unit 15.

Further, the sub-control unit 19 monitors the main control unit 12 by a periodic communication signal or the like, and
When the abnormality is detected, a reset signal is output to the main control unit 12. The main controller 12 shifts to the initialization state in response to the input of the reset signal, and returns to the normal operation again. When the main control unit 12 does not return to the normal operation due to a failure or the like in response to the reset signal from the sub control unit 19, the sub control unit 19
Then, the process proceeds to the LED 82 lighting process and the abnormality history recording process to the storage unit 15.

As described above, the main control unit monitors a periodic communication signal or a signal that changes periodically from the sub control unit or the sub control unit from the main control unit, and a signal other than a normal signal is monitored. In this case, it is possible to return to a normal operation by performing a reset process by determining that the operation is abnormal. Further, when the operation does not return to the normal operation due to a failure or the like, the abnormality is determined, the abnormality is recorded as a history, and the abnormal state can be transmitted to the user using an indicator or the like.

In the above embodiment, when transmitting an abnormal state to the user, it is not always necessary to transmit which of the main control unit, the sub-control unit and the airbag is abnormal. It is also possible to provide at least one indicator that indicates the state to notify that the emergency notification system terminal device is abnormal. In addition, when performing the reset process, if an abnormality is detected in one of the control units, it is also possible to reset both and shift to the initialization state.

[0109]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, an abnormality is detected by providing the main control unit with the monitoring control of the sub-control unit and the sub-control unit with the monitoring control of the main control unit. In addition to the above, it is possible to perform normal operation, and if an abnormality is detected by monitoring the main control unit or sub-control unit, normal operation is performed by performing reset processing. In addition to recording the date and time of the occurrence or the abnormality history data, it is possible to reliably transmit the abnormality to the user, thereby providing an emergency call system with higher reliability and safety. And an emergency call system terminal device having an excellent effect of contributing to further improvement of the safety of the entire mobile system such as an automobile, and an emergency call It is capable of providing stem.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an emergency call system terminal device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an emergency call system terminal device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a sequence flow in a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a sequence flow showing a monitoring process by an airbag periodic signal between an airbag, a sub control unit, and a main control unit;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow in a normal state between the respective devices in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow between devices when an abnormality occurs in the airbag in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a signal sequence flow between devices when an abnormality occurs in a sub control unit in FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration including a monitoring process according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an emergency call system terminal device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a conventional multi-microcomputer system.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a conventional multi-microcomputer system.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Emergency call system terminal device 2 Communication antenna 3 Emergency call transmission button 4 GPS antenna 5 Main battery 6 Microphone 7 Speaker 8 Indicator 9 External connection device 11 Emergency call communication means 12 Main control unit 13 Gyro sensor 14 Position information acquisition processing unit 15 Storage Unit 16 GPS receiver 17 hands-free device 18 power control device 19 sub-control unit 81 second resistor 82 LED 101 first diode 102 second diode 103 first resistor 104 transistor

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI G08B 29/12 G08B 29/12 29/16 29/16 H04B 7/26 H04M 11/04 H04M 11/04 H04Q 9/00 301B H04Q 9/00 301 H04B 7/26 H (56) Reference JP-A-11-272968 (JP, A) JP-A-2000-52932 (JP, A) JP-A-2000-49975 (JP, A) JP-A-11-272 108675 (JP, A) JP-A-2-214342 (JP, A) JP-A-7-79195 (JP, A) Japanese Utility Model 2000-48288 (JP, U) (58) Fields investigated (Int. Cl. ⁷⁾ G08B 25/10 B60R 21/00 626 B60R 21/00 630 G08B 21/00 G08B 29/12 G08B 29/16 H04B 7/26 H04M 11/04 H04Q 9/00 301

Claims (47)

(57) [Claims] 1. An emergency call system terminal device mounted on a vehicle and performing an emergency call contact process to a center in charge of an emergency call system, comprising: a main control unit for controlling the emergency call system terminal device; A sub-control unit for performing communication control , wherein the main control unit
An emergency call system terminal device for monitoring the operation of a control unit . 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said main control unit is controlled by a sub control unit.
Monitor the operation of the sub control unit by monitoring the initial communication signal.
The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is viewed . 3. The periodic communication signal from the sub control unit.
Is a serial signal, and a predetermined signal from the serial signal
By the data based on the format, the main control unit
The terminal device according to claim 2 , wherein the operation of the control unit is monitored . 4. The periodic communication signal from the sub control unit.
Is a signal that changes periodically, such as a clock waveform,
By the periodic communication signal, the main control unit performs a sub control.
3. The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 2, wherein the operation of the unit is monitored . 5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main control unit is a sub-control unit.
Monitor the periodic communication signals, and monitor the periodic communication signals.
If the communication signal is other than the normal signal, the sub-control unit is abnormal.
5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein
Emergency call system terminal device according to. 6. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the main control unit is a sub-control unit.
Monitor the periodic communication signals, and monitor the periodic communication signals.
If the communication signal has not been received, the sub-control unit determines that there is an error.
The emergency notification system terminal device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: 7. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the main control unit is a sub-control unit.
Monitor the periodic communication signals, and monitor the periodic communication signals.
If the communication signal is a signal indicating abnormality, the sub-control unit
5. The method according to claim 2, wherein the condition is determined to be normal.
The emergency call system terminal device described in Crab . 8. When the sub-control unit is abnormal, the main controller
Control unit outputs a reset signal to the sub-control unit,
The emergency notification system terminal device according to any one of claims 5 to 7 , wherein the sub-control unit is returned to an initial state to resume operation . 9. When the sub-control unit is abnormal, the main controller
The control unit records in the history that the sub-control unit is abnormal.
The emergency notification system terminal device according to any one of claims 5 to 7 , wherein the emergency notification system terminal device performs a process . 10. The sub-control according to the reset signal.
If the unit does not shift to normal operation and continues the abnormal state,
The main control unit records that the sub control unit is abnormal.
The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 8, wherein the terminal device performs a process of leaving the information . 11. The main control unit includes a sub-control unit.
History data recording abnormalities in the emergency call system
Has a function to acquire from devices connected to the outside of the terminal device
The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein 12. A signal for outputting the history data to the outside
The terminal device according to claim 11, wherein is a serial signal . 13. When the sub-control unit is abnormal, the menu
The in-control unit notifies the user that the sub-control unit is abnormal.
6. The function of notifying the user
8. The emergency call system terminal device according to any one of 7 . 14. The sub-control according to the reset signal.
If the unit does not shift to normal operation and continues the abnormal state,
The main control unit uses the fact that the sub-control unit is abnormal.
9. A function for notifying a user.
14. The emergency notification system terminal device according to 10 or 13 . 15. An emergency call system mounted on a vehicle.
Emergency call for emergency call notification processing to the center responsible for
Emergency call system terminal equipment
Communication control between the main controller that controls the
And a sub-control unit that performs the main control.
An emergency call system terminal device for monitoring operation of a control unit . 16. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said sub control unit is said main control unit.
The main control is performed by monitoring these periodic communication signals.
The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 15, wherein the operation of the unit is monitored . 17. The periodic communication from the main control unit.
The signal is a serial signal.
With the data based on the fixed format, the sub-control unit
Monitoring the operation of the main control unit.
Item 17. The emergency call system terminal device according to Item 16 . 18. The periodic communication signal has a clock waveform.
Such a signal that changes periodically, and
The sub-control unit monitors the operation of the main control unit
17. The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 16, wherein: 19. The main control unit according to claim 19 , wherein:
Monitoring the periodic communication signal from the
If the initial communication signal is other than the normal signal,
19. The method according to claim 16, wherein the abnormality is determined.
An emergency call system terminal device according to any of the above. 20. The main control unit according to claim 20 , wherein:
Monitoring the periodic communication signal from the
If the initial communication signal has not been received,
19. The method according to claim 16, wherein the determination is made.
The emergency call system terminal device described in Crab . 21. The main control section, wherein:
Monitoring the periodic communication signal from the
If the initial communication signal is a signal indicating an abnormality, the main control unit
19. It is determined that the abnormality is abnormal.
An emergency call system terminal device according to any one of the above. 22. When the main control unit is abnormal, the
The sub control unit outputs a reset signal to the main control unit
Then, the main control unit is returned to the initial state to resume the operation.
Emergency call system terminal device according to any of claims 19 21, characterized in that. 23. When the main control unit is abnormal, the
The sub control unit records that the main control unit is abnormal.
From claim 19, characterized in that the processing performing leaving 21
An emergency call system terminal device according to any one of the above. 24. The main control system according to the reset signal.
If the control unit does not shift to normal operation and continues the abnormal state,
The sub-control unit reports that the main control unit is abnormal.
23. A process for storing in a history.
23. The emergency call system terminal device according to 23 . 25. A wearer recording an abnormality of the main control unit.
History data to the outside of the emergency call system terminal equipment.
Characterized in that it has the function of acquiring from the connected device
An emergency call system terminal device according to claim 23 or 24 . 26. A signal for outputting the history data to the outside
26. The terminal device according to claim 25, wherein is a serial signal . 27. When the main control unit is abnormal,
The sub control unit uses the fact that the main control unit is abnormal.
20. A function for notifying a user of the condition.
22. The emergency call system terminal device according to any one of to 21 . 28. The main signal according to the reset signal.
If the control unit does not shift to normal operation and continues the abnormal state
In this case, the sub control unit determines that the main control unit is abnormal.
A function to notify the user of
28. The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 22, 24 or 27 . 29. The method according to claim 1 , wherein
Emergency call system terminal device and emergency call system
Emergency call system
Emergency call center that receives
M 30. An emergency call system mounted on a vehicle
Emergency call for emergency call notification processing to the center that controls
In the information terminal device, the airbag is connected to the airbag.
By acquiring a periodic signal from the
Emergency call system terminal equipment for monitoring the operation of the emergency call system. 31. A main unit for controlling the emergency call system.
Equipped with an air control unit and a sub control unit,
The main control unit acquires the periodic signal of
The main control unit that has acquired the periodic signal from the bag,
A signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained is transmitted to the sub control
Output to the sub-controller so that the sub-controller
Monitoring the operation of the tag and the main control unit.
The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 30, wherein 32. The system for controlling the emergency call system,
A main control unit and the sub control unit,
The sub-control unit acquires the periodic signal from the
The sub system that acquires the periodic signal from the airbag.
The control unit outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained,
By outputting to the main control unit, the main control unit
To monitor the operation of the airbag and the sub-control unit
The emergency call system terminal according to claim 30, characterized in that:
End equipment . 33. The system for controlling the emergency call system.
A main control unit and the sub control unit,
The main control unit acquires the periodic signal from the
The main unit that acquires the periodic signal from the airbag
The control unit outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been acquired.
Output to the sub-control unit, and the main control unit
By outputting another periodic signal from the airbag,
And monitoring the operation of the main control unit, and
If the period signal is not input normally,
Determine which of the airbag and the main control unit is abnormal
32. The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 31, which has a different function . 34. The system for controlling the emergency call system.
A main control unit and the sub control unit,
The sub-control unit acquires the periodic signal from the
The sub system that acquires the periodic signal from the airbag.
The control unit outputs a signal indicating that the periodic signal has been obtained,
Output to the main control unit and separate from the sub control unit
By outputting a periodic signal of the air bag and
While monitoring the operation of the sub-control unit, the periodic signal
If the input is not normal, the main control
Determine which of the bag and the sub-control unit is abnormal
33. The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32, having a function . 35. The airbag from the sub control unit.
A periodic signal indicating the status of the
Another periodic signal output from the controller is a serial signal.
By the data based on the predetermined format from the real signal,
The main control unit monitors the operation of the sub control unit.
The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32 or claim 34, characterized in that: 36. The airbag from the sub control unit.
A periodic signal indicating the status of the
Another periodic signal that is output from the
And the main signal changes according to the periodic signal.
The control unit monitors the operation of the sub control unit.
An emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32 or claim 34 . 37. The main control unit, wherein the sub control unit
A periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from
And another periodic signal output by the sub-controller itself
Said periodic signal and said another periodic signal being monitored
Is not a normal signal, the airbag and the sub
The contractor is characterized by determining that any of the control units is abnormal.
An emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32 or claim 34 . 38. The main control unit, comprising: the sub control unit.
A periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from
And another periodic signal output by the sub-controller itself
The status of the monitored airbag.
If the start signal is other than the normal signal, it is determined that the airbag is abnormal.
The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 37 , wherein the terminal device judges . 39. The main control unit, wherein the sub control unit
A periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from
And another periodic signal output by the sub-controller itself
And the sub-control unit that is monitoring outputs the another
If the periodic signal is other than the normal signal, the sub-controller is abnormal.
38. The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 37 , wherein the terminal device determines whether or not the terminal device is an emergency call system. 40. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself, and monitors the periodic signal. And when the another periodic signal has not been received, the airbag and the sub control unit
4. An abnormality is determined as one of the following.
An emergency call system terminal device according to any one of claims 7 to 39 . 41. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself, and monitors the periodic signal. And when the another periodic signal is a signal indicating an abnormality, the airbag and the support
And wherein any one of the abnormality judgment child of blanking control unit
An emergency call system terminal device according to any one of claims 37 to 39 . 42. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit, and monitors the periodic signal. And if the another periodic signal is other than a normal signal, the airbag and the sub-
Processing to record in the history that any abnormality has occurred in the control unit
42. The method according to claim 37, wherein the step is performed.
The emergency call system terminal device described in any of the above. 43. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself, and indicates the status of the airbag. The periodic signal is
If the signal is not normal, the airbag is abnormal.
39. A process for leaving a record in the history.
Or emergency call system terminal apparatus according to claim 42. 44. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit, and outputs the sub-control unit itself. Said another periodic signal is positive
If the signal is other than the normal signal, it is determined that the sub-control unit is abnormal.
40. A process for storing in a history.
43. An emergency call system terminal device according to claim 42 . 45. The main control unit, wherein the sub control unit
History data recording abnormalities in the emergency call system
Has a function to acquire from devices connected to the outside of the terminal device
The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 42 or claim 43 . 46. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub-control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub-control unit itself, and indicates the status of the airbag. If the periodic signal is other than a normal signal, the airbag has a function of notifying the user of the abnormality of the airbag using a sound and an indicator.
The emergency notification system terminal device according to claim 38 or claim 42 . 47. The main control unit monitors a periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from the sub control unit and another periodic signal output by the sub control unit, and outputs the sub control unit itself. If the another periodic signal is other than a normal signal, it is determined that the sub-control unit is abnormal.
Has a function to notify the user using sound and indicators
43. The emergency call system terminal device according to claim 39 or claim 42 . [Control Unit 48] The main control unit is a sub-control unit.
A periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag from
And another periodic signal output by the sub-controller itself
And the periodic signal indicating the status of the airbag,
And each of the other periodic signals output by the sub-controller itself.
Outputs a response signal for each signal
An emergency call system terminal device according to claim 32 . [Control unit 49] Any one of claims 30 to 48.
The emergency call system terminal device described in
The emergency call system terminal device controls the emergency
An emergency call center that receives a call transmission signal and an emergency call
Notification system .