JP4337370B2 - Communication system and program thereof - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention performs automatic transmission with a modem used in a security monitoring system for gas, electricity, water, etc. or a system for sensing information or device control. Communications system And programs.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A system for monitoring the safety of gas is called a centralized monitoring system or an automatic meter reading system, and has been introduced. A modem device called a TNCU and a gas meter are connected to each other and connected to a centralized monitoring center of a gas supplier through a telephone line. When an abnormality occurs in the gas supply, safety information is transmitted from the gas meter to notify the center, or the amount of gas used is automatically measured and reported. In some cases, the TNCU and the gas meter are connected using a wireless terminal instead of a wired connection. More recently, there is a system that informs the home of information related to security management of daily equipment such as gas. In such a system, an information terminal device is installed in each user's home, and in addition to the meter reading information received from the gas meter, abnormal information such as gas leakage is notified to the user by the home information terminal device, and a modem or the like The communication means connects to the Internet and transmits notification information to the server device.
[0003]
In recent years, ADSL that enables high-speed constant Internet connection has become very popular. In addition, the number of users who use IP telephones (telephone functions by packet communication using the Internet) using ADSL is increasing. The IP telephone connects a conventional telephone / FAX to the IP telephone adapter, determines the telephone number by the IP adapter when making a call, selects whether to connect to a data line or a switching system line (subscriber line), Call the other party to make a call. In addition, by making a call using a data line, it is possible to make a call at a lower cost than a switching line.
[0004]
This IP telephone adapter is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In this method, a telephone line or a data line accommodated in the DSL is used to analyze a destination telephone number obtained at the time of making a call and select a line so that the communication cost is minimized.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2003-37688 A
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when a user who originally uses a service of a centralized gas monitoring system using a telephone line starts to use an IP telephone service, a telephone, a FAX, and a gas concentration are placed on the telephone connection terminal side of the IP telephone adapter. Connect the TNCU (terminal network control unit) of the monitoring system modem. When the TNCU calls a telephone number that is set to automatically report when a gas abnormality occurs, the TNCU connects to the IP telephone network (data communication line) and performs communication. Depending on the status and communication state of the ADSL line, a terminal such as a TNCU There is a possibility that communication cannot be performed due to lack of control signals and security information transmitted from the communication device. Then, the TNCU that failed to make a call performs retransmission control to try again, but if the situation has not changed, there is a problem in that it fails in the same manner and makes a number of calls, resulting in a very high telephone bill.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
Therefore, in order to solve such a problem, the present invention makes it possible to make a call by assigning a telephone number to be connected to the switched line network side when setting that the IP telephone is used in the determination process of the IP telephone adapter. A communication apparatus configured as described above is configured. Further, instead of assigning a special number to the set telephone number, all the telephone numbers are changed to make a call.
[0008]
In this way, even if a gas company or the like who installs a security monitoring system communication device (TNCU) introduces an IP phone, a special number can be set if the IP phone is used. Since the IP telephone adapter is connected to the circuit switching network (public line), it is possible to reliably notify the center of security reports and the like, and to ensure the stability and certainty of the service.
[0009]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A first invention is a communication system comprising a communication device and an IP adapter connected to the communication device, wherein the communication device is an operation means for selecting whether or not to use an IP telephone, and abnormality information detected by a meter or sensor Wireless communication means for receiving, storage means for storing a report destination telephone number to be notified when abnormality information is received by the wireless communication means, and use of IP telephone by the operation means, When the abnormality information is received by the wireless communication means, a processing means for converting the call destination telephone number by adding a special number to the call destination telephone number stored in the storage means, and converted by the processing means A transmission / reception unit that makes a report with a report destination telephone number, and the IP adapter is notified by the transmission / reception unit When it is determined that a special number is added to the phone number Connects to a telephone line.
[0010]
According to this configuration, communication is performed by setting the communication device to use an IP phone and adding or changing a special phone number reserved for connection to the circuit switched network. Since the switching device can be connected to the switched line network, even if the user starts to use the IP phone, it is connected to the IP phone network in the service using the communication device that performs automatic transmission. Can prevent the communication from failing continuously, ensure the certainty and stability of the service, and maintain the quality of the service.
[0011]
The second invention is The report destination telephone number is downloaded from the report destination server device and changed.
[0012]
According to this configuration, it is possible to easily add a special phone number to the report destination phone number or change the report destination phone number to a special phone number by the server device of the report destination. Thus, even if the special telephone number reserved for each communication switching device is different, it can be changed according to the reserved telephone number, thereby improving the flexibility of service operation and the convenience of the system.
[0013]
The third invention is a program for causing a computer to function processing means constituting the communication device.
[0014]
According to this configuration, a program can be realized as a partial function of a microcomputer, a personal computer, or another device, and convenience and versatility are improved and a system can be easily constructed. Also, program distribution and installation can be simplified by recording on a recording medium or distributing a program using a communication line.
[0015]
【Example】
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[0016]
Example 1
In this system shown in FIG. 1, an information terminal device 2 having a modem communication function installed in a home is provided with a function of communicating with a meter 1, a sensor 4, etc., and meter reading information and abnormality information are transmitted to the information terminal device 2. The information processing server device 3 of the service provider is communicated via the service provider to perform a gas security monitoring service and an information service. The information processing server device 3 and the gas contractor centralized monitoring center 8 are connected via a communication line and communicate meter reading information, gas abnormality information, or device control information, device state information, etc. connected by wireless communication.
[0017]
Further, the information terminal device 2 has a function of downloading content information, setting information to the information terminal device 2 and the like from the information processing server device 3, and processes the downloaded information into content information that can be used by the user on the information terminal device 2. In addition to storing information and providing information services, it also has a function of displaying various types of abnormality information such as gas abnormality on the information terminal device 2 and performing notification processing to the information processing server device 1. Further, the information terminal device 2 has a function of periodically downloading content information and setting information from the information processing server device 3 at a designated date and time.
[0018]
The setting information is information set in the information terminal, for example, the date and time when the content is downloaded, the telephone number of the ISP (Internet service provider) that is connected when the content is used, and the user authentication information for PPP (Point To Point Protocol) connection. ID, password, and DNS (Domain Name System) server IP address or URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) of the application server of the content service to be used and ID and password that are user authentication information for using the application.
[0019]
In addition, information indicating what device is connected to the information terminal device 2, ID information, communication conditions such as a wireless channel and intermittent reception interval and transmission time in the case of wireless communication, a call destination when an abnormality is detected, Examples include operating conditions that define the operation of the information terminal device 2. Also, the presence / absence of a call for each abnormality information to a device that manages energy supply such as gas, electricity, and water, and control setting information that defines notification contents.
[0020]
Further, the meter 1, the sensor 4, and the device 9 are connected to wireless devices 5a, 5b, and 5c that perform wireless communication with the information terminal device 2, and communicate with the information terminal device 2 by wireless communication and connected to a telephone line. A system that communicates meter readings and gas abnormality information by connecting to the Internet using a telephone line is constructed.
[0021]
The information terminal device 2 of this system includes a meter 1 such as a gas meter, a power meter, and a water meter, which are terminal devices installed in a house, an intrusion sensor that detects an intruder while absent, a human sensor, a fire sensor, It communicates wirelessly with devices 9 such as gas leak sensors, CO sensors, etc., washing machines, rice cookers, microwave ovens, refrigerators, air conditioners, water heaters, vacuum cleaners, etc., and communicates sensing information, control information, and status information. In this embodiment, a security monitoring system using a gas meter will be described.
[0022]
Further, in this embodiment, the NCU 6a of the information terminal device 2 is provided with a telephone line interface, and is connected to the ISP using the telephone line or connected to the NCU 6b of the information processing server apparatus 3. The communication line uses ADSL (Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line) that enables high-speed constant Internet connection. In addition, an IP phone (Internet phone) using an ADSL line is also used. The IP telephone adapter 13 (attached with the ADSL modem function) is connected to the ADSL line 12 via the splitter 10 and connected to the Internet via the ISP, and is connected to the ordinary telephone 14 and is connected to the destination from the telephone. When a call is made, the destination call telephone number is analyzed, an IP address to be connected is obtained, and a connection to the Internet network is made. And, it has a function of converting voice to be called into IP packets and making a call. The IP telephone adapter 13 has a function of determining whether to connect to the telephone line 11 or the Internet based on the transmitted telephone number and switching. The IP telephone adapter 13 is also connected to the telephone line 12 via the splitter 10 and is transmitted by a special telephone number (for example, 110, 119, 184, 186, 0000, etc.) that can be used only on a telephone line of a circuit switching system. In this case, the telephone line 12 is connected to make a call. Although not shown, the IP telephone adapter 13 has an ADSL modem function, and connects the personal computer to the personal computer via a router or a HUB, thereby allowing the personal computer to be used on the Internet via a high-speed always-on connection line. is there. In this embodiment, the ADSL modem is shown as an integral unit with the IP telephone adapter, but it may be configured in a separated form.
[0023]
For this reason, in this system, the system is constructed as follows by the meter 1, the information terminal device 2, the information processing server device 3, and the like.
[0024]
The meter 1, the sensor 4, the device 9 and the information terminal device 2 are connected by a wireless transmission path, and the information terminal device 2 and the information processing server device 3 can be connected by an information communication line network. The information terminal 2 displays product information for electronic ordering, content information such as e-mail information, advertisement information, cooking recipes, etc. for the user, and abnormal information transmitted from the meter 1 or sensor 4 side. , For example, a function for displaying gas security information for warning of gas leaks, a security information such as intrusion detection for notifying an intruder into the house, and a function for displaying the operation ON / OFF of the device 9 and the operation state Is given.
[0025]
The meter 1 is installed in each home or in a housing complex, and has a function of outputting abnormal information such as gas leaks and meter reading information to the information terminal device 2. More specifically, although not shown, at least a gas pipe with a gas opening / closing valve attached therein, an actuator for the gas opening / closing valve, a gas automatic shut-off mechanism, and an automatic meter reading mechanism are provided. The automatic gas shut-off mechanism is equipped with a function algorithm that automatically closes the gas open / close valve when an abnormality such as gas leakage is detected.The automatic meter reading mechanism controls the flow rate of the gas flowing through the internal gas pipe. It can be measured, converted into electrical data, output, and metered. The meter 1 includes a CPU 1a and a memory 1b, a pressure sensor for monitoring the gas supply pressure, an earthquake, as shown in FIG. 2, in order to at least send automatic meter reading information and handle abnormal calls when a gas leaks. Necessary hardware resources such as a sensor 1c such as a seismic sensor and a wireless device 1d are provided. The wireless device 1d is installed within an effective transmission distance that allows wireless communication with the wireless device 2e of the information terminal device 2 described below. Although not shown, the wireless device 1d may be provided separately from the meter 1.
[0026]
The information terminal device 2 is installed in the home (preferably near the kitchen), receives content information, abnormality information, etc., device operation information / sensing information, and is communicated via the information terminal device 2. It has a function that enables settings to be made from other information devices. In addition to the external storage device 2d such as the CPU 2a, the memory 2b, the flash ROM (Read Only Memory), the ROM, and the HDD (Hard Disk Drive) as shown in FIG. 3 includes hardware resources such as an input device 2f, a wireless device 2e, and a communication interface 2g such as a modem and Ethernet (registered trademark), and these devices cooperate to transmit and receive the transmission / reception unit 300 and communication as shown in FIG. Function processing judgment unit 301, information storage unit 302, second information storage unit 303, setting information processing unit 304, authentication information processing unit 305, display unit 306, operation unit 307, wireless communication unit 308, abnormal information processing unit 309 I am letting.
[0027]
The transmission / reception unit 300 connects the information terminal device 2 to an external communication network such as the Internet or the telephone line 11 and can transmit / receive data to / from the information processing server device 3 as shown in FIG. Is realized. Specifically, in FIG. 3, the transmission / reception unit 300 is dial-up connected to an ISP (Internet Service Provider) 7 via an NCU (Network Control Unit) 6a and an IP telephone adapter 13 that analyzes a telephone number and switches a line to be connected. (PPP (Point to Point Protocol) connection) and TCP / IP connection to the information processing server device 3 through the Internet. It is also possible to make a dial-up connection to the NCU 6b directly connected to the information processing server device 3 via the telephone line 11.
[0028]
The communication processing determination unit 301 receives and processes content information and setting information transmitted from the information processing server device 3 by TCP / IP connection via Internet connection by dial-up connection to the ISP or direct connection of a telephone line. Provides functionality. In addition, a function of transmitting device information, abnormality information, and the like notified from the meter 1, the sensor 4, the device 9, and the like to the information processing server device 3 is also provided. Further, when a communication failure occurs in the telephone line 11 or the Internet, and dial-up connection cannot be made to the ISP or the information processing server device 3, it is determined that the connection has failed, and retry processing is performed a predetermined number of times or communication is performed. In order to switch the line, it has a function of giving a special number to a telephone number or changing a telephone number.
[0029]
The information storage unit 302 includes a memory 2b. As described above, the downloaded information is temporarily stored, and is used as a work area for developing programs and processes executed by the information terminal device 2. When a process or the like developed on the information storage unit 302 stops its processing, it is dynamically allocated to that process to release the memory space and can be used when another process is started next time. Further, the authentication information may be key information held between the information terminal device 2 and the information processing server device 3. Furthermore, any information such as fingerprint information and retina information may be used as long as it is information for identifying an individual. The information can also be recorded in an EEPROM or other rewritable ROM device.
[0030]
The second information storage unit 303 includes an external storage device 2d such as a Flash ROM. The content information, setting information, authentication information, and the like temporarily stored in the information storage unit 302 by the download processing unit 301 are processed so that the user can use them, and the second information is stored even when the power is exhausted. Is stored in the information storage unit 303.
[0031]
The setting information processing unit 304 stores setting information such as the URI of the application server, the ISP telephone number, the DNS server IP address, the PPP connection ID, and the password set in the information terminal device 2 in the information storage unit 302 or 2 from the second information storage unit 303. Also, as the setting information, the type of terminal device that communicates with the information terminal device 2 and the terminal ID are read, and the control screen of the device 9, the operation state display screen, and the information notified by the sensor are notified on the screen based on the setting information. Make a decision not to do. Further, when the use of the IP phone is set by the operation unit 307, the information terminal device 2 that performs the gas security monitoring service has, for example, “186” as a preset telephone number in order to ensure the reliability of the report. The destination telephone number is rewritten so that a call is made with a special number added, and the telephone line that is the circuit switching network is securely connected.
[0032]
The authentication information processing unit 305 uses the user ID and password downloaded from the information processing server device 3 and recorded in the information storage unit 302 or the second information storage unit 303 when the information terminal device 2 is installed, and performs authentication processing. Is what you do. When the information terminal device 2 connects to the information processing server device 3 and wants to receive an application service, in order to confirm whether the authorized user has accessed from the server device 3, an ID, a password Request. At that time, the authentication information processing unit 305 reads the user ID and password from the information storage unit 302 and transmits them to the server device 3. If the authentication is confirmed, the service can be used. In addition, what authenticates by providing an ID and a password for authentication at this time also has a function of generating, transmitting, and authenticating information obtained by encrypting the password according to circumstances.
[0033]
The display unit 306 is configured by a display 2c, and security such as a shopping menu used by the user, advertisement information, gas abnormality information notified from the meter 1, intrusion detection notified from the sensor 4, gas abnormality, emergency call, etc. Abnormal information, operation information of the device 9, sensing information, and the like are displayed and provided to the user. Further, it has a function of providing a control screen for the device 9 and controlling the device 9 by wireless communication from the information terminal device 2.
[0034]
The operation unit 307 enables a desired input through a button, a touch panel, or the like that configures the input device 2f, and can perform operations such as an operation for acquiring the content and pressing an emergency button. . Then, when an operation for acquiring the content content or an emergency button is pressed, information for notifying the content content or abnormality is output to the display unit 306 constituting the display 2c according to the operation. Is done. The control operation for the device 9 can also be performed. For example, air conditioner operation ON / OFF, temperature increase / decrease, and the like.
[0035]
The wireless communication unit 308 constitutes the wireless device 2e, and as described above, abnormal information or state change detected by the wireless devices 1d, 4d, and 9d of the meter 1, the sensor 4, and the device 9, and the sensors 1c, 4c, and 9d. Communication processing such as information and driving information is performed. In the meter 1, the meter reading value measured by the meter is also communicated from the wireless device 1d to the wireless device 2e.
[0036]
The abnormality information processing unit 309 wirelessly calls the abnormality information detected by the sensors 1 and 4c of the meter 1 and the sensor 4 by the wireless devices 1d and 4d. Then, abnormal information such as detected gas abnormality, intrusion detection information detected by an intruder into the house, emergency call information, fire detection information, etc. is displayed on the display unit 306, or via the transmission / reception unit 300, the NCU 6a, and the Internet network. The information processing server device 3 of the service provider that performs the gas security monitoring service is notified. Further, when the device 9 is out of order or needs maintenance, information is displayed in the information terminal device 2 as a result of determination processing in the device and a failure diagnosis. Then, a notification process is performed to a predetermined maintenance company, repair shop, or the like.
[0037]
On the other hand, the information processing server device 3 determines the type of abnormality information transmitted from the information terminal device 2, and transmits instruction information for the abnormality information and end information for ending the notification of the abnormality information. Is. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, hardware resources such as a CPU 3 a, a memory 3 b, an external storage device 3 c, and a communication interface 3 d are provided, and these are cooperated to transmit / receive a unit 501, a received data determination unit 502, and the like shown in FIG. 5. The user information management unit 503, the user management database 504, the transmission data creation unit 505, the content information database 506, and the setting input unit 507 are caused to function.
[0038]
The transmission / reception unit 501 transmits / receives information to / from the information terminal device 2 when there is a TCP / IP connection from the information terminal device 2 via the Internet line network, direct dialing via the NCU and the telephone line network. When an up connection is established, a state in which transmission / reception with the information terminal device 2 is performed can be taken.
[0039]
The reception data determination unit 502 determines the type of data received from the information terminal device 2 based on the data identifier attached to the data. The reception data of this embodiment includes communication information such as abnormality information and meter reading information. Specifically, the relationship between the data identifier and the processing command corresponding to the data identifier is stored in a predetermined storage area, and the user information management unit 503 processes the processing command corresponding to the data identifier of the received data. Is taken out and executed.
[0040]
When the received data is meter reading information, the meter reading value is stored in the user information management database 504. In addition, the user information management unit 503 also has a function of voluntarily outputting that an emergency shutdown should occur when a certain event occurs, and an emergency shutdown command is sent to the transmission data creation unit 505 based on this emergency shutdown determination. Is transmitted from the transmission / reception unit 501 to the information terminal device 2 via the NCU and the telephone line network.
[0041]
The transmission data creation unit 505 has a data creation program in an appropriate storage area such as the memory 3b or the external storage device 3c. When a predetermined processing command is executed, the CPU 3a uses this as a start condition. A data creation program is read from the storage area, and information to be transmitted to the information terminal device 2 is created according to this program.
[0042]
The content information database 506 has a function of transmitting content information in response to a request from the information terminal device 2.
[0043]
The reception data determination unit 502 determines the type of data received from the information terminal device 2 based on the data identifier attached to the data. The received data of this embodiment includes content request data sent based on a content utilization operation that is arbitrarily performed by the user.
[0044]
In response to the content request signal transmitted from the information terminal device 2, the user information management unit 503 causes the transmission data creation unit 505 to create transmission data of an order acceptance response when it is merchandise purchase information, and transmits it to the transmission / reception unit. The information is transmitted from 501 to the information terminal device 2 via the NCU 6b, the telephone line network, and the Internet network, and information is stored in the user information management database 504 as necessary.
[0045]
The content information database 506 stores content data such as image information, meter setting information, service information (recipe, product information, news, advertisement, notification information) to be notified on the display unit 306 of the information terminal device. It will be updated. Further, when the download request from the information terminal device 2 is received and processed by the transmission / reception unit 501, and the reception data determination unit 502 determines based on the data identifier attached to the data, the content information used by the transmitted user is used. The content information that can be currently provided is compared with the management information in the content information database 506, the content necessary for the user is differentially collected, and the content information and setting information to be transmitted are created by the transmission data creation unit 505. This is transmitted from the transmission / reception unit 501 to the information terminal device 2 via the NCU 6b and the telephone line network or the Internet network, and information is stored in the user information management database 504 as necessary.
[0046]
The setting input unit 507 inputs setting information for the meter 1, the information terminal device 2, the sensor 4, the device 9, and the like set for each user in the content information database 505 of the information processing server device 3. The setting input unit 507 includes input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch panel. When the operation manager of the gas supplier changes the setting such as the meter reading date and time of the user's meter 1, the setting input unit 507 inputs the date and time information to be changed to the user item to be changed. The input information is registered in the content information database 505. Then, at the timing when the information terminal device 2 downloads the content information to the information processing server device 3, at least one setting information file is generated from the change setting information, and is downloaded to the information terminal device 2 via the Internet network. .
[0047]
The operation and action of this system will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0048]
The IP telephone adapter 13 is connected to the ADSL line via the splitter 10 in order to use the IP telephone at the user's home where the information terminal device 2 is installed, and the telephone terminal of the IP telephone adapter 2 is connected to the telephone terminal. And the NCU 6a of the information terminal device 2 is connected, and when the user makes a normal phone call, the telephone number transmitted is judged by the IP adapter 13 and connected to a circuit switching type telephone line or a control signal, voice A switching process is performed as to whether information is converted into packet data and sent to the ADSL line.
[0049]
A user or a service provider operates the operation unit 307 of the information terminal device 2 to display a setting menu prepared in the information terminal device 2. Therefore, the user's home communication line is set to use the telephone line as a push line (PB), dial line (DT) or IP telephone. For example, when using an IP phone using a dial line and ADSL, the setting is made from the screen display as described above, and the setting information is processed by the setting information processing unit 304. When the meter 1 detects an abnormality, a notification is sent. The telephone number is converted into a telephone number (186-03-****-***-) with a special number (for example, 186) added to the telephone number to be performed, and the information storage section 302 or the second information storage section 303 is converted. To record.
[0050]
When the meter 1 shuts off the gas by operating the gas leak alarm, etc., the meter 1 wirelessly transmits an abnormality report “gas leak alarm shut off” to the information terminal device 2, and the information terminal device 2 is a wireless communication unit. A reception process is performed at 308, and the abnormality information processing unit 309 determines the content of the notified abnormality report. When the determined content is information that should be immediately notified to the user, the display unit 306 displays the abnormal content and the coping method. Then, a message to be notified to the information processing server device 3 is generated, the NCU 6a is controlled by the transmission / reception unit 300, and automatic dialing is performed to the telephone number that is the report destination. At this time, the telephone number to be transmitted is a number to which “186” of the set telephone number is added.
[0051]
The transmitted telephone number is judged by the IP adapter 13. In the case of a telephone number starting from a normal (city code), it is communicated to the ADSL line 12 which is a data line by the IP adapter 13, but the telephone number added with “186” is a special telephone number by the IP telephone adapter 13. Therefore, the switching process is performed and the telephone line 11 is connected. Then, the modem is connected to the telephone number transmitted by the exchange office of the communication company, and is connected to the ISP (Internet service provider) set in the information terminal device 2 or the modem of the information processing server device 3. Then, the abnormal information is posted to the information processing server device 3 by the Internet protocol. The data is received by the transmission / reception unit 501, the content is determined by the reception data determination unit 502, and the content of the notification is stored in the user information database 504 by the user information monitoring unit 503. Then, the information processing server device 3 is connected to the central monitoring center 8 of the gas supplier and notified of abnormality information.
[0052]
In the present embodiment, the number “186” is added. However, any number of lines that are used for a circuit-switched line and that are connected to a telephone line (line-switched line) by the IP telephone adapter 13 can be used. A special number may be added. It is also possible to replace the telephone number with a toll-free number (0120-******). Further, a special telephone number uniquely assigned to the IP telephone adapter 13 by the communication service provider may be set.
[0053]
In addition, the telephone number of the report destination can be changed by setting information downloaded and set from the information processing server device 3, so that an arbitrary telephone number can be set and correspond to the special number uniquely assigned by the communication service provider. The information terminal device 2 which is a communication device can be transmitted to a predetermined report destination using a circuit switching network. When the download setting is performed, it is confirmed whether or not the communication is successful with the newly set telephone number.
[0054]
Next, when switching to a high-speed always-on connection line such as an ADSL line and using an IP phone at a user's home that uses a gas security monitoring system via a phone line, the information terminal device 2 receives the “IP phone”. FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of a series of operations when “use” is set and a gas abnormality is notified.
[0055]
When a user using the centralized gas monitoring system using the telephone line 11 and the information terminal device 2 subscribes to an IP telephone, the IP telephone is used with a connection configuration as shown in FIG. At this time, the installer, the gas supplier or the user himself / herself who installed the IP telephone adapter 13 sees the display screen of the information terminal device 2 to display the setting screen and set “use IP telephone” (step S601). ).
[0056]
When the meter 1 (gas meter) detects and reports a gas abnormality, the meter 1 communicates the gas abnormality information to the information terminal device 2 by the wireless device 5a. In the information terminal device 2, the wireless communication unit 308 receives the data, and the abnormality information processing unit 309 performs content determination processing. If the received content is content to be communicated to the information processing server device 3, a message for notifying the abnormal content is generated (step S602).
[0057]
The transmission / reception unit 300 controls the NCU 5a, reads out the ISP telephone number set in advance to communicate with the information processing server device 3 from the second information storage unit 303, and “uses IP phone”. Depending on the setting, a special number “186” is added in front of the ISP telephone number, and the calling number is changed to “186-0 *******” and the destination telephone number is transmitted ( Step S603).
[0058]
The IP telephone adapter 13 that has received the destination number has sent a special number that is not a normal (area code), so it judges to connect to the telephone line 11, switches the connection line, and sends the telephone number. (Step S604).
[0059]
Next, after performing PPP authentication, the information terminal device 2 and ISP 7 connected by the telephone line 11 give an IP address to the information terminal device 2 and connect the information terminal device 2 to the Internet network. Then, after performing an authentication procedure between the information processing server device 3 and the information terminal device 2 via the Internet network, the information terminal device 2 transmits the abnormal information message to the information processing server device 3. The notified content is judged and recorded by the reception data judgment unit 502 inside the information processing server device 3. Then, the information processing server device 3 performs a back cooperation process to the central monitoring center 8 of the gas supplier who manages the gas security of the user, and the abnormal content is notified and dealt with (step S605). At this time, any line such as a telephone line, ISDN, ADSL, or the Internet may be used for communication processing at the rear.
[0060]
(Example 2)
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the present embodiment, the description of the same processing content step is omitted.
[0061]
This embodiment differs from the above embodiment in that, when notifying gas abnormality information or the like, it is determined that the telephone number transmission and information communication cannot be connected with an IP phone using an ADSL line and have failed a predetermined number of times. A special number is added to the transmission number to transmit the telephone number.
[0062]
As in the above embodiment, when a gas abnormality occurs in the meter 1, abnormality information is transmitted to the information terminal device 2 via radio. Based on the received abnormality information, the abnormality information processing unit 309 generates a message to be communicated to the information processing server device 3 (step S701).
[0063]
Next, the NCU 6a is controlled by the transmission / reception unit 300, and the generated gas abnormal message is transmitted to the set telephone number of the ISP in order to transmit it to the information processing server device 3 (step S702).
[0064]
Since the transmitted telephone number is a telephone number from (the area code), the IP telephone adapter 13 switches the connection to the ADSL line of the data line and converts it into an IP data packet in a normal IP telephone home. Communication is performed (step S703).
[0065]
At this time, if the data packet sent by the IP telephone adapter 13 for outgoing connection or information communication to the ISP telephone number is lost on the Internet and the telephone connection or information communication fails, the information terminal Processing is performed according to an error processing sequence such as the number of retries at the time of telephone communication failure and the retry interval (time) set in the information storage unit 302 and the second information storage unit 303 of the device 2 (step S704).
[0066]
When the communication processing determination unit 301 detects a predetermined number of communication failures and determines that the connected line has been changed to an IP telephone, the special number “186” is added to the destination telephone number. Is added in front of the ISP telephone number, changed to a transmission number such as “186-0 *******”, and the destination telephone number is transmitted (steps S705 and S706).
[0067]
In the same manner as in the above embodiment, the IP telephone adapter 13 is connected to the telephone line 11 and communicates with the information processing server device 3. Similarly, the abnormal gas information is transmitted to the central monitoring center 8 of the gas supplier. The notification is made (steps S707 and S708).
[0068]
In this embodiment, the special number is added with “186”. However, it may be replaced with a number such as a toll-free number, and the special number and the telephone number to be determined by the IP telephone adapter may be used. Anything is fine.
[0069]
Further, the gas supplier, gas meter, and gas security monitoring system have been described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to any system, apparatus, and method that automatically transmits information detected using a telephone line.
[0070]
In addition, all of the present embodiments can be similarly configured as a program for causing a computer to function as all or part of the means of the information terminal device.
[0071]
As described above, “use IP phone” is set in the information terminal device 2 which is a communication device, so that a special number is added to the IP phone adapter 13 which switches the communication line by the outgoing phone number. In a system that places importance on certainty, such as a gas security monitoring system, a highly reliable circuit-switched telephone line without being connected to an ADSL line that is a data line Can be securely connected.
[0072]
In addition, when the connection communication to the telephone line has failed a predetermined number of times to the information terminal device 2 which is a communication device, by adding a special number, the user receives the service of the gas security monitoring system using the telephone line, Even when an IP phone is used, the IP phone adapter 13 is securely connected to the telephone line 11 to prevent a data packet from being lost by being connected to the IP phone, and to reliably report an abnormality such as a gas. An emergency call can be notified.
[0073]
Also, a special telephone number can be downloaded to the information terminal device 2 and set by the report destination server device, so that a special telephone number can be added to the report destination telephone number or a special telephone number can be set. It can be easily changed to. In addition, a special telephone number reserved by a communication service provider can be set, thereby improving the flexibility of service operation and the convenience of the system.
[0074]
Further, by using a program, it can be realized as a partial function of a microcomputer, a personal computer, or another device, and convenience and versatility are improved and a system can be easily constructed. Also, program distribution and installation can be simplified by recording on a recording medium or distributing a program using a communication line.
[0075]
The specific configuration of each part is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, although the above embodiment relates to gas equipment, the same applies to the construction of a system composed of information terminal devices and peripheral equipment used for maintenance of other life-related infrastructure such as electricity and water. Applicable.
[0076]
In the figure, the NCU is described separately from the information terminal device, but may be configured in the same casing. Further, although the meter and sensor are described integrally with the wireless device, they may be provided separately.
[0077]
In FIG. 3, the NCU 6 b is described separately from the information processing server device 3, but may be in the information processing server device 3.
[0078]
In FIG. 1, the communication line between the information processing server device 3 and the gas contractor centralized monitoring center 8 does not have to be a telephone line, and may be anything such as an Internet line or a dedicated line.
[0079]
Although the information terminal device 2 is a single device, it may be composed of a plurality of devices.
[0080]
Further, in the flowcharts of FIGS. 6 and 7, the processing contents or the order thereof do not have to be as described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
[0081]
Note that the information processing / determination portion such as the abnormality information processing unit 309, the setting information processing unit 304, the communication processing determination unit 301, and the authentication information processing unit 305 described in FIG. 3 can be configured as an information processing unit. Similarly, an information terminal device can be configured.
[0082]
Further, the information terminal device 2 in FIG. 3 and the information processing server device 3 in FIG. 5 are configured as separate devices without being configured as a single device, and are implemented in the form of a network in which each means is connected by a communication line. May be.
[0083]
Further, the information terminal device and the information processing server device have been described as being connected via the ISP via the Internet. However, the information terminal device and the information processing server device are not limited thereto and may be directly connected to the information processing server device via the NCU. The communication line can be configured in the same manner as long as it is a line exchange type line such as a telephone line (push line or dial line) or ISDN.
[0084]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the present invention sets that the IP telephone is used in the communication device, adds a special telephone number to the predetermined telephone number, or sets the predetermined telephone number to a special number. By changing to, it is possible to connect to the switched line network by the communication switching device, so even if the user starts using the IP phone, the certainty of the service using the communication device that performs automatic transmission It has the effect of ensuring stability and maintaining the quality of service.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the entire system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing hardware resources of the information terminal device used in the embodiment
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of an information terminal device used in the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing hardware resources of the information management server device
FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of an information management server device used in the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a transmission operation of the information terminal device 2 when using the IP phone in the same embodiment mobile phone;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flowchart showing a transmission operation of the information terminal device 2 when using an IP phone in another embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
2 Information terminal equipment (communication equipment)
3 Information processing server device (server device)
11 Switched line network (telephone line)
12 ADSL line (IP packet network)
13 IP phone adapter (communication switching device)

Claims (3)

In a communication system comprising a communication device and an IP adapter connected to the communication device,
The communication device
Operation means for selecting whether or not to use an IP phone;
Wireless communication means for receiving abnormality information detected by a meter or sensor;
Storage means for storing a telephone number to be notified when the abnormality information is received by the wireless communication means;
When the use of the IP telephone is selected by the operation means, and the abnormality information is received by the wireless communication means, a special number is added to the call destination telephone number stored in the storage means and the call destination A processing means for converting a telephone number;
A transmission / reception unit that makes a report with the report destination telephone number converted by the processing means,
The IP adapter is a communication system for connecting to a telephone line when it is determined that a special number is added to a telephone number of a report destination notified by the transmission / reception unit.   The communication system according to claim 1, wherein the report destination telephone number is downloaded from the report destination server device and changed.   A program for causing a computer to function processing means constituting the communication device according to claim 1.

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