JP6340697B2 - Remote monitoring method, remote monitoring system, first communication device, second communication device, and server device - Google Patents

Description

  The present disclosure relates to a technique for charging according to a usage state of an electric device.

  As a billing system that performs billing according to the amount of electric power consumed by using an electric device such as a TV, a refrigerator, or an air conditioner, or a usage time, a method of charging using a prepaid card is known (for example, Patent Documents). 1).

JP 2006-344144 A

  However, in a billing system using a prepaid card, costs such as operation management, manufacture, and sales of the prepaid card are generated. Moreover, in order for a user to use an electric device, it is necessary to purchase a prepaid card and carry the prepaid card, which is complicated for the user. Furthermore, there is a problem that the electric device is illegally used due to forgery or copying of the prepaid card.

  In view of the above circumstances, a non-limiting exemplary embodiment is a remote monitoring method for suppressing unauthorized use of an electrical device in a method of charging according to the use of the user's electrical device without using a prepaid card I will provide a.

  The remote monitoring method of the present disclosure includes a first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to a power supply state of an electric device, and the first communication device connected to the first communication device via a wireless communication network. A remote monitoring system including a second communication device that monitors a power state of the first communication device, wherein the first communication device receives power from the second communication device via the wireless communication network. When ON information indicating that the state has been changed from the OFF state to the ON state is received, the server device starts a billing process for the user of the electrical device, and after the server device starts the start process, When the wireless communication with the two communication devices is detected to be interrupted, the server device terminates the accounting process, and the second communication device When it is detected that the state has been changed from an off state to an on state, the on information is transmitted to the first communication device via the wireless communication network, and wireless communication with the first communication device continues. During this period, the power source of the electrical device is maintained in the on state, and when it is detected that the wireless communication with the first communication device is interrupted, the power source of the electrical device is switched from the on state to the off state.

  According to the above remote monitoring method, it is possible to perform charging according to the user's use of the electric device without using a prepaid card, and to suppress unauthorized use of the electric device by interrupting wireless communication it can.

The block diagram which shows the outline of the system configuration | structure of the remote monitoring system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing details of the system configuration of the remote monitoring system of FIG. 1. The figure which shows an example of the content of the accounting database in the server apparatus of FIG. The graph which shows distribution of duration and the frequency of radio | wireless communication interruption | blocking. 3 is a flowchart of user registration and fee charge processing by the server device of FIG. 2. The flowchart of the accounting process by the server apparatus of FIG. The flowchart of the process regarding the communication interruption | blocking detection by the 1st communication apparatus of FIG. The flowchart of the process regarding the communication interruption | blocking detection by the 2nd communication apparatus of FIG. The flowchart of the power supply control process by the air conditioner of FIG. The sequence diagram which shows an example of the system operation | movement of the remote monitoring system of FIG. The block diagram which shows the detail of the system configuration | structure of the remote monitoring system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. The flowchart of the process regarding the communication interruption | blocking detection by the 2nd communication apparatus of FIG. The block diagram which shows the detail of the system configuration | structure of the remote monitoring system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. 14 is a flowchart of processing related to communication interruption detection by the second communication device of FIG. 13. The block diagram which shows the detail of the system configuration | structure of the remote monitoring system which concerns on 4th Embodiment. The flowchart of the power supply recovery process of the air conditioner by the server apparatus of FIG. The flowchart of the power supply control process by the air conditioner of FIG.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.
<< First Embodiment >>
In the remote monitoring system according to the first embodiment, the server device remotely monitors the power supply state of the air conditioner installed in the apartment room via the wireless communication network, and the usage fee of the air conditioner is determined according to the power supply state of the air conditioner. This is a billing system that performs billing processing by calculation. In the above remote monitoring, it is remotely monitored whether the power supply state of the air conditioner is on or off.
In addition, the “on state” and “off state” of the power state generally mean the on state and the off state of the main power switch of the electric device, but the main power source of the electric device is always in operation (on). State), the off state of the main operation of the electric device, that is, the standby state is defined as “off state”, and the on state of the main operation is defined as “on state”.

Examples of the billing process include (1) a billing process for calculating and billing an air conditioner usage fee according to the usage time of the air conditioner, and (2) a billing process for billing the usage fee according to the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner. Is mentioned.
In the first embodiment, as an accounting process, an accounting process that calculates and charges a usage fee according to the usage time of an air conditioner will be described as an example. When using the amount of power consumed by the air conditioner when calculating the usage fee, for example, a usage fee per unit power amount is determined in advance and the amount of power consumed from the air conditioner is notified to the server device.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of the system configuration of the remote monitoring system according to the first embodiment.
A remote monitoring system 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a server device 100, first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2, second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2, and air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2. . In FIG. 1, illustration of the second communication device that performs wireless communication with the first communication device 200-2 via the wireless communication path is omitted.

Server device 100 and first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2 are connected by wired communication paths 50-1 and 50-2, respectively. However, the server device 100 and each of the first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2 may be connected by a communication path including a wireless communication path.
The first communication device 200-1 and the second communication devices 300-1, 300-2 perform wireless communication via the wireless communication paths 60-1, 60-2.

Further, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 are connected to the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 via the wired communication paths 70-1 and 70-2, respectively.
Air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 are installed in rooms 15-1 and 15-2 of apartment 10, respectively. In addition, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 are installed in the rooms 15-1 and 15-2 in which the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 connected to each other are wired. Furthermore, the first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2 are installed in the corridor 20 of the apartment 10. Note that these installation locations are merely examples.

The numbers of the first communication device, the second communication device, and the air conditioner shown in FIG. 1 are merely examples.
The server apparatus 100 communicates with the first communication apparatuses 200-1 and 200-2 via the wired communication paths 50-1 and 50-2. In addition, the server device 100 remotely monitors the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 via a wireless communication network, calculates an air conditioner usage fee based on the usage time of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2, and charges in real time. To do. In addition, the usage time of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 is a time during which the power supply state of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 is on. The server device 100 is realized by a device such as a personal computer or a dedicated device, for example. Details of the configuration and operation of the server device 100 will be described later.

The first communication device 200-1 communicates with the server device 100 via the wired communication path 50-1, and the second communication devices 300-1, 300- via the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2. 2 and wireless communication.
In addition, the first communication device 200-1 monitors the wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2, performs a communication interruption detection process, and when the communication interruption continues for the first threshold value T1 or more, that fact. Is notified to the server apparatus 100. In addition, the communication interruption | blocking in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 is interruption | blocking of the wireless communication between the 1st communication apparatus 200-1 and the 2nd communication apparatus 300-1, 300-2.

  In addition, when the first communication device 200-1 detects normal wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 after the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold T1 or more, the first communication device 200-1 notifies the server device 100 of that fact. Notify them. The normal wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 is, for example, normal wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2. The first communication device 200-2 has substantially the same function as the first communication device 200-1.

The first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2 are realized by, for example, a wireless adapter for an air conditioner. The details of the configuration and operation of the first communication devices 200-1 and 200-2 and the details of the first threshold value T1 will be described later.
The second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 perform wireless communication with the first communication device 200-1 via the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2, respectively, and the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2. And the communication via the wired communication paths 70-1 and 70-2. In addition, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 monitor the wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2, respectively, and perform a communication interruption detection process. The communication interruption is equal to or greater than the second threshold T2. When it continues, the control for forcibly turning off the power supply of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 is performed. In addition, the communication interruption | blocking in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 is interruption | blocking of the wireless communication between the 1st communication apparatus 200-1 and the 2nd communication apparatus 300-1, 300-2.

In addition, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 are air conditioners during a period until the normal wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 is detected after the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more. Control for forcibly turning off the power sources 400-1 and 400-2 is performed. Note that normal wireless communication in the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2 is, for example, reception of a signal transmitted by the first communication device 200-1.
The second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 are realized by a controller such as a HEMS (Home Energy Management System) controller, for example. Details of the configurations and operations of the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 and details of the second threshold T2 will be described later.

The air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 communicate with the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 via the wired communication paths 70-1 and 70-2, respectively. The air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 output power state information of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 to the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2. The power condition information of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 is information indicating that the power condition of the air conditioner is on or off. Here, information indicating that the power state of the air conditioner is on is information on, and information indicating that the power state of the air conditioner is off is off information.
Further, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 send signals related to the power status information of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 via the first communication device 200-1, for example, the minimum corresponding to the minimum unit of the billing process. It is transmitted to the server apparatus 100 repeatedly at regular intervals or irregularly at time intervals equal to or less than the charging time. The power supply state information of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 includes information (on information, off information) indicating that the power supply state of the air conditioner is on or off, and an electric device for identifying the air conditioner. Includes identification information. In addition, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 detect the power status of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2, and when the power status changes, the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2 use the power status information of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2. Such a signal may be transmitted to the server apparatus 100.

In addition, for example, when there is no charge balance, the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 are controlled by the server device 100 to forcibly turn off the power and the second communication devices 300-1 and 300-2. Under control, the power is forcibly turned off. The details of the configuration and operation of the air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2 will be described later.
According to the remote monitoring system 1 described above, a prepaid card is not required, and billing processing corresponding to each usage time of one or a plurality of air conditioners is collectively executed remotely by one server device 100. Is possible. In addition, since the communication path between the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus is a wireless communication path, wiring work between the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus becomes unnecessary, and the construction cost is greatly increased. Can be reduced. Further, when the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more in the wireless communication path between the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus, or after the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more, normal wireless communication is detected. During this period, the power of the air conditioner is forcibly turned off, so that unauthorized use of the air conditioner by blocking the wireless communication path can be prevented.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing details of the system configuration of the remote monitoring system 1 of FIG. In FIG. 2, a user terminal 500 that can be connected to the server apparatus 100 is also illustrated. Note that the first communication device 200, the second communication device 300, and the air conditioner 400 in FIG. 2 are respectively the first communication device 200-1, 200-2, and the second communication device 300-1, 300-2 in FIG. And air conditioners 400-1 and 400-2. In addition, the wired communication path 50, the wireless communication path 60, and the wired communication path 70 in FIG. 2 are respectively the wired communication paths 50-1 and 50-2, the wireless communication paths 60-1 and 60-2, and FIG. This corresponds to the wired communication paths 70-1 and 70-2.

First, details of the configuration of the server apparatus 100 of FIG. 2 will be described.
The server device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a charging database 120, a registration unit 130, and a monitoring unit 140.
The communication unit 110 is connected to the wired communication path 50 and transmits / receives data to / from the communication unit 210 of the first communication device 200 connected to the wired communication path 50. The communication unit 110 is connected to a communication network (communication network constructed by one or both of a wired communication path and a wireless communication path) 80 and transmits / receives data to / from the user terminal 500 connected to the communication network 80. I do.

  The charging database 120 is a database for storing charging data for each user. An example of the accounting database is shown in FIG. The charging database 120 stores, for each user, a user ID, a password, identification information for identifying an air conditioner, an electricity bill, a usage time, and a charge balance. Note that, for example, the remaining charge usage time may be stored in the charging database 120 instead of the remaining charge, and the remaining charge usage time may be reduced according to the usage time. The accounting database 120 may be provided outside the server apparatus 100.

The registration unit 130 receives user information input using the user terminal 500 when the user performs initial registration, and registers the received user information in the charging database 120. The user information is, for example, a user ID, a password, identification information of an air conditioner to be used, and the like.
In addition, the registration unit 130 receives charge fee information input using the user terminal 500 when the user charges a fee, and updates the storage contents of the charging database 120 based on the received charge fee information. The charge fee information includes a user ID, a password, and a charge fee.

The monitoring unit 140 performs billing processing according to the use of the air conditioner 400.
When the monitoring unit 140 determines that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is changed from the off state to the on state based on the power supply state information of the air conditioner 400 transmitted by the air conditioner 400, the monitoring unit 140 starts a billing process. In the billing process, the monitoring unit 140 calculates the usage time, electricity bill, and charge balance of the air conditioner 400 and updates the contents of the billing database 120. The usage time of the air conditioner 400 is a time during which the power condition of the air conditioner is on.

In this charging process, for example, a usage fee per minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process is determined, and the monitoring unit 140 sets the air conditioner per minimum charging time for each use of the minimum charging time of the air conditioner 400. The usage fee is added to the electricity bill and the air conditioning usage fee per minimum billing time is subtracted from the charge balance.
When the monitoring unit 140 determines that (1) the charge balance has run out, (2) the power state of the air conditioner 400 changes from the on state to the off state based on the power state information of the air conditioner 400 transmitted by the air conditioner 400. Or (3) terminate the billing process when receiving a communication cut-off notification signal for notifying that the communication cut-off in the wireless communication path 60 has continued for the first threshold T1 or more from the first communication device 200 To do.

Further, when the monitoring unit 140 determines that the charge balance has run out, the monitoring unit 140 outputs a forced power-off command signal for instructing the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 to the communication unit 110.
Note that a plurality of second communication devices 300 may be wirelessly connected to the first communication device 200. In this case, the monitoring unit 140 grasps the second communication device 300 in which the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold value T1 or more, and stops the charging process of the air conditioner 400 connected thereto.

  An example that makes this possible will be described. The first communication device 200 includes information for identifying the second communication device 300 whose communication interruption has continued for the first threshold value T1 or more in the communication interruption notification signal. Further, the monitoring unit 140 uses, for example, a traceroute command, and includes route information including information for identifying the first communication device 200 between the server device 100 and the air conditioner 400 and information for identifying the second communication device 300. Is obtained in advance. The monitoring unit 140 specifies and specifies the air conditioner 400 connected to the second communication device 300 from the information for identifying the second communication device 300 included in the communication cutoff notification signal using the route information obtained in advance. Stop billing for air conditioner use.

This is merely an example, and the monitoring unit 140 grasps the second communication device 300 in which the communication interruption with the first communication device 200 has continued for the first threshold T1 or more, and performs the charging process of the air conditioner 400 connected thereto. Any mechanism may be used as long as it can be stopped.
Next, the configuration of the first communication device 200 in FIG. 2 will be described.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first communication device 200 includes a communication unit 210, a wireless communication unit 220, and a communication interruption detection unit 230.

The communication unit 210 is connected to the wired communication path 50 and transmits / receives data to / from the communication unit 110 of the server apparatus 100 connected to the wired communication path 50.
The wireless communication unit 220 transmits and receives data to and from the wireless communication unit 310 of the second communication device 300 via the wireless communication path 60 by wireless communication.
The communication interruption detection unit 230 monitors the wireless communication performed by the wireless communication unit 220 and performs a communication interruption detection process on the wireless communication path 60 between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300. When it is determined that the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold value T1 or more, the communication interruption detection unit 230 outputs a communication interruption notification signal for notifying the server device 100 to that effect to the communication unit 210. Further, when the communication interruption detection unit 230 determines that the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold T1 or more and then detects normal wireless communication in the wireless communication path 60, the communication recovery for notifying the server device 100 to that effect. The notification signal is output to the communication unit 210.

Next, the configuration of the second communication device 300 in FIG. 2 will be described.
As illustrated in FIG. 2, the second communication device 300 includes a wireless communication unit 310, a communication unit 320, a communication interruption detection unit 330, a power state monitoring unit 340, and a forced power off control unit 350.
The wireless communication unit 310 transmits and receives data to and from the wireless communication unit 220 of the first communication device 200 via the wireless communication path 60 by wireless communication.

The communication unit 320 is connected to the wired communication path 70 and transmits / receives data to / from the communication unit 420 of the air conditioner 400 connected to the wired communication path 70.
The communication interruption detection unit 330 monitors the wireless communication by the wireless communication unit 310 and performs a process of detecting communication interruption in the wireless communication path 60 between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300. When the communication interruption continues for the second threshold value T2 or more, the communication interruption detection unit 330 notifies the forced power-off control unit 350 to that effect. Further, when the communication interruption detection unit 330 detects normal wireless communication in the wireless communication path 60 after the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more, the communication interruption detection unit 330 notifies the forced power-off control unit 350 to that effect.

The power status monitoring unit 340 monitors the power status of the air conditioner 400 and notifies the forced power off control unit 350 of the power status of the air conditioner.
For example, the power supply state monitoring unit 340 may detect the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 based on the power supply state information transmitted from the air conditioner 400 to the server device 100. Further, the power supply state monitoring unit 340 may make an inquiry about the power supply state to the air conditioner 400 and detect the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 based on the response content. Note that this detection process is repeated periodically or irregularly at time intervals equal to or less than the minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process, for example.

  The forced power-off control unit 350 determines that the power state of the air conditioner 400 is on based on the notification from the power state monitoring unit 340, and the communication interruption from the communication interruption detection unit 330 continues for the second threshold T2 or more. Receive a notification to the effect. In this case, the forced power-off control unit 350 outputs a forced power-off command signal for instructing the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power of the air conditioner 400 to the communication unit 320.

  In addition, the forced power-off control unit 350 receives the notification that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more and the notification that the normal wireless communication is detected from the power supply state monitoring unit 340. Based on the notification, it is determined that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the off state to the on state. In this case, the forced power-off control unit 350 outputs a forced power-off command signal for instructing the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power of the air conditioner 400 to the communication unit 320. Instead of outputting the forced power-off command signal, the forced power-off control unit 350 operates the user setting unit such as the remote controller of the air conditioner 400 when receiving a notification that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more. Is output to the communication unit 320. Thereafter, when the forced power-off control unit 350 receives a notification that normal wireless communication has been detected, a signal for enabling the operation of the user setting unit of the air conditioner 400 may be output to the communication unit 320. A signal for invalidating the operation of the user setting unit is transmitted to the air conditioner 400 via the communication unit 320, and the air conditioner 400 invalidates the operation of the user setting unit and substitutes for the forced power-off command function. A signal for enabling the operation of the user setting unit is transmitted to the air conditioner 400 via the communication unit 320, and the air conditioner 400 enables the operation of the user setting unit.

The functions of the communication interruption detection unit 330, the power supply state monitoring unit 340, and the forced power-off control unit 350 allow the user to interrupt the wireless communication between the second communication device 300 and the first communication device 200 and to illegally use the air conditioner 400. It is possible to prevent use.
Next, the configuration of the air conditioner 400 of FIG. 2 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the air conditioner 400 includes a power supply unit 410, a communication unit 420, and a power supply control unit 430.

The power supply unit 410 is a power supply for the air conditioner.
The communication unit 420 is connected to the wired communication path 70 and transmits / receives data to / from the communication unit 320 of the second communication device 300 connected to the wired communication path 70.
The power control unit 430 outputs a signal related to power state information for notifying the server device 100 of the power state of the power unit 410 of the air conditioner 400 to the communication unit 420.

In addition, the power supply control unit 430 forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410 when receiving a forced power-off command signal forcibly turning off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 transmitted by the server device 100.
In addition, the power supply control unit 430 forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410 when receiving the forced power-off command signal forcibly turning off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 transmitted by the second communication device 300. . This forced power-off command signal indicates that, for example, when the air conditioner 400 is in the on state, the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more, or the normal wireless communication is performed after the communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more. It is transmitted by the second communication device 300 when the power source of the air conditioner 400 is turned on by a remote controller or the like until the time of detection.

Furthermore, the power supply control unit 430 turns on the power supply unit 410 when the user performs an operation to turn on the power using the user setting unit, and when the user performs an operation to turn off the power supply. The power supply unit 410 is turned off.
The user setting unit is a device that allows the user to directly set the air conditioner operating state (power on / off, etc.) using a remote controller such as an infrared remote controller or a switch. The user setting unit may enable temperature setting. The user may set the operating state of the air conditioner via the server device 100 using the user terminal 500, but when performing the setting via the server device 100, it takes time to set the air conditioner. It would be more convenient to have a user setting part such as a remote control or a switch.

Next, the user terminal 500 of FIG. 2 will be described.
The user terminal 500 is a terminal used by the user when performing user registration, charge charging, etc. in the charging database 120, and is connected to the communication unit 110 of the server apparatus 100 via the communication network 80. The user terminal 500 is, for example, a personal computer or a mobile terminal.

Hereinafter, the setting of the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 will be described.
Unlike wired communication, wireless communication can frequently be interrupted even in a normal operating state. Here, the normal operation state is an operation state in which no abnormality has occurred in a device related to wireless communication. Devices related to wireless communication are, for example, the first communication device 200, the second communication device 300, and the like.
The cause of the interruption of the wireless communication can include interference of a wireless signal with another wireless system using the same wireless band or a change in wireless environment such as fading.
If the air conditioner is forcibly turned off every time wireless communication is interrupted, the frequency of the air conditioner being forcibly turned off increases and the air conditioner operates stably for a long time. Will not be able to.

In billing processing, what we want to detect as a communication interruption for forcibly turning off the power of an air conditioner is a communication interruption caused by fraud or a communication interruption due to equipment failure. It is not a block.
A wireless communication system using the same wireless band avoids collision of packet signals by adopting a packet transmission method or a carrier sense method adopted in a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wireless channel. Since the wireless communication method that can avoid interference of wireless communication such as changes is adopted, wireless communication is unlikely to be interrupted for a long time.

In addition, wireless communication is unlikely to be interrupted continuously for a long time due to changes in the wireless environment such as fading.
Therefore, by setting the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 to be slightly longer, it is possible to detect long-time communication interruptions that cannot occur in the normal operation state, and it is possible to detect the air conditioner due to frequent communication interruptions in the normal operation state. It is possible to prevent the power supply from being forcibly turned off frequently.
Next, a method for measuring a typical value of the continuous duration of communication interruption of wireless communication in a normal operation state and its definition will be described.
For example, the number of wireless communication packets transmitted in the normal operation state is Ns, the time for transmitting all the packets is Ts, the packet error rate at that time is Ps, and the packet length is Tl. In the normal operation state, the packet error rate is, for example, about 0.1% to 1% at most. At this time, the number of error packets (= Ne) is Ne = Ns × Ps, and when error packets are not continuously generated, the error duration (= Tx) is Tx = Ts / Ns. On the other hand, when all error packets occur continuously, the error duration is Tx = Ne × Tl = Ns · Ps · Tl. Therefore, the typical value of the continuous duration of the communication interruption of the wireless communication in the normal operation state can be estimated as a value between approximately Ts / Ns seconds and Ns · Ps · Tl seconds. This value varies depending on the communication environment, but in the case of a standard such as W-LAN (IEEE802.11) or ZigBee (IEEE802.5.4) in a normal wireless environment, a typical value is about 1 msec to 100 msec. is there.
Here, if the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 are set sufficiently longer than this typical value, it is avoided that the power supply of the air conditioner is frequently forcibly turned off due to frequent communication interruption in the normal operation state. it can.
Note that the above is an example of a method for measuring a typical value of continuous duration of wireless communication interruption in a normal operation state, or a time equivalent thereto, and another method may be used. Further, the typical value of the continuous interruption duration can be estimated approximately if the wireless communication standard is determined, and is not unique to a remote monitoring system or the like. For example, the typical value of the continuous duration of wireless communication interruption in the normal operation state may be an average value of the continuous duration of communication interruption.

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the measurement result of the continuous duration of wireless communication interruption and the frequency distribution. From this graph, it is assumed that the average value of the continuous duration of the wireless communication interruption is about 10 milliseconds. In addition, since the relationship between the continuous continuation time of communication interruption of wireless communication and the distribution of the frequency varies depending on each installation location of the communication device that performs wireless communication, for example, measurement is performed at the location where they are installed.

  Here, if the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 are set sufficiently longer than the average value of 10 milliseconds, the communication interruption that frequently turns off the power of the air conditioner in the normal operation state is interrupted. Therefore, it can be avoided that the power of the air conditioner is frequently forcibly turned off. The first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 may be the same value or different. The second threshold value T2 may be a value equal to or less than the first threshold value T1. In this case, since the power of the air conditioner is turned off earlier than when the billing process is stopped when the communication is cut off, it is possible to prevent the device from being used free of charge.

However, if the set time of the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 is too long, the following problem occurs.
Until the second threshold value T2 elapses after the first communication interruption is detected, it cannot be determined whether the communication interruption may occur in the normal operation state or the communication interruption due to some kind of error such as fraud. That is, the charging process cannot be performed with an accuracy equal to or lower than the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2.

Assuming that the minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process is 1 minute, for example, in order to be able to charge in real time with accuracy within 1 minute in the charging process, each processing time of the system is set to about 1 minute or less.
The shorter the time that characterizes the real-time nature of the system, the better. It is desirable that it is at least equal to or less than the allowable delay time allowed for the system.

Therefore, the delay performance suitable for the system can be satisfied by setting the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 to be equal to or less than the allowable delay time.
In the case of billing processing, there may be a slight delay in processing time as long as it is shorter than the minimum billing time. That is, the first threshold value T1 and the second threshold value T2 may be made shorter than the minimum charging time.

Hereinafter, the operation of each device (server device 100, first communication device 200, second communication device 300, air conditioner 400) of remote monitoring system 1 in FIG. 2 will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, user registration and fee charge processing by the server apparatus 100 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG. However, in order to simplify the description of the user registration and charge charge processing, FIG. 5 is intended for one user.

  In the server apparatus 100, the registration unit 130 determines whether user information (user ID, password, electric appliance identification information of an air conditioner to be used) has been received (step S101). The registration unit 130 performs the process of step S101 until user information is received (S101: NO). On the other hand, when receiving the user information (S101: YES), the registration unit 130 registers the received user information in the charging database 120 (step S102). In addition, the user can charge a charge at the time of user registration by including the charge charge in the user information.

  The registration unit 130 determines whether the charge fee information (user ID, password, charge fee) has been received (step S103). The registration unit 130 performs the process of step S103 until the charge fee information is received (S103: NO). On the other hand, when receiving the charge fee information (S103: YES), the registration unit 130 performs password authentication and then adds the charge fee to the charging database 120 based on the charge fee information (step S104).

Next, billing processing by the server apparatus 100 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a charging process by the server apparatus 100 of FIG. However, in order to simplify the description of the accounting process, FIG. 6 is intended for one user.
In server device 100, monitoring unit 140 determines whether the power state of air conditioner 400 has changed from the off state to the on state based on the power state information transmitted from air conditioner 400 (step S131). The monitoring unit 140 performs the process of step S131 until it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400 is changed from the off state to the on state (S131: NO).

  On the other hand, when the monitoring unit 140 determines that the power state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the off state to the on state (S131: YES), the monitoring unit 140 refers to the charging database 120 to determine whether the user of the air conditioner 400 has a charge balance. (Step S132). Here, “there is a charge balance” means that there is a charge balance that is equal to or more than the usage fee of the air conditioner per minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process. If it is determined that there is no charge balance (S132: NO), the monitoring unit 140 transmits to the air conditioner 400 a forced power off command signal for forcibly turning off the power of the air conditioner 400 (step S133). This forced power-off command signal is received by the air conditioner 400 via the wired communication path 50, the first communication apparatus 200, the wireless communication path 60, the second communication apparatus 300, and the wired communication path 70. The power supply control unit 430 of the air conditioner 400 receives the forced power-off command signal and forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410. In addition, the monitoring unit 140 transmits a notification signal for notifying the user terminal 500 that there is no charge balance (step S134). The user terminal 500 receives this notification signal and displays, for example, that there is no charge balance.

When it is determined that there is a charge balance (S132: YES), the monitoring unit 140 starts a charging process (step S135). The billing process is, for example, usage time measurement, calculation of electricity bill from usage time, reduction of charge balance, and the like. In the charging process, a process of reducing the charge for using the air conditioner per minimum charging time from the charge balance is performed every minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process.
The monitoring unit 140 determines whether or not the user of the air conditioner 400 has a charge balance in the process of the charging process with reference to the charging database 120 (step S136). If it is determined that there is no charge balance (S136: NO), the monitoring unit 140 ends the charging process (step S137), and the process of step S133 is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a charge balance (S136: YES), the process of step S138 is performed.

  Whether the monitoring unit 140 has received from the first communication device 200 a communication cutoff notification signal for notifying that the communication cutoff between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 has continued for the first threshold T1 or more. Determination is made (step S138). If it is determined that the communication cutoff notification signal has been received (S138: YES), the monitoring unit 140 ends the charging process (step S140) and notifies the user terminal 500 of the charging process result such as the charge balance. (Step S141). Upon receiving this notification, the user terminal 500 displays a charging processing result such as a charge balance.

  If it is determined that the communication cutoff notification signal has not been received (S138: NO), it is determined whether the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the on state to the off state based on the power supply state information transmitted from the air conditioner 400. Determination is made (step S139). When it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400 is not off information from the on state (S139: NO), the process of step S136 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the on state to the off information (139: YES), the process of step S140 is performed.

Next, processing related to communication interruption detection by the first communication device 200 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing relating to communication interruption detection by the first communication device 200 of FIG.
In the first communication device 200, the communication interruption detection unit 230 monitors the wireless communication in the wireless communication path 60 and performs a communication interruption detection process (step S201). In addition, the detection of the presence or absence of communication interruption is repeatedly performed regularly or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the first threshold value T1, for example. The communication interruption detection unit 230 performs the process of step S201 until communication interruption is detected (S201: NO). On the other hand, when the communication interruption detection unit 230 detects communication interruption (S201: YES), the communication interruption detection time (t1) is recorded as the interruption start time (step S202).

  The communication interruption detection unit 230 determines whether the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold value T1 or more at time t (t−t1 ≧ T1?) (Step S203). When it is not determined that the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold value T1 or more at time t (S203: NO), the communication interruption detection unit 230 performs normal wireless communication after the interruption start time (t1) in the wireless communication path 60. A communication detection process is performed (step S204). In addition, the detection of the presence or absence of normal wireless communication is repeatedly performed regularly or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the first threshold value T1, for example. When normal wireless communication is not detected (S204: NO), the process of step S203 is performed. On the other hand, when normal wireless communication is detected (S204: YES), the process of step S201 is performed.

  When it is determined that the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold T1 or more at the time t (S203: YES), the communication interruption detection unit 230 notifies the communication interruption for the first threshold T1 or more. A notification signal is transmitted to the server apparatus 100 (step S205). The server device 100 receives this communication cutoff notification signal (YES in step S138 in FIG. 6), regards that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the on state to the off state, and ends the billing process (FIG. 6). Step S140).

  The communication interruption detection unit 230 performs normal wireless communication detection processing in the wireless communication path 60 (step S206). The communication interruption detection unit 230 performs the process of step S206 until normal wireless communication is detected (S206: NO). On the other hand, when normal wireless communication is detected (S206: YES), the communication interruption detection unit 230 notifies the fact that normal wireless communication has been detected after the communication interruption has continued for the first threshold or more. A cutoff end notification signal is transmitted to the server device 100 (step S207).

Next, processing related to communication interruption detection by the second communication device 300 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process related to detection of communication interruption by the second communication device 300 of FIG.
In the second communication device 300, the communication interruption detection unit 330 monitors the wireless communication in the wireless communication path 60 and performs a communication interruption detection process (step S301). Note that the detection of the presence or absence of communication interruption is repeated periodically or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the second threshold value T2, for example. The communication interruption detection unit 330 performs the process of step S301 until the communication interruption is detected (S301: NO). On the other hand, when the communication interruption detection unit 330 detects the communication interruption (S301: YES), the communication interruption detection time (t2) is recorded as the interruption start time (step S302).

  The communication interruption detection unit 330 determines whether the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more at time t (t−t2 ≧ T2?) (Step S303). When it is not determined that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more at time t (S303: NO), the communication interruption detection unit 330 performs normal wireless communication after the interruption start time (t2) in the wireless communication path 60. A communication detection process is performed (step S304). The detection of the presence / absence of normal wireless communication is repeated regularly or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the second threshold T2, for example. When normal wireless communication is not detected (S304: NO), the process of step S303 is performed. On the other hand, when normal wireless communication is detected (S304: YES), the process of step S301 is performed.

  When it is determined that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more at time t (S303: YES), the forced power-off control unit 350 is based on the result of monitoring the power state of the air conditioner 400 by the power state monitoring unit 340. It is determined whether the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is on (step S305). When it is determined that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is not on (S305: NO), the process of step S307 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400 is on (S305: YES), the forced power off control unit 350 outputs a forced power off command signal for forcibly turning off the power of the air conditioner 400. It transmits to the air conditioner 400 (step S306). The air conditioner 400 receives this forced power-off command signal via the wired communication path 70, and the power control unit 430 of the air conditioner 400 forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410.

As described above, when communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or more when the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is on, the power supply of the air conditioner 400 is forcibly turned off. As a result, unauthorized use of the air conditioner 400 that misuses communication interruption can be prevented.
The forced power-off control unit 350 determines whether the power state of the air conditioner 400 is changed from the off state to the on state based on the monitoring result of the power state of the air conditioner 400 by the power state monitoring unit 340 (step S307). . The determination as to whether the air conditioner 400 has been turned on is performed, for example, regularly or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process. If it is not determined that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the off state to the on state (S307: NO), the process of step S309 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400 has changed from the off state to the on state (S307: YES), the forced power off control unit 350 forcibly turns off the power source of the air conditioner 400. A command signal is transmitted to the air conditioner 400 (step S308). The air conditioner 400 receives this forced power-off command signal via the wired communication path 70, and the power control unit 430 of the air conditioner 400 forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410.

The communication interruption detection unit 330 performs normal wireless communication detection processing in the wireless communication path 60 (step S309). When normal wireless communication is not detected (S309: NO), the process of step S307 is performed. On the other hand, when normal wireless communication is detected (S309: YES), the process of step S301 is performed.
Thus, during the period from when communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or longer until normal wireless communication is detected, even if the user turns on the air conditioner using a remote controller or the like, The power is forcibly turned off. As a result, unauthorized use of the air conditioner 400 that misuses communication interruption can be prevented.

Next, power control processing by the air conditioner 400 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing power control processing by the air conditioner 400 of FIG.
In the air conditioner 400, the power control unit 430 determines whether the user has performed an operation of turning on the power of the air conditioner 400 (step S401). The power supply control unit 430 performs the process of step S401 until it is determined that the user has performed an operation of turning on the power supply of the air conditioner 400 (S401: NO). On the other hand, when it is determined that the user has performed an operation to turn on the power supply of the air conditioner 400 (S401: YES), the power supply control unit 430 turns on the power supply unit 410 (step S402). And the power supply control part 430 transmits the signal regarding the power supply state information for notifying the server apparatus 100 that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is an ON state (step S403).

  The power supply control unit 430 determines whether a forced power-off command signal for forcibly turning off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 has been received from the server device 100 or the second communication device 300 (step S404). If it is determined that the forced power-off command signal has not been received (S404: NO), the process of step S406 is performed. On the other hand, when it is determined that the forced power-off command signal has been received (S404: YES), the power supply control unit 430 forcibly turns off the power supply of the power supply unit 410 (step S405). And the power supply control part 430 transmits the signal regarding the power supply state information for notifying the server apparatus 100 that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is an OFF state (step S406). Thereby, the server apparatus 100 can know that the power supply of the air conditioner is forcibly turned off when there is no charge balance.

  The power supply control unit 430 determines whether the user has performed an operation to turn off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 (step S407). When it is determined that the user has not performed an operation of turning off the power of the air conditioner 400 (S407: NO), the process of step S404 is performed. If it is determined that the user has performed an operation to turn off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 (S407: YES), the power supply control unit 430 turns off the power supply of the power supply unit 410 (step S408). And the power supply control part 430 transmits the signal regarding the power supply state information for notifying the server apparatus 100 that the power supply state of the air conditioner 400 is an OFF state (step S409).

Hereinafter, an example of the system operation of the remote monitoring system 1 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the system operation of the remote monitoring system 1 of FIG. However, FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram when communication interruption occurs in the wireless communication path between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 when the air conditioner is turned on.

  The user performs a charge input operation for inputting a user ID, a password, and a charge fee using the user terminal 500 (step S11), and the user terminal 500 transmits charge fee information to the server device 100 (step S12). The server apparatus 100 receives the charge fee information and charges the charge database 120 with the charge fee based on the charge fee information (step S13). The charge fee information includes, for example, a user ID, a password, a charge fee, and the like.

  The power supply of the air conditioner 400 is turned on by a user operation (step S14), and the air conditioner 400 transmits to the server apparatus 100 a signal related to the power supply state information for notifying the server apparatus 100 that the power condition of the air conditioner is on. (Step S15). This signal passes through the wired communication path 70, the second communication device 300 (communication unit 320, wireless communication unit 310), the wireless communication channel 60, the first communication device 200 (wireless communication unit 220, communication unit 210), and the wired communication channel 50. The server apparatus 100 is reached via The server device 100 recognizes that the power supply of the air conditioner 400 has been turned on and starts a charging process when there is a charge balance (step S16).

The second communication device 300 detects a communication interruption that continues for the second threshold T2 or more (step S17), and instructs the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power (step S18). The air conditioner 400 forcibly turns off the power in response to this command (step S19).
The first communication device 200 detects communication interruption that has continued for the first threshold T1 or more (step S20), and notifies the server device 100 that communication interruption has been detected (step S21). The server device 100 receives the notification that the communication interruption has been detected and ends the accounting process (step S22). The server apparatus 100 notifies the user terminal 500 of the charging process result (step S23), and the user terminal 500 displays the charging process result (step S24).

<< Second Embodiment >>
Hereinafter, a remote monitoring system according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, components and processing steps that perform substantially the same processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof can be applied.

The second embodiment is a method for forcibly turning off the power supply of the air conditioner 400 during a period from when the second communication device detects a communication interruption that continues for a second threshold T2 or more until a normal wireless communication is detected. As described above, a method different from that of the first embodiment is used.
This another method is forcing to turn off the power of the air conditioner 400 during a period from when the second communication device 300 detects a communication interruption that continues for the second threshold or more until a normal wireless communication is detected. A power-off command signal is repeatedly or irregularly transmitted to the air conditioner 400.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing details of the system configuration of the remote monitoring system 1A according to the second embodiment.
The remote monitoring system 1A is different from the remote monitoring system 1 of FIG. 2 in that the second communication device 300 does not have the power supply state monitoring unit 340, and instead of the forced power off control unit 350, the forced power off control unit 350A. The system configuration is replaced with the second communication device 300A provided.

  The forced power-off control unit 350A instructs the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power of the air conditioner 400 when receiving a notification from the communication break detection unit 330 that the communication disconnection has continued for the second threshold T2 or more. A forced power-off command signal is output to communication unit 320. In addition, the forced power-off control unit 350A receives the notification that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold value T2 or more from the communication interruption detection unit 330 until the notification that the normal wireless communication has been detected. A forced power-off command signal for commanding air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off power of 400 is output to communication unit 320. For example, the forced power-off control unit 350 repeatedly outputs the forced power-off command signal to the communication unit 320 periodically or irregularly at a time interval shorter than the minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process during the period. To do.

In the first embodiment, since the power supply state monitoring unit 340 is provided, the forced power-off command signal is transmitted only when the air conditioner 400 is turned on. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, since the power supply state monitoring unit 340 is not provided, a forced power-off command signal is transmitted regardless of whether the air conditioner 400 is turned on or off.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing related to communication interruption detection by the second communication device 300A of FIG.

  In the second communication device 300A, substantially the same processing as in steps S301 to S304 described with reference to FIG. 8 is performed. When step S303 is YES, forced power-off control unit 350A transmits a forced power-off command signal for forcibly turning off power to air conditioner 400 to air conditioner 400 (step S306). The power supply control unit 430 of the air conditioner 400 receives the forced power-off command signal and forcibly turns off the power supply unit 410 when the power supply state is on. As a result, unauthorized use of the air conditioner 400 that misuses communication interruption can be prevented.

The forced power-off control unit 350A repeatedly transmits a forced power-off command signal for forcibly turning off the power of the air conditioner 400 to the air conditioner 400 (step S331).
The communication interruption detection unit 330 performs normal wireless communication detection processing in the wireless communication path 60 (step S332). When normal wireless communication is not detected (S332: NO), the process of step S331 is performed. On the other hand, when normal wireless communication is detected (S332: YES), the process of step S301 is performed.

Thus, during the period from when communication interruption continues for the second threshold T2 or longer until normal wireless communication is detected, even if the user turns on the air conditioner using a remote controller or the like, The power is forcibly turned off. As a result, unauthorized use of the air conditioner 400 that misuses communication interruption can be prevented.
Note that the method described in the second embodiment does not require the power supply state monitoring unit 340 for monitoring the power supply state of the air conditioner 400.

<< Third Embodiment >>
A remote monitoring system according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the third embodiment, components and processing steps that perform substantially the same processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof can be applied.

The remote monitoring system according to the third embodiment notifies the user when the power of the air conditioner is forcibly turned off.
FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing details of the configuration of the remote monitoring system according to the third embodiment.
As illustrated in FIG. 13, the remote monitoring system 1B includes a second communication device 300B in which a forced power-off notification unit 360 is added to the second communication device 300 of the first embodiment. The forced power-off control unit 350 notifies the forced power-off notification unit 360 to that effect every time it instructs the air conditioner 400 to forcibly turn off the power.

The forced power-off notification unit 360 is a control for forcibly turning off the power of the air conditioner 400 every time it receives a notification from the forced power-off control unit 350 that the air conditioner 400 has been instructed to forcibly turn off the power. The user is notified that the operation has been performed. Examples of the method for notifying the user include lighting or blinking of an LED, and output of a buzzer sound.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process related to communication interruption detection by the second communication device 300B of FIG.

  In the second communication device 300B, substantially the same processing as in steps S301 to S306 described with reference to FIG. 8 is performed. Following the process of step S306, the forced power-off notification unit 360 performs a process for notifying the user of the forced power-off of the air conditioner 400 (step S306B). Thereby, the user can know that the power supply of the air conditioner 400 was forcibly turned off.

  In the second communication device 300B, substantially the same processing as in steps S307 to S308 described with reference to FIG. 8 is performed. Subsequent to the process in step S308, the forced power-off notification unit 360 performs a process for notifying the user of the forced power-off of the air conditioner 400 (step S308B). Thereby, the user can know that the power supply of the air conditioner 400 was forcibly turned off.

In the second communication device 300B, substantially the same processing as step S309 described with reference to FIG. 8 is performed.
Note that when the power of the air conditioner 400 is forcibly turned off, the user may be notified that the cause of the forced turn off of the air conditioner 400 is due to communication interruption.
In addition, a function of notifying the user of forced power off may be added to the second embodiment. In this case, for example, when it is determined that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 or more, the period from the determination that the communication interruption has continued for the second threshold T2 until the normal wireless communication is detected, the forced power supply The off notification unit 360 keeps reporting to the user that the air conditioner is forcibly turned off. As a method for notifying the user of the forced turn-off of the air conditioner, for example, the LED is kept on or blinking.

<< Fourth Embodiment >>
A remote monitoring system according to the fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in the fourth embodiment, components and processing steps that perform substantially the same processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof can be applied to omit the description.

When the remote monitoring system according to the fourth embodiment detects normal wireless communication after the communication interruption between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 continues for the first threshold T1 or more, The power supply state of the air conditioner is set to a state before detection of communication interruption that continues for the first threshold T1 or more.
FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing details of the configuration of the remote monitoring system according to the fourth embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, the remote monitoring system 1C has a system configuration in which the server device 100 is replaced with the server device 100C and the air conditioner 400 is replaced with the air conditioner 400C with respect to the remote monitoring system 1 of the first embodiment. Yes.
The server apparatus 100C includes a monitoring unit 140C in which the function of the power state recovery unit 150 is added to the monitoring unit 140 according to the first embodiment.

  The power supply state recovery unit 150 maintains the power supply state of the air conditioner 400C before detecting a communication interruption that continues for the first threshold T1 or more. The power supply state recovery unit 150 detects the normal wireless communication after detecting the continuous communication interruption for the first threshold value T1 or more, and the power supply of the air conditioner 400C before the communication interruption detection is on. A power-on command signal for turning on is output to the communication unit 110.

The air conditioner 400C has a configuration in which the power supply control unit 430 of the first embodiment is replaced with a power supply control unit 430C.
In addition to the processing of the power supply control unit 430 of the first embodiment, the power supply control unit 430C turns on the power supply unit 410 when receiving a power-on command signal transmitted by the server device 100C.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing power supply recovery processing of the air conditioner by the server apparatus 100C of FIG. Note that although the power supply state of the air conditioner 400C is described as being held by the power supply state flag, other than the power supply state flag may be used.
In server apparatus 100C, monitoring unit 140C determines whether the power state of air conditioner 400C is off or on based on the power state information transmitted from air conditioner 400C (step S151). When it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400C is on (S151: YES), the power state recovery unit 150 turns on the power state flag (step S152). If it is determined that the power state of the air conditioner 400C is off (S151: NO), the power state recovery unit 150 turns off the power state flag (step S153).

  Whether the monitoring unit 140 has received from the first communication device 200 a communication cutoff notification signal for notifying that the communication cutoff between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 has continued for the first threshold T1 or more. Determination is made (step S154). If it is determined that the communication cutoff notification signal has been received (S154: YES), the process of step S155 is performed. If it is determined that the communication cutoff notification signal has not been received (S154: NO), the process of step S151 is performed.

  The monitoring unit 140C determines whether a communication cutoff end notification signal for notifying that normal wireless communication has been detected after the communication cutoff has continued for the first threshold or more has been received from the first communication device 200 (step S155). . When it is determined that the communication cutoff end notification signal has not been received (S155: NO), the process of step S155 is performed. If it is determined that the communication cutoff end notification signal has been received (S155: YES), the monitoring unit 140C determines whether the power state flag is on (step S156). When it is determined that the power supply state flag is on (S156: YES), the power supply state recovery unit 150 outputs a forced power supply off release command signal for releasing the forced power supply OFF of the air conditioner 400C and the power supply of the air conditioner 400C. A power-on command signal for turning on is transmitted to the second communication device 300. The second communication device 300 cancels the forced power-off function and transmits a power-on command signal to the air conditioner 400C (step S157). The power-on command signal reaches the air conditioner 400C via the wired communication path 50, the first communication apparatus 200, the wireless communication path 60, the second communication apparatus 300, and the wired communication path 70. The power supply control unit 430C of the air conditioner 400C turns on the power supply unit 410. On the other hand, when it is determined that the power state flag is off (S156: NO), the power state recovery unit 150 transmits a forced power off release command signal to the second communication device 300, and the second communication device 300 Cancels the forced power off function. (Step S158).

  In the first and second embodiments, the forced power-off release command detects normal wireless communication after the second communication device detects a communication interruption that continues for the second threshold T2 or more. This is a command for canceling the forced power-off function for forcibly turning off the power of the air conditioner 400 during the period up to. With this forced power off release command signal, the second communication device 300 and the air conditioner 400C can be restored to the state before the communication interruption.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing power control processing by the air conditioner 400C of FIG.
In the air conditioner 400C, substantially the same processing as step S301 described with reference to FIG. 9 is performed. If NO in step S401, the power supply control unit 430C determines whether a power-on command signal for turning on the power of the air conditioner 400 is received from the server apparatus 100C (step S401C). If it is determined that the power-on command signal has been received (S401C: YES), the process of step S402 is performed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the power-on command signal has not been received (S401C: NO), the process of step S401 is performed.

In air conditioner 400C, substantially the same processing as steps S402 to S409 described with reference to FIG. 9 is performed.
In the fourth embodiment, when normal wireless communication is detected when the power supply of the air conditioner 400C is forcibly turned off due to communication interruption, the power supply of the air conditioner 400C is automatically controlled by remote control by the server device 100C. Turned on. This eliminates the need for the user to turn on the air conditioner 400 each time.

Instead of providing the power state recovery unit 150 in the server device, a function equivalent to that of the power state recovery unit 150 may be added to the first communication device 200.
In addition, instead of providing the power supply state recovery unit 150 in the server device 100C, normal wireless communication is detected after the communication interruption between the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 continues for the second threshold T2 or more. In such a case, a function may be added to the second communication device 300 for setting the power supply state of the air conditioner to a state before detecting a communication interruption that continues for the second threshold T2 or more.

<< Fifth Embodiment >>
Hereinafter, a remote monitoring system according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the fifth embodiment, a method will be described in which each of the first communication device 200 and the second communication device 300 detects a communication interruption in the wireless communication path between the first communication device and the second communication device.

  It is assumed that the first communication interruption detection signal is transmitted from the first communication device 200 to the second communication device 300 regularly or irregularly. The second communication device 300 can detect the communication interruption by determining the communication interruption when the first communication interruption detection signal is not received within a predetermined time. The transmission of the first communication interruption detection signal is performed at least once within a predetermined time. The predetermined time is shorter than the second threshold T2.

  Further, it is assumed that the second communication interruption detection signal is transmitted from the second communication device 300 to the first communication device 200 regularly or irregularly. The first communication device 200 can detect the communication interruption by determining the communication interruption when the second communication interruption detection signal is not received within a predetermined time. The transmission of the second communication interruption detection signal is performed at least once within a predetermined time. The predetermined time is shorter than the first threshold T1.

Here, as the first communication interruption detection signal and the second communication interruption detection signal, a newly defined signal for detecting communication interruption may be used, or an existing signal may be used.
Here, a detection method of communication interruption will be described using the token method as an example.
In the token method, a “right” of a token time permitting the use of a communication channel for a short period of time from the first communication device is transmitted to the second communication device, and when the use of the communication channel for the token time is finished, the server device To repeatedly transmit the “right” of the new token time to the second transmitter.

The second communication device requests the “right” of the token time from the first communication device, and the first communication device transmits the “right” of the token time to the second communication device. This transmission / reception is performed each time the second communication device uses up the token time.
The first communication device determines that the communication is cut off when the request for the “right” at the next token time is not received before a predetermined time elapses after the request for the “right” at the previous token time.

If the second communication device does not receive the “right” of the next token time after receiving the “right” of the previous token time or after a predetermined time elapses after the token time is used up, to decide.
≪Supplement (Part 1) ≫
The present disclosure is not limited to the contents described in the above embodiment, and can be implemented in any form for achieving the purpose of the present disclosure and related or incidental purposes. .

(1) The remote monitoring system and the remote monitoring method described in the first to fifth embodiments can be applied to various electric devices such as household electric appliances (for example, a television and a personal computer) other than an air conditioner.
(2) The remote monitoring system and the remote monitoring method described in the first to fifth embodiments can be applied to various buildings such as a hotel or a hospital having a room where electrical equipment other than an apartment is installed. is there.

(3) The remote monitoring system and the remote monitoring method described in the first to fifth embodiments can be applied to billing processing for one or more electric devices.
(4) In the first to fifth embodiments, the prepaid method (prepaid method) is described as an example of the charging process, but a postpaid method (postpay method) may be used.

(5) In the first to fifth embodiments, the communication interruption detection unit 230 is described as being provided in the first communication device. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be provided in the server device.
(6) Each component of each device of the remote monitoring system in the first to fifth embodiments may be realized by an LSI (Large Scale Integration) which is an integrated circuit. At this time, each component may be individually made into one chip, or may be made into one chip so as to include a part or all of them. In addition, although it is referred to as LSI here, it may be referred to as IC (Integrated Circuit), system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI depending on the degree of integration. Further, the method of circuit integration is not limited to LSI, and implementation with a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor is also possible. An FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or a reconfigurable processor capable of reconfiguring connection or setting of circuit cells inside the LSI may be used. Furthermore, if integrated circuit technology comes out to replace LSI's as a result of the advancement of semiconductor technology or a derivative other technology, it is naturally also possible to carry out function block integration using this technology.

(7) At least a part of the operation procedure of each device of the remote monitoring system shown in the first to fifth embodiments is described in the program, for example, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) stored in the memory The program may be read and executed. Further, the program may be stored in a recording medium and distributed.
(8) The contents described in the first to fifth embodiments may be appropriately combined.

≪Supplement (Part 2) ≫
The remote monitoring method and remote monitoring system according to each embodiment and supplement (part 1) will be summarized.
(1) In the first aspect, the first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to the power state of the electric device, and the first communication device is connected to the first communication device via a wireless communication network. A remote monitoring system including a second communication device that monitors a power state of the first communication device, wherein the first communication device receives power from the second communication device via the wireless communication network. When ON information indicating that the state has been changed from the OFF state to the ON state is received, the server device starts a billing process for the user of the electrical device, and after the server device starts the start process, When the wireless communication with the two communication devices is detected to be interrupted, the server device terminates the accounting process, and the second communication device turns off the electric device. When it is detected that the state has been changed to the on state, the on information is transmitted to the first communication device via the wireless communication network, and wireless communication with the first communication device continues. A remote monitoring method for maintaining the power supply of the electrical device in an on state during a period of time and switching the power supply of the electrical device from an on state to an off state when it is detected that wireless communication with the first communication device is interrupted. is there.
According to the 1st aspect, it becomes possible to charge according to use of a user's electric equipment, without using a prepaid card. Further, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the electric device by interrupting wireless communication between the first communication device and the second communication device, and to perform charging processing according to the power supply state of the electric device.

(2) A second aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the first aspect, wherein the second communication device is configured so that the electric device is powered on during a period in which wireless communication with the first communication device continues. When it is detected that the state has been changed to the off state, the off information indicating the change is transmitted to the first communication device, and the first communication device is in a period during which wireless communication with the second communication device is continued. In the remote monitoring method, when the off information is received from the second communication device, the server device terminates the billing process.
(3) A third aspect is the first aspect or the second aspect, in which the first communication device is configured such that after the wireless communication with the second communication device is interrupted, the wireless communication cutoff time is It is determined whether or not the threshold is greater than or equal to a threshold, and if the cutoff time is not greater than or equal to the first threshold, the server device continues the accounting process, and if the cutoff time is greater than or equal to the first threshold, This is a remote monitoring method for terminating the billing process.
According to the third aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation where the accounting process ends frequently.

(4) A fourth mode is any one of the first mode to the third mode, wherein the second communication device is configured to block the wireless communication after the wireless communication with the first communication device is blocked. Is not less than a second threshold that is a value equal to or less than a first threshold, and if the shut-off time is not greater than or equal to the second threshold, the power supply of the electric device is maintained in an on state, and the shut-off time is It is a remote monitoring method which switches the power supply of the said electric equipment from an ON state to an OFF state as it is more than a 2nd threshold value.
According to the fourth aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the power supply of the electric device is frequently forcibly turned off.
(5) The fifth aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the third aspect, wherein the first threshold value is a value larger than an average value of the duration of radio cutoff occurring in radio communication in a normal operation state.
According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation where the accounting process ends frequently.

(6) A sixth aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the third aspect or the fifth aspect, wherein the first threshold is a value smaller than a minimum charging time corresponding to a minimum unit of the charging process.
According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to carry out charging processing in the minimum unit of charging before and after the occurrence of communication interruption.
(7) A seventh aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the fourth aspect, wherein the second threshold value is a value larger than the average value of the radio cutoff duration generated in radio communication in the normal operation state.
According to the seventh aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation in which forced power-off of the electrical equipment frequently occurs.

(8) The eighth aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the fourth aspect or the seventh aspect, wherein the second threshold is a value smaller than a minimum charging time corresponding to the minimum unit of the charging process.
According to the eighth aspect, it is possible to perform charging processing in the minimum unit of charging before and after the occurrence of communication interruption.
(9) A ninth aspect is any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect, wherein the electrical device is an air conditioning system, and the server device is charged during a period in which the power of the air conditioning system is on. Is a remote monitoring method.

(10) According to a tenth aspect, a first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to a power state of the electric device, and the first communication device connected to the first communication device via a wireless communication network, the electric device And a second communication device that monitors a power state of the first communication device, wherein the first communication device receives the on-information from the second communication device via the wireless communication network, and the server The server starts the accounting process for the user of the electrical device, and the server apparatus starts the start process, and then detects that the wireless communication with the second communication apparatus is interrupted. When the second communication device detects that the power of the electrical device has been changed from an off state to an on state, the on information indicating the change is terminated. Transmitting to the first communication device via the wireless communication network, and maintaining the power supply of the electric device in an on state during a period in which the wireless communication with the first communication device is continued. The remote monitoring system switches the power supply of the electric device from an on state to an off state when it is detected that wireless communication with the apparatus is interrupted.
According to the 10th aspect, it becomes possible to charge according to use of an electric equipment of a user, without using a prepaid card. Further, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the electric device by interrupting wireless communication between the first communication device and the second communication device, and to perform charging processing according to the power supply state of the electric device.

(11) An eleventh aspect is a first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to the power supply state of the electrical device, and wireless communication with a second communication device that monitors the power supply state of the electrical device A wireless communication unit that is connected via a network and receives on-information indicating that the power supply of the electrical device has changed from an off state to an on state from the second communication device, and detects a communication interruption of the wireless communication network After the detection unit and the wireless communication unit receive the on-information, the server device transmits a start signal for starting the accounting process for the electrical device, and transmits the start signal to the server device. When the detection unit detects that the wireless communication unit has disconnected the wireless communication with the second communication device, the server device stops the accounting process. And a control unit for transmitting signals, a first communication device.
According to the 11th aspect, it becomes possible to charge according to use of an electric device of a user, without using a prepaid card.

(12) In a twelfth aspect according to the eleventh aspect, the power supply of the electric device is changed from the on state to the off state from the second communication device during a period in which wireless communication with the second communication device is continued. When the wireless communication unit receives the off information indicating that this is the first communication device, the control unit transmits the stop signal to the server device.
(13) A thirteenth aspect is the eleventh aspect or the twelfth aspect, wherein the control unit detects that the wireless communication is interrupted, and then the wireless communication cutoff time is equal to or greater than the first threshold value. If the cutoff time is not equal to or greater than the first threshold, the server device is allowed to continue the accounting process without transmitting the stop signal, and the cutoff time is equal to or greater than the first threshold. And a first communication device that transmits the stop signal to the server device.
According to the first communication device of the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation where the accounting process ends frequently.

(14) In the fourteenth aspect, a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with a first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to a power state of the electrical device, and a power source that monitors the power state of the electrical device A monitoring unit; and a power control unit that controls a power state of the electric device, and the wireless communication unit detects that the power of the electric device has been changed from an off state to an on state. The unit is on-information indicating the change, and the first communication device transmits to the first communication device on-information for causing the server device to start a billing process for the electrical device, and the power control unit The wireless communication unit maintains the power supply of the electrical device during a period in which the wireless communication with the first communication device is continued, and the wireless communication unit performs wireless communication with the controller. Detects blocking Switching off state the power of the electrical device from the ON state when the a second communication device.
According to the 14th aspect, it becomes possible to charge according to use of an electric device of a user, without using a prepaid card. Further, it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the electric device by interrupting wireless communication between the first communication device and the second communication device, and to perform charging processing according to the power supply state of the electric device.

(15) In the fourteenth aspect, when the power monitoring unit detects that the power state of the electric device has been changed from an on state to an off state, the wireless communication unit indicates the change. A second communication device that transmits off information to the first communication device, which is off information for the first communication device to cause the server device to end the billing process of the electrical device.
(16) A sixteenth aspect is the fourteenth aspect or the fifteenth aspect, wherein the second communication device detects that the wireless communication unit has blocked the wireless communication after the wireless communication unit has detected that the wireless communication has been blocked. It is determined whether or not it is equal to or greater than a second threshold value, and the power supply control unit maintains the power supply of the electric device in an ON state when the cutoff time is not equal to or greater than the second threshold value, and the cutoff time is equal to the second threshold value. If it is the above, it is the 2nd communication apparatus which switches the power supply of the said electric equipment from an ON state to an OFF state.
According to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the power supply of the electrical device is frequently turned off.

(17) A seventeenth aspect is a server device for remotely monitoring a power state of a device via a wireless communication network, a communication unit connected to a communication system including the wireless communication network, and a power state of the electric device A monitoring unit that monitors the wireless communication network and the communication unit via the wireless communication network, and the monitoring unit indicates that the power state of the electrical device has changed from an off state to an on state. When the charging process for the use of the electrical device is detected when detected via the communication unit, the period during which the power state of the device is detected via the wireless communication network and the communication unit is Continuing the billing process, the fact that the power state of the device has changed from the on state to the off state via the wireless communication network and the communication unit Terminating the charging process when issuing a server device.
According to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to charge according to the use of the user's electric device without using a prepaid card.
(18) An eighteenth aspect is the remote monitoring method according to the first aspect, in which when the charge balance of the user who uses the electric device runs out, the electric device is turned off via the wireless communication network. It is.
According to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the user from using the electric device in a situation where there is no charge balance.

(19) A nineteenth aspect is the fourth aspect, wherein the second communication apparatus determines that the second communication interruption has continued for the second threshold or more, and then the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus. When it is detected that the power state of the electrical device has changed from the off state to the on state during a period until normal wireless communication is detected on the wireless communication path between the power source and the power source, the power source of the electrical device is turned off. Remote monitoring method.
According to the remote monitoring method of the nineteenth aspect, since it is not possible to charge the server device during the period from when it is determined that the second communication interruption has continued for the second threshold or more until the normal wireless communication is detected, By preventing the use of the device, it is possible to avoid a situation where charging is not possible even though the electrical device is used.

(20) The twentieth aspect is the third aspect, wherein the second communication apparatus determines that the second communication interruption has continued for the second threshold or more, and then the first communication apparatus and the second communication apparatus. Is a remote monitoring method in which the process of turning off the power of the electrical device is repeatedly performed until a normal wireless communication is detected on the wireless communication path between the wireless device and the wireless device.
According to the twentieth aspect, since it is not possible to charge the server device during the period from when it is determined that the second communication interruption has continued for the second threshold or more until the normal wireless communication is detected, It is possible to prevent a situation in which charging is not possible even though the electric device is used.

(21) In the twenty-first aspect, in any one of the first aspect, the fourth aspect, the tenth aspect, and the fourteenth aspect, the second communication device performs a process of turning off the power of the electric device. This is a remote monitoring method for notifying the user of that fact.
According to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the user misunderstands that the electric device has failed when the power of the electric device is forcibly turned off.
(22) In the twenty-second aspect, in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, the sixth aspect, and the thirteenth aspect, the server device or the first communication device is configured such that the first communication cutoff is the first If it is determined that the wireless communication path between the first communication device and the second communication device has been detected after it has been determined that it has continued for a threshold or more, the power state of the electrical device is changed to the first communication. This is a remote monitoring method in which the power supply state is determined before it is determined that the interruption has continued for the first threshold value or more.
According to the twenty-second aspect, the user operation for turning on the power of the electric device is not necessary, and the user's troublesomeness can be reduced.

(23) In the twenty-third aspect, in any one of the fourth aspect, the seventh aspect, the eighth aspect, and the sixteenth aspect, the second communication device is configured such that the second communication interruption continues for the second threshold value or more. And when the normal wireless communication in the wireless communication path between the first communication device and the second communication device is detected, the power supply state of the electrical device is determined to be the second threshold value. This is a remote monitoring method for setting the power state before it is determined that the operation has been continued.
According to the twenty-third aspect, the user operation for turning on the power of the electric device is not necessary, and the user's troublesomeness can be reduced.
(24) A twenty-fourth aspect is a remote monitoring method according to any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect and the tenth aspect to the twenty-third aspect, wherein the electrical device is a household electrical appliance.

(25) A twenty-fifth aspect is a server apparatus according to the seventeenth aspect, wherein the monitoring unit ends the billing process and updates the billing information stored in the management table.
According to the twenty-fifth aspect, it is possible to charge according to the use of the user's electric device without using the prepaid card.
(26) The twenty-sixth aspect further includes a communication interruption detection unit that determines whether or not the communication interruption has continued for a predetermined time or more when the communication interruption of the wireless communication in the wireless communication network is detected in the seventeenth aspect. The monitoring unit is a server device that stops the billing process based on a determination that the communication disconnection has continued for the predetermined time or more when the power state of the electrical device is on.

  The present disclosure can perform charging processing according to the use of the user's electric device without using the prepaid card, and suppress unauthorized use of the electric device by interrupting wireless communication.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Remote monitoring system 100 Server apparatus 110 Communication part 120 Charge database 130 Registration part 140 Monitoring part 200 1st communication apparatus 210 Communication part 220 Wireless communication part 230 Communication interruption | blocking detection part 300 2nd communication apparatus 310 Wireless communication part 320 Communication part 330 Communication Blocking detection unit 340 Power supply state monitoring unit 350 Forced power-off control unit 400 Air conditioner 410 Power supply unit 420 Communication unit 430 Power supply control unit 500 User terminal

Claims (13)

A first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to the power state of the electrical device, and a second communication device that is connected to the first communication device via a wireless communication network and monitors the power state of the electrical device. A remote monitoring method in a remote monitoring system including a communication device,
The first communication device is
When on-information indicating that the power of the electrical device has been changed from an off state to an on state is received from the second communication device via the wireless communication network, the server device charges the user of the electrical device Start
After causing the server device to start the start process, if it is detected that the wireless communication with the second communication device has been interrupted, the server device ends the billing process,
The second communication device is
When it is detected that the power source of the electrical device has been changed from an off state to an on state, the on information is transmitted to the first communication device via the wireless communication network;
When the wireless communication with the first communication device is continued, the power supply of the electric device is maintained in the ON state, and when the wireless communication with the first communication device is detected to be cut off, the electric device Switch the device power from on to off,
Remote monitoring method. The second communication device is
When it is detected that the power source of the electrical device has been changed from an on state to an off state during a period in which wireless communication with the first communication device is continuing, off information indicating the change is displayed as the first communication device. To
The first communication device is
If the off information is received from the second communication device during a period in which wireless communication with the second communication device continues, the server device terminates the accounting process;
The remote monitoring method according to claim 1. The first communication device is
After the wireless communication with the second communication device is interrupted, it is determined whether or not the wireless communication disconnection time is equal to or greater than the first threshold, and if the interruption time is not equal to or greater than the first threshold, the server Causing the device to continue the billing process and causing the server device to terminate the billing process if the blocking time is greater than or equal to the first threshold;
The remote monitoring method according to claim 1 or 2. The second communication device is
After the wireless communication with the first communication device is interrupted, it is determined whether or not the wireless communication interruption time is equal to or greater than a second threshold that is a value equal to or less than a first threshold, and the interruption time is the second If it is not equal to or greater than the threshold value, the power of the electric device is maintained in the on state, and if the cutoff time is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, the power of the electric device is switched from the on state to the off state.
The remote monitoring method according to claim 1. The first threshold value is a value larger than the average value of the wireless cutoff duration generated in the wireless communication in the normal operation state,
The remote monitoring method according to claim 3. The first threshold is a value smaller than a minimum charging time corresponding to a minimum unit of the charging process.
The remote monitoring method according to claim 3 or 5. The second threshold is a value larger than the average value of the radio cutoff duration generated in radio communication in the normal operation state,
The remote monitoring method according to claim 4. The second threshold is a value smaller than a minimum charging time corresponding to a minimum unit of the charging process.
The remote monitoring method according to claim 4 or 7. The electrical device is an air conditioning system;
During the period when the power of the air conditioning system is on, billing processing is performed in the server device.
The remote monitoring method according to claim 1. A first communication device connected to a server device that performs billing processing according to the power state of the electrical device, and a second communication device that is connected to the first communication device via a wireless communication network and monitors the power state of the electrical device. A remote monitoring system including a communication device,
The first communication device is
When the on-information is received from the second communication device via the wireless communication network, the server device starts a billing process for the user of the electrical device,
After causing the server device to start the start process, if it is detected that the wireless communication with the second communication device has been interrupted, the server device ends the billing process,
The second communication device is
When it is detected that the power source of the electrical device has been changed from an off state to an on state, on information indicating the change is transmitted to the first communication device via the wireless communication network,
When the wireless communication with the first communication device is continued, the power supply of the electric device is maintained in the ON state, and when the wireless communication with the first communication device is detected to be cut off, the electric device Switch the device power from on to off,
Remote monitoring system. A first communication device connected to a server device that performs a billing process according to a power supply state of an electrical device,
Connected via a wireless communication network to a second communication device that monitors the power state of the electrical device, and receives from the second communication device on information indicating that the power source of the electrical device has changed from an off state to an on state. A wireless communication unit,
A detection unit for detecting communication interruption of the wireless communication network;
When the wireless communication unit receives the on-information, the wireless communication unit transmits a start signal for starting a charging process for the electrical device to the server device, and transmits the start signal to the server device, and then transmits the wireless communication unit. A control unit that transmits a stop signal for ending the billing process to the server device when the detection unit detects that the wireless communication with the second communication device is interrupted by the unit. ,
1st communication apparatus. The wireless communication unit receives off information indicating that the power of the electrical device has been changed from an on state to an off state from the second communication device during a period in which wireless communication with the second communication device continues. If so, the control unit transmits the stop signal to the server device,
The first communication device according to claim 11. The first communication device is
After the detection unit detects that the wireless communication is interrupted, the control unit determines whether the wireless communication interruption time is equal to or greater than the first threshold, and the interruption time is the first threshold. Otherwise, the server device continues the billing process without transmitting the stop signal, and transmits the stop signal to the server device when the blocking time is equal to or greater than the first threshold.
The first communication device according to claim 11 or 12.

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