EP4790327A1

EP4790327A1 - Server device, method of controlling server device, program, and air conditioning system

Info

Publication number: EP4790327A1
Application number: EP26156562.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Taiki Miyake; Yuji Kojima
Original assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Current assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co Ltd
Priority date: 2025-02-07
Filing date: 2026-02-05
Publication date: 2026-08-12
Also published as: CN122523723A

Abstract

The server device includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device. In addition, the server device includes an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a server device, a method for controlling a server device, a program, and an air conditioning system.

2. Description of the Related Art

PTL 1 discloses a technique for sharing a control board among a plurality of air conditioning devices of different models.

Citation List

Patent Literature

PTL 1: WO 2024/161631 A

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a server device, a method of controlling a server device, a program, and an air conditioning system that can appropriately increase an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device after the air conditioning device is installed.
A server device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device. In addition, the server device includes an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
A method for controlling a server device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a reception step of receiving, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the method for controlling the server device includes a determination step of determining whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case of receiving the request from the information processing device in the reception step. In addition, the method for controlling the server device includes an instruction step of instructing the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination step determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
A program according to an aspect of the present disclosure causes a processor included in a server device to function as a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the program causes a processor of the server device to function as a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device. In addition, the program causes the processor of the server device to function as an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
An air conditioning system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a server device, and an air conditioning device configured to be communicable with the server device. The server device includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device. In addition, the server device includes an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
The server device, the method for controlling the server device, the program, and the air conditioning system of the present disclosure can appropriately increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device after the air conditioning device is installed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an air conditioning system according to a first exemplary embodiment;
Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating configurations of a first server device, a second server device, a personal computer, and a smartphone in the first exemplary embodiment;
Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first air conditioning capacity and a second air conditioning capacity in the first exemplary embodiment;
Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing of the air conditioning system in the first exemplary embodiment; and
Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the first server device and the second server device in the first exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS

(Knowledge and the like underlying the present disclosure)

At the time when the present inventors have conceived the present disclosure, PTL 1 and the like disclose a technique for sharing a control board among a plurality of air conditioning devices of different models.
On the other hand, the inventors have found a problem that it is difficult to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device after installing the air conditioning device. In addition, the inventors have found that in a case where the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device is increased from a first air conditioning capacity to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity, first software executing an operation at the first air conditioning capacity is rewritten to second software executing an operation at the second air conditioning capacity. That is, the inventors have found that the first air conditioning capacity is increased to the second air conditioning capacity by executing the second software instead of the first software.
Therefore, the present disclosure provides a server device, a method of controlling a server device, a program, and an air conditioning system that can appropriately increase the air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device after the air conditioning device is installed.
Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It is noted that a more detailed description than need may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of already well-known matters or redundant descriptions of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid an unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding of those skilled in the art.
Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are only presented to help those skilled in the art fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matters described in the scope of claims.
Air conditioning system 100 according to the first exemplary embodiment will be described below with reference to Figs. 1 to 5.

(First exemplary embodiment)

[1-1. Configuration]

[1-1-1. Configuration of air conditioning system]

First, an overall configuration of air conditioning system 100 according to a first exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of air conditioning system 100 according to the first exemplary embodiment.
As illustrated in Fig. 1, air conditioning system 100 includes first server device 1, second server device 2, personal computer 3, smartphone 4, and air conditioning device 5.
Personal computer 3 is a personal computer possessed by business operator B that purchases air conditioning device 5 from manufacturer M. Personal computer 3 is communicably connected to first server device 1 via network NW. Network NW is, for example, the Internet.
Personal computer 3 corresponds to an example of an "information processing device".
Business operator B includes, for example, a housing company, a construction company, and a mass retailer of home appliances such as air conditioning device 5. For example, the housing company concludes a lease contract for a residence such as a rental condominium or a rental apartment with user U who is a resident. The construction company, for example, constructs, sells, and provides after-sales service of a house.
In the first exemplary embodiment, business operator B is, for example, a construction company.
Personal computer 3 transmits request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to first server device 1. First air conditioning capacity AB1 is an air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is sold. First air conditioning capacity AB1 may be an air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is installed. Second air conditioning capacity AB2 is greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1. Air conditioning device 5 is operable at first air conditioning capacity AB1 or second air conditioning capacity AB2.
First server device 1 is a server device possessed by manufacturer M that manufactures air conditioning device 5. First server device 1 is communicably connected to second server device 2 and personal computer 3 via network NW.
Manufacturer M corresponds to an example of a "manufacturer".
First server device 1 receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In a case where a "predetermined condition" is satisfied, first server device 1 transmits, to second server device 2, first command CM1 instructing an increase from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. The "predetermined condition" indicates that request RQ is received from personal computer 3, and business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Second server device 2 is communicably connected to each of first server device 1, smartphone 4, and air conditioning device 5 via network NW. Second server device 2 is, for example, a server device possessed by manufacturer M that manufactures air conditioning device 5.
In a case of receiving first command CM1 from first server device 1, second server device 2 transmits a request for authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to smartphone 4.
Smartphone 4 is communicably connected to second server device 2 and air conditioning device 5 via base station BS and network NW. Smartphone 4 is, for example, a smartphone possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5.
Smartphone 4 corresponds to an example of a "terminal device".
In a case of receiving the request for authorization CF from second server device 2, smartphone 4 transmits response AN to the request for authorization CF in response to the operation from user U. There are cases where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, and response AN indicates a rejection of authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Second server device 2 receives response AN from smartphone 4. In a case where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 executes the following processing.
That is, second server device 2 transmits, to air conditioning device 5, second command CM2 instructing execution of processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. In a case where air conditioning device 5 executes the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 transmits second air conditioning device program PG2 executed by control unit 51 of air conditioning device 5 to air conditioning device 5.
As illustrated in Fig. 1, air conditioning device 5 includes control unit 51.
Control unit 51 includes air conditioning device processor 52 and air conditioning device memory 53.
Air conditioning device processor 52 is a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU).
Air conditioning device memory 53 is a memory that stores programs and data. Air conditioning device memory 53 stores first air conditioning device program 531.
Air conditioning device memory 53 has a nonvolatile storage area. Air conditioning device memory 53 may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of air conditioning device processor 52. Air conditioning device memory 53 includes, for example, a read only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM).
Air conditioning device processor 52 functions as first air conditioning device controller 521, rewriting execution unit 522, and air conditioning device communication controller 524 by reading and executing first air conditioning device program 531.
First air conditioning device controller 521 controls the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 of first air conditioning capacity AB1. In other words, first air conditioning device controller 521 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of first air conditioning capacity AB1 by controlling each unit of air conditioning device 5.
In a case of receiving second command CM2 and second air conditioning device program PG2 from second server device 2, rewriting execution unit 522 rewrites first air conditioning device program 531 to second air conditioning device program 532. In the following description, first air conditioning device program 531 may be referred to as first air conditioning device program PG1 for convenience. Rewriting execution unit 522 executes second air conditioning device program 532 instead of first air conditioning device program 531.
Rewriting execution unit 522 first writes second air conditioning device program PG2 in air conditioning device memory 53. Second air conditioning device program PG2 written in air conditioning device memory 53 may be described as, for example, second air conditioning device program 532. Next, air conditioning device processor 52 functions as second air conditioning device controller 523 and air conditioning device communication controller 524 by reading and executing second air conditioning device program 532 after stopping the execution of first air conditioning device program 531.
Second air conditioning device controller 523 controls the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 of second air conditioning capacity AB2. In other words, second air conditioning device controller 523 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2 by controlling the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5.
Air conditioning device communication controller 524 communicates with second server device 2 and smartphone 4 via network NW. Air conditioning device communication controller 524 communicates with second server device 2 and smartphone 4 in accordance with an instruction from first air conditioning device controller 521.

[1-1-2. Configuration of server device and the like]

Next, configurations of first server device 1, second server device 2, personal computer 3, and smartphone 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating configurations of first server device 1, second server device 2, personal computer 3, and smartphone 4 according to the first exemplary embodiment.
First, a configuration of first server device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. First server device 1 includes first processor 11 and first memory 12.
First processor 11 is a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. First memory 12 is a memory that stores programs and data. First memory 12 stores first program 121.
First memory 12 has a nonvolatile storage area. First memory 12 may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of first processor 11. First memory 12 includes, for example, a ROM or a RAM.
First processor 11 functions as reception unit 111, determination unit 112, request unit 113, instruction unit 114, remaining number change unit 115, and first communication controller 116 by reading and executing first program 121. First processor 11 reads and executes first program 121 to cause first memory 12 to function as remaining number storage 122.
First server device 1 corresponds to an example of a "server device".
First processor 11 corresponds to an example of a "processor".
First program 121 corresponds to an example of a "program".
Remaining number storage 122 stores business operator identification information BD for identifying each of the plurality of business operators B and remaining number NR of right RT for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in association with each other.
Business operator identification information BD and remaining number NR are stored in remaining number storage 122 by remaining number change unit 115. Remaining number NR is changed by remaining number change unit 115.
Remaining number NR of right RT indicates the number of air conditioning devices 5 that business operator B can increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Reception unit 111 receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Request RQ includes device identification information AD for identifying air conditioning device 5 and business operator identification information BD for identifying business operator B. Business operator B is, for example, a business operator that has purchased air conditioning device 5 from manufacturer M.
First air conditioning capacity AB1 is, for example, an air conditioning capacity for a "6-tatami-mat room".
Second air conditioning capacity AB2 is, for example, an air conditioning capacity for a "14-tatami-mat room".
In a case where reception unit 111 receives request RQ from personal computer 3, determination unit 112 refers to remaining number storage 122 to determine whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
For example, determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where remaining number NR of right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 stored in remaining number storage 122 in association with business operator identification information BD for identifying business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 is "1" or more.
For example, in a case where business operator identification information BD for identifying business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 is not stored in remaining number storage 122, determination unit 112 determines that business operator B does not have right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. For example, determination unit 112 determines that business operator B does not have right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where remaining number NR of right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 stored in remaining number storage 122 in association with business operator identification information BD for identifying business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 is "0".
Request unit 113 executes the following processing in a case where reception unit 111 receives request RQ from personal computer 3 and determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT. That is, request unit 113 requests authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 from smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5.
For example, request unit 113 instructs second server device 2 to request smartphone 4 for authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT, instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. The instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 only in a case where request unit 113 receives response AN indicating authorization CF from smartphone 4.
It should be noted that in the first exemplary embodiment, a part of the processing of request unit 113 and instruction unit 114 is executed by second server device 2 as described below.
For example, in a case where the "predetermined condition" is satisfied, instruction unit 114 transmits, to second server device 2, first command CM1 instructing an increase from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. First command CM1 includes device identification information AD for identifying air conditioning device 5.
The "predetermined condition" indicates that request RQ is received from personal computer 3, and business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In a case where second server device 2 receives first command CM1 from first server device 1, second server device 2 requests smartphone 4 for authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Second server device 2 receives response AN from smartphone 4. In a case where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 executes the following processing.
That is, second server device 2 transmits, to air conditioning device 5, second command CM2 instructing execution of processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. In a case where air conditioning device 5 executes the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 transmits second air conditioning device program PG2 executed by control unit 51 of air conditioning device 5 to air conditioning device 5.
In a case where response AN indicates rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 transfers response AN to first server device 1.
In a case where instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, remaining number change unit 115 decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one". Business operator identification information BD indicates business operator B that has purchased air conditioning device 5 from manufacturer M.
Remaining number change unit 115 increases remaining number NR by predetermined number NP in a case where manufacturer M of air conditioning device 5 grants right RT of predetermined number NP set in advance to business operator B.
Predetermined number NP is, for example, five. Predetermined number NP may be, for example, ten.
In the first exemplary embodiment, remaining number change unit 115 changes remaining number NR as described below.
For example, in a case where instruction unit 114 transmits, to second server device 2, first command CM1 instructing to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, remaining number change unit 115 decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one".
In a case of receiving response AN indicating rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 from second server device 2, remaining number change unit 115 increases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one".
Remaining number change unit 115 increases remaining number NR by predetermined number NP in a case where manufacturer M of air conditioning device 5 grants right RT of predetermined number NP set in advance to business operator B.
First communication controller 116 communicates with second server device 2 and personal computer 3 via network NW.
For example, in a case where first communication controller 116 receives, from second server device 2, response AN indicating rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, first communication controller 116 transfers response AN to personal computer 3.
Next, a configuration of second server device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Second server device 2 includes second processor 21 and second memory 22.
Second processor 21 is a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Second memory 22 is a memory that stores programs and data. Second memory 22 stores second program 221.
Second memory 22 has a nonvolatile storage area. Second memory 22 may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of second processor 21. Second memory 22 includes, for example, a ROM or a RAM.
Second processor 21 functions as instruction handling unit 211 and second communication controller 212 by reading and executing second program 221. In addition, second processor 21 causes second memory 22 to function as contact information storage 222 by reading and executing second program 221.
Contact information storage 222 stores in advance device identification information AD for identifying air conditioning device 5 and user identification information UD for identifying smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5 in association with each other. User identification information UD is, for example, a mail address of smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5.
In a case of receiving first command CM1 from first server device 1, instruction handling unit 211 reads user identification information UD for identifying smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5 from contact information storage 222. Then, instruction handling unit 211 requests authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 from smartphone 4 using user identification information UD.
Instruction handling unit 211 receives response AN from smartphone 4. In a case where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, instruction handling unit 211 executes the following processing.
That is, instruction handling unit 211 transmits second command CM2 for instructing execution of the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to air conditioning device 5. In a case where air conditioning device 5 executes the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2, instruction handling unit 211 transmits second air conditioning device program PG2 executed by control unit 51 of air conditioning device 5 to air conditioning device 5.
In a case where response AN indicates rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, instruction handling unit 211 transfers response AN to first server device 1.
Second communication controller 212 controls communication with first server device 1, smartphone 4, and air conditioning device 5.
Next, a configuration of personal computer 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Personal computer 3 includes third processor 31 and third memory 32.
Third processor 31 is a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Third memory 32 is a memory that stores programs and data. Third memory 32 stores third program 321.
Third memory 32 has a nonvolatile storage area. Third memory 32 may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of third processor 31. Third memory 32 includes, for example, a ROM or a RAM.
Third processor 31 functions as third communication controller 311 by reading and executing third program 321. Third processor 31 also causes third memory 32 to function as business operator storage 322 by reading and executing third program 321.
Business operator storage 322 stores business operator identification information BD, password PW, and device identification information AD in association with each other.
Business operator identification information BD is identification information of business operator B possessing personal computer 3. Password PW is a password that is required to be input from first server device 1 in a case where request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 is transmitted to first server device 1. Device identification information AD is identification information for identifying each of the plurality of air conditioning devices 5 purchased from manufacturer M by business operator B corresponding to business operator identification information BD.
In response to an input from business operator B, third communication controller 311 transmits request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to first server device 1. Request RQ includes device identification information AD corresponding to air conditioning device 5 and business operator identification information BD.
In a case where third communication controller 311 receives, from first server device 1, response AN indicating rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, the following processing is executed. That is, third communication controller 311 displays that request RQ is rejected by user U on a display (not illustrated).
Next, a configuration of smartphone 4 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Smartphone 4 includes touch panel 41, fourth processor 42, and fourth memory 43.
Touch panel 41 includes a display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch sensor. The display displays images of various buttons, icons, and the like that receive a touch operation from user U. The touch sensor is disposed on a display surface of the display and detects a touch operation from user U. In a case of detecting the touch operation, the touch sensor outputs a signal indicating a detection result to fourth processor 42.
Fourth processor 42 is a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Fourth memory 43 is a memory that stores programs and data. Fourth memory 43 stores fourth program 431.
Fourth program 431 is, for example, an application program that is installed on smartphone 4 by user U when user U starts living in a house where air conditioning device 5 is disposed. User U downloads fourth program 431 from, for example, first server device 1 or second server device 2.
Fourth memory 43 has a nonvolatile storage area. Fourth memory 43 may include a volatile storage area and constitute a work area of fourth processor 42. Fourth memory 43 includes, for example, a ROM or a RAM.
Fourth processor 42 functions as request response unit 421 and fourth communication controller 422 by reading and executing fourth program 431.
In a case of receiving a request for authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 from second server device 2, request response unit 421 receives an operation of user U and transmits response AN to second server device 2.
Response AN includes response AN indicating authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 and response AN indicating rejection for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Fourth communication controller 422 controls communication between second server device 2 and air conditioning device 5.

[1-1-3. Example of first air conditioning capacity and second air conditioning capacity]

Next, an example of first air conditioning capacity AB1 and second air conditioning capacity AB2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of first air conditioning capacity AB1 and second air conditioning capacity AB2 according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Fig. 3 is explanatory diagram CS illustrating an example of first air conditioning capacity AB1 and second air conditioning capacity AB2 of air conditioning device 5. The explanatory diagram CS includes first explanatory diagram CS1 and second explanatory diagram CS2.
As illustrated in first explanatory diagram CS1, air conditioning device 5 is, for example, an air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for an 8-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 10-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 12-tatami-mat room, and an air conditioning device for a 14-tatami-mat room. In other words, air conditioning device 5 is formed to be operable as, for example, any of an air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for an 8-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 10-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 12-tatami-mat room, and an air conditioning device for a 14-tatami-mat room.
Air conditioning device processor 52 illustrated in Fig. 1 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 to perform the operation of first air conditioning capacity AB1 by executing, for example, first air conditioning device program PG1. First air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to an "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room". In the "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room", for example, the air conditioning capacity during the cooling operation is "2.2 kW".
Air conditioning device processor 52 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 to perform the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2 by executing, for example, second air conditioning device program PG2. Second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to "an air conditioning device for a 14-tatami-mat room". In the "air conditioning device for a 14-tatami-mat room", for example, the air conditioning capacity during the cooling operation is "4.0 kW".
As illustrated in second explanatory diagram CS2, air conditioning device 5 is, for example, an air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 20-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 23-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 26-tatami-mat room, and an air conditioning device for a 29-tatami-mat room. In other words, air conditioning device 5 is formed to be operable as, for example, any of an air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 20-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 23-tatami-mat room, an air conditioning device for a 26-tatami-mat room, and an air conditioning device for a 29-tatami-mat room.
Air conditioning device processor 52 illustrated in Fig. 1 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 to perform the operation of first air conditioning capacity AB1 by executing, for example, first air conditioning device program PG1. First air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to an "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room". In the "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room", for example, the air conditioning capacity during the cooling operation is "5.6 kW".
Air conditioning device processor 52 controls air conditioning device 5 to execute the operation of each unit of air conditioning device 5 to perform the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2 by executing, for example, second air conditioning device program PG2. Second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to "an air conditioning device for a 29-tatami-mat room". In the "air conditioning device for a 29-tatami-mat room", for example, the air conditioning capacity during the cooling operation is "9.0 kW".
Next, a flow of processing of air conditioning system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing of air conditioning system 100 in the first exemplary embodiment.
As illustrated in Fig. 4, business operator B enters into a contract with manufacturer M to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. In this contract, business operator B pays a predetermined contract fee to manufacturer M, and business operator B acquires right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of the predetermined number of air conditioning devices 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Note that right RT acquired by business operator B expires, for example, when a preset contract period elapses. The contract period is, for example, one year.
In a case where first air conditioning capacity AB1 of air conditioning device 5 corresponds to "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room", the predetermined number is, for example, "5", and the predetermined contract fee is, for example, "50,000 yen". In a case where first air conditioning capacity AB1 of air conditioning device 5 corresponds to "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room", the predetermined number is, for example, "5", and the predetermined contract fee is, for example, "50,000 yen".
Cases where the predetermined contract fee is "50,000 yen" when first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room", and when first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room", will be described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The predetermined contract fee may be different between a case where first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room" and a case where first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room".
In a case where business operator B has entered into the contract with manufacturer M, manufacturer M grants business operator B business operator identification information BD and right RT to increase the air conditioning capacities of the predetermined number of air conditioning devices 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Business operator identification information BD also functions as a login ID when personal computer 3 possessed by business operator B logs in to first server device 1.
In addition, in a case where business operator B has entered into the contract with manufacturer M, manufacturer M causes remaining number storage 122 of first server device 1 to store predetermined number NP corresponding to the predetermined number as remaining number NR in association with business operator identification information BD. This processing is executed by remaining number change unit 115 of first server device 1 illustrated in Fig. 2.
In a case where user U of air conditioning device 5 determines that the cooling capacity or the heating capacity of air conditioning device 5 is insufficient due to aged deterioration or the like of the house in which air conditioning device 5 is disposed, user U of air conditioning device 5 consults with business operator B to that fact. In this case, user U presents device identification information AD of air conditioning device 5 to business operator B.
Business operator B proposes to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, and in a case where user U agrees with this proposal, business operator B operates personal computer 3 to execute the following processing. That is, personal computer 3 logs in to first server device 1 and transmits request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to first server device 1. Request RQ includes device identification information AD.
In a case where the "predetermined condition" is satisfied, first server device 1 transmits, to second server device 2, first command CM1 instructing to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. First command CM1 includes device identification information AD. The "predetermined condition" indicates that request RQ is received from personal computer 3, and business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In a case where first server device 1 transmits first command CM1 to second server device 2, first server device 1 decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one".
In a case of receiving first command CM1 from first server device 1, second server device 2 transmits a request for authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to smartphone 4.
In a case of receiving the request for authorization CF from second server device 2, smartphone 4 transmits response AN to the request for authorization CF in response to the operation from user U. There are cases where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, and response AN indicates a rejection of authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Second server device 2 receives response AN from smartphone 4. In a case where response AN indicates authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 executes the following processing.
That is, second server device 2 transmits, to air conditioning device 5, second command CM2 instructing execution of processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. In a case where air conditioning device 5 executes the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 transmits second air conditioning device program PG2 executed by control unit 51 of air conditioning device 5 to air conditioning device 5.
In a case of receiving second command CM2 and second air conditioning device program PG2 from second server device 2, air conditioning device 5 rewrites first air conditioning device program 531 to second air conditioning device program 532. Air conditioning device 5 executes second air conditioning device program 532 to execute the operation of second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In a case where response AN indicates rejection of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, second server device 2 transfers response AN to first server device 1. In a case of receiving response AN indicating rejection, first server device 1 increases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one".
In other words, right RT corresponding to business operator identification information BD reduced when first server device 1 transmits first command CM1 to second server device 2 is restored. This is because first command CM1 is transmitted to second server device 2, but as a result, the increase from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 of air conditioning device 5 is not executed due to the rejection of user U.

[1-2. Operation]

[1-2-1. Processing of first server device and second server device]

Next, processing of first server device 1 and second server device 2 in the first exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing of first server device 1 and second server device 2 according to the first exemplary embodiment.
As shown in Fig. 5, first, in step S101, reception unit 111 of first server device 1 receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Next, in step S103, determination unit 112 of first server device 1 refers to remaining number storage 122 to determine whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
In the first exemplary embodiment, determination unit 112 of first server device 1 determines whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. Determination unit 112 of first server device 1 may determine whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 or user U corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. In the first exemplary embodiment, personal computer 3, which is an example of the information processing device of the present disclosure, has been described as being possessed by business operator B, but may be a personal computer possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5.
In a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B does not have right RT (step S103; NO), then the process ends. In a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT (step S103; YES), the process proceeds to step S105.
In step S105, instruction unit 114 of first server device 1 transmits, to second server device 2, first command CM1 for instructing to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Next, in step S107, remaining number change unit 115 of first server device 1 decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one".
Next, in step S109, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 receives first command CM1 from first server device 1, and requests authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 to smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5.
Next, in step S111, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 determines whether response AN indicating authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 has been received from smartphone 4.
In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that response AN indicating authorization CF has been received (step S111; YES), the process proceeds to step S121. In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that response AN indicating authorization CF has not been received (step S111; NO), the process proceeds to step S113.
Then, in step S113, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 determines whether response AN indicating rejection of authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 is received from smartphone 4.
In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that response AN indicating rejection of authorization CF is received (step S113; YES), the process proceeds to step S117. In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that response AN indicating rejection of authorization CF has not been received (step S113; NO), the process proceeds to step S115.
Then, in step S115, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 determines whether predetermined time TP has elapsed from the time point when authorization CF is requested to smartphone 4. Predetermined time TP is, for example, five hours. Predetermined time TP may be, for example, 24 hours.
In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that predetermined time TP has not elapsed (step S115; NO), the process returns to step S111. In a case where instruction handling unit 211 determines that predetermined time TP has elapsed (step S115; YES), the process proceeds to step S117.
Then, in step S117, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 determines not to instruct air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Next, in step S119, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 transmits, to first server device 1, that response AN indicating rejection of authorization CF has been received or that predetermined time TP has elapsed. Then, remaining number change unit 115 of first server device 1 increases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by "one". Thereafter, the process ends.
If YES in step S111, in step S121, instruction handling unit 211 of second server device 2 transmits, to air conditioning device 5, second command CM2 instructing the execution of the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Thereafter, the process ends.
Step S101 corresponds to an example of a "reception step".
Step S103 corresponds to an example of a "determination step".
Steps S105 and S121 correspond to an example of an "instruction step".

[1-3. Advantageous effects and the like]

As described above, in the first exemplary embodiment, first server device 1 includes reception unit 111 that receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 that is the air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is sold to second air conditioning capacity AB2 that is greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1. In addition, first server device 1 includes determination unit 112 that determines whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 or user U corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where reception unit 111 receives request RQ from personal computer 3. In addition, first server device 1 includes instruction unit 114 that instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B or user U has right RT.
According to the above configuration, in a case where business operator B or user U has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1, air conditioning device 5 is instructed to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 is increased from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, after air conditioning device 5 is installed, the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 can be appropriately increased.
First server device 1 includes remaining number storage 122 that stores business operator identification information BD for identifying the plurality of business operators B and remaining number NR of rights RT in association with each other. Determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT in a case where business operator identification information BD of business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 is stored in remaining number storage 122 and remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD is one or more.
According to this, in a case where remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD of business operator B possessing personal computer 3 is one or more, it is determined that business operator B has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately determine whether business operator B has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, after air conditioning device 5 is installed, the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 can be appropriately increased.
First server device 1 includes remaining number change unit 115 that decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD stored in remaining number storage 122 by one in a case where instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2.
Accordingly, in a case where first server device 1 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, first server device 1 decreases remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD by one. Therefore, remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD can be appropriately changed.
In first server device 1, remaining number change unit 115 increases remaining number NR by predetermined number NP in a case where manufacturer M of air conditioning device 5 grants right RT of predetermined number NP set in advance to business operator B.
According to this, in a case where manufacturer M of air conditioning device 5 grants right RT of predetermined number NP set in advance to business operator B, first server device 1 increases remaining number NR by predetermined number NP. Therefore, remaining number NR corresponding to business operator identification information BD can be appropriately changed.
First server device 1 includes request unit 113 that requests, in a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B has right RT, smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5 for authorization CF that air conditioning device 5 increases the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Instruction unit 114 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 only in a case where request unit 113 receives authorization CF from smartphone 4.
According to this, first server device 1 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 only in a case where authorization CF for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 is received from smartphone 4 possessed by user U of air conditioning device 5. Therefore, only in a case where authorization CF of user U is obtained, first server device 1 instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, after air conditioning device 5 is installed, the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 can be appropriately increased.
In first server device 1, air conditioning device 5 is formed to be operable at first air conditioning capacity AB1 or second air conditioning capacity AB2. In a case where the instruction to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 is received from instruction unit 114, air conditioning device 5 rewrites first air conditioning device program 531 for executing the operation with first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning device program 532 for executing the operation with second air conditioning capacity AB2.
According to this, in a case of receiving the instruction to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2, first server device 1 rewrites first software for executing the operation with first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second software for executing the operation with second air conditioning capacity AB2. Therefore, the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 can be easily and remotely increased.
The method for controlling first server device 1 includes a reception step of receiving, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 that is the air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is sold, to second air conditioning capacity AB2 that is greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1. In addition, the method for controlling first server device 1 includes a determination step of determining whether or not business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 or user U corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where request RQ is received from personal computer 3 in the reception step. In addition, the method for controlling first server device 1 includes an instruction step of instructing air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where the determination step determines that business operator B or user U has right RT.
According to this, the method for controlling first server device 1 has the effect similar to the effect of first server device 1 described above.
First program 121 of first server device 1 causes first processor 11 of first server device 1 to function as reception unit 111 that receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 that is the air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is sold to second air conditioning capacity AB2 that is greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1. In addition, first program 121 of first server device 1 causes first processor 11 of first server device 1 to function as determination unit 112 that determines whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 or user U corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where reception unit 111 receives request RQ from personal computer 3. In addition, first program 121 of first server device 1 causes first processor 11 of first server device 1 to function as instruction unit 114 that instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B or user U has right RT.
According to this, first program 121 of first server device 1 has an effect similar to the effect of first server device 1 described above.
Air conditioning system 100 includes first server device 1 and air conditioning device 5 that communicates with first server device 1. First server device 1 includes reception unit 111 that receives, from personal computer 3, request RQ for increasing the air conditioning capacity of air conditioning device 5 from first air conditioning capacity AB1 that is the air conditioning capacity when air conditioning device 5 is sold to second air conditioning capacity AB2 that is greater than first air conditioning capacity AB1. In addition, first server device 1 includes determination unit 112 that determines whether business operator B corresponding to personal computer 3 or user U corresponding to personal computer 3 has right RT to increase the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where reception unit 111 receives request RQ from personal computer 3. In addition, first server device 1 includes instruction unit 114 that instructs air conditioning device 5 to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from first air conditioning capacity AB1 to second air conditioning capacity AB2 in a case where determination unit 112 determines that business operator B or user U has right RT.
According to this, air conditioning system 100 achieves an effect similar to the effect of first server device 1 described above.

(Other exemplary embodiments)

The above exemplary embodiments have been described as being illustrative of the technique of the present disclosure. However, the technique in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and can also be applied to exemplary embodiments in which changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like are made. In view of the above, other exemplary embodiments will be exemplified below.
In the above embodiment, a case where air conditioning system 100 includes first server device 1 and second server device 2 will be described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, one server device may have the function of first server device 1 and the function of second server device 2. In this case, the configuration of air conditioning system 100 can be simplified.
In the above embodiment, a case where the "information processing device" is personal computer 3 will be described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The "information processing device" may be, for example, a tablet type computer or a smartphone.
In the above embodiment, a case where the "terminal device" is smartphone 4 will be described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. The "terminal device" may be a personal computer or a tablet type computer.
In the above embodiment, for example, only one air conditioning device 5 is illustrated in Fig. 1 for convenience, but a plurality of air conditioning devices 5 (for example, 1000) may be provided. That is, air conditioning device 5 may be an air conditioning device manufactured by manufacturer M having first server device 1.
Smartphone 4 is possessed by user U who uses air conditioning device 5. Therefore, in a case where the number of air conditioning devices 5 is plural (For example, 1000) as described above, the number of smartphones 4 may also be plural (for example, 1000).
In the above embodiment, a case where first air conditioning capacity AB1 corresponds to "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room" and second air conditioning capacity AB2 corresponds to "air conditioning device for a 14-tatami-mat room" will be described, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.
For example, first air conditioning capacity AB1 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room", and second air conditioning capacity AB2 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for a 29-tatami-mat room".
For example, first air conditioning capacity AB1 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for a 6-tatami-mat room", and second air conditioning capacity AB2 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for an 8-tatami-mat room", an "air conditioning device for a 10-tatami-mat room", or an "air conditioning device for a 12-tatami-mat room".
For example, first air conditioning capacity AB1 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for an 18-tatami-mat room", and second air conditioning capacity AB2 may correspond to an "air conditioning device for a 20-tatami-mat room", an "air conditioning device for a 23-tatami-mat room", or an "air conditioning device for a 26-tatami-mat room".
First processor 11 may be formed by a single processor or may be formed by a plurality of processors. First processor 11 may be hardware programmed to implement corresponding functional units. That is, these processors may be constituted by, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).
In the flowchart illustrated in Fig. 5, the step units of the processing of first server device 1 and second server device 2 are divided according to main processing contents in order to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way or name of division of the processing unit. That is, the step units of the processing of first server device 1 and second server device 2 illustrated in the flowchart of Fig. 5 may be divided into more step units according to the processing contents. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so as to include more processing. Further, the order of the steps may be appropriately changed within a range not hindering the gist of the present disclosure.
The above-described exemplary embodiments are intended to exemplify the technique according to the present disclosure, and thus various modifications, replacements, additions, and omissions can be made within the scope of the appended claims or of their equivalents.

(Supplementary note)

The above description of the exemplary embodiments discloses the following techniques.
(Technique 1) A server device of technique 1 includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives a request from the information processing device. In addition, the server device further includes an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
According to this configuration, in a case where the business operator or the user has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity, the server device of technique 1 instructs the air conditioning device to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, the server device of technique 1 can appropriately determine whether the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device is increased from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, after the air conditioning device is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be appropriately increased.
(Technique 2) The server device according to technique 2 in the server device according to technique 1, includes a remaining number storage that stores business operator identification information for identifying a plurality of business operators and a remaining number of rights in association with each other. The determination unit determines that the business operator has the right in a case where the business operator identification information of the business operator corresponding to the information processing device is stored in the remaining number storage and the remaining number corresponding to the business operator identification information is one or more.
According to this configuration, the server device of technique 2 determines that the business operator has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the remaining number corresponding to the business operator identification information corresponding to the information processing device is one or more. Therefore, the server device of technique 2 can appropriately determine whether the business operator has the right to increase the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, after the air conditioning device is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be appropriately increased.
(Technique 3) The server device according to technique 3 in the server device according to technique 2 includes a remaining number change unit that decreases the remaining number corresponding to the identification information of the business operator stored in the remaining number storage by one in a case where the instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.
According to this configuration, in a case where the server device of technique 3 instructs the air conditioning device to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, remaining number NR corresponding to the identification information of the business operator is decreased by one. Therefore, the remaining number corresponding to the identification information of the business operator can be appropriately changed.
(Technique 4) In the server device according to the fourth technique, in the server device according to the third technique, the remaining number change unit increases the remaining number by a predetermined number in a case where a manufacturer of the air conditioning device grants a predetermined number of rights set in advance to the business operator.
According to this configuration, the server device of technique 4 increases remaining number NR by the predetermined number in a case where the manufacturer of the air conditioning device grants the predetermined number of rights set in advance to the business operator. Therefore, the remaining number corresponding to the identification information of the business operator can be appropriately changed.
(Technique 5) A server device according to technique 5 in the server device according to any one of techniques 1 to 4 includes a request unit that requests authorization for increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity to a terminal device possessed by a user of the air conditioning device in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator has the right. The instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only in a case where the request unit receives the authorization from the terminal device.
According to this configuration, the server device of technique 5 instructs the air conditioning device to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only in a case where authorization for increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity is received from the terminal device of the user of the air conditioning device. Therefore, the server device of technique 5 instructs the air conditioning device to execute the processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only in a case where authorization of the user is obtained. Therefore, after the air conditioning device is installed, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be appropriately increased.
(Technique 6) In the server device according to technique 6, in the server device according to any one of techniques 1 to 5, the air conditioning device that is operable at the first air conditioning capacity or the second air conditioning capacity, and in a case of receiving an instruction to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity from the instruction unit, the air conditioning device rewrites first software for executing the operation at the first air conditioning capacity to second software for executing the operation at the second air conditioning capacity.
According to this configuration, in a case of receiving an instruction to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity, the server device of technique 6 rewrites the first software for executing the operation with the first air conditioning capacity to the second software for executing the operation with the second air conditioning capacity. Therefore, the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device can be easily and remotely increased.
(Technique 7) A method for controlling a server device according to technique 7 includes a reception step of receiving, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the method for controlling the server device includes a determination step of determining whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case of receiving a request from the information processing device in the reception step. In addition, the method for controlling the server device includes an instruction step of instructing the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination step determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
According to this configuration, the method for controlling the server device of technique 7 has the effect similar to the effect of the server device of technique 1.
(Technique 8) The program of technique 8 causes a processor of a server device to function as a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the program of technique 8 causes the processor of the server device to function as a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives a request from the information processing device. In addition, the program of technique 8 causes the processor of the server device to function as an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
According to this configuration, the program of technique 8 has the effect similar to the effect of the server device of technique 1.
(Technique 9) An air conditioning system of technique 9 is an air conditioning system including a server device and an air conditioning device that communicates with the server device. The server device includes a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity. In addition, the server device includes a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives a request from the information processing device. In addition, the server device includes an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
According to this configuration, the air conditioning system of technique 9 has an effect similar to the effect of the server device of technique 1.
The present disclosure is applicable to an application in which an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device is appropriately increased after the air conditioning device is installed.

Claims

A server device comprising:
a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity;

a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device; and

an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
The server device according to Claim 1 comprising
a remaining number storage that stores business operator identification information for identifying a plurality of business operators and a remaining number of rights in association with each other,

wherein the determination unit determines that the business operator has the right in a case where the business operator identification information of the business operator corresponding to the information processing device is stored in the remaining number storage and the remaining number corresponding to the business operator identification information is one or more.
The server device according to Claim 2 comprising a remaining number change unit that decreases the remaining number corresponding to the business operator identification information stored in the remaining number storage by one in a case where the instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity.
The server device according to Claim 3, wherein the remaining number change unit increases the remaining number by a predetermined number in a case where a manufacturer of the air conditioning device grants a predetermined number of rights set in advance to the business operator.
The server device according to Claim 1 comprising
a request unit that requests authorization for increasing the air conditioning capacity of the air conditioning device from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity to a terminal device possessed by a user of the air conditioning device in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator has the right,

wherein the instruction unit instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing of increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity only in a case where the request unit receives the authorization from the terminal device.
The server device according to Claim 1,
wherein the air conditioning device is configured to be operable at the first air conditioning capacity or the second air conditioning capacity, and

in a case of receiving an instruction to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity from the instruction unit, the air conditioning device rewrites first software for executing the operation at the first air conditioning capacity to second software for executing the operation at the second air conditioning capacity.
A method for controlling a server device comprising:
a reception step of receiving, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity greater than the first air conditioning capacity;

a determination step of determining whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case of receiving the request from the information processing device in the reception step; and

an instruction step of instructing the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination step determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
A program for causing a processor of a server device to function as:
a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity;

a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device; and

an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.
An air conditioning system comprising a server device, and an air conditioning device configured to be communicable with the server device,
wherein the server device includes:
a reception unit that receives, from an information processing device, a request for increasing an air conditioning capacity of an air conditioning device from a first air conditioning capacity that is an air conditioning capacity when the air conditioning device is sold to a second air conditioning capacity that is greater than the first air conditioning capacity;

a determination unit that determines whether a business operator corresponding to the information processing device or a user corresponding to the information processing device has a right to increase the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the reception unit receives the request from the information processing device; and

an instruction unit that instructs the air conditioning device to execute processing for increasing the air conditioning capacity from the first air conditioning capacity to the second air conditioning capacity in a case where the determination unit determines that the business operator or the user has the right.