JP7727573B2 - communication equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a communication device.

Communication devices that receive data intermittently to save power are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a relay device that intermittently receives observation data from an observation station that observes the observation data of an observation target and transmits it at a predetermined interval.

The relay device of Patent Document 1 changes the reception cycle if it is unable to receive observation data. Specifically, the relay device of Patent Document 1 changes at least one of the reception pause period or reception time of the reception cycle. If it is able to receive observation data after changing the reception cycle, the relay device of Patent Document 1 returns the reception cycle to the basic reception cycle.

JP 2017-37358 A

However, the relay device (communication device) in Patent Document 1 constantly performs intermittent reception operations to ensure communication reliability. During intermittent reception operations, data waiting operations occur periodically. Data waiting operations consume power. Therefore, taking into account the power consumption of communication devices, there is room for further improvement.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a communication device that can reduce power consumption.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a communication device has a reception pause mode and an intermittent reception mode as operating modes. The reception pause mode is a mode in which the device enters a reception pause state in which reception of data transmitted from a communication partner is paused. The intermittent reception mode is a mode in which the device enters a first standby state in which the device intermittently waits for data transmitted from the communication partner at a predetermined reception cycle for a predetermined duration. The communication device includes a communication unit, a control unit, and a storage unit. The communication unit is communicatively connected to the communication partner. When one of a plurality of switching conditions is met, the control unit switches the operating mode from the reception pause mode to the intermittent reception mode. The storage unit stores, for each switching condition, an intermittent reception operating condition indicating the setting values of various parameters related to the intermittent reception mode. When one of the switching conditions is met, the control unit controls the communication unit based on the intermittent reception operating condition corresponding to the met switching condition.

The communication device according to the present invention can reduce power consumption.

1 is a diagram illustrating a communication system including a communication device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a timing chart showing an example of an operation of the communication device when the operation mode is a power saving mode. 10 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of a communication device when the operation mode is an eDRX mode. 10 is a timing chart showing another example of the operation of the communication device when the operation mode is the power saving mode. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a communication device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a table defining switching conditions. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing various parameters related to eDRX mode and various parameters related to power saving mode. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a table defining the relationship between a plurality of switching conditions and setting values of various parameters. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by a control unit included in the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by a control unit included in the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by a control unit included in the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating a first example of an operation of the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a second example of the operation of the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a third example of the operation of the communication device according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating a fourth example of the operation of the communication device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of an operation of a communication device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments of the communication device of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings (Figs. 1 to 16). However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the invention. Note that duplicated descriptions may be omitted where appropriate. Furthermore, identical or equivalent parts in the drawings will be designated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions will not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 15. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a communication system 100 including a communication device 200 according to this embodiment. In the communication system 100, the communication device 200 communicates with a center device 400. The center device 400 is an example of a communication partner of the communication device 200.

As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 100 includes a communication device 200 and a center device 400. The communication device 200 is communicatively connected to the center device 400. In this embodiment, the communication device 200 is communicatively connected to the center device 400 via a base station 600 and a center-side network control device 500. Note that although the communication system 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes one communication device 200, the communication system 100 may include multiple communication devices 200.

The base station 600 and the center-side network control device 500 form a wide-area wireless communication network NW. The wide-area wireless communication network NW is, for example, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, a 4G (fourth-generation mobile communication system) network, or a 5G (fifth-generation mobile communication system) network. The center device 400 is communicatively connected to the base station 600 via the center-side network control device 500. The base station 600 and the center-side network control device 500 are provided, for example, in a telecommunications carrier's public network. The center device 400 is connected to the center-side network control device 500, for example, via an optical fiber cable. The center-side network control device 500 controls communication between the center device 400 and the base station 600.

In this embodiment, the base stations 600 include a first base station 601 and a second base station 602. The communication device 200 is communicatively connected to the center device 400 via one of the first base station 601 or the second base station 602 and the center-side network control device 500.

More specifically, the communication device 200 is capable of communication in multiple frequency bands. The communication device 200 of this embodiment is capable of communication in two frequency bands. Hereinafter, one of the two frequency bands may be referred to as the "first frequency band B1" and the other as the "second frequency band B2." The first base station 601 supports the first frequency band B1, and the second base station 602 supports the second frequency band B2.

When communicating via the first frequency band B1, the communication device 200 communicates with the first base station 601 and is communicatively connected to the center device 400 via the first base station 601 and the center-side network control device 500. When communicating via the second frequency band B2, the communication device 200 communicates with the second base station 602 and is communicatively connected to the center device 400 via the second base station 602 and the center-side network control device 500.

The communication device 200 has two operating modes: a power saving mode (PSM) and an extended discontinuous reception mode (eDRX). When a specific switching condition is met, the communication device 200 switches its operating mode from the power saving mode (PSM) to the extended discontinuous reception mode (eDRX). The switching condition indicates the condition for switching the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode (PSM) to the extended discontinuous reception mode (eDRX).

Power saving mode (PSM) is an example of a reception pause mode. When the operating mode is power saving mode (PSM), the communication device 200 enters a reception pause state HC in which it pauses reception of messages (data) transmitted from the center device 400. In more detail, when the operating mode is power saving mode (PSM), the communication device 200 establishes a communication connection with the center device 400 only when transmitting a message from the communication device 200 to the center device 400. Therefore, by including power saving mode (PSM) in the operating modes of the communication device 200, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the communication device 200. Hereinafter, power saving mode may be referred to as "power saving mode PSM."

Enhanced discontinuous reception mode (eDRX) is an example of an intermittent reception mode, and when the operating mode is enhanced discontinuous reception mode (eDRX), the communication device 200 enters a first standby state SC1. The first standby state SC1 indicates a state in which the communication device 200 intermittently waits for a predetermined duration SP1, at a predetermined reception cycle CP1, for messages (data) transmitted from the center device 400. Hereinafter, the enhanced discontinuous reception mode may be referred to as "eDRX mode."

Note that the reception pause mode is not limited to the power saving mode PSM. The reception pause mode may be any mode in which the communication device 200 is in the reception pause state HC. Similarly, the intermittent reception mode is not limited to the eDRX mode. The intermittent reception mode may be any mode in which the communication device 200 is in the first standby state SC1.

In the first standby state SC1, the communication device 200 periodically waits for a message (data) transmitted from the center device 400. The center device 400 stores the reception timing RT that periodically occurs in the communication device 200 in the first standby state SC1. The center device 400 transmits a message in accordance with the reception timing RT of the communication device 200. As a result, the communication device 200 receives the message transmitted from the center device 400. For example, the center device 400 performs paging in accordance with the reception timing RT of the communication device 200.

Next, the communication system 100 will be further described with reference to Figure 1. The communication system 100 shown in Figure 1 is a telemetry system in which a meter 300 is communicatively connected to a communication device 200. In this embodiment, the communication device 200 is wired to the meter 300 via an electric wire PL. The electric wire PL includes a signal line and a ground line.

Meter 300 is installed at each consumer, such as a private home, a company, or various facilities. Meter 300 is an example of a measuring device and measures resource or energy usage. For example, meter 300 measures gas, water, electricity, or other usage. That is, meter 300 may be a gas meter, water meter, or electricity meter. A gas meter measures gas usage by integrating the gas flow rate. A water meter measures tap water usage by integrating the tap water flow rate. An electricity meter measures electricity usage by integrating the amount of power consumed.

A telemetry system is a system that collects measurement values from multiple meters 300, with a communication device 200 installed for each meter 300. The measurement values from each meter 300 are collected by a center device 400 via the corresponding communication device 200. The center device 400 stores the measurement values for each meter 300. The center device 400 includes a server used by a business that supplies resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

Specifically, the communication device 200 acquires information indicating the measurement results (measurement values) from the corresponding meter 300. In other words, the communication device 200 acquires information indicating the amount of resource or energy usage from the corresponding meter 300. The communication device 200 transmits a message indicating the acquired measurement values to the base station 600. As a result, the measurement values of the meter 300 are transmitted to the center device 400.

Next, the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of the communication device 200 when the operating mode is power saving mode PSM. Note that in Figure 2, the horizontal axis is the time axis.

As shown in FIG. 2, when the operating mode is power saving mode PSM, the communication device 200 enters reception pause state HC and pauses the operation of receiving messages from the center device 400. In other words, the communication device 200 pauses the operation of waiting for messages sent from the center device 400. Hereinafter, the operation of waiting for messages sent from the center device 400 may be referred to as "standby operation."

When the communication device 200 sends a message to the center device 400 in the reception pause state HC, it establishes a communication connection with the center device 400. As a result, the communication device 200 enters the connection state CC. The connection state CC indicates a state in which a communication connection between the communication device 200 and the center device 400 has been established. After establishing the communication connection, the communication device 200 sends a message to the center device 400.

When the communication device 200 sends a message to the center device 400, it disconnects from the communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the second standby state SC2 for a certain period SP2. Here, the second standby state SC2 indicates a state in which the device intermittently waits for messages to be sent from the center device 400. Hereinafter, the period of the second standby state SC2 may be referred to as the "standby period SPA." When the operating mode is the power saving mode PSM, the communication device 200 enters the reception pause state HC after the standby period SPA has elapsed.

In the second standby state SC2, the communication device 200 waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400 at each reception timing RT. The reception timing RT occurs periodically. Therefore, the communication device 200 intermittently waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400. Specifically, the communication device 200 performs a standby operation at each reception timing RT and waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400. For example, the communication device 200 waits for paging at each reception timing RT. Hereinafter, the period of the reception timing RT in the second standby state SC2 may be referred to as the "reception period CP2."

The center device 400 stores the reception timing RT that occurs periodically in the communication device 200 during the standby period SPA. The center device 400 transmits messages in accordance with the reception timing RT of the communication device 200. As a result, the communication device 200 receives the messages (data) transmitted from the center device 400.

The reception cycle CP2 indicates the time interval between reception timings RT in the second standby state SC2. For example, the reception cycle CP2 is 1.28 seconds. In the second standby state SC2, the communication device 200 is in a reception pause state during periods other than the reception timings RT. In other words, the communication device 200 pauses standby operation during periods other than the reception timings RT.

Next, the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 3. Figure 3 is a timing chart showing an example of the operation of the communication device 200 when the operating mode is eDRX mode. Note that in Figure 3, the horizontal axis is the time axis.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the operating mode switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, the communication device 200 enters a first standby state SC1 for a predetermined duration SP1, and intermittently waits for messages transmitted from the center device 400 at a predetermined reception cycle CP1. Hereinafter, the duration SP1 may be referred to as the "eDRX period SP1." Furthermore, the reception cycle CP1 may be referred to as the "eDRX cycle CP1."

In the first standby state SC1, the communication device 200 waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400 at each reception timing RT. The reception timing RT occurs periodically. Therefore, the communication device 200 intermittently waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400. Specifically, the communication device 200 performs a standby operation at each reception timing RT and waits for a message transmitted from the center device 400. For example, the communication device 200 waits for paging at each reception timing RT.

The eDRX cycle CP1 indicates the time interval between reception timings RT in the first standby state SC1. In other words, the eDRX cycle CP1 indicates the period between reception timings RT in the first standby state SC1. In the first standby state SC1, the communication device 200 is in a reception pause state during periods other than the reception timings RT. In other words, the communication device 200 pauses standby operation during periods other than the reception timings RT.

In this embodiment, the eDRX cycle CP1 indicates an arbitrary value. Specifically, the eDRX cycle CP1 is a parameter related to the eDRX mode, and the length (set value) of the eDRX cycle CP1 is a value that can be changed by the operator. For example, the eDRX cycle CP1 indicates 10.24 seconds, 20.48 seconds, 40.96 seconds, 81.92 seconds, 163.84 seconds, 327.68 seconds, 655.35 seconds, 1310.70 seconds, or 2621.40 seconds. The longer the eDRX cycle CP1, the more power consumption can be reduced. Note that, like the eDRX cycle CP1, the eDRX period SP1 is also a parameter related to the eDRX mode, and the length (set value) of the eDRX period SP1 is a value that can be changed by the operator.

When the communication device 200 receives a paging message from the center device 400 while in the first standby state SC1, it establishes a communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the connection state CC. After establishing the communication connection, the communication device 200 transmits a response message to the center device 400.

When the communication device 200 sends a response message to the center device 400, it disconnects from the communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the second standby state SC2 for a certain period SP2. If the operating mode is eDRX mode, the communication device 200 enters the first standby state SC1 after the certain period SP2 has elapsed.

Furthermore, when the communication device 200 sends a message to the center device 400 in the first standby state SC1, it establishes a communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the connection state CC. After establishing the communication connection, the communication device 200 sends the message to the center device 400.

When the communication device 200 sends a message to the center device 400, it disconnects from the communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the second standby state SC2 for a certain period SP2. If the operating mode is eDRX mode, the communication device 200 enters the first standby state SC1 after the certain period SP2 has elapsed.

Next, the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 4. Figure 4 is a timing chart showing another example of the operation of the communication device 200 when the operating mode is power saving mode PSM. Note that in Figure 4, the horizontal axis is the time axis.

As shown in FIG. 4, the communication device 200 of this embodiment is capable of extending the standby period SPA (the period of the second standby state SC2). Specifically, the standby period SPA is extended by adding an extension time ESP to the fixed period SP2. The communication device 200 waits for a message sent from the center device 400 at each reception timing RT even during the extension time ESP. The cycle of the reception timing RT during the extension time ESP is the same as the cycle of the reception timing RT during the fixed period SP2.

The extension time ESP indicates any value. Specifically, the extension time ESP is a parameter related to the power saving mode PSM, and the length (setting value) of the extension time ESP is a value that can be changed by the operator. For example, the extension time ESP indicates 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes.

Next, the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the communication device 200 includes a first connection unit 201, a communication unit 202, a control unit 203, a memory unit 204, a second connection unit 205, a first timer circuit 206, a second timer circuit 207, a third timer circuit 208, a clock circuit 209, a counter circuit 210, an operation unit 211, a power supply circuit 212, a battery remaining capacity detection unit 213, and a battery BT.

The first connection unit 201 is communicatively connected to the meter 300. Specifically, the first connection unit 201 has at least one port. One end of the electric wire PL is connected to the port of the first connection unit 201. The first connection unit 201 is wired to the meter 300 via the electric wire PL. The control unit 203 acquires measurement values from the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201. In other words, the control unit 203 acquires information indicating the amount of resource or energy usage from the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201.

The communication unit 202 is communicatively connected to the center device 400 (Figure 1). More specifically, as described with reference to Figure 1, the communication unit 202 is communicatively connected to the base station 600. As a result, the communication unit 202 is communicatively connected to the center device 400 via the base station 600 and the center-side network control device 500.

The control unit 203 controls each element of the device itself (communication device 200) based on information stored in the memory unit 204. For example, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202, memory unit 204, first timer circuit 206, second timer circuit 207, third timer circuit 208, clock circuit 209, counter circuit 210, power supply circuit 212, and remaining battery capacity detection unit 213.

The control unit 203 has, for example, a processor. The control unit 203 may have, as its processor, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Alternatively, the control unit 203 may have a microcomputer. The processor of the control unit 203 may control each element of its own device (communication device 200) by executing a computer program stored in the memory unit 204. The computer program is an example of information stored in the memory unit 204.

In this embodiment, when one of a plurality of switching conditions is met, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. As already explained, the switching condition indicates the condition for switching the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

The memory unit 204 stores various conditions and setting values for controlling the operation of the device itself (communication device 200). Specifically, the memory unit 204 stores the above-mentioned switching conditions, various setting values related to eDRX mode, and various setting values related to power saving mode PSM. When the operation mode of the communication device 200 is eDRX mode, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 based on various setting values related to eDRX. Furthermore, when the operation mode of the communication device 200 is power saving mode PSM, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 based on various setting values related to power saving mode PSM.

In this embodiment, the various setting values related to the eDRX mode include parameters. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 3, the eDRX cycle CP1 and the eDRX period SP1 are parameters related to the eDRX mode. The storage unit 204 stores, for each switching condition, an intermittent reception operating condition indicating the setting values of the various parameters related to the eDRX mode. When one of the multiple switching conditions is met, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 based on the intermittent reception operating condition corresponding to the met switching condition.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the various setting values related to the power saving mode PSM also include parameters. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 4, the extension time ESP is a parameter related to the power saving mode PSM. The memory unit 204 stores, for each switching condition, a reception pause operating condition indicating the setting values of the various parameters related to the power saving mode PSM. When one of the multiple switching conditions is met, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 based on the reception pause operating condition corresponding to the met switching condition.

The storage unit 204 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory. The storage unit 204 may include at least one of a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) as the semiconductor memory. Alternatively, instead of or in addition to the RAM and ROM, the storage unit 204 may include at least one of a flash memory, an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory).

The second connection unit 205 is communicatively connected to an information processing terminal 700, such as a personal computer or tablet terminal. The information processing terminal 700 is operated by an operator to change the setting values of parameters stored in the memory unit 204. In other words, the information processing terminal 700 changes those setting values stored in the memory unit 204 that can be changed.

For example, the information processing terminal 700 is operated by an operator to instruct the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 to change a setting value. As a result, the setting value stored in the memory unit 204 is changed by the control unit 203. The second connection unit 205 may be connected to the information processing terminal 700 via a cable, for example. For example, the second connection unit 205 may include a connector that can be connected to a connector attached to the cable.

The first timer circuit 206 is controlled by the control unit 203 to measure the eDRX period SP1 described with reference to FIG. 3. The second timer circuit 207 is controlled by the control unit 203 to measure the interval period VP described with reference to FIG. 7. The third timer circuit 208 is controlled by the control unit 203 to measure the extension time ESP described with reference to FIG. 4.

The clock circuit 209 keeps track of time. The control unit 203 acquires the current time based on the time kept by the clock circuit 209. The control unit 203 further acquires the current date and time based on the current time and calendar information. The date and time includes a date and a time. The calendar information is stored in the memory unit 204. For example, when the current date and time reaches the scheduled meter reading date and time, the control unit 203 executes scheduled meter reading processing. The scheduled meter reading processing refers to processing for periodically acquiring measurement values from the meter 300. The scheduled meter reading date and time is stored in the memory unit 204. The scheduled meter reading date and time refers to the date and time when measurement values are acquired from the meter 300.

The regular meter reading process is performed, for example, once a month. When the current date and time reaches the regular meter reading date and time, the control unit 203 instructs the meter 300 to send a measurement value via the first connection unit 201. As a result, a signal indicating the measurement value is sent from the meter 300 to the first connection unit 201, and the control unit 203 acquires the measurement value of the meter 300.

The counter circuit 210 is controlled by the control unit 203 and counts the "number of eDRX repetitions," which will be explained with reference to Figure 7.

The operation unit 211 accepts instructions for the communication device 200. The operation unit 211 includes, for example, a dip switch and a tactile switch. In this embodiment, the operation unit 211 accepts an instruction to reset the communication device 200. When an operator operates the operation unit 211 to issue a reset instruction, the control unit 203 resets the parameter setting values stored in the memory unit 204 to their initial values.

The communication device 200 of this embodiment has a built-in battery BT. The battery BT supplies power to drive the communication device 200. More specifically, power is supplied from the battery BT to a power supply circuit 212. The power supply circuit 212 generates power to drive each element of the communication device 200 based on the power supplied from the battery BT. The power supply circuit 212 includes, for example, a DC-DC converter. The battery BT may be attached to the communication device 200 in a replaceable manner.

The battery remaining capacity detection unit 213 detects the remaining capacity of the battery BT. For example, the battery remaining capacity detection unit 213 measures the terminal voltage of the battery BT and detects the remaining capacity of the battery BT based on the terminal voltage of the battery BT.

Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 6, switching conditions under which the operating mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode will be described. Figure 6 is a diagram showing table T1 that defines the switching conditions. In more detail, Figure 6 shows the switching conditions that are set when the meter 300 is a gas meter. Below, this embodiment will be described using the example where the meter 300 is a gas meter.

Table T1 is stored in the memory unit 204 with reference to FIG. 5. The control unit 203 determines whether the switching condition is met based on Table T1. If the control unit 203 determines that the switching condition is met, it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode.

As shown in FIG. 6, Table T1 defines multiple switching conditions. In this embodiment, Table T1 defines the first to seventh switching conditions. In other words, the multiple switching conditions include the first to seventh switching conditions. The first to seventh switching conditions are described below.

[First switching condition]
The first switching condition is satisfied when the control unit 203 executes a meter call process. Specifically, the first switching condition is satisfied when the information transmitted from the meter 300 is called to the center device 400.

Meter call processing refers to processing in which the meter 300 transmits a message, causing the control unit 203 to acquire information from the meter 300, and the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 to transmit the information transmitted from the meter 300 to the center device 400. After executing the meter call processing, the control unit 203 switches the operating mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode.

For example, the first switching condition is met when the control unit 203 acquires vibration detection information or gas shutoff information from the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201, and the control unit 203 transmits the vibration detection information or gas shutoff information to the center device 400 via the communication unit 202.

Specifically, if the meter 300 has a function for detecting shaking, the meter 300 transmits a message indicating shaking detection information to the first connection unit 201 in response to detecting shaking. The shaking detection information indicates that shaking has been detected.

Furthermore, if the meter 300 (gas meter) has the function of cutting off the flow of gas flowing through the gas pipe, the meter 300 (gas meter) transmits a message indicating gas cutoff information to the first connection unit 201 in response to cutting off the flow of gas. The gas cutoff information indicates that the flow of gas has been cut off. For example, the meter 300 (gas meter) cuts off the flow of gas when it detects shaking.

In this embodiment, the first switching condition includes the control unit 203 acquiring contact information from the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201 and the control unit 203 transmitting the contact information to the center device 400 via the communication unit 202.

Specifically, the meter 300 (gas meter) transmits a message indicating contact information to the communication device 200 in response to a change in the gas cylinder that supplies the gas being measured. The contact information indicates that the gas cylinder that supplies the gas has changed.

When executing the meter call process, the control unit 203 connects the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and transmits information obtained from the meter 300 to the center device 400. Specifically, the control unit 203 establishes a communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, and then controls the communication unit 202 to transmit a message indicating the information obtained from the meter 300 to the base station 600. As a result, the information transmitted from the meter 300 is transmitted to the center device 400.

In this embodiment, after the information transmitted from the meter 300 is transferred to the center device 400, the operation mode of the communication device 200 is switched from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode. Therefore, after the information transmitted from the meter 300 is transferred to the center device 400, the communication device 200 can receive a message from the center device 400.

[Second switching condition]
The second switching condition is met when the communication unit 202 cannot communicate with the center device 400. For example, the second switching condition is met when the communication unit 202 cannot establish a communication connection with the center device 400.

According to this embodiment, when the communication unit 202 cannot communicate with the center device 400, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. Therefore, when the communication device 200 cannot communicate with the center device 400, it can wait for and receive messages sent from the center device 400.

[Third switching condition]
The third switching condition is met when the control unit 203 executes a call process to issue a maintenance message related to the communication device 200. Hereinafter, the maintenance message related to the communication device 200 may be referred to as a "first maintenance message." Also, the call process to issue the first maintenance message may be referred to as a "first maintenance call process."

The first maintenance call process refers to the process in which the control unit 203 establishes a communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, and then controls the communication unit 202 to send a first maintenance message to the base station 600. After executing the first maintenance call process, the control unit 203 switches the operating mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. The first maintenance message may be issued to the center device 400, for example, in the following cases (3-1) to (3-4).

(3-1) When the remaining charge of the battery BT is equal to or less than a predetermined value The control unit 203 may execute the first maintenance call process when the remaining charge of the battery BT detected by the battery charge detection unit 213 is equal to or less than a predetermined value. In this case, the first maintenance message indicates that the remaining charge of the battery BT is equal to or less than a predetermined value. Alternatively, the first maintenance message may indicate that the remaining charge of the battery BT is very low. The predetermined value for the battery BT is stored in the memory unit 204 described with reference to FIG. 5.

(3-2) When the communication device 200 is initialized The control unit 203 may execute the first maintenance call process when an operator operates the operation unit 211 to instruct a reset. In this case, the first maintenance message indicates that the communication device 200 has been initialized. As already described, when an operator operates the operation unit 211 to instruct a reset, the control unit 203 resets the setting values of the parameters stored in the storage unit 204 to their initial values.

(3-3) When Calls to the Center Device 400 Are Restricted The control unit 203 may execute a first maintenance call process when calls to the center device 400 are restricted. In this case, the first maintenance message indicates that calls to the center device 400 have been restricted. The control unit 203 may also restrict calls to the center device 400 when communication with the center device 400 has failed n1 or more times. For example, the control unit 203 determines that communication with the center device 400 has failed when a communication connection cannot be established between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, or when a response message cannot be received from the center device 400 after a response message has been requested from the center device 400. Here, "n1" is a natural number greater than or equal to 1.

(3-4) When the Frequency Band is Fixed When the control unit 203 has executed the frequency band fixing process, the control unit 203 may execute the first maintenance call process. The frequency band fixing process indicates a process of fixing the frequency band used for communication with the base station 600 to one frequency band. In this case, the first maintenance telegram indicates that the frequency band used by the communication device 200 has been fixed to one frequency band.

In this embodiment, the control unit 203 executes the first maintenance call processing when the frequency band used for communication with the base station 600 is fixed to one of the first frequency band B1 and the second frequency band B2. In this case, the first maintenance telegram indicates that the frequency band used for communication with the base station 600 has been fixed to one of the first frequency band B1 and the second frequency band B2.

The control unit 203 may perform frequency band fixing processing when communication via the first frequency band B1 has failed n2 times, and fix the frequency band used for communication with the base station 600 to the second frequency band B2. The control unit 203 may perform frequency band fixing processing when communication via the second frequency band B2 has failed n2 times, and fix the frequency band used for communication with the base station 600 to the first frequency band B1. Here, "n2" is a natural number greater than or equal to 1.

According to this embodiment, after transmitting the first maintenance message to the center device 400, the operating mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. Therefore, after transmitting the first maintenance message to the center device 400, the communication device 200 can receive messages transmitted from the center device 400.

[Fourth switching condition]
The fourth switching condition is met when the control unit 203 cannot acquire the measurement value of the meter 300. For example, the fourth switching condition is met when the control unit 203 cannot acquire the measurement value of the meter 300 after instructing the meter 300 to transmit the measurement value via the first connection unit 201. The fourth switching condition is also met when there is a data error in the data acquired from the meter 300. Specifically, the fourth switching condition is met when data corruption occurs due to a bit error or the like.

If the fourth switching condition is met, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, then connects the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and causes the communication unit 202 to transmit a message (information) to the center device 400 indicating that the measurement value of the meter 300 cannot be acquired. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may connect the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and causes the communication unit 202 to transmit a message (information) to the center device 400 indicating that the measurement value of the meter 300 cannot be acquired, and then switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

According to this embodiment, when the communication device 200 is unable to acquire the measurement value of the meter 300, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode. Therefore, when the communication device 200 is unable to acquire the measurement value of the meter 300, it can receive a message transmitted from the center device 400.

[Fifth switching condition]
The fifth switching condition is met when the measurement value (resource or energy usage amount) of the meter 300 exceeds a predetermined value. Specifically, the predetermined value for the measurement value is stored in the storage unit 204 described with reference to FIG. 5 . When the control unit 203 acquires the measurement value of the meter 300, it determines whether the measurement value of the meter 300 exceeds the predetermined value. The fifth switching condition is met when the control unit 203 determines that the measurement value of the meter 300 exceeds the predetermined value.

If the fifth switching condition is met, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, then connects the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and causes the communication unit 202 to transmit a message (information) to the center device 400 indicating that the measurement value of the meter 300 has exceeded a predetermined value. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may connect the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and causes the communication unit 202 to transmit a message (information) to the center device 400 so that it can communicate with the center device 400, and then switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. The message (information) transmitted to the center device 400 may indicate that gas usage (resource or energy usage) is high.

According to this embodiment, when the measurement value (resource or energy usage) of the meter 300 exceeds a predetermined value, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. Therefore, when the measurement value (resource or energy usage) of the meter 300 exceeds a predetermined value, the communication device 200 can receive a message transmitted from the center device 400.

[Sixth switching condition]
The sixth switching condition is satisfied when the control unit 203 executes scheduled call processing. The scheduled call processing indicates processing of periodically requesting a response message from the center device 400 and receiving the response message from the center device 400. After executing the scheduled call processing, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode.

Specifically, the memory unit 204 stores a scheduled call date and time. The scheduled call date and time indicates the date and time when a response message is requested from the center device 400. For example, a scheduled call is made once a day. Alternatively, a scheduled call is made once every three days or once every seven days. When the current date and time reaches the scheduled call date and time, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 to connect to the center device 400 so that the communication unit 202 can communicate with the center device 400 and send a response request message to the center device 400. The response request message is a message that requests a response message from the center device 400.

According to this embodiment, after scheduled call processing is performed, the operating mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. Therefore, after scheduled call processing is performed, the communication device 200 can receive a message sent from the center device 400.

[Seventh switching condition]
The seventh switching condition is met when the control unit 203 executes a call process to issue a maintenance message related to the meter 300. Hereinafter, the maintenance message related to the meter 300 may be referred to as a "second maintenance message." Furthermore, the call process to issue the second maintenance message may be referred to as a "second maintenance call process."

The second maintenance call process refers to a process in which the control unit 203 establishes a communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, and then controls the communication unit 202 to send a second maintenance message to the base station 600. After executing the second maintenance call process, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. The second maintenance call process is executed, for example, when a response cannot be received from the meter 300 during scheduled communication between the communication device 200 and the meter 300. In this case, the second maintenance message indicates that communication with the meter 300 cannot be performed. Scheduled communication may be executed, for example, once a day.

According to this embodiment, after the communication device 200 transmits the second maintenance message to the center device 400, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode. Therefore, after transmitting the second maintenance message to the center device 400, the communication device 200 can receive messages transmitted from the center device 400.

The first to seventh switching conditions have been described above with reference to FIG. 6. According to this embodiment, after the first to seventh switching conditions are met, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. This allows the communication device 200 to receive messages from the center device 400. Therefore, a provider supplying resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity can send various instructions to the communication device 200 to control at least one of the communication device 200 and the meter 300 and provide various services to consumers. Alternatively, the provider can send various instructions to the communication device 200 to perform maintenance on at least one of the communication device 200 and the meter 300.

For example, a message indicating a stop instruction or an instruction to read a measurement value may be sent from the center device 400 to the communication device 200. Here, the stop instruction includes a command statement to stop the operation of the communication device 200. The instruction to read a measurement value includes a command statement to obtain the current measurement value from the meter 300 and send a message indicating the current measurement value to the center device 400.

Alternatively, a message may be sent from the center device 400 to the communication device 200 indicating an instruction to set up a load survey or an instruction to change the date and time of the next meter reading.

The load survey setting instruction includes a command statement that instructs turning on the load survey function. A load survey is a function that records the measurement values of the meter 300 at regular intervals and transmits a set number of measurement values together to the center device 400. The set period for the load survey is set arbitrarily. For example, the load survey setting instruction may include information indicating the set period for the load survey. The set period for the load survey may be, for example, 24 hours, 1 hour, or 30 minutes.

The instruction to change the next meter reading date and time includes a command statement instructing a change to the next meter reading date and time among the scheduled meter reading dates and times. The instruction to change the next meter reading date and time includes information indicating the changed meter reading date and time.

Next, various parameters related to eDRX mode and various parameters related to power saving mode PSM will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 7. Figure 7 is a diagram showing various parameters related to eDRX mode and various parameters related to power saving mode PSM.

As shown in FIG. 7, the storage unit 204 stores the setting values of multiple parameters. Specifically, the storage unit 204 stores the setting values of multiple parameters for each switching condition.

In this embodiment, the various parameters related to eDRX mode include the first parameter to the sixth parameter. The various parameters related to power saving mode PSM include the seventh parameter and the eighth parameter. Therefore, the discontinuous reception operating conditions described with reference to FIG. 5 indicate a combination of the setting values of the first parameter to the sixth parameter. Furthermore, the reception pause operating conditions described with reference to FIG. 5 indicate a combination of the setting values of the seventh parameter and the eighth parameter.

The setting value of each parameter indicates an arbitrary value. For example, the setting value of each parameter is set by an operator at the time of shipment from the factory. Alternatively, the setting value of each parameter may be set or changed by an operator during the installation of the communication device 200, or may be changed by an operator after the communication device 200 has been installed. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 5, an operator can set or change the setting value of each parameter using the information processing terminal 700. The first to eighth parameters are described below.

[First parameter]
The first parameter indicates a switching timing, which is the timing at which the operation mode of the communication device 200 is switched from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode. The set value of the first parameter (switching timing) indicates, for example, immediate or a specified time.

"Immediately" indicates that when the switching condition is met, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode in response to the completion of the currently executing process. "Specified time" indicates that the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode in response to the time indicated by the clock circuit 209 reaching the "specified time."

In this embodiment, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) indicates whether or not switching from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode is prohibited. Specifically, if switching is not prohibited, the setting value of the switching timing indicates immediate or specified time. If switching is prohibited, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) indicates switching prohibition.

If the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) indicates that switching is prohibited, the control unit 203 maintains the operating mode of the communication device 200 in power saving mode PSM and controls the communication unit 202 based on the reception pause operating condition corresponding to the established switching condition. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 controls the communication unit 202 based on the setting value of the seventh parameter and the setting value of the eighth parameter.

According to this embodiment, by including immediate, designated time, and switching prohibition in the setting values of the first parameter (switching timing), it is possible to improve convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity. Furthermore, by setting the setting value of the first parameter to switching prohibition, it is possible to further reduce power consumption of the communication device 200.

[Second parameter]
The second parameter indicates the eDRX period SP1 described with reference to Fig. 3. The setting value of the second parameter (eDRX period SP1) is set in units of hours, minutes, or seconds. The setting value of the second parameter (eDRX period SP1) indicates, for example, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 24 hours, 96 hours, etc.

According to this embodiment, the shorter the eDRX period SP1, the more the power consumption of the communication device 200 can be reduced. On the other hand, the longer the eDRX period SP1, the more convenience can be provided to businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

[Third parameter]
The third parameter indicates the eDRX cycle CP1 described with reference to Fig. 3. The setting value of the third parameter (eDRX cycle CP1) indicates, for example, 10.24 seconds, 20.48 seconds, 40.96 seconds, 81.92 seconds, 163.84 seconds, 327.68 seconds, 655.35 seconds, 1310.70 seconds, or 2621.40 seconds, as described with reference to Fig. 3.

According to this embodiment, the longer the eDRX cycle CP1, the more the power consumption of the communication device 200 can be reduced. On the other hand, the shorter the eDRX cycle CP1, the more convenience can be provided to businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

[Fourth parameter]
The fourth parameter indicates the number of eDRX repetitions. The number of eDRX repetitions indicates the number of times the eDRX mode is repeated. In other words, the number of eDRX repetitions indicates the number of times the eDRX period SP1 is repeated. The set value of the fourth parameter (the number of eDRX repetitions) indicates, for example, 1 to 8 times. For example, if the set value of the fourth parameter indicates 5 times, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the eDRX mode to the power saving mode PSM after repeating the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) five times.

According to this embodiment, the fewer the number of times the eDRX period SP1 is repeated, the more the power consumption of the communication device 200 can be reduced. On the other hand, the more the eDRX period SP1 is repeated, the more convenience can be provided to businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

[Fifth parameter]
The fifth parameter indicates an interval period VP. When the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) is repeated two or more times, the interval period VP indicates the period from the end of the preceding eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) to the start of the subsequent eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1). For example, the set value of the interval period VP indicates 0 hours or more and 99 hours or less. At the start of the interval period VP, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the eDRX mode to the power saving mode PSM, and at the end of the interval period VP, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode.

According to this embodiment, the length of the interval period VP can be adjusted. This increases convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

[Sixth parameter]
The sixth parameter indicates whether or not to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) after receiving a message from the center device 400 when the operation mode of the communication device 200 is the eDRX mode. For example, the setting value of the sixth parameter indicates “yes” or “no.”

According to this embodiment, by setting the setting value of the sixth parameter to "Yes," it is possible to increase convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity. On the other hand, by setting the setting value of the sixth parameter to "No," it is possible to further reduce the power consumption of the communication device 200.

[Seventh parameter]
The seventh parameter indicates whether or not the standby period SPA (the period of the second standby state SC2) described with reference to Fig. 4 can be extended. Specifically, the seventh parameter indicates whether or not the extension time ESP described with reference to Fig. 4 can be added to the fixed period SP2 described with reference to Fig. 2. For example, the set value of the seventh parameter indicates "yes" or "no."

According to this embodiment, by setting the setting value of the seventh parameter to "Yes," it is possible to increase convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity. On the other hand, by setting the setting value of the seventh parameter to "No," it is possible to further reduce the power consumption of the communication device 200.

[Eighth parameter]
The eighth parameter indicates the extension time ESP described with reference to Fig. 4. For example, the set value of the eighth parameter (extension time ESP) indicates 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes.

According to this embodiment, the length of the standby period SPA can be adjusted. This increases convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

Next, the relationship between multiple switching conditions and the setting values of various parameters will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 8. Figure 8 shows Table T3, which defines the relationship between multiple switching conditions and the setting values of various parameters.

Table T3 is stored in the storage unit 204 described with reference to FIG. 5. Table T3 defines the relationship between the first to seventh switching conditions described with reference to FIG. 6 and the setting values of the first to eighth parameters described with reference to FIG. 7. In other words, Table T3 indicates the intermittent reception operating conditions and reception pause operating conditions for each of the first to seventh switching conditions. More specifically, Table T3 defines the first set T31 to the seventh set T37.

The first set T31 indicates the intermittent reception operation conditions and reception pause operation conditions for the first switching condition. Similarly, the second sets T32 to T37 indicate the intermittent reception operation conditions and reception pause operation conditions for the second to seventh switching conditions, respectively. In other words, the first set T31 indicates a combination of setting values to be set for the first to eighth parameters when the first switching condition is met. Similarly, the second sets T32 to T37 indicate a combination of setting values to be set for the first to eighth parameters when the second to seventh switching conditions are met, respectively.

When the first switching condition is met, the control unit 203 refers to table T3 and changes the first to eighth parameters to the setting values of the first set T31. The control unit 203 also performs similar processing when another switching condition (one of the second to seventh switching conditions) is met.

For example, when the first switching condition is met, the control unit 203 references the setting values of the first set T31 and, as illustrated in FIG. 8, sets the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) to "immediate," the setting value of the second parameter (eDRX period SP1) to "6 hours," the setting value of the third parameter (eDRX cycle CP1) to "81.92 seconds," the setting value of the fourth parameter (eDRX repetition count) to "8 times," the setting value of the fifth parameter (interval period VP) to "0 hours," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (eDRX repetition availability) to "available." The control unit 203 then switches the operating mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

In the first set T31 illustrated in FIG. 8, the setting value of the fifth parameter (interval period VP) is "0 hours," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (whether eDRX can be repeated) is "Yes." Therefore, the control unit 203 repeats the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) eight times in succession, regardless of whether the communication unit 202 has received a message from the center device 400.

Note that if the setting value of the first parameter is set to "Immediately" or "Specified time," the setting value of the seventh parameter (whether to extend the second standby state SC2) and the setting value of the eighth parameter (extension time ESP of the second standby state SC2) will be blank (null value).

When the fourth switching condition is met, the control unit 203 references the setting values of the fourth set T34 and, as illustrated in FIG. 8, sets the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) to the specified time of "9:00," the setting value of the second parameter (eDRX period SP1) to "8 hours," the setting value of the third parameter (eDRX cycle CP1) to "81.92 seconds," the setting value of the fourth parameter (number of eDRX repetitions) to "7 times," the setting value of the fifth parameter (interval period VP) to "16 hours," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (whether eDRX repetitions are possible) to "no." The control unit 203 then switches the operating mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

In the fourth set T34 illustrated in FIG. 8, the setting value of the fourth parameter (number of eDRX repetitions) is "7 times," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (whether eDRX can be repeated) is "no." Therefore, if the communication unit 202 receives a message from the center device 400 before the eDRX mode has been repeated seven times, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM without repeating the eDRX mode seven times.

When the sixth switching condition is met, the control unit 203 references the setting value of the sixth set T36 and, as illustrated in FIG. 8, sets the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) to "switching prohibited," the setting value of the seventh parameter (whether to extend the second standby state SC2) to "yes," and the setting value of the eighth parameter (extension time ESP of the second standby state SC2) to "5 minutes." In this case, the control unit 203 maintains the operating mode of the communication device 200 in the power saving mode PSM and extends the standby period SPA by 5 minutes as described with reference to FIG. 4.

Note that if the setting value of the first parameter is set to "Switching Prohibited," the setting values of the second parameter through the sixth parameter will be left blank (null value).

Next, the processing executed by the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. Figures 9 to 11 are flowcharts showing the flow of processing executed by the control unit 203 included in the communication device 200 of this embodiment.

The processing shown in Figures 9 to 11 begins when one of multiple switching conditions is met. In this embodiment, the control unit 203 begins the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11 when one of the first to seventh switching conditions described with reference to Figure 6 is met.

As shown in FIG. 9, when one of multiple switching conditions is met, the control unit 203 changes the setting values of various parameters related to the eDRX mode and the power saving mode PSM to the setting values corresponding to the met switching condition (step S1).

In this embodiment, when one of the first to seventh switching conditions is met, the control unit 203 selects a combination of setting values corresponding to the met switching condition from the combinations of setting values (first set T31 to seventh set T37) described with reference to FIG. 8. Then, based on the selected combination of setting values, the control unit 203 changes the setting values of the first to eighth parameters described with reference to FIG. 7.

After changing the setting values of various parameters related to the eDRX mode and the power saving mode PSM, the control unit 203 determines whether the setting value of the first parameter described with reference to Figures 7 and 8 indicates "switching prohibited" (step S2).

If it is determined that the setting value of the first parameter indicates "switching prohibited" (Yes in step S2), the control unit 203 determines whether to extend the standby period SPA (the period of the second standby state SC2) described with reference to Figures 2 and 4 (step S3).

Specifically, the control unit 203 determines whether the setting value of the seventh parameter described with reference to Figures 7 and 8 is "Yes" or "No." If the setting value of the seventh parameter is "Yes," the control unit 203 decides to extend the standby period SPA. Furthermore, if the setting value of the seventh parameter is "No," the control unit 203 decides not to extend the standby period SPA.

If the control unit 203 decides not to extend the standby period SPA (No in step S3), it terminates the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11. On the other hand, if the control unit 203 decides to extend the standby period SPA (Yes in step S3), it extends the standby period SPA based on the setting value of the eighth parameter described with reference to Figures 7 and 8 (step S4). As a result, the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11 terminates. Specifically, the control unit 203 extends the standby period SPA by adding an extension time ESP (the setting value of the eighth parameter) to the fixed period SP2, as described with reference to Figure 4.

Furthermore, if the control unit 203 determines that the setting value of the first parameter does not indicate "switching prohibited" (No in step S2), it switches the operating mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode (step S5).

In more detail, when the setting value of the first parameter indicates "immediately," the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode in response to the completion of the currently executing process. In contrast, when the setting value of the first parameter indicates "designated time," the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode in response to the time indicated by the clock circuit 209 reaching the "designated time."

After switching the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode, the control unit 203 refers to the setting value of the sixth parameter described with reference to Figures 7 and 8 to determine whether to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (step S6). Specifically, if the setting value of the sixth parameter is "Yes", the control unit 203 determines to repeat the eDRX mode. Furthermore, if the setting value of the sixth parameter is "No", the control unit 203 determines not to repeat the eDRX mode.

As shown in FIG. 10, when it is determined to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (Yes in step S6 in FIG. 9), the control unit 203 determines whether the eDRX period SP1 described with reference to FIG. 3 has ended (step S11). Specifically, in response to switching the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, the control unit 203 starts timing by the first timer circuit 206 described with reference to FIG. 5. Then, by referring to the first timer circuit 206, it determines whether the eDRX period SP1 has ended.

If the control unit 203 determines that the eDRX period SP1 has not ended (No in step S11), it repeats the processing of step S11. On the other hand, if the control unit 203 determines that the eDRX period SP1 has ended (Yes in step S11), it decides whether or not to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (step S12). Note that if the control unit 203 determines that the eDRX period SP1 has ended, it stops the timekeeping by the first timer circuit 206 and resets the first timer circuit 206.

Specifically, in response to the start of eDRX period SP1, the control unit 203 counts up the counter circuit 210 described with reference to FIG. 5. Then, by referring to the counter circuit 210, it determines whether the number of times eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) has been repeated is the same as the set value of the fourth parameter described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. If the number of times eDRX mode has been repeated is not the same as the set value of the fourth parameter, the control unit 203 decides to repeat eDRX mode. On the other hand, if the number of times eDRX mode has been repeated is the same as the set value of the fourth parameter, the control unit 203 decides not to repeat eDRX mode.

If the control unit 203 determines not to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (No in step S12), it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM (step S13) and terminates the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11.

On the other hand, if the control unit 203 determines to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (Yes in step S12), it references the set value of the fifth parameter described with reference to Figures 7 and 8 to determine whether or not the interval period VP has been set (step S14). Specifically, the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has been set when the set value of the fifth parameter indicates a time other than 0 hours. On the other hand, the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has not been set when the set value of the fifth parameter indicates 0 hours.

When the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has been set (Yes in step S14), it determines whether the interval period VP has ended (step S15). Specifically, when the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has been set, it changes the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM and starts timing by the second timer circuit 207 described with reference to FIG. 5. Then, it references the second timer circuit 207 to determine whether the interval period VP has ended.

If the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has not ended (No in step S15), it repeats the processing of step S15. On the other hand, if the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has ended (Yes in step S15), it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. As a result, the next eDRX period SP1 begins (step S16). The processing then returns to step S11. At this time, the control unit 203 counts up the counter circuit 210 and starts time measurement by the first timer circuit 206. It also stops time measurement by the second timer circuit 207 and resets the second timer circuit 207.

Furthermore, if the control unit 203 determines that the interval period VP has not been set (No in step S15), it maintains the eDRX mode. As a result, the next eDRX period SP1 begins (step S16). After this, the processing returns to step S11.

As shown in FIG. 11, if it is determined not to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (No in step S6 in FIG. 9), the control unit 203 determines whether the eDRX period SP1 has ended (step S21), similar to step S11 described with reference to FIG. 10.

If the control unit 203 determines that the eDRX period SP1 has not ended (No in step S21), it repeats the processing of step S21. On the other hand, if the control unit 203 determines that the eDRX period SP1 has ended (Yes in step S21), it determines whether communication has been performed with the center device 400 during the eDRX period SP1 (step S22). Specifically, the control unit 203 determines whether a message has been received from the center device 400 during the eDRX period SP1.

If the control unit 203 determines that communication has been performed with the center device 400 during the eDRX period SP1 (Yes in step S22), it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM (step S24) and terminates the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11.

On the other hand, if the control unit 203 determines that no communication has been performed with the center device 400 during the eDRX period SP1 (No in step S22), it determines whether to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (step S23), similar to step S12 described with reference to FIG. 10.

If the control unit 203 determines not to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (No in step S23), it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM (step S24) and terminates the processing shown in Figures 9 to 11.

The processing (steps S25 to S27) performed after the control unit 203 determines to repeat the eDRX mode (eDRX period SP1) (Yes in step S23) is the same as steps S14 to S16 described with reference to Figure 10, and therefore will not be described again.

Next, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 15. Note that, for ease of understanding, Figures 12 to 15 do not illustrate the second standby state SC2 described with reference to Figure 2.

First, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. In detail, Figure 12 shows the operation of the communication device 200 when the first switching condition (meter call processing) is met. In addition, in the operation example shown in Figure 12, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) is set to "immediately," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (eDRX repetition) is set to "no."

As shown in FIG. 12, the basic operating mode of the communication device 200 is power saving mode PSM. When the operating mode of the communication device 200 is power saving mode PSM, the communication device 200 does not receive message A1 from the center device 400.

When the communication device 200 receives message A2 sent from the meter 300 while the operating mode is power saving mode PSM, it transmits response message A3 to the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201 and then executes meter call processing.

Specifically, the communication device 200 establishes a communication connection with the center device 400, resulting in a connection state CC. Then, the communication device 200 transmits to the center device 400 a message A4 indicating the contents of the message A2 transmitted from the meter 300. When the communication device 200 receives a response message A5 in response to the message A4 from the center device 400, the communication device 200 terminates the communication connection with the center device 400. Note that, as described with reference to FIG. 6, the message A2 may indicate, for example, vibration detection information, gas shutoff information, or contact information.

After disconnecting the communication connection with the center device 400, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode (step S100). Hereinafter, the process of switching the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode may be referred to as the "mode switching process."

When the operating mode is eDRX mode, the communication device 200 waits for paging from the center device 400 at the eDRX cycle CP1. More specifically, the communication device 200 waits for paging from the center device 400 in the first standby state SC1.

When the communication device 200 receives a paging message from the center device 400 while in eDRX mode, it establishes a communication connection with the center device 400 and enters the connection state CC. Then, when it receives message A6 from the center device 400, it sends response message A7 to the center device 400 and releases the communication connection with the center device 400. After releasing the communication connection with the center device 400, the communication device 200 returns to the first standby state SC1.

When the eDRX period SP1 has elapsed since the mode switching process (step S100) was performed, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM.

Next, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. In detail, FIG. 13 shows the operation of the communication device 200 when the first switching condition (meter call processing) is met. In addition, in the operation example shown in FIG. 13, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) is set to "designated time," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (eDRX repetition) is set to "no."

As shown in FIG. 13, when the communication device 200 receives a message A11 sent from the meter 300 while the operating mode is power saving mode PSM, it transmits a response message A12 to the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201, then executes meter call processing to enter a connection state CC, and transmits a message A13 indicating the contents of the message A11 sent from the meter 300 to the center device 400. When the communication device 200 receives a response message A14 in response to message A13 from the center device 400, it releases the communication connection with the center device 400 and returns to the reception pause state HC.

When the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 determines, by referring to the clock circuit 209 described with reference to FIG. 5, that the current time has reached the specified time (the set value of the first parameter), it executes a mode switching process (step S100) to switch the operation mode of the communication device 200 from the power saving mode PSM to the eDRX mode.

When the eDRX period SP1 has elapsed since the mode switching process (step S100) was performed, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM.

Next, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a sequence diagram showing a third example of the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. In detail, FIG. 14 shows the operation of the communication device 200 when the second switching condition is met. In addition, in the operation example shown in FIG. 14, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) is set to "immediately," the setting value of the fourth parameter (number of eDRX repetitions) is set to "N times," the setting value of the fifth parameter (interval period VP) is set to "0 hours," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (whether eDRX can be repeated) is set to "no." Here, "N" in N times is any natural number equal to or greater than 2.

As shown in FIG. 14, when the communication device 200 receives a message A21 sent from the meter 300 while the operating mode is the power saving mode PSM, it transmits a response message A22 to the meter 300 via the first connection unit 201, and then executes meter call processing to transmit a message A23 indicating the contents of the message A21 sent from the meter 300 to the center device 400.

Specifically, the communication device 200 first transmits a message to the center device 400 to establish a communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400. Once the communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400 is established, the communication device 200 transmits message A23 to the center device 400. If the establishment of the communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400 fails at this time, the second switching condition is met. Alternatively, if the transmission of message A23 fails, the second switching condition is met.

When the second switching condition is met, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 executes mode switching processing (step S100). As a result, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

If the communication unit 202 of the communication device 200 does not receive a message from the center device 400 during the first eDRX period SP1, the communication device 200 maintains the eDRX mode even after the end of the first eDRX period SP1. As a result, a second eDRX period SP1 begins following the first eDRX period SP1.

Next, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram showing a fourth example of the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. In detail, FIG. 15 shows the operation of the communication device 200 when the second switching condition is met. In addition, in the operation example shown in FIG. 15, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) is set to "immediately," the setting value of the fourth parameter (number of eDRX repetitions) is set to "N times," the setting value of the fifth parameter (interval period VP) is set to "X hours," and the setting value of the sixth parameter (whether eDRX can be repeated) is set to "No." Here, the "X" in X hours is a time longer than 0 hours. In other words, "X" represents a time other than 0 hours.

As shown in FIG. 15, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 executes mode switching processing (step S100) in response to the second switching condition being met.

If the communication unit 202 does not receive a message from the center device 400 during the first eDRX period SP1, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM. Therefore, the communication device 200 enters the reception suspension state HC.

After an interval period VP has elapsed since the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 switched the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode. In other words, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 executes a mode switching process. As a result, a second eDRX period SP1 begins after the interval period VP has elapsed.

Embodiment 1 of the present invention has been described above with reference to Figures 1 to 15. According to this embodiment, the operating mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode only when a predetermined switching condition is met, thereby reducing the power consumption of the communication device 200 compared to a configuration in which the operating mode of the communication device 200 is always eDRX mode.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the setting values of various parameters related to eDRX mode can be set for each switching condition. Therefore, power consumption of the communication device 200 can be further reduced compared to a configuration in which the setting values of various parameters related to eDRX mode remain the same across multiple switching conditions.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8, in the first set T31, the eDRX period SP1 is 6 hours and the number of eDRX repetitions is 8, resulting in a total eDRX period SP1 of 48 hours. Meanwhile, in the second set T32, the eDRX period SP1 is 24 hours and the number of eDRX repetitions is 7, resulting in a total eDRX period SP1 of 168 hours. Therefore, the power consumed after the first switching condition is met is less than the power consumed after the second switching condition is met. In this way, by configuring the setting values of various parameters related to eDRX mode to be configurable for each switching condition, the power consumption of the communication device 200 can be further reduced.

In particular, when the communication device 200 is powered by power supplied from the battery BT, the life of the battery BT can be extended compared to when the operation mode of the communication device 200 is always in eDRX mode. Therefore, the life of the communication device 200 can be extended compared to when the operation mode of the communication device 200 is always in eDRX mode. Alternatively, the frequency with which the battery BT needs to be replaced can be reduced compared to when the operation mode of the communication device 200 is always in eDRX mode. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the setting values of various parameters related to eDRX mode can be adjusted to suit each of multiple switching conditions. Therefore, the setting values of various parameters related to eDRX mode can be adjusted to suit the characteristics of each switching condition. This can improve convenience for businesses that supply resources or energy such as gas, water, or electricity.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the operating mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode when a predetermined switching condition is met, thereby ensuring the reliability of communication between the communication device 200 and the center device 400 compared to when the operating mode of the communication device 200 is always in power saving mode PSM.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 8 and 16. However, differences from the first embodiment will be described, and a description of the same aspects as in the first embodiment will be omitted. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the processing executed by the control unit 203 (Figure 5) after the second switching condition is met.

In this embodiment, when the communication unit 202 is unable to communicate with the center device 400 and the second switching condition is met, the control unit 203 switches the operation mode of the communication unit 200 from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, and then executes a retransmission process to resend the message that could not be sent to the center device 400. Specifically, the control unit 203 establishes a communication connection between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, and then retransmits from the communication unit 202 to the center device 400 the message that could not be sent the previous time. If the control unit 203 is able to send the message to the center device 400 through the retransmission process, it terminates the retransmission process.

For example, after the second switching condition is met and the operation mode of the communication device 200 is switched from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode, the control unit 203 repeats the re-dial process every three or five minutes. The re-dial process may be repeated, for example, up to eight times. If the message cannot be sent to the center device 400 even after the re-dial process is executed, the control unit 203 may execute the re-dial process again, for example, 12 hours after the initial execution of the re-dial process. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may repeat the re-dial process every 12 hours.

In this embodiment, if the control unit 203 is able to send a message to the center device 400 through retransmission processing during the eDRX period SP1, it switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM.

Next, the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the communication device 200 of this embodiment. In detail, Figure 16 shows the operation of the communication device 200 when the second switching condition is met. In addition, in the operation example shown in Figure 16, the setting value of the first parameter (switching timing) is set to "immediately." Note that, for ease of understanding, Figure 16 does not show the second standby state SC2 described with reference to Figure 2.

As shown in FIG. 16, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 executes mode switching processing (step S100) in response to the second switching condition being met. As a result, the operation mode of the communication device 200 switches from power saving mode PSM to eDRX mode.

In this embodiment, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 executes a retransmission process during the eDRX period SP1. As a result, when a communication connection is established between the communication unit 202 and the center device 400, the communication device 200 enters a connection state CC and transmits the telegram A23 that could not be transmitted previously to the center device 400. Then, when the communication unit 202 receives a response telegram A24 from the center device 400, the control unit 203 of the communication device 200 cancels the connection state CC and switches the operation mode of the communication device 200 from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM.

Embodiment 2 of the present invention has been described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8 and 16. According to embodiment 2, similar to embodiment 1, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the communication device 200.

Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, when a message is sent to the center device 400 by the retransmission process, the operation mode of the communication device 200 is switched from eDRX mode to power saving mode PSM. Therefore, the power consumption of the communication device 200 can be reduced.

Embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings (Figs. 1 to 16). However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, some of the components shown in one embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some of the components shown in one embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

The drawings primarily show each component in a schematic manner to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual configuration due to the convenience of creating the drawings. Furthermore, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiment is merely an example and is not particularly limited, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible within the scope that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention.

For example, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 and the meter 300 communicate via the electric wire PL, but the communication device 200 and the meter 300 may also communicate wirelessly. Alternatively, the communication device 200 may include an imaging element that captures the measurement value displayed by the meter 300. Alternatively, the communication device 200 may include an interface for electrically connecting to an imaging device that captures the measurement value displayed by the meter 300. In this case, the captured image is input to the control unit 203 from the imaging element or imaging device. The control unit 203 acquires text information from the captured image and acquires the measurement value from the text information. For example, the control unit 203 may have an optical character recognition (OCR) function to acquire text information from the captured image.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 and the information processing terminal 700 are connected by wire, but the communication device 200 and the information processing terminal 700 may communicate wirelessly.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 includes the second connection unit 205, but the second connection unit 205 may be omitted.

In the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16, the communication device 200 includes the first timer circuit 206, the second timer circuit 207, and the third timer circuit 208, but the first timer circuit 206, the second timer circuit 207, and the third timer circuit 208 may be omitted. In this case, the processor of the control unit 203 may execute the functions of the first timer circuit 206, the second timer circuit 207, and the third timer circuit 208 based on a computer program stored in the memory unit 204.

In addition, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 includes a clock circuit 209, but the clock circuit 209 may be omitted. In this case, the processor of the control unit 203 may perform the functions of the clock circuit 209 based on a computer program stored in the memory unit 204.

In addition, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 includes the counter circuit 210, but the counter circuit 210 may be omitted. In this case, the processor of the control unit 203 may perform the functions of the counter circuit 210 based on a computer program stored in the memory unit 204.

In addition, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the communication device 200 includes a battery remaining capacity detection unit 213. However, the communication device 200 may include a measurement circuit that measures the terminal voltage of the battery BT instead of the battery remaining capacity detection unit 213. In this case, the control unit 203 may detect the remaining capacity of the battery BT from the terminal voltage of the battery BT.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the multiple switching conditions include the first to seventh switching conditions, but the multiple switching conditions may include any two or more of the first to seventh switching conditions.

Furthermore, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the various parameters related to the eDRX mode include the first parameter to the sixth parameter, but the various parameters related to the eDRX mode may also include at least one of the first parameter to the sixth parameter.

Furthermore, in the embodiments described with reference to Figures 1 to 16, the setting values related to the power saving mode PSM include parameters, but the setting values related to the power saving mode PSM do not necessarily have to include parameters. In other words, all of the setting values related to the power saving mode PSM may be fixed values.

The present invention provides a communication device and has industrial applicability.

200: Communication device 202: Communication unit 203: Control unit 204: Storage unit 300: Meter 400: Center device CP1: Reception cycle, eDRX cycle ESP: Extension time HC: Reception pause state PSM: Power saving mode SC1: First standby state SC2: Second standby state SP1: Continuation period, eDRX period SP2: Fixed period SPA: Standby period T3: Table VP: Interval period

Claims (13)

A communication device having a reception pause mode and an intermittent reception mode as operation modes,
The reception pause mode is a mode in which reception of data transmitted from a communication partner is paused,
The intermittent reception mode is a mode in which the device enters a first standby state in which the device intermittently waits for data transmitted from the communication partner at a predetermined reception cycle for a predetermined duration,
The communication device
a communication unit that is communicably connected to the communication partner;
a control unit that switches the operation mode from the reception pause mode to the intermittent reception mode when one of a plurality of switching conditions is met;
a storage unit that stores, for each switching condition, intermittent reception operating conditions indicating setting values of various parameters related to the intermittent reception mode,
When one of the switching conditions is met, the control unit controls the communication unit based on the intermittent reception operation condition corresponding to the met switching condition. The communication device of claim 1, wherein the setting values of various parameters related to the intermittent reception mode are changeable. The communication device described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the intermittent reception operating conditions include a set value for the duration. A communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the intermittent reception operating conditions include a set value for the reception cycle. A communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the intermittent reception operating conditions include a setting value for the switching timing, which is the timing for switching the operating mode from the reception pause mode to the intermittent reception mode. A communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the intermittent reception operating conditions include a set value for the number of times the intermittent reception mode is repeated. the intermittent reception operating conditions include a set value of an interval period between the end of the preceding intermittent reception mode and the start of the subsequent intermittent reception mode,
7. The communication device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit switches the operation mode from the discontinuous reception mode to the reception pause mode at the start of the interval period, and switches the operation mode from the reception pause mode to the intermittent reception mode at the end of the interval period. The communication device of claim 6 or 7, wherein the intermittent reception operating conditions include a setting value indicating whether or not the intermittent reception mode is repeated after the communication unit receives data from the communication partner when the operating mode is the intermittent reception mode. the intermittent reception operating condition includes a setting value indicating whether or not switching to the intermittent reception mode is prohibited;
the storage unit stores a reception pause operating condition indicating setting values of various parameters related to the reception pause mode for each of the switching conditions;
9. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein when the intermittent reception operation condition corresponding to the established switching condition indicates prohibition of switching to the intermittent reception mode, the control unit controls the communication unit based on the reception pause operation condition corresponding to the established switching condition. The communication device of claim 9, wherein the setting values of various parameters related to the reception pause mode are changeable. the communication device is in a second standby state in which the communication device intermittently waits for data to be transmitted from the communication partner for a certain period of time after transmitting the data to the communication partner;
11. The communication device according to claim 9, wherein the reception pause operating conditions include a setting value indicating whether to extend the second standby state in the reception pause mode, and a setting value indicating an extension time of the second standby state in the reception pause mode. Further, a connection unit is provided for communicatively connecting to a measuring device that measures the amount of resource or energy used,
the control unit acquires information indicating the usage amount from the measuring device via the connection unit, and determines whether the usage amount exceeds a predetermined value;
the switching condition includes the usage amount exceeding the predetermined value,
12. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when the control unit determines that the usage amount exceeds the predetermined value, the control unit connects the communication unit to the communication partner so that the communication unit can communicate with the communication partner and causes the communication partner to transmit information indicating that the usage amount exceeds the predetermined value. A connection unit is further provided for communicatively connecting to a gas meter that measures the amount of gas used,
the gas meter transmits contact information to the connection unit, the contact information indicating that a gas cylinder that supplies the gas that is the object of measurement by the gas meter has been switched;
the switching condition includes that the control unit acquires the contact point information via the connection unit;
13. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein, when the control unit acquires the contact information via the connection unit, the control unit connects the communication unit to the communication partner so that the communication unit can communicate with the communication partner and transmits the contact information to the communication partner.