JP7803468B2 - Management System - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a management system.

Patent Document 1 discloses an imaging system. The imaging system's processing device acquires images via a network from an imaging device installed in a financial institution or the like. The processing device can correct the time of the control device by transmitting time information to the imaging device's control device.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-136978

However, in the imaging system described in Patent Document 1, the imaging device is assumed to be constantly operating, so time correction is performed at a specified interval. In an environment where the imaging device is frequently turned on and off, time correction may not be performed periodically. This could result in the time managed by the imaging device becoming inaccurate.

This disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems. The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a management system that can accurately manage the date and time images were taken by a camera.

The management system according to the present disclosure includes a server and an imaging unit that is arranged at a construction site and can communicate with the server, the imaging unit having a communication device that can communicate with the server via a network, and a camera that is arranged at the construction site and can transmit information of images or videos captured via the communication device to the server, and the server has a storage unit that stores information of images or videos, a date and time management unit that transmits date and time information managed by the server to the camera when a startup notification that the camera has started up is received from the camera via the communication device, a location management unit that manages the location information of the camera as location information of the imaging unit when location information of the camera is received from the camera via the communication device, and a storage unit that stores information of images or videos captured by the camera in association with the date and time information. and a video management unit that associates image information with position information of the imaging unit and stores them in the memory unit , and the imaging unit further includes an advance camera which is a camera, and a follow-up camera which is placed at the construction site and is capable of transmitting captured images or videos to a server via a communication device, and when the date and time management unit receives an activation notification from the follow-up camera that the follow-up camera has been activated, it transmits date and time information to the follow-up camera, and the video management unit associates the image or video captured by the follow-up camera with the date and time information and stores them in the memory unit, and when the position management unit receives second position information of the follow-up camera after receiving first position information of the advance camera, it manages the position of the follow-up camera using the first position information .

This disclosure makes it possible to accurately manage the date and time images were captured by the camera.

1 is a schematic diagram of a management system according to a first embodiment. 2 is a schematic diagram of an imaging unit of the management system according to the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of a camera of the management system according to the first embodiment. 10 is a table showing the status of cameras in the management system according to the first embodiment. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of essential parts of a management system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a main part of the management system according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a part of a processing operation of the management system according to the first embodiment; 10 is an authentication screen displayed on a management interface by the management system according to the first embodiment. 10 is a screen of a first map displayed on a management interface by the management system in the first embodiment. 10 is a screen of a second map displayed on a management interface by the management system in the first embodiment. 10 is a screen of a second map displayed on a management interface by the management system in the first embodiment. 1 is a thumbnail screen displayed on a management interface by the management system according to the first embodiment. 1 is a timeline screen displayed on a management interface by the management system according to the first embodiment. 1 is a diagram showing a video display screen displayed on a management interface by the management system according to the first embodiment. 1 is a diagram showing a video display screen displayed on a management interface by the management system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of an information server of the management system according to the first embodiment.

The embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in each drawing, identical or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals. Duplicate descriptions of these parts will be appropriately simplified or omitted.

Embodiment 1.
Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a management system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of an imaging unit of the management system according to embodiment 1.

The management system 1 is applied to a construction site. In particular, as shown in Figure 1, the management system 1 is applied to a construction site for an elevator device 200. Below, as an example, we will explain an example in which the management system 1 is applied to a construction site for an elevator device 200, in particular, a modernization site, which is a renewal and renovation work for the elevator device 200.

The elevator device 200 is installed in the building 300. The elevator shaft 201 of the elevator device 200 passes through each floor of the building 300. The machine room 202 is installed directly above the elevator shaft 201. The elevator shaft 201 and the machine room 202 are separated by a truss 203. The truss 203 forms the ceiling of the elevator shaft 201 and also forms the floor of the machine room 202. Although not shown, the truss 203 has one or more through holes connecting the elevator shaft 201 and the machine room 202. The pit 204 is the lowest part of the elevator shaft 201. A buffer, etc., not shown, is installed in the pit 204.

The rails 205 are provided inside the elevator shaft 201. The rails 205 are provided from the truss 203 to the pit 204 with their longitudinal direction oriented vertically. The management system 1 may also be applied to an elevator device 200 in which the rails 205 are not installed or in which only a portion of the rails 205 is installed in the elevator shaft 201.

The car 206 is installed inside the hoistway 201. The car 206 can move up and down inside the hoistway 201 while being guided by the rails 205. The car 206 has a car chamber 207 inside. The upper side of the ceiling of the car chamber 207 is the upper surface of the car 206, where workers and the like can stand. For example, a car fence 208 is installed on the upper surface of the car 206. Note that the management system 1 may be applied to an elevator device 200 in a state where the car 206 is not installed or in a state where only a portion of the car 206 is installed in the hoistway 201.

The management system 1 comprises an imaging unit 2, a management server 3, and a viewing terminal 4. The imaging unit 2 is a group of devices installed at a construction site and used to capture images or video, which is a series of images. The management server 3 is composed of devices that enable viewing of the captured images or video of the construction site.

The viewing terminal 4 is a terminal for viewing images or videos managed by the management server 3. The viewing terminal 4 may be a terminal carried by a worker, a terminal operated by a site manager who supervises the construction site, or a terminal operated by a safety and health instructor who provides guidance on safety and health management at the construction site. The viewing terminal 4 has a screen for displaying information and an input means for accepting information input. The viewing terminal 4 may be any terminal, such as a smartphone, personal computer, or tablet.

Next, the imaging unit 2 will be described with reference to Figure 2 in addition to Figure 1. The imaging unit 2 comprises a communication device 10, four cameras 20, a network hub 30, a repeater 40, a holder 50, and a power supply 60. The communication device 10, network hub 30, repeater 40, holder 50, and power supply 60 function as a communication unit for realizing communication between the camera 20 and the management server 3. The management server 3 stores information identifying the imaging unit 2. The management server 3 also stores information identifying each of a plurality of other imaging units 2 (not shown).

The communication device 10 can communicate with the management server 3 via an external network N1. For example, the communication device 10 can communicate with the management server 3 using wireless communication radio waves. The communication device 10 is also included in the network N2 formed by the imaging unit 2.

As an example, the communication device 10 has a main body 11 and an installation stand 12. The main body 11 is a portable wireless communication terminal capable of communicating with the network N1. The installation stand 12 is also called a cradle and is a stand that can be electrically connected to the main body 11. The installation stand 12 is an interface that supplies power to the main body 11 and connects the main body 11 to a communication cable.

The network hub 30 constitutes part of the network N2. The network hub 30 is electrically connected to the installation stand 12 of the communication device 10 via a communication cable 31. The network hub 30 can be considered to be included in the configuration of the communication device 10. In this case, the network hub 30, which is the communication device 10, can be supplied with power via the communication cable.

The repeater 40 constitutes part of the network N2. The repeater 40 is electrically connected to the network hub 30 via a communication cable 32 that enables signal communication. The repeater 40 receives power from the network hub 30 via the communication cable 32.

The repeater 40 is positioned inside the elevator shaft 201 by a holder 50. The repeater 40 is capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves for communication. Specifically, for example, the repeater 40 is capable of wireless communication using radio waves conforming to the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) standard. The repeater 40 has an antenna surface 41 that transmits directional radio waves. For example, the repeater 40 transmits directional radio waves in the normal direction of the antenna surface 41. The receiving sensitivity of the repeater 40 is designed to be higher on the antenna surface 41 than on other surfaces.

Generally, wireless radio waves from outside reach the interior of the elevator shaft 201. For this reason, wireless communication is difficult between the communication device 10 installed in the machine room 202 and the equipment inside the elevator shaft 201. Furthermore, due to the presence of obstacles such as the car 206 inside the elevator shaft 201, wireless communication is difficult between the equipment installed at the top and bottom. The repeater 40 relays communication between the communication device 10 and the equipment installed in the elevator shaft 201 by radio waves. In this case, the repeater 40 maintains a good environment for wireless communication with the equipment installed in the elevator shaft 201 by emitting radio waves that are directional in the longitudinal direction of the elevator shaft 201.

The power supply 60 is connected to an external power source (not shown). The power supply 60 supplies power from the external power source to the communication device 10 and the network hub 30. The power supply 60 has a USB standard terminal that can supply power.

The four cameras 20 each have the same configuration. The cameras 20 are capable of capturing images or video. The following describes the case where the cameras 20 capture video, but video may be interpreted as images as appropriate. The cameras 20 are capable of recording audio along with video. The cameras 20 perform various functions by appropriately executing stored applications. The cameras 20 form part of the network N2. The cameras 20 can communicate with the communication device 10 directly or via the repeater 40. The cameras 20 can communicate with the management server 3 via the network N1 via the communication device 10. The four cameras 20 and the communication device 10 form a single group. For example, the communication device 10 may be a device that acts as an intermediary with the network N1 and can communicate only with the four cameras 20. The four cameras 20 may be a device that communicates with the network N1 and can communicate only with the communication device 10.

As an example, camera 20 has a rechargeable battery and can capture images without receiving an external power supply. For example, camera 20 is connected to the terminals of power supply 60 and charged. Camera 20 can be installed in any location using a magnet. Camera 20 may also be installed by being mechanically fixed using a mounting fixture.

Camera 20 has the function of determining its own location using GPS (Global Positioning System). After starting up, camera 20 determines its own location, generates location information, and transmits the location information to management server 3.

Each of the four cameras 20 has unique camera identification information. The four cameras 20 consist of a first camera 20a, a second camera 20b, a third camera 20c, and a fourth camera 20d. The first camera 20a is disposed inside the machine room 202 so as to be able to capture images of the interior of the machine room 202. The second camera 20b is disposed inside the car 206 so as to be able to capture images of the interior of the car 206.

The third camera 20c is positioned on the upper surface of the car 206 so as to be able to capture images of at least one of the upper surface of the car 206 and the middle portion of the elevator shaft 201. For example, the third camera 20c is attached to the car fence 208 of the car 206. The third camera 20c may also be attached to the rail 205 or another piece of equipment in the middle portion of the elevator shaft 201. The middle portion of the elevator shaft 201 is the portion between the upper and lower ends of the elevator shaft 201. When attached to the upper surface of the car 206, the third camera 20c can be considered to be attached to the middle portion of the elevator shaft 201.

The fourth camera 20d is positioned inside the pit 204, which is the lower end of the elevator shaft 201, so as to be able to capture images of the inside of the pit 204.

Note that a maximum of four cameras 20 included in the imaging unit 2 is sufficient. Because the equipment configuration of the elevator device 200 is concentrated vertically, the number of locations where work can be performed simultaneously during construction of the elevator device 200 is limited. Specifically, from a safety standpoint, while work may be performed in four locations - the machine room 202, the pit 204, the inside of the car 206, and the middle section of the hoistway 201 above the car 206 - it is unlikely that work will be performed in more locations than this simultaneously. For this reason, the imaging unit 2 is designed so that cameras 20 can be installed in a maximum of the four locations mentioned above.

Next, the camera 20 will be described with reference to FIGS.
Fig. 3 is a front view of the camera of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 4 is a table showing the status of the camera of the management system in embodiment 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the camera 20 has an imaging lens 21 on the front. The camera 20 has a light 22, a power light 23, a first function light 24, and a second function light 25. The camera 20 has a first function button 26 and a second function button 27 on the top surface. The camera 20 is turned on or off by pressing the power button (not shown).

The light 22 emits light as a flash when taking a picture. The luminous intensity of the light 22 is relatively strong enough to be noticed by people around the camera 20. The power light 23 is an LED that emits light in a single color. The power light 23 emits light when the camera 20 is turned on. The first function light 24 and the second function light 25 are LEDs that can emit light in any of three or more colors. The first function light 24 and the second function light 25 indicate the current status of the camera 20 by whether or not they emit light and the combination of their colors. Pressing at least one of the first function button 26 and the second function button 27 changes the shooting status and sound recording status of the camera 20. For example, if the first function button 26 is pressed when the camera 20 is waiting to start shooting, the camera 20 will start shooting.

Figure 4 shows the relationship between the light-emitting combinations of the first function light 24 and the second function light 25 and the state of the camera 20. Each of the first function light 24 and the second function light 25 can be in one of three states: off O, emitting green G, emitting red R, or emitting yellow Y. The second column of the table shows the state of the first function light 24, and the third column shows the state of the second function light 25. The first column shows the state of the camera 20 corresponding to the combination of the second and third columns.

For example, when the camera 20 is powered off (OFF), both the first function light 24 and the second function light 25 are off. After the camera 20 is powered on, when an application (camera app) for the camera 20 to transmit video is running, the first function light 24 emits green light and the second function light 25 is off. When the camera 20 is ready to distribute, that is, when it is ready to start capturing images when the first function button 26 is pressed, the first function light 24 emits yellow light and the second function light 25 is off. When the camera 20 is capturing images and simultaneously recording audio, the first function light 24 emits red light and the second function light 25 emits green light.

Next, the configuration of the management server 3 will be described with reference to FIGS.
Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the main parts of the management system according to embodiment 1. Fig. 6 is a functional block diagram of the main parts of the management system according to embodiment 1. Although not shown, the management system 1 includes a plurality of imaging units 2 installed at a plurality of construction sites.

As shown in FIG. 5, the management server 3 comprises an intermediate server 110 and an information server 120. The intermediate server 110 and the information server 120 differ in their installed locations and their divisions on the network. Note that the management server 3 may be configured as an integrated server as long as it includes the functions of the intermediate server 110 and the functions of the information server 120. For example, some of the functions described below as functions of the information server 120 may be realized as functions of the intermediate server 110 rather than the information server 120.

The intermediate server 110 can communicate with the imaging unit 2 and the information server 120 via the network N1. The information server 120 can communicate with the imaging unit 2 via the intermediate server 110 via the network N1. For example, when information is sent from the imaging unit 2 to the intermediate server 110, the intermediate server 110 notifies the information server 120 that the information has been sent. Note that the information server 120 may also be able to communicate with the imaging unit without going through the intermediate server 110. The intermediate server 110 mainly stores image or video information.

Information server 120 constitutes part of network N3. Network N3 is managed by the company that owns information server 120 and is an intranet that includes information server 120 and some of multiple viewing terminals 4. The viewing terminals 4 included in network N3 are included in the internal network of the company that manages information server 120. Viewing terminals 4 that are not included in network N3 but have completed the required security authentication can access network N3 from an external network. Information server 120 mainly manages image or video information stored in intermediate server 110 and provides a management interface for viewing the images or videos on viewing terminals 4. Information server 120 displays the images or videos on the screen of viewing terminal 4 via the management interface. Owners of viewing terminals 4 can view the images or videos.

As shown in FIG. 6, the intermediate server 110 has as its functions a first memory unit 111 and a date and time management unit 112. The first memory unit 111 stores information about images or videos transmitted from the camera 20.

The date and time management unit 112 manages date and time information, which is a combination of a date and time at a certain point in time. The date and time indicated in the date and time information is used throughout the management system 1. When a startup notification is received indicating that a camera 20 has started up, the date and time management unit 112 sends the date and time information to the camera 20.

The information server 120 has the following functions: a second memory unit 121, a location management unit 122, a video management unit 123, a screen display unit 124, a first authentication unit 125, and a second authentication unit 126.

The second memory unit 121 stores various information for managing the equipment and security included in the management server 3. Specifically, the second memory unit 121 stores identification information for each of the multiple imaging units 2. For example, the identification information for the multiple imaging units 2 is distinguished by an individual identifier assigned to each communication device 10. The second memory unit 121 stores site information for multiple construction sites managed by the company that owns the management server 3. The site information includes associated information such as the building that is the construction site, the location of the building that is the construction site, the construction content at the construction site, and the construction company involved in the construction site.

The location management unit 122 manages the current location information of the imaging unit 2. The location information of the imaging unit 2 is determined by the location information transmitted from the camera 20 of the imaging unit 2. Specifically, consider a case where first location information is first received from an earlier camera 20 of the multiple cameras 20 included in the imaging unit 2, and then second location information is received from a later camera 20 of the multiple cameras 20. When the location management unit 122 receives the first location information from the earlier camera 20, it identifies the imaging unit 2 and determines the location indicated in the first location information as the location information of the imaging unit 2. When the location management unit 122 subsequently receives the second location information, it recognizes that location information for the imaging unit 2 already exists and does not reflect the second location information in the location information of the imaging unit 2. In other words, the location management unit 122 manages the location of the later camera 20 using the first location information rather than the second location information.

If the second position information received from the subsequent camera 20 is farther away than the specified judgment distance from the current position information of the imaging unit 2, the position management unit 122 reflects the second position information in the position information of the imaging unit 2. In other words, in this case, the position management unit 122 manages the second position information, rather than the first position information, as the current position information of the imaging unit 2.

In addition, when the power of all cameras 20 included in a certain imaging unit 2 is turned off, the location management unit 122 may reset the location information of the imaging unit 2 and not manage the location information.

If the position of the imaging unit 2 is within a determined distance from the position of the construction site indicated in the site information, the video management unit 123 associates the imaging unit 2 with the site information. In other words, it identifies the construction site where the imaging unit 2 is located.

The video management unit 123 also adds the information to be managed to the image or video information received from the camera 20 and stores the image or video information in the first memory unit 111. Specifically, when the video management unit 123 receives image or video information from the camera 20, it associates the identification information of the camera 20, the identification information of the imaging unit 2 including the camera 20, the location information of the imaging unit 2, and the location information of the construction site, and stores the associated information in the first memory unit 111. Here, since the camera 20 captures the image or video information in association with date and time information, the image or video information includes date and time information. Note that if the location of the imaging unit 2 does not correspond to the location of the construction site, or if location information has not been received from the camera 20 and the imaging unit 2 is not associated with the site information, the video management unit 123 may store the image or video information in the first memory unit 111 without associating it with the location of the construction site.

The screen display unit 124 provides a management interface for viewing images or videos. The screen display unit 124 manages the display content of the screen in the management interface.

The first authentication unit 125 and the second authentication unit 126 constitute an authentication system. The first authentication unit 125 manages access from outside the network N3 to inside the network N3. For example, the first authentication unit 125 may manage access to the management interface of a viewing terminal 4 that is not included in the network N3. The first authentication unit 125 may manage authentication for a viewing terminal 4 that is not included in the network N3 to be included in the network N3. Note that the first authentication unit 125 may manage access to the management interface by a viewing terminal 4 that is included in the network N3.

The second authentication unit 126 manages access for viewing terminals 4 that have been granted access by the first authentication unit 125 to view image or video information. That is, the second authentication unit 126 imposes further access authentication on viewing terminals 4 that can access network N3. The second authentication unit 126 performs access authentication on the management interface. The functions of the second authentication unit 126 include a first display unit 127, a second display unit 128, and a release unit 129.

The first display unit 127 displays a first map including an authentication location and an authentication icon indicating the authentication location. The second display unit 128 displays a second map including the authentication location but not the authentication icon. The release unit 129 releases security on the viewing terminal 4 when the access authentication conditions are met on the second map. In this case, the viewing terminal 4 becomes able to access image or video information.

Next, the process performed by the camera 20 and the management server 3 when the camera 20 is started will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a part of the processing operation of the management system according to the first embodiment.

The flowchart of Figure 7 begins when one of the multiple cameras 20 is activated.

In step S01, the activated camera 20 sends a startup notification indicating that it has started up to the management server 3 via the communication device 10. The following flowcharts explain the processing of the activated camera 20. At this time, the camera 20 simultaneously starts processes such as determining its own location using technology such as GPS and starting up an image capture application.

Then, in step S02, the intermediate server 110 and information server 120 of the management server 3 receive the startup notification. The date and time management unit 112 of the intermediate server 110 sends the current date and time information to the camera 20.

Then, in step S03, camera 20 receives the date and time information. Camera 20 sets the current date and time based on the date and time information.

Then, in step S04, the camera 20 identifies its current location and determines whether it has acquired its own location information.

If location information is not acquired in step S04, the operation of step S05 is performed. In step S05, the camera 20 determines whether the time during which location information has not been acquired has exceeded the specified suspension time.

If, in step S05, the time during which location information has not been obtained does not exceed the suspension time, operations from step S04 onwards are repeated.

If, in step S05, the time during which location information has not been acquired exceeds the suspension time, the operation of step S06 is performed. In step S06, the camera 20 determines whether preparation of the image capture application is complete. If preparation of the image capture application is not complete in step S06, the operation of step S06 is repeated.

If the preparation of the image capture application is complete in step S06, the operation of step S07 is performed. In step S07, the camera 20 enters a state in which preparation for image capture is complete. For example, if the first function button 26 is operated in this state, the camera 20 starts capturing images in association with the date and time information. The operation of the flowchart then ends.

If location information is acquired in step S04, the operation of step S08 is performed. In step S08, the camera 20 transmits the acquired location information to the management server 3 via the communication device 10.

Then, in step S09, the management server 3 receives the location information of the camera 20. The location management unit 122 of the information server 120 determines whether the location information of the camera 20 is the initial location information transmitted from the corresponding imaging unit 2. Whether the location information is the initial location information can be determined by several methods.

For example, if the location information of the imaging unit 2 has been determined within a specified judgment time, the location management unit 122 may determine that the location information received in step S09 is not the initial location information.

For example, the location management unit 122 may reset and erase the location information of the imaging unit 2 at a specified time or every hour. In this case, if the location information of the imaging unit 2 has not been determined, the location management unit 122 may determine that the location information received in step S09 is the initial location information. If the location information of the imaging unit 2 has been determined, the location management unit 122 may determine that the location information received in step S09 is not the initial location information.

For example, if the location information of the imaging unit 2 and the location information received in step S09 are farther apart than the judgment distance, the location management unit 122 may determine that the location information received in step S09 is the initial location information.

If it is determined in step S09 that the received location information is the initial location information, the operation of step S10 is performed. In step S10, the location management unit 122 determines the location of the imaging unit 2 including the camera 20 to be the location indicated in the received location information. In other words, the location management unit 122 sets the location information of the imaging unit 2.

Then, the operation of step S11 is performed. In step S11, the video management unit 123 of the information server 120 associates one of the construction sites with the imaging unit 2 based on the position information of the imaging unit 2 and the site information. At this time, the video management unit 123 may associate the position of the construction site instead of the construction site. Then, the operation from step S06 onwards is performed.

If it is determined in step S09 that the location information is not the initial one, the operation of step S12 is performed. In step S12, the location management unit 122 does not update the location information of the imaging unit 2 that has already been set. In other words, the location management unit 122 manages the location information of the imaging unit 2 based on the position of the camera 20 that previously received location information. Then, the operation from step S06 onwards is performed.

If location information is not acquired in step S04, the determination shown in step S05 may not be made and operations from step S06 onwards may be performed. In this case, the camera 20 may continue the process of acquiring location information independently of the imaging application.

Next, the screens displayed on the management interface will be described with reference to FIGS.
Fig. 8 is an authentication screen displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 9 is a screen of a first map displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 10 is a screen of a second map displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 11 is a screen of a second map displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 12 is a thumbnail screen displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 13 is a timeline screen displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 14 is a screen of video display displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1. Fig. 15 is a screen of video display displayed on the management interface of the management system in embodiment 1.

Figure 8 shows the login screen, which is the screen on which security authentication is performed by the first authentication unit 125. The login screen is displayed on the viewing terminal 4 and is a screen to which transitions can be made in the management interface. The viewing terminal 4 is a terminal whose access to the network N3 has not been released. The login screen is provided with form F, which accepts input such as registered password authentication and password authentication for two-step authentication.

The first authentication unit 125 determines whether the authentication conditions for the first authentication are met based on the input information, etc. If the authentication conditions are met, the first authentication unit 125 releases the security of the viewing terminal 4 so that the viewing terminal 4 can access network N3. Note that if the viewing terminal 4 is included in network N3, the first authentication unit 125 may deem the authentication conditions to be met and release the security of the viewing terminal 4.

Figures 9 to 11 show screens on which security authentication is performed by the second authentication unit 126. Figure 9 shows a screen on which the first map is displayed. The first display unit 127 displays the first map on a viewing terminal 4 for which security has been released by the first authentication unit 125. Furthermore, the first display unit 127 does not display the first map on a viewing terminal 4 for which security has not been released by the first authentication unit 125 and which is not able to access network N3.

The first map is a map with a scale larger than a specified boundary threshold. For example, the first map is a map of Japan that includes most of Honshu, one of the Japanese archipelago. The first map includes one or more authentication locations. The second authentication unit 126 performs security authentication using location information that is known only to those who should view the footage of the construction site. The authentication location is a location used by the second authentication unit 126 for security authentication. For example, the authentication location is the location of the construction site. In particular, the authentication location is the location of the modernization site of the elevator device 200.

One or more authentication icons I are displayed on the first map. The authentication icons I are icons corresponding to authentication locations and indicate the authentication locations. On the first map of the management interface, the authentication icons I can be selected by clicking a mouse, touching a touch panel, etc.

A person who wishes to view footage of a construction site selects the authentication icon I on the first map that corresponds to the construction site they wish to view, or enlarges the first map to reduce the scale so that it includes the authentication icon I.

Then, the second map shown in FIG. 10 is displayed on the management interface. Specifically, when a certain authentication icon I is selected on the first map, the second display unit 128 displays on the screen a second map whose scale is the specified boundary threshold and which includes the authentication position corresponding to the authentication icon I. Alternatively, when the first map is enlarged to include a certain authentication icon I and the scale becomes equal to or smaller than the specified boundary threshold, the second display unit 128 displays on the screen a second map whose scale is the specified boundary threshold.

In the example shown in Figure 10, a second map including Tokyo is shown. The second map is a map whose scale is equal to or smaller than the boundary threshold. In other words, the second map includes maps whose scale is smaller than the boundary threshold. The second map includes the authentication location. However, it is not necessary for the authentication location to be included in the second map. The authentication icon I is not shown on the second map.

Figure 11 shows the second map, which is enlarged compared to Figure 10 and therefore has an even smaller scale. On the second map of the management interface, any position on the map can be specified by clicking the mouse, touching the touch panel, etc. If the position specified on the second map is within the specified authentication distance from the authentication position, the release unit 129 releases the security for viewing images or videos of the construction site corresponding to the authentication position.

Figure 11 schematically shows the position P for which the designation was accepted, and a circle E of the authentication range with the radius of position P as the authentication distance, centered on position P. For example, the authentication distance is 50 m. If the authentication position is located within circle E, the distance between the authentication position and position P for which the designation was accepted is within the authentication distance, so the release unit 129 releases security. Also, if the position for which the designation was accepted on the second map is farther away from the authentication position than the specified authentication distance, the release unit 129 does not release security for viewing images or videos of the construction site corresponding to the authentication position.

In addition, if the location for which the designation is accepted is within the authentication distance corresponding to each of multiple authentication locations, the cancellation unit 129 may display information on the management interface for selecting one of multiple construction sites corresponding to the multiple authentication locations.

Next, we will explain the screen for viewing images or videos using Figures 12 to 15. Note that the following explanation will be given assuming that the video is stored on the management server 3.

When security is deactivated by the deactivation unit 129, the management interface transitions to a screen for selecting a video of the corresponding construction site. The screen display unit 124 displays a screen for selecting a video before the screen displaying the video.

Figure 12 shows a first example of a screen for selecting video. In the first example, the screen display unit 124 displays a thumbnail list screen for video. On the thumbnail list screen, videos captured by the cameras 20 of the same imaging unit 2 are displayed in association with each other. On the thumbnail list screen, a date and time are displayed in association with a thumbnail S, which is a portion of the video captured on that date and time. The thumbnail S may also be displayed in association with a portion of the corresponding site information. When a thumbnail S is selected on the thumbnail list screen, the screen display unit 124 transitions the management interface to a screen that displays the video of the selected thumbnail and videos captured by the same imaging unit 2 at the same date and time.

Figure 13 shows a second example of a screen for selecting video. In the second example, the screen display unit 124 displays a video timeline screen. On the timeline screen, videos captured by the cameras 20 of the same imaging unit 2 are displayed in association with each other. The timeline screen displays the date and time and a bar indicating the date and time the video was captured. The bar is placed at a corresponding position on the date and time. The multiple bars indicating videos captured by the multiple cameras 20 of the imaging unit 2 are arranged so that the capture times are aligned. When a bar is selected on the timeline screen, the screen display unit 124 transitions the management interface to a screen that displays the video of the selected bar and videos captured by the same imaging unit 2 with the same date and time.

Figure 14 shows an example of a screen for viewing video. The screen display unit 124 displays multiple captured videos on the management interface screen so that they are played back with the date and time synchronized.

For example, if the first camera 20a, the second camera 20b, the third camera 20c, and the fourth camera 20d included in the imaging unit 2 are all capturing images on a certain date and time, the four images are stored in association with each other in the first storage unit 111. Since all four images were captured with the date and time information reflected, the dates and times shown in the images match each other.

The screen display unit 124 simultaneously displays the four videos on the same display screen and plays them simultaneously. At this time, the screen display unit 124 synchronizes the dates and times of all the videos when playing them. For example, when an arbitrary playback position is specified using the seek bar B1 in one video, the screen display unit 124 moves the seek bars B1 of the other three videos to the date and time positions corresponding to the specified playback position.

The screen display unit 124 displays an alert button B2 at a position corresponding to the video. The alert button B2 is a selectable button. If four videos are displayed, four alert buttons B2 corresponding to each of the four videos are displayed. The four alert buttons B2 correspond to each of the four cameras 20.

When the alert button B2 corresponding to a certain camera 20 is selected by clicking, touching, etc., the light 22 of that camera 20 will flash. For example, when a site supervisor checking the video from the viewing terminal 4 wants to alert a worker captured on a certain camera 20, he or she selects the alert button B2 corresponding to that camera 20. In this case, the light of that camera 20 will flash, making the worker aware of the alert.

As shown in Figure 15, the screen display unit 124 can also display only one of multiple images. An alert button B2 corresponding to the image is also displayed on this screen.

Next, an example of hardware constituting the information server 120 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 16 is a hardware configuration diagram of the information server of the management system according to the first embodiment.

Each function of the information server 120 may be realized by a processing circuit. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one processor 1000a and at least one memory 1000b. For example, the processing circuit includes at least one dedicated hardware 2000.

When the processing circuit includes at least one processor 1000a and at least one memory 1000b, each function of the information server 120 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. At least one of the software and firmware is written as a program. At least one of the software and firmware is stored in at least one memory 1000b. The at least one processor 1000a realizes each function of the information server 120 by reading and executing the program stored in the at least one memory 1000b. The at least one processor 1000a is also referred to as a central processing unit, processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. For example, the at least one memory 1000b is a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, or EEPROM, a magnetic disk, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a minidisk, a DVD, or the like.

When the processing circuit includes at least one dedicated hardware 2000, the processing circuit may be realized, for example, as a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof. For example, each function of the information server 120 may be realized by a processing circuit. For example, each function of the information server 120 may be realized collectively by a processing circuit.

Some of the functions of the information server 120 may be implemented by dedicated hardware 2000, with the remaining functions implemented by software or firmware. For example, the functions of the screen display unit 124 may be implemented by a processing circuit as dedicated hardware 2000, and functions other than the functions of the screen display unit 124 may be implemented by at least one processor 1000a reading and executing a program stored in at least one memory 1000b.

In this way, the processing circuitry realizes each function of the information server 120 through hardware 2000, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

In addition, the information server 120 may be realized on a cloud server. In this case, the processing circuit is composed of multiple partial circuits. The multiple partial processing circuits are provided in each of the multiple devices that make up the cloud server. The multiple devices that make up the cloud server may each be provided in a different building.

Although not shown, the functions of the intermediate server 110, viewing terminal 4, and camera 20 are also realized by processing circuits equivalent to the processing circuits that realize the functions of the information server 120.

According to the first embodiment described above, the management system 1 includes a management server 3 and an imaging unit 2. The management server 3 includes a first memory unit 111, a date and time management unit 112, a location management unit 122, and a video management unit 123. The camera 20 captures images or videos in association with date and time information received from the date and time management unit 112. The location management unit 122 manages the location of the imaging unit 2. The video management unit 123 stores information about images or videos captured by the camera 20 in association with location information about the imaging unit 2. The date and time information and location information held by the camera 20 are somewhat unstable and may change from time to time. The location of the camera 20 is managed as the location of the imaging unit 2 based on location information received once, so changes are avoided, for example, every time the camera 20 captures an image. The date and time information of the camera 20 is managed by date and time information sent every time the camera 20 is started up. The date and time information of the camera 20 is unified with the date and time information managed by the management server 3, and therefore is prevented from changing depending on the internal time of the camera 20. This makes it possible to accurately manage the date, time, and location of the captured image or video information.

The imaging unit 2 also includes at least two cameras 20, which are divided into an advance camera and a follow-up camera. Both the advance camera and the follow-up camera capture images using the date and time information transmitted from the date and time management unit 112. This allows the time of images captured by the same imaging unit 2 to be accurately and easily synchronized.

In addition, in the imaging unit 2, the first camera transmits its first location information to the management server 3 first. In this case, even if the subsequent camera transmits its second location information, the location of the imaging unit 2 is managed by the first location information. Because the location of the subsequent camera is managed by the location of the imaging unit 2, the location of the subsequent camera is managed by the first location information. This makes it possible to prevent information about the locations where images or videos captured by multiple cameras 20 were captured from becoming inconsistent.

The management server 3 also includes a screen display unit 124. The screen display unit displays the images captured by the multiple cameras 20 on the screen so that the images are played back with the date and time synchronized. This allows site managers and others to more accurately check the images captured by the multiple cameras 20. For example, a site agent can simultaneously grasp the situation remotely. As a result, worker safety can be improved.

The screen display unit 124 also displays a timeline screen. This makes it easy to see from the viewing terminal 4 the date and time relationships between the multiple cameras 20, and the combination of cameras 20 that captured the video.

The video management unit 123 also associates the captured image or video information with site information about the construction site. In particular, the construction site in question is an elevator construction site. Therefore, there is no need for a person to perform the process or work of associating the image or video information with the site information about the construction site. As a result, the workload of workers, etc. can be reduced. As a result, workers, etc. can easily perform the work of capturing images or videos.

The first storage unit 111 may delete the video at regular intervals or may store it permanently. In either case, the video can be viewed later. For example, even if a construction or safety problem occurs, the cause of the problem can be identified based on the video stored in the first storage unit 111.

In addition, the management system 1 may also be applied to elevator systems that do not have a machine room and in which the hoisting machine, etc. is located at the bottom or top of the elevator shaft.

As described above, the management system 1 disclosed herein can be used for safety management of elevator equipment construction work.

1 Management system, 2 Imaging unit, 3 Management server, 4 Viewing terminal, 10 Communication device, 11 Main body, 12 Installation stand, 20 Camera, 20a First camera, 20b Second camera, 20c Third camera, 20d Fourth camera, 21 Lens, 22 Light, 23 Power light, 24 First function light, 25 Second function light, 26 First function button, 27 Second function button, 30 Network hub, 31 Communication cable, 32 Communication cable, 40 Repeater, 41 Antenna surface, 42 Mounting surface, 50 Holder, 60 Power supply, 110 Intermediate server, 111 First memory unit, 112 Date and time management unit, 120 Information server, 121 Second memory unit, 122 Location management unit, 123 Video management unit, 124 Screen display unit, 125 First authentication unit, 126 Second authentication unit, 127 First display unit, 128 Second display unit, 129 Release unit, 200 Elevator device, 201 Hoistway, 202 Machine room, 203 Truss, 204 Pit, 205 Rail, 205a Head, 205b Bottom, 205s Surface, 206 Cage, 207 Cage room, 208 Cage fence, 300 Building, 1000a Processor, 1000b Memory, 2000 Hardware, B1 Seek bar, B2 Alert button, F Form, I Authentication icon, N1 Network, N2 Network, N3 Network, S Thumbnail

Claims (5)

A server;
an imaging unit that is placed at a construction site and is capable of communicating with the server;
Equipped with
The imaging unit
a communication device capable of communicating with the server via a network;
a camera that is placed at the construction site and is capable of transmitting captured image or video information to the server via the communication device;
and
The server
a storage unit that stores the image or video information;
a date and time management unit that transmits date and time information managed by the server to the camera when a startup notification indicating that the camera has started up is received from the camera via the communication device;
a position management unit that manages the position information of the camera as position information of the imaging unit when the position information of the camera is received from the camera via the communication device;
a video management unit that stores information about the image or video captured by the camera in association with the date and time information and location information of the imaging unit in association with each other in the storage unit;
and
The imaging unit
The camera is an advance camera;
A camera that is placed at the construction site and can transmit captured images or videos to the server via the communication device;
and
the date and time management unit transmits the date and time information to the subsequent camera when receiving a startup notification from the subsequent camera indicating that the subsequent camera has been started;
The video management unit stores the image or video captured by the subsequent camera in association with the date and time information and the position information of the imaging unit in association with each other in the storage unit;
When the position management unit receives the second position information of the subsequent camera after receiving the first position information of the preceding camera, the position management unit manages the position of the subsequent camera using the first position information.
Management system. The server
a screen display unit that displays the video captured by the first camera and the video captured by the second camera on a screen of the viewing terminal so that the video is played back with the date and time synchronized;
The management system of claim 1 further comprising: 3. The management system of claim 2, wherein the screen display unit displays a timeline screen on the screen of the viewing terminal, in which a bar indicating the date and time shown in the video captured by the advance camera and a bar indicating the date and time shown in the video captured by the subsequent camera are positioned in corresponding positions based on information about the video captured by the advance camera and information about the video captured by the subsequent camera. The management system described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the video management unit identifies the construction site based on the location information of the imaging unit, and further associates site information of the construction site with the image or video information when storing it in the memory unit. The management system according to claim 4 , wherein the construction site is an elevator construction site.