JPH07288871A - Remote management system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To form a remote management system in which the management cost and equipment cost are reduced to reduce the cost relating to the system. CONSTITUTION:A microcomputer 8a of a dryer 8 is provided with a detection means detecting trouble with a signal from a sensor 8b and a trouble detection flag setting a flag and a trouble information transmission means sending trouble information and a central equipment 3 is provided with an erasure request means sending a request to erase the trouble detection flag. Furthermore, the microcomputer 8a is provided with an erasure means erasing the trouble detection flag with an erasure request. On the other hand, a periodic output means of a DTC 7 outputs a transmission request to a transmission request output means within a set period and receives data in the microcomputer 8a and stores the data to a memory 7d. When a call comes from the central device 3, a periodic output means of the DTC 7 allows a transmission request output means to output a transmission request while placing priority to the periodic output means and data from the dryer 8 are sent to the central device 3.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention connects a device whose operation is controlled by a control device such as a microcomputer and a central device such as a personal computer by communication means, and remotely manages the device by the central device. Regarding the system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art For example, in a landry shop where a plurality of washing machines and dryers are arranged and coins or prepaid cards can be used for a fee, the number of staff is reduced,
Alternatively, in order to abolish the patrol to each landry store and improve the management efficiency, there is a demand for a management system that centrally manages the management of failures and abnormalities of landry equipment and the management of charges at a remote location.

As such a management system, Japanese Patent Application No. 5-
There is one proposed in 1820. A plurality of laundry machines such as a washing machine and a dryer are arranged in each laundry shop.
Each device such as a motor, drum and charge box provided in each landry device is provided with a rotation sensor, a thermistor, a micro switch and other sensors, and the output signal of the sensor is input to a microcomputer. ing. The microcomputer controls the operation of the landry device based on the signal from each sensor, and stores each data such as the operating state, the remaining operation time, and the sales amount, and the data controller (hereinafter DTC) arranged at each landry store. Say)
To send to each. Also each DTC
Is connected to a central device equipped with a management company and using a personal computer by a public line.

In such a conventional remote management system, when a request for monitoring the operating condition, remaining operation time, sales amount, etc. is sent from the central unit to the DTC, the DTC should send the requested data. Send a transmission request to the microcomputer of the corresponding device. The microcomputer sends the requested data to the DTC, and the DTC sends the received data to the central unit. On the other hand, when a trouble such as a device failure, abnormality or theft of charges occurs, the microcomputer of the landry device stops its operation and gives a transmission request to the DTC, and when the DTC responds, the trouble data is transmitted. . The DTC calls the central unit to send the received trouble data, and when the central unit responds, it sends the trouble data. Based on the received trouble data, the central unit confirms the occurrence of trouble by screen display and alarm. Inform.

[0005]

However, in such a conventional remote management system as described above, in order to make the equipment operable again whenever trouble occurs, the staff member Had to be dispatched to the store where the landry equipment was placed to perform a reset operation, and there was a problem that the management cost was high. In addition, since the microcomputer equipped in the device stores the data read from the sensor until a request for transmission is sent from the central device, a microcomputer with a large storage capacity must be used, and the device cost is high. There was a problem. Therefore, there is a problem that the cost of the system is high.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to make it possible to perform a reset operation of a control device provided in a device in response to a request from a central device in a remote place. , To provide a remote management system that can reduce management costs and system costs. Another object is to allow the DTC to periodically collect data from each device and store the data, thereby enabling the use of a microcomputer having a small storage capacity, reducing the device cost, and reducing the system cost. An object of the present invention is to provide a remote management system capable of reducing the cost related to the above.

[0007]

A remote management system according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a device whose operation is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a remote control device from the control device. In a system in which a central device for transmitting data is connected via a communication means and the device is remotely managed based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device is configured to detect a trouble based on a signal from each of the sensors. A detection means for detecting the occurrence, a trouble information storage means for storing the trouble detected by the detection means as trouble information, and a trouble information transmission means for transmitting the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means, The central device sends a request for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means based on the received trouble information, and an erasure request. Comprising means, the control device further,
It is characterized by further comprising trouble information erasing means for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means on the basis of the received erasing request.

A remote management system according to a second aspect of the present invention is a device whose operation is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a central device which is located in a remote place and transmits data from the control device. And through the communication means,
In the system for remotely managing the device based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device detects the occurrence of a trouble based on a signal from each of the sensors, and a sensor for detecting the trouble. Discriminating means for discriminating the type of trouble that has occurred based on the signal and a predetermined standard, trouble information storing means for storing trouble information for each type of trouble discriminated by the discriminating means, and the trouble information storing means Trouble information transmitting means for transmitting the trouble information stored in the central device, the central device, and a judgment means for judging whether or not the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means can be erased based on the received trouble information. , Erase request means for transmitting a request to erase the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means, Controller is further characterized in that it comprises a trouble information erasing means for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means on the basis of the erasing request received.

A remote management system according to a third aspect of the present invention is a device whose operation is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a central device which is located in a remote place and transmits data from the control device. And through the communication means,
In the system that remotely manages the device based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device detects a trouble based on a signal from each sensor, and a trouble detected by the detector. Is stored as trouble information, operation stopping means for stopping the operation of the equipment when the trouble information storing means stores trouble information, and trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means is transmitted. The central device has a deletion requesting means for transmitting a request for deleting the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means based on the received trouble information, and the control device further comprises: , A trouble of erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means based on the received erasure request A broadcast erasing means, characterized in that it comprises a resuming operation resuming means the operation of the device based on the erasure of trouble information.

In the remote management system according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, there are provided a control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of the equipment and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted from a data controller to a central device via a communication means, the data controller transmits the stored data to the control device. A transmission request output unit for outputting a request, a regular output unit for outputting the transmission request to the transmission request output unit at a preset cycle, a storage unit for storing the data transmitted from the control device, and the storage unit. Trouble checking means for checking whether or not there is data relating to the trouble of the device in the stored data, And calling means for calling the central unit when the trouble is confirmed by Bull confirmation unit, and a sending means for transmitting data to the central unit.

In the remote management system according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, there are provided a control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of the equipment and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted from a data controller to a central device via a communication means, the data controller transmits the stored data to the control device. Transmission request output means for outputting a request, irregular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means in response to a call from the central device, and storage means for storing data transmitted from the control device And a transmission means for transmitting data to the central device.

In the remote management system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, a control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of the equipment and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device are provided. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted from a data controller to a central device via a communication means, the data controller transmits the stored data to the control device. Transmission request output means for outputting a request, regular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means at a preset cycle, and priority for the regular output means in response to a call from the central device Storing the data transmitted from the control device, and irregular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means. Storage means, trouble confirmation means for confirming the presence or absence of data relating to the trouble of the device in the data stored in the storage means, and calling the central device when the trouble is confirmed by the trouble confirmation means It is characterized by comprising a calling means and a transmitting means for transmitting data to the central device.

A remote management system according to a seventh invention is characterized in that, in the first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth invention, the device is a landry device.

[0014]

In the remote management system of the first aspect of the invention, the detection means provided in the control device provided in the equipment detects the occurrence of trouble based on the signal from the sensor provided in each device of the equipment. If the detection means detects a trouble, the trouble information storage means stores it as trouble information, and the trouble information transmission means transmits the stored trouble information. When an instruction is made by key input or the like to the central device that has received the trouble information via the communication means,
The erasing request means provided in the central device sends an erasing request for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means to the control device, and the trouble information erasing means provided in the control device is the trouble information storing means. Delete the trouble information stored in.

In the remote management system of the second invention,
The detection means provided in the control device provided in the device detects the occurrence of trouble based on the signal from the sensor provided in each device of the device, and the signal from the sensor relating to the trouble detection and the predetermined Based on the standard, the determination means determines the type of trouble that has occurred, the trouble information storage means stores the trouble information for each type, and the trouble information transmission means transmits the stored trouble information.

When an instruction is made by key input or the like to the central device which has received the trouble information for each type via the communication means, the judgment means provided in the central device causes the trouble type to be determined based on the received trouble information. Separately, it is determined whether or not the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means can be erased, and when it is determined that the trouble information can be erased, the erase request means,
A deletion request for deleting the stored trouble information is transmitted to the control device. On the other hand, when it is determined that the erasure is impossible, the central unit prompts an instruction by key input or the like, and when the erasure request is input, the erasure request means transmits the erasure request, and if there is an input other than the erasure request. Do not send erase request. When the delete request is received, the trouble information deleting means provided in the control device deletes the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means.

In the remote management system of the third invention,
The detection means provided in the control device provided in the equipment detects the occurrence of a trouble based on the signal from the sensor provided in each device of the equipment, and when the detection means detects the trouble, the trouble information is displayed. The storage means stores it as trouble information. When the trouble information is stored in the trouble information storage means, the operation stopping means stops the operation of the device, and the trouble information transmitting means transmits the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means.

When the central device which receives the trouble information through the communication means is instructed by key input or the like, the erasure request means provided in the central device causes the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means to be displayed. An erase request to be erased is transmitted to the control device. When the deletion request is received, the trouble information deletion means provided in the control device deletes the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means, and the operation restart means restarts the operation of the device based on the deletion of the trouble information. .

In the remote management system of the fourth invention,
The control device provided in the device reads data from each sensor and temporarily stores the data. The transmission request output means provided in the data controller periodically issues a transmission request to the control device in order to cause the data stored in the control device to be transmitted based on a command from the periodic operation means whose cycle is set in advance. The data output and transmitted from the control device is stored in the storage means. Then, the trouble confirmation means confirms whether or not the data stored in the storage means includes data relating to the trouble of the device. If the trouble data is confirmed, the calling means makes a call to the central device, When there is a response, the transmission means transmits the data stored in the storage means to the central unit. If no trouble data is confirmed, data is periodically collected and stored from the control device.

In the remote management system of the fifth invention,
The control device provided in the device reads data from each sensor and temporarily stores the data. The irregular operation means provided in the data controller causes the transmission request output means to output a transmission request to the control device in response to a call from the central device, and stores the data transmitted from the control device in the storage means. Then, the transmitting means transmits the data stored in the storage means to the central unit.

In the remote management system of the sixth invention,
The control device provided in the device reads data from each sensor and temporarily stores the data. The transmission request output means provided in the data controller periodically issues a transmission request to the control device in order to cause the data stored in the control device to be transmitted based on a command from the periodic operation means whose cycle is set in advance. The data output and transmitted from the control device is stored in the storage means.

The irregular operation means provided in the data controller causes the transmission request output means to output a transmission request to the control device in response to a call from the central unit, prior to the command of the periodic operation means, The data transmitted from the control device is stored in the storage means. The transmission means then transmits the data stored in the storage means to the central unit.

On the other hand, even if there is no call from the central unit, if the trouble confirmation unit confirms the data regarding the trouble of the device in the data stored in the storage unit, the calling unit calls the central unit, When there is a response from the central unit, the transmitting unit transmits the data stored in the storage unit to the central unit.

In the remote management system of the seventh invention,
The above-mentioned first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth inventions are used as landry equipments such as dryers and washing machines.
Works as before.

[0025]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings showing the embodiments thereof. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote management system according to the present invention. In the figure, 2 is a landry store, and 1 is a management company that manages a plurality of landry stores 2, 2, .... Landry store 2 has multiple dryers 8,
, ... and a washing machine (not shown) are arranged, and each of the dryers 8, 8, ... Has a microcomputer 8a, 8a ,.
Interface for HBS (hereinafter I / F)
8c, 8c, ... are provided respectively. The microcomputers 8a, 8a, ... Start the drying operation in response to a charge input instruction such as coin dropping and a start instruction, and the drying operation is performed based on the signals from the sensors 8b, 8b ,. Control the charge,
Data such as start instruction, rotation speed, temperature, charge input error, rotation speed error, temperature error, etc. can be transmitted from the HBS I / Fs 8c, 8c, .... I / F 8c for each HBS,
8c, ... DT data via one twisted pair wire 9
It is designed to be given to C7. Twisted pair wire 9 is D
It is connected to the HBS controller 7b provided in the TC7,
The HBS control unit 7b transmits a data transmission request from the DTC 7 to each of the dryers 8, 8, ... And D from each of the dryers 8, 8 ,.
Data transmission to the TC 7 is controlled.

The HBS controller 7b exchanges data transmission requests and reception data with respect to the dryers 8, 8, ... With the DTC controller 7a which controls the operation of the DTC 7. The DTC control unit 7a includes a microcomputer 8a for the dryers 8, 8, ...
8a, ... Has a timer 7e for transmitting a data transmission request at predetermined intervals and a device counter 7f for preventing duplicate transmission of the data transmission request. The DTC control section 7a includes a DT.
An input unit 7c in which information such as the name of the landry store where C7 is placed and a telephone number is set, a memory 7d for storing the data received from the dryers 8, 8, ... And an interface 7g such as RC-232C are connected. There is. Further, the DTC 7 has a built-in DC power supply 7h, which enables remote management regardless of a power failure. Further, the HBS control unit 7b has a priority order of communication with the dryers 8, 8, ...
The DTC 7 transmits a data transmission request from the HBS controller 7b to the dryers 8, 8, ... At predetermined intervals in accordance with the priority order, and stores the received data at a predetermined address in the memory 7d.

The I / F 7g of the DTC 7 is connected to one end of the public line 5 via a line control / data transmission / reception device 6 such as a modem, and the other end of the public line 5 is line control / data transmission / reception on the management company 1 side. It is connected via a device 4 to an I / F 3d provided in a central device 3 using a personal computer. Telephones 12 and 11 are connected to the line control / data transmission / reception device 6 on the landry store 2 side and the line control / data transmission / reception device 4 on the management company 1 side so that they can be used for communication. .

The central device 3 includes a display device 3b such as a CRT,
An input device 3c such as a keyboard and a control device 3a such as a CPU are provided. When a data transmission request such as a sales amount request or a driving state request is input from the input device 3c, the control device 3a
Transmits it to the DTC 7 of the landry store 2 via the I / F 3d and the line control / data transmission / reception device 4, and the line control /
The data received by the data transmission / reception device 4 is read via the I / F 3d and displayed on the display device 3c.

FIG. 2 is a data format diagram used for data communication between the DTC and each dryer, which is based on the HBS standard. As shown in FIG. 2, the data format is a priority code (PR) area indicating communication priority, an area indicating a self address (SA), an area indicating a partner address (DA), an area indicating a control code (CC), and next. A data length (BC) area indicating the length of the following data is provided in each of 11 bits in this order, and an area indicating the data (DATA) is provided as an integral multiple of 11 bits. Further, a frame check code (FCC) and a dummy are provided. Each area of the period (DUMY) is provided with 11 bits, and finally, an area showing a positive response (ACK) / negative response (NAK) is provided with 11 bits.

Table 1 shows the relationship between the dryer and DTC and the self and partner addresses, and Tables 2 to 9 show the HBS commands between the dryer and DTC. When 32 dryers are installed, as shown in Table 1, the addresses of the dryer and the DTC are determined according to each combination of the upper addresses 0 to 9, A to F, and the lower addresses 2, A, 6 and E. . In addition, the communication between the dryer and DTC is shown in Table 2
A command is given from the DTC to the dryer by the code (data) as shown in Table 9, and in the same manner from the dryer to the DTC.
The response to the command is given.

[0031]

[Table 1]

[0032]

[Table 2]

[0033]

[Table 3]

[0034]

[Table 4]

[0035]

[Table 5]

[0036]

[Table 6]

[0037]

[Table 7]

[0038]

[Table 8]

[0039]

[Table 9]

FIG. 3 is a front view of the dryer 8 shown in FIG. 1. In the figure, 81 and 82 are upper and lower drying chambers. Drying room 81,
Each of the 82 is equipped with an outer tank and a rotary drum (both not shown) axially supported in the outer tank, and the door is opened and closed to store the material to be dried in the rotary drum. The operation section 83 for operating the upper and lower drying chambers 81, 82 includes a coin insertion slot 87 for operating the drying chambers 81, 82, a card insertion slot 88, and a display for displaying the amount or remaining frequency of the inserted coins. 89, coin box 85 for storing inserted coins, start buttons 84, 84 for drying chambers 81, 82, remaining time indicator 86, 86, operation lamp 9
Indicators 91, 91, 91, etc. for displaying the operating statuses, temperatures, abnormalities, etc. of the 0, 90, and the drying chambers 81, 82 are provided.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the control system of the dryer 8 shown in FIG. 3, and 8a in the figure is a microcomputer. The coin input signal from the coin switch circuit 80b is sent to the input port of the microcomputer 8a by a magnetic sensor.
There is a coin jam signal from 82b, and microswitch 81
The coin box abnormal signal is given from b. Also, a misfire signal from the frame rod 83b, temperature signals from the thermistor 85b provided at the air inlet to the rotary drum, a thermistor 86b provided at the air outlet from the rotary drum, and a valve opening / closing signal from the gas valve sensor 84b. A rotation speed signal is supplied from the motor rotation speed sensor 87b and the fan motor rotation speed sensor 88b, and a motor temperature signal is supplied from the drum motor thermistor 89b and the fan motor thermistor 90b.

Further, the input port of the microcomputer 8a is supplied with a setting signal for finely adjusting the number of rotations of the drum and a usage charge setting signal from the DIP switch 96. Further, a reset signal for canceling the suspension of the drying operation is given from the reset switch 93, a power source is given from the power source circuit 98, and a clock is given from the clock oscillation circuit 97.

FIG. 5 is a front view showing the DIP switch 96 shown in FIG. In the dryer, a plurality of switch groups 94, 94, 94 for setting the fine adjustment amount of the drum rotation speed, the usage fee, etc.
Are provided, and a required value can be set by turning on / off a plurality of dip switches 96, 96, ... Provided in each switch group 94, 94 ,.
Then, this set value is given to the input port of the microcomputer 8a, and the set value storage memory 82a provided in the microcomputer 8a stores it.

Then, the microcomputer 8a gives a command signal from the output port to the load drive circuit 99 based on each signal given to the input port and the stored set value, and the load drive circuit 99 makes the drum motor, the fan motor and the gas valve. Etc. to output an electric signal. Also, a microcomputer
8a displays on the display devices 86, 89, 91 (see FIG. 3), based on each signal given to the input port, the amount of money to be inserted or the card remaining frequency, the remaining operation time, the operation status, the temperature, the presence or absence of abnormality, etc. In addition to requesting these data, DTC
7 (see FIG. 1).

Further, the microcomputer 8a is provided with a trouble detection flag 81a which sets a flag according to the type when an abnormality is detected, and it is judged as abnormal based on each signal given to the input port. In this case, a flag is set in a predetermined bit of the trouble detection flag 81a to display an abnormality on the display 91, and a command is issued to stop the operation according to a predetermined procedure according to the type of the abnormality and the operating state of the dryer. Is output. The operation of the dryer is stopped until the reset signal is fetched from the reset switch 93, or a release command signal is given from the central unit 3 on the management company side to clear the flag as described later. In addition, the data related to these abnormalities will be sent to DTC7 as before.
It is designed to be sent to.

Tables 10 and 11 show an example of the abnormality, the criteria for judging the abnormality, and the operation stop procedure.

[0047]

[Table 10]

[0048]

[Table 11]

For example, when a coin is inserted and the start button 84 is pressed, the microcomputer 8a gives a command signal to the load drive circuit 99 to start the drying operation to rotate and drive the drum motor and the fan motor. After opening the gas valve to let the gas flow, the ignition operation is performed. At this time, if the ignition signal is not given to the input port from the frame rod 83b in spite of performing the ignition operation, the ignition operation is performed again. And 5 ignition operations in succession
If the ignition signal is not input despite having performed the operation, the microcomputer 8a determines that the ignition failure has occurred, sets the flag at the position E1 of the trouble detection flag 81a, and immediately closes the gas valve to cause both motors to operate. The operation of the dryer is stopped by performing the basic process of stopping the driving of the dryer.

When the microcomputer 8a is in the dry operation mode, if the temperature signal input from the thermistor 86b provided at the air outlet from the rotary drum is abnormal due to clogging of the lint filter or the like, the microcomputer 8a After determining that the drum overheat has occurred and setting the flag at the E4 position of the trouble detection flag 81a, and closing the gas valve to extinguish the fire, the outside air is supplied by driving both motors for the remaining time, Cool the drum and shut it down.

As described above, the DTC 7 periodically transmits a data transmission request to the microcomputers 8a, 8a, ...
Various data transmitted from the microcomputers 8a, 8a, ... Are stored in corresponding addresses in the memory 7d, and the stored data are transmitted according to a request from the central device 3 of the management company 1. Further, when the stored data includes trouble information such as an abnormality of the dryers 8, 8, ... Or theft of charges, the DTC 7 calls the central device 3 of the management company 1 and the line is connected. Wait and send the trouble information.

FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 are sequence diagrams for performing data communication between the DTC and the central unit using a public line, and FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 are DTC
It is a frame structure figure of the data returned from. Equipment setting request (j) to monitor the value set by the DIP switch of each dryer, sales amount request (q) to monitor the sales amount of each dryer, and operation remaining to monitor the remaining operating time of each dryer Time request (x), trouble monitor request (r) to monitor the occurrence of trouble such as abnormality of each dryer and theft of charges, or trouble detail request (t) to monitor details of the trouble that occurred and data end code ( ~) Is transmitted from the central unit to the DTC, the data related to the dryer having the highest priority is returned from the DTC in a predetermined frame structure. Then, according to the next data request (a) and the data end code (~) transmitted from the central device to the DTC,
Data relating to each dryer is returned from the DTC in accordance with the priority order, and when the data end code (-) is returned from the DTC in response to the next data request (a), the data communication ends.

By the way, in Tables 10 and 11, if the above-mentioned poor ignition and repeated misfires and ignitions during the dry operation, or if misfires cannot be re-ignited, a midway misfire, which is judged to be abnormal, For both abnormalities, five consecutive operations have been set as criteria for determining the occurrence of abnormalities in order to prevent accidents, but the ignition operation is unstable, and it is often not based on the abnormality of the equipment involved in ignition. . Also, if the drum motor rotation speed is out of the proper range, it is judged to be abnormal.Drum motor rotation abnormality is also judged to be abnormal due to a decrease in the weight of the material to be dried due to drying and uneven rotation of the motor. In some cases, it is not based on the abnormality of the device.

In the remote management system according to the present invention, as will be described later, when a trouble is detected in the dryer and the flag is set, the central unit of the management company transmits a flag clear request to dry the dryer. The machine can be reset. Further, the type of the detected trouble is discriminated, and whether the flag is cleared or not is discriminated according to the discriminated type. Further, when the flag is set, the operation of the dryer is automatically stopped, and when the flag is cleared, the operation is automatically restarted. This allows you to perform a dryer reset operation without dispatching staff.
Accidents related to resetting and restarting operations can be avoided, the store can be unmanned, and management costs can be reduced.

On the other hand, according to the DTCs placed in each store,
As will be described later, the data is collected and stored from the dryer on a regular basis, and the data is collected from the dryer and transmitted to the central device in response to a request from the central device of the management company. When there is a request from the central unit, the data from the dryer is transmitted to the central unit in preference to the periodic data collection. As a result, a microcomputer with a small storage capacity can be used for the dryer, the device cost can be reduced, and the condition of the dryer can be managed in real time.

17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 are flowcharts showing the operation procedure in the central unit of the remote management system according to the present invention. The central unit judges whether or not there is an incoming call from the DTC to the line control / data transmitting / receiving unit based on the occurrence of a trouble (step S1), and if there is no incoming call, it displays an initial screen on the display unit.

FIG. 35 is an image diagram showing the above-mentioned initial screen. The name of each Landry store where the DTC is installed is shown in the approximate center of the screen, and by selecting the numbers displayed at the bottom of the screen with the mouse,
A landry shop can be selected appropriately.

There is an input for selecting a landry store (step S
2), the central unit makes a call to the line control / data transmission / reception device of the landry store selected by the line control / data transmission / reception device to connect the public line (step S3), and a trouble monitor process described later (step S4). ), Remaining operating time monitoring processing (step S5), sales amount monitoring processing (step S6), and device setting monitoring processing (step S7), and corresponding data is returned from the DTC installed in the landry store. On the other hand, in step S1, the line control / data transmission / reception device on the management company side is set to the DTC
If there is an incoming call due to the occurrence of trouble, the line is connected to the line control / data transmission / reception device of the landry store where the calling DTC is installed (step S8), and the trouble monitor process (step S9) I do.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the procedure of trouble monitoring processing, FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing the procedure of remaining operating time monitoring processing, FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing the procedure of sales amount monitoring processing, and FIG. Is a flow chart showing the procedure of device setting monitor processing. Note that the trouble monitor processing in steps S4 and S9 described above is performed in a similar procedure, and therefore will be described collectively.

In the trouble monitor processing, as shown in FIG. 21, the trouble monitor request code is transmitted from the central unit to the DTC (steps S41 and S91) and waits for a response from the DTC (steps S42 and S92). . When there is a response from the DTC, it is judged whether or not the response is an end code (steps S43 and S93), and if it is not the end code, the response data is stored together with the device number (step S44,
Then, the next data request code is transmitted (S94) (step S4).
5, S95). The transmission of the next data request code and the storage of the response data are repeated, and when the response is the end code (steps S43 and S93), the trouble monitor process is ended and the process returns.

22 and 2 in the remaining operation time monitor process, the sales amount monitor process, and the device setting monitor process.
As in 3, 24, the central unit transmits the remaining operation time monitor request code, the sales amount monitor request code, and the device setting monitor request code to the DTC (steps S51, S61,
S71), similarly to the above-mentioned trouble monitor processing, the response data is stored together with the device number until it returns with an end code (steps S52, S53, S54, S55, S6).
2, S63, S64, S65, S72, S73, S74, S75).

Trouble monitor processing (steps S4, S
9) When the remaining operation time monitor process (step S5), the sales amount monitor process (step S6), and the device setting monitor process (step S7) are completed, does the central device include trouble data in the stored data? Is determined (step S10). If the trouble data is not included, the central unit causes the display unit to display a menu selection screen described later (step S11), disconnects the line with the DTC (step S12), and returns to step S1.
On the other hand, if the trouble data is included, the central unit causes the display unit to display an operation monitor screen described later (step S13), and then disconnects the line with the DTC (step S1).
4) Then, return to step S1. By disconnecting the line after the menu selection screen or the operation monitor screen is displayed, the frequency of use of the line is reduced as much as possible.

36 and 37 are image diagrams showing a menu selection screen and an operation monitor screen, respectively. As shown in FIG. 36, in the menu selection screen, the sales amount monitor, the operation monitor, and the device setting confirmation menus are displayed on the screen. When the menu is selected appropriately, based on the stored data To display the sales amount monitor screen, operation monitor screen, and device setting monitor screen.

Further, as shown in FIG. 37, on the operation monitor screen, based on the trouble monitor and the remaining operation time monitor, the operation status indicating the operation / stop, the remaining operation time, and the presence or absence of troubles Display for each dryer installed in the store, and for the dryer in which the trouble occurred,
The name (type) of the trouble is displayed based on the flag set in the trouble detection flag of the dryer. Then, by selecting the number of the dryer in which the trouble has occurred and selecting the release of the trouble at the bottom of the screen, it is possible to clear the flag set in the dryer in the central device as described later. .

Then, after the menu selection screen or the operation monitor screen is displayed, each operation shown in FIG. 18 is performed. In the menu selection screen, it is judged whether or not there is a key input to the remaining operating time monitor by the input device (step S15), and if there is a key input, the remaining operating time monitor screen that is also used as the operating monitor screen is displayed (step S16). And step S1
Return to. If there is no key input in step S15, it is determined whether or not there is a key input of the sales amount monitor by the input device on the menu selection screen (step S17), and if there is a key input, the sales amount monitor screen is displayed (step S18). ), And returns to step S1.

38 and 39 show display screens of the sales amount monitor. When the sales amount monitor is selected on the menu selection screen, as shown in FIG. 38, the total sales amount is displayed for each dryer provided in the Landry store. Then, when "View dryer number and details" is selected on the screen, details such as the sales amount of coins and the sales amount of cards for each of the upper and lower dryers are displayed as shown in FIG.

When there is no key input in step S18, it is determined whether or not there is a key input on the device setting monitor by the input device on the menu selection screen (step S1).
9) If there is a key input, the screen of the device setting monitor is displayed (step S20), and the process returns to step S1.

FIG. 40 shows a display screen of a device setting monitor. Specifications such as specifications, operating time, type of coins received, etc. set in advance in the dryer, and basic charges, set values set by DIP switches such as fine adjustment of drum rotation speed Is displayed in.

If the operation monitor screen is displayed in steps S13 and S16 described above, step S
Going to step 21, it is judged whether or not there is a selection for releasing the trouble on the screen of the operation monitor (step S21). When the trouble release is selected, the trouble type associated with the release selection is the trouble type stored in advance in the release trouble type storage unit of the central device (for example, E1 and E2 or E7 shown in Table 10 and Table 11). ) Is performed to determine whether the release is possible (step S22). If both are the same type, the line is connected to immediately send the release request to the DTC (step S25). If it is determined in step S22 that the types are not the same, that is, it is determined that the key cannot be released, a screen is displayed to prompt the attendant to input the release confirmation key, and the process waits until key input is made (step S23). Then, if there is a key input, it is judged whether or not it is a release confirmation key (step S24).

When the line is connected in step S25, the central unit sets the value of its own equipment counter to 1 (step S26), and the value of the equipment counter is the same as the dryer number for which trouble release is selected. If it is the same, the counter value is added to the trouble cancellation request and transmitted to the DTC (step S28). After the cancellation completion response is received, the device counter value is incremented by one. Increase (step S29). If they are not the same, the process skips to step S29 and increments the value of the device counter by one. Then, the value of the equipment counter is compared with the total number of dryers in the Landry store (step S30), and the operations from step S27 to step S29 are repeated until they match, and when they match, the line is disconnected (step S31). And returns to step S1.

FIG. 41 is an image diagram showing the display screen of the central apparatus after the trouble is cleared. As shown in FIG. 41, the central unit displays the number of the dryer that has transmitted the trouble cancellation request and the cancellation result after receiving the response.

FIG. 42 is a sequence diagram for performing data communication between the central unit and the DTC using the public line, and FIG. 43 is a frame structure diagram of the above-mentioned trouble release request. As shown in FIG. 43, the first byte has a trouble cancellation request code (c), and the lower 4 bits of the second byte and the third byte.
The 10th and 1st positions of the dryer number for releasing the trouble are written in the bits, respectively, and are transmitted from the central unit to the DTC as shown in FIG. 42 together with the data end code of the 4th byte.

Upon completion of these operations, as shown in FIG.
The central unit judges whether the end key is selected (step S120), and if the end key is not selected, step S1
Return to. On the other hand, when the end key is selected in step S120, if the display device is the menu selection screen (step S122), the initial screen is displayed (step S12).
Five). If it is not the menu selection screen in step S122, it is determined whether the display device is the initial screen (step S122).
123), if it is not the initial screen, the menu selection screen is displayed and the process returns to step S122. In step S125, the initial screen is displayed.

25, 26 and 27 are flow charts showing the operation procedure in the DTC of the remote management system according to the present invention. The DTC control unit clears the timer and then starts it so that the data stored in the microcomputer is periodically transmitted from each dryer connected by the twisted pair line (step S200). Then, while confirming whether or not there is a call from the central device provided in the management company (step S201), the process waits until a preset time elapses (step S202). When the set time has elapsed, the value of the device counter is not set to 1 (step S203),
From the dryer with the same number as the equipment counter value, each data of charge input, operation presence / absence, operation status, trouble, etc. is transmitted and stored in the memory (step S204), and one equipment counter value is set. Increase (step S205). Then, these operations are repeated until the value of the device counter reaches the total number of dryers (step S206).

When the storage of the data from all the dryers is completed, it is confirmed whether or not the data related to the trouble is included in the stored data (step S207). If not, the process returns to step S200 and the timer is cleared.・ Start. On the other hand, if the data related to the trouble is included, the line connection operation is performed to transmit the data to the central device of the management company (step S208), and the process waits until the trouble monitor request is transmitted from the central device (step S208). S209
). When the trouble monitor request is received, the DTC
The control unit does not set the value of the device counter to 1 (step S210).
), Data concerning the dryer having the number corresponding to the value of the device counter is transmitted to the central device (step S211), and the process waits until the next data request is received from the central device (step S212).

When the next data request is received, the value of the equipment counter is incremented by 1 (step S213), the value of the equipment counter is compared with the number of dryers (step S214), and the value of the equipment counter becomes the number of dryers. Data transmission is repeated until it becomes. When the value of the equipment counter and the number of dryers become the same,
The DTC control unit transmits a data end code (step S
215) When the central device confirms that the line has been disconnected (step S216), the flow returns to step S200 to clear and start the timer.

On the other hand, when an incoming call from the central unit is confirmed in step S201, presence / absence of a trouble monitor request from the central unit (step S220), presence / absence of remaining operation time monitor request (step S230), presence / absence of sales amount monitor request. (Step S240), Presence / absence of device setting monitor request (Step S250), Presence / absence of trouble release request (Step S250)
260) in order, and if there is a request, respond to each request as follows.

FIG. 28 shows the DTC for the trouble monitor request.
3 is a flowchart showing the operation procedure of FIG. The DTC control unit does not set the value of the device counter to 1 (step S221), and collects data related to the dryer of the number corresponding to the value of the device counter (step S222). Then, the collected data is transmitted to the central device (step S223) and waits until the next data request is received from the central device (step S223).
224). When the next data request is received, the value of the equipment counter is incremented by 1 (step S225), the value of the equipment counter is compared with the number of dryers (step S226), and the value of the equipment counter becomes the number of dryers. Repeat data transmission until. When the value of the equipment counter and the number of dryers become the same, D
The TC control unit transmits a data end code (step S22
7) and returns to step S220.

29, 30 and 31 are flowcharts showing the operation procedure of the DTC in response to the remaining operation time monitor request, the sales amount monitor request, and the device setting monitor request, respectively. Since the operation procedure for these requests is the same as the operation procedure for the trouble monitor request shown in FIG. 26, its explanation is omitted.

FIG. 32 is a flow chart showing the operation procedure of the DTC in response to the trouble release request. When a trouble cancellation request is sent from the central unit, the DTC sends a trouble cancellation command (see Table 2) to the dryer having the number indicated in the trouble cancellation request code (step S26).
1) Then, when there is a response from the dryer, a data end code is transmitted (step S262) and step S22.
Return to 0.

Upon completion of these operations, the connection state of the line is judged (step S291). If the line is disconnected by the central unit, the process returns to step S200, and if not, the process returns to step S220.

33 and 34 are flowcharts showing the operation procedure in the dryer of the remote management system according to the present invention. The microcomputer of the dryer reads the value set by the DIP switch and stores it (step S300). Then, it is judged whether or not there is a data transmission request from the DTC (step S301), and if there is no request, control of the dryer operation and processing of data fetched from each sensor are performed (step S302), and the process returns to step S301.

On the other hand, when the data transmission request from the DTC is received, it is judged whether or not its own address is included in the command related to the request (step S303). If the address of the user is included, whether the command is a trouble monitor request (step S304), remaining operating time request (step S306), sales amount request (step S308), or device setting request (step S304). S310) is determined, and in response to the trouble monitor request, the presence or absence of trouble such as device abnormality and theft, transmission of each data of running / stopping (step S305), and the request at the time of remaining operation time request. Transmission of remaining operating time data (step S307)
For the sales amount request, the sales amount data at that time is transmitted (step S309), and for the device setting request, each setting data is transmitted (step S311), and the process proceeds to step S302.

Further, it is judged whether the command including its own address is a trouble release request (step S312).
), If so, the flag set in the trouble detection flag in the microcomputer is cleared (step S313) and the operation of the dryer is restarted (step S314).
). After the operation is restarted, the process proceeds to step S302 to control the dryer operation and process the data taken from each sensor. If the trouble release request is not made in step S312, the process proceeds to step S302 through step S302.
Return to 301.

[0085]

As described above in detail, in the remote management system according to the first invention and the seventh invention, the trouble information stored in the controller of the equipment (landry equipment) provided in the store is managed by the management company. Since it can be erased by the erasing request from the central device provided in the equipment, it is possible to perform the reset operation of the equipment (landscape equipment) without dispatching a staff member, which reduces the management cost and the system cost. .

In the remote management system according to the second and seventh aspects of the invention, the control device of the equipment (landry equipment) stores the troubles that have occurred, and the central device based on the trouble information received. Since it is determined whether or not the trouble information can be erased for each type, a reset operation leading to an accident is avoided.

In the remote management system according to the third and seventh aspects of the invention, the controller for the equipment (landry equipment) stops the operation of the equipment (landry) when the trouble information is stored in the trouble information storage means. However, since the operation is restarted when the trouble information is erased, the operation of the device (landry device) can be restarted without arranging a staff member, which makes the store unmanned and further reduces the management cost.

In the remote management system according to the fourth aspect and the seventh aspect of the invention, the data controller connected to the equipment (landry equipment) periodically collects the data stored in the control device of the equipment. Therefore, it is possible to use a control device having a small storage capacity, which reduces device cost and system cost.

In the remote management system according to the fifth and seventh aspects of the invention, the data controller transmits the data stored in the control device of the equipment to the central device in response to the call from the central device. It is possible to manage the status of equipment in real time.

In the remote management system according to the sixth invention and the seventh invention, the data controller periodically collects the data stored in the control device of the equipment, and
In response to a call from the central unit, the data stored in the device control unit is sent to the central unit with priority over the regular data collection, so it is possible to use a control unit with a small storage capacity and reduce the device cost. The present invention has excellent effects such as reduction of the number of devices and real-time management of the device status.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a data format diagram used for data communication between the DTC and each dryer.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the dryer shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control system of the dryer shown in FIG.

5 is a front view showing the DIP switch shown in FIG. 4. FIG.

FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram for performing data communication between the DTC and the central unit by using a public line.

FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram of performing data communication between the DTC and the central device by using a public line.

FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of performing data communication between the DTC and the central device by using a public line.

FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of performing data communication between the DTC and the central unit by using a public line.

FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of performing data communication between the DTC and the central device by using a public line.

FIG. 11 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 12 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 13 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 14 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 15 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 16 is a frame structure diagram of data returned from the DTC.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the central device of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the DTC of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the DTC of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the DTC of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of DTC in response to a trouble monitor request.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the DTC in response to a remaining driving time monitor request.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of DTC in response to a sales amount monitor request.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of DTC in response to a device setting monitor request.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of DTC in response to a trouble cancellation request.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the dryer of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure in the dryer of the remote management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 35 is an image diagram showing an initial screen.

FIG. 36 is an image diagram showing a menu selection screen.

FIG. 37 is an image diagram showing a driving monitor screen.

FIG. 38 is an image diagram showing a sales amount monitor screen.

FIG. 39 is an image diagram showing a sales amount monitor screen.

FIG. 40 is an image diagram showing a setting monitor screen.

FIG. 41 is a sequence diagram of performing data communication between the central device and the DTC using a public line.

FIG. 42 is a frame structure diagram of a trouble cancellation request.

FIG. 43 is an image diagram showing a display screen of the central apparatus after the trouble is cleared.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Management Company 2 Landry Store 3 Central Unit 3a Control Unit 3d Interface 4 Line Control / Data Transmitter / Receiver 5 Public Line 6 Line Control / Data Transmitter / Receiver 7 Data Controller 7a DTC Control 7b HBS Control 7g Interface 8 Dryer 8a Micro Computer 8b Sensor 8c HBS interface 9 Twisted pair wire 81a Trouble detection flag part

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification code Internal reference number FI technical display location D06F 95/00 H04M 11/00 301

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A device, the operation of which is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a central device at a remote location for transmitting data from the control device, are connected via a communication means. In the system that remotely manages the device based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device detects a trouble based on a signal from each of the sensors, and the detection device detects the trouble. And a trouble information transmitting unit for transmitting the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing unit, wherein the central device has the trouble information based on the received trouble information. The control device is further provided with an erasure request means for transmitting a request for erasing the trouble information stored in the storage means, A remote management system comprising: trouble information erasing means for erasing trouble information stored in trouble information storing means based on a request. 2. A device, the operation of which is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a central device in a remote place, which transmits data from the control device, are connected via a communication means. In the system for remotely managing the device based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device is configured to detect a trouble occurrence based on a signal from each of the sensors, and a sensor for trouble detection. Discriminating means for discriminating the type of trouble that has occurred, the trouble information storing means for storing trouble information for each type of trouble discriminated by the discriminating means, and the trouble information storage A trouble information transmitting means for transmitting trouble information stored in the means, wherein the central device is configured to transmit the trouble information based on the received trouble information. The control device further comprises: a determination unit that determines whether or not the trouble information stored in the information storage unit can be erased; and an erase request unit that transmits a request to erase the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage unit. A remote management system comprising: trouble information erasing means for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means based on the received erasing request. 3. A device, the operation of which is controlled by a control device based on signals from a plurality of sensors, and a central device at a remote location, which transmits data from the control device, are connected via a communication means. In the system that remotely manages the device based on the data transmitted to the central device, the control device detects a trouble based on a signal from each of the sensors, and the detection device detects the trouble. A trouble information storage means for storing a trouble as trouble information; an operation stopping means for stopping the operation of the device when the trouble information storage means stores trouble information; and a trouble information stored in the trouble information storage means. And a trouble information transmitting means for transmitting the trouble information, wherein the central device stores the trouble information in the trouble information storage means based on the received trouble information. And a trouble information erasing means for erasing the trouble information stored in the trouble information storing means based on the received erasing request, and the trouble information. And a restarting means for restarting the operation of the device based on the deletion of the remote management system. 4. A control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of a device and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device are connected to each other. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted to a central device via a communication unit, the data controller outputs a transmission request to the control device to transmit the stored data. A regular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means at a preset cycle; a storage means for storing data transmitted from the control device; and a device for storing the data stored in the storage means in the device. Trouble confirmation means for confirming the existence of data related to the trouble, and the trouble is confirmed by the trouble confirmation means. Remote management system, characterized in that it comprises a calling means for calling the central unit when it, and transmitting means for transmitting data to the central unit. 5. A control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of a device and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device are connected to each other. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted to a central device via a communication unit, the data controller outputs a transmission request to the control device to transmit the stored data. An irregular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means in response to a call from the central device,
Storage means for storing data transmitted from the control device,
A remote management system comprising: a transmission unit that transmits data to the central device. 6. A control device for reading data from a plurality of sensors to control the operation of a device and storing the data, and a data controller for transmitting the data from the control device are connected to each other. In a system for remotely managing the device based on data transmitted to a central device via a communication unit, the data controller outputs a transmission request to the control device to transmit the stored data. A regular output means for outputting a transmission request to the transmission request output means at a preset cycle; and a transmission to the transmission request output means prior to the regular output means in response to a call from the central device. Irregular output means for outputting a request, storage means for storing data transmitted from the control device, and storage for the storage means The trouble confirmation means for confirming the presence or absence of data relating to the trouble of the equipment in the data, the calling means for calling the central device when the trouble is confirmed by the trouble confirmation means, and the data for the central device A remote management system comprising: 7. The remote management system according to claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the device is a landry device.