JP2013105268A - Electric power management system, and control method and control program for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electric power management system that enables, when information on electric power management for a plurality of electric appliances is to be presented, a user to readily understand and confirm each element of the information.SOLUTION: An electric power management system comprises a display unit, a controller and a memory that stores a plurality of objects, each associated with one or another of multiple prescribed conditions and intended for presenting via the display unit information regarding electric power management for electric appliances. When at least one of the prescribed conditions is satisfied, the corresponding object is displayed; a plurality of objects, when they are to be displayed, are arranged in a plurality of layers in laminated structure, each layer being matched with one or another of the objects; the position of each of the multiple objects differs from one layer to another; and objects of a higher layer are arranged in a position where an outline of information on electric power management for electric appliances of objects arranged in a lower layer can be recognized.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technology of a power management apparatus that is arranged in a house or the like and connected to an electric appliance in the house.

  Currently, from the viewpoint of environmental protection, there is a demand for more effectively increasing the energy saving (abbreviation for energy saving) awareness of users who use home appliances. Energy conservation is intended to reduce energy consumption by using energy efficiently or by reducing the consumption of excess energy.

  From the viewpoint of energy saving, a power management apparatus that manages the power of electric appliances has been proposed, and it is required to notify a message or the like that raises the user's energy saving awareness in accordance with information related to power management.

  On the other hand, various methods for notifying information such as messages have been proposed in the past. For example, in Japanese translation of PCT publication No. 7-500713, the display order of messages is determined according to the priority according to the status and time-series order. A method of setting has been proposed.

JP 7-500713

  For example, when applying technology such as Patent Document 1 and presenting information related to power management of a plurality of electric appliances, it is possible to set the order of presentation according to priority and to present information according to the set order. However, the information set in the later order cannot be easily grasped, and it is necessary to check in the set order.

  On the other hand, which information is to be checked preferentially depends on the user's interests and the like, and the priority determined on the device side may be different from the priority desired by the user.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and when presenting information on power management of a plurality of electric appliances, the user can easily grasp and confirm each information. An object of the present invention is to provide a power management apparatus capable of performing the above, a control method for the power management apparatus, and a control program for the power management apparatus.

  A power management apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a power management apparatus that manages the power of an appliance, and includes a display unit, an operation input unit that operates according to display content of the display unit, and display content displayed on the display unit. A controller for controlling, and a memory for storing a plurality of objects, each of which is associated with a plurality of predetermined conditions and presents information related to power management of the appliance via a display unit. The controller displays a corresponding object stored in the memory when at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, and displays a plurality of objects when displaying a plurality of objects. Information related to the power management of the electrical appliances of the objects placed in the lower layers, while the positions of the objects are different for each layer, and are arranged in multiple layers of the layered structure provided corresponding to each of the objects Place an object in a higher layer at a position where the outline of the can be recognized.

  Preferably, when displaying a plurality of objects, the controller sets a priority order of the plurality of objects according to a predetermined method, and the plurality of objects are arranged in a plurality of layers according to a predetermined display order according to the set priority order. Are arranged respectively.

  In particular, when a plurality of objects are displayed on the display unit, the controller determines whether there is a selection for one of the plurality of objects from the user, and if there is a selection, the controller selects the selected object. Change the display order so that the layer to be placed is at the top.

  Preferably, each object can be set valid / invalid, and is provided with an erasure object that accepts the end of display of the object according to an instruction, and the controller arranges the display order in the highest layer among a plurality of objects. Set only the erase object of the object to be enabled.

  Preferably, static message information relating to power management of the appliance is displayed in each object.

  In particular, each object is provided with a detailed object that can accept an instruction to acquire detailed information related to the power management of the appliance, and the controller determines whether or not there is an acceptance for the detailed object. If it is determined, dynamic information related to power management of the appliance is displayed on the display unit.

  In particular, the controller determines whether or not it is necessary to update the static message information related to power management of the presenting appliance for at least one of the plurality of objects, and needs to update the controller. If so, display of the corresponding object being displayed is terminated and the corresponding object containing updated static message information regarding power management of the appliance is displayed.

  Preferably, when the first to third objects are displayed as a plurality of objects, they are arranged in the upper, middle, and lower layers according to the display order, and the second object arranged in the middle layer is displayed. The region partially overlaps the region of the first object arranged in the upper layer, and the region of the third object arranged in the lower layer is the first and middle layers arranged in the upper and middle layers, respectively. Each overlaps with the area of the second object.

  In particular, the first to third objects are arranged so that the display area of the second object arranged in the middle layer is equal to or larger than the display area of the third object arranged in the lower layer.

  Preferably, when the plurality of objects are displayed on the display unit, the controller changes the display order of the plurality of layers provided corresponding to the plurality of objects when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  Preferably, the object includes a first object associated with a summary of information relating to power management of the appliance of the object and a second object presenting message information relating to power management of the appliance.

  In particular, when displaying a plurality of objects, the controller arranges the objects in the upper layer so that at least a part of the first object arranged in the lower layer is displayed.

  A power management apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention is a power management apparatus that manages the power of an electric appliance, and includes a display unit, an operation input unit that operates according to display content of the display unit, and display content displayed on the display unit And a memory for storing a plurality of objects associated with a plurality of predetermined conditions and presenting information related to power management of the appliance via the display unit. The controller displays a corresponding object stored in the memory when at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, and when displaying a plurality of objects, the plurality of objects are moved up and down. The objects are displayed so that they overlap, the positions of multiple objects are displayed differently for each object, and the upper object is displayed so that an overview of information related to the power management of the lower object's appliances can be recognized. To do.

  A control method for a power management apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a control method for a power management apparatus that has a display unit and manages the power of an electric appliance, and includes at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions. A step of determining whether one is satisfied, and when at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, the power management of the appliance is associated with each of the plurality of predetermined conditions and via the display unit And displaying a corresponding object with reference to a memory storing a plurality of objects for presenting information about the plurality of objects. When displaying a plurality of objects, the displaying step includes a plurality of objects. A step of arranging each of a plurality of layers in a layered structure corresponding to each of the objects, and a plurality of objects Position of the different with each layer, and a step of summary information relating to power management appliances object placed in the lower layer is to place objects in the upper layers recognizable a position.

  A control program for a power management apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is a control program for a power management apparatus that has a display unit and manages the power of an electrical appliance, and that has a plurality of predetermined conditions determined in advance in a computer. A step of determining whether or not at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, and when at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, the electric appliance is associated with each of the plurality of predetermined conditions via the display unit. And displaying a corresponding object with reference to a memory storing a plurality of objects for presenting information relating to power management of the plurality of objects, and the displaying step includes a plurality of objects when displaying the plurality of objects. Are placed on multiple layers in a layered structure corresponding to multiple objects. The step of placing the object of the upper layer in a position where the outline of the information regarding the power management of the electric appliance of the object arranged in the lower layer can be recognized while the position of the step and the plurality of objects is different for each layer The process is executed including

  When presenting information regarding power management of a plurality of electric appliances, the user can easily grasp and confirm each information.

It is a figure explaining the whole structure of the network system according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the hardware constitutions of the home controller 100 according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of 200 A of air conditioners as an example of a household appliance. It is a figure explaining the household appliance monitor screen displayed on the display 102 of the home controller 100 according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the message notification screen displayed on the display 102 of the home controller 100 according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the transition from the household appliance monitor screen according to embodiment of this invention to a message notification screen. It is a figure explaining another example of the message notification screen displayed on the display 102 of the home controller 100 according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the notification object according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a main flowchart explaining the display process of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the display process of the management screen according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining notification object table 305A according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the condition table 305B of the notification object according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the process which confirms establishment of the notification conditions according to embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the process of additional update of notification object table 305A according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart explaining the display process (the 1) of the message notification screen according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the laminated structure of the layer according to embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the layer allocation process according to embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of the priority setting process according to embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the display process (the 2) of the message notification screen according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining another message notification screen displayed on the display 102 of the home controller 100 according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the detailed screen according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the modification of the form of the notification object according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure explaining the whole structure of network system 1 # according to the modification of embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  In this embodiment, a home appliance (hereinafter abbreviated as a home appliance) is an electric appliance used in a house, and refers to an electric appliance driven by electric power supplied from the outside or an electric appliance that generates electric power. . A house refers to a house, an office, etc., for example.

<Overall configuration of network system>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 1, network system 1 according to the present embodiment is installed in, for example, a house or an office. The network system 1 includes home appliances such as an air conditioner (air conditioner) 200A, a television 200B, a microwave oven 200C, a refrigerator 200D, and a light 200E installed indoors. The illustrated home appliances are examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.

  The network system 1 includes a solar power generation device 200X, a storage battery 200Y, and a power conditioner 200Z for controlling them. Storage battery 200Y may be installed in a house or the like, or may be a storage battery for automobiles that is also used as a storage battery for houses.

  The network system 1 includes a home controller 100 for controlling home appliances 200A to 200E, a solar power generation device 200X, a storage battery 200Y, a power conditioner 200Z for controlling them, and the like. The home controller 100 can perform data communication with the home appliances 200A to 200E, the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 200X, the storage battery 200Y, and the power conditioner 200Z for controlling them via a wired or wireless network 401. The home controller 100 uses, for example, a wireless local area network (LAN), ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wired LAN, or PLC (Power Line Communications) as the network 401. The home controller 100 may be portable, may be detachable from a base placed on a table, or may be fixed to a wall of a room.

  In network system 1 according to the present embodiment, power conditioner 200Z supplies power to storage battery 200Y, the system, and home appliances 200A to 200E through power line 402. And the power conditioner 200Z acquires electric power from the solar power generation device 200X, the storage battery 200Y, and a system (such as an electric power system provided by an electric power company) via the power line 402.

<Hardware configuration of home controller 100>
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 2, home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes memory 101, display 102, tablet 103, button 104, communication interface 105, speaker 107, clock 108, and CPU (Central Processing Unit) 110. Including. Input interfaces 1031 and 1041 for accepting user operations on the tablet 103 and the button 104 and an output interface 1021 for outputting information to the display 102 are further provided. As a device that outputs information to the user, a display 102 that displays images and a speaker 107 that outputs sound can be used.

  The memory 101 is realized by various types of RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), a hard disk, and the like. For example, the memory 101 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk-Read Only Memory), which is used via a reading interface. USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, memory card, FD (Flexible Disk), hard disk, magnetic tape, cassette tape, MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), IC (Integrated Circuit) card (excluding memory cards) It is also realized by a medium for storing a program in a nonvolatile manner such as an optical card, a mask ROM, an EPROM, and an EEPROM (Electronically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

  The memory 101 stores a control program executed by the CPU 110, a notification object table 305A, a condition table 305B, and data 305C related to the notification object. Details of the table and the like will be described later.

  The display 102 displays the states of the home appliances 200A to 200E, the solar power generation device 200X, the storage battery 200Y, and the power conditioner 200Z by being controlled by the CPU 110. The tablet 103 detects a touch operation with a user's finger and inputs touch coordinates or the like to the CPU 110.

  In the present embodiment, a tablet 103 is laid on the surface of the display 102. That is, in the present embodiment, display 102 and tablet 103 constitute touch panel 106. However, the home controller 100 may not have the tablet 103.

  The button 104 is disposed on the surface of the home controller 100. The button 104 has a plurality of buttons and keys such as an enter button, a return button, a direction button, and a numeric keypad. It should be noted that as a means for accepting a user operation, it is possible to employ only the tablet 103 without providing the button 104.

  The CPU 110 accepts a user operation via the tablet 103 or the button 104 and analyzes the accepted operation. When the received operation is an operation related to the operation control of the home appliance, an operation control command according to the operation is generated based on the analysis result. The generated operation control command is transmitted to the target home appliance via the communication interface 105. When the received operation is an operation related to the management of home appliances, a management screen of a predetermined home appliance according to the operation is displayed on the display 102 based on the analysis result.

  The communication interface 105 transmits / receives data to / from the home appliances 200 </ b> A to 200 </ b> E via the network 401 by being controlled by the CPU 110. As described above, the communication interface 105 transmits and receives data to and from the home appliances 200A to 200E by using, for example, a wireless LAN, ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wired LAN, or PLC.

  The speaker 107 outputs sound based on a command from the CPU 110. For example, the CPU 110 causes the speaker 107 to output sound based on the sound data.

  The clock 108 inputs the current date and time to the CPU 110 based on a command from the CPU 110.

  The CPU 110 executes various types of information processing by executing various programs stored in the memory 101. In other words, the processing in the home controller 100 is realized by each hardware and software executed by the CPU 110. Such software may be stored in the memory 101 in advance. The software may be stored in a storage medium and distributed as a program product. Alternatively, the software may be provided as a program product that can be downloaded by an information provider connected to the so-called Internet.

  Such software is read from the storage medium by using a reading device (not shown), or downloaded by using the communication interface 105 and temporarily stored in the memory 101. The CPU 110 stores the software in the form of an executable program in the memory 101 and then executes the program.

  As storage media, CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk-Read Only Memory), USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, memory card, FD (Flexible Disk), hard disk , Magnetic tape, cassette tape, MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), IC (Integrated Circuit) card (excluding memory card), optical card, mask ROM, EPROM, EEPROM (Electronically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) ) And other non-temporary non-transitory media for storing the program.

  The program here includes not only a program directly executable by the CPU but also a program in a source program format, a compressed program, an encrypted program, and the like.

<Overview of network system operation>
Next, an outline of the operation of the network system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  Home controller 100 receives power consumption data of home appliances 200A to 200E from each of a plurality of home appliances 200A to 200E installed in a house via network 401. For example, each of the home appliances 200A to 200E includes a communication unit for communicating with the home controller 100 and a power sensor for measuring power consumption (unit: kW) of the home appliance.

  The home controller 100 accumulates the received data of the home appliances 200A to 200E, thereby accumulating the power consumption of the home appliances 200A to 200E over a predetermined period, and stores the accumulated power consumption amount in a predetermined storage area. In response, the data is output (displayed) to the outside or transmitted to an external information processing apparatus.

  The power conditioner 200Z uses a power sensor (not shown) to detect the amount of power generated by the solar power generation apparatus 200X and the amount of power stored by the remaining charge of the storage battery 200Y, and the detected power generation data is used as a home controller. To 100.

  The home controller 100 controls the operation of each home appliance using one or more types of power supplied from the power supplied from the grid, the amount of power generated by the solar power generation device 200X, and the amount of power stored in the storage battery 200Y.

  Here, in order to simplify the explanation, it is assumed that a user operation for controlling the operation of each home appliance is received by the input interface 1031 via the operation unit (touch panel 106 or button 104). It may be received from an operation unit that is inherently included.

<Hardware configuration of air conditioner 200A>
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an air conditioner 200A as an example of a home appliance.

  Referring to FIG. 3, an air conditioner 200A drives a memory 201 for storing a data program relating to operation, a button 204 for accepting an operation for operation control by a user, a communication interface 205, and a heat exchange cycle (not shown). It includes an air conditioning unit 207 including a motor for performing the operation, various sensors 209 such as a temperature / humidity sensor, and a CPU 210.

  The memory 201 can be realized in the same manner as the memory 101 of the home controller 100. The memory 201 stores a control program executed by the CPU 210, power consumption of the air conditioner 200A, a command input to the air conditioner 200A, an operating state of the air conditioner 200A, and the like.

  The communication interface 205 transmits and receives data to and from the home controller 100 via the network 401 under the control of the CPU 210. As described above, the communication interface 205 uses the wireless LAN, ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wired LAN (Local Area Network), PLC (Power Line Communications), or the like, so that the home controller 100 is used. Send and receive data.

  Sensor 209 includes a power sensor. The power sensor measures the power consumption of the air conditioner 200A. The measured power consumption is transmitted to the CPU 210 through the communication interface 205 and stored in the memory 201.

  In the present embodiment, the power consumption (unit: kWh) is calculated for each home appliance on the home controller 100 side, but this calculation may be performed on each home appliance side. That is, the power consumption measured by each home appliance with the power sensor may be cumulatively added using the memory 201, and the cumulative addition result may be transmitted to the home controller 100 as the power consumption amount.

  The CPU 110 of the home controller 100 acquires the power consumption (unit: kW) of the home appliance by periodically receiving the power consumption measured by the power sensor from the air conditioner 200A. And the power consumption amount (unit: kWh) of the said household appliance is calculated by integrating | accumulating the acquired power consumption per predetermined time unit.

<Home appliance monitor screen>
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a home appliance monitor screen displayed on display 102 of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 4, here, a case where power consumption of home appliances 200 </ b> A to 200 </ b> D is displayed in order of power consumption on home appliance monitor screen 500 based on received data is shown. The home appliance monitor screen makes it easy for the user to grasp the power consumption of each of the home appliances 200A to 200D and raise energy saving awareness.

  The home appliance monitor screen 500 is provided with a plurality of function buttons, and processing corresponding to the corresponding function button is executed by selecting the function button. For example, a “notification” button 510 is arranged as an example of a function button, and by selecting the “notification” button 510, a message notification screen for notifying a message (information) that leads to an energy saving / power saving action is displayed. .

<Message notification screen>
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a message notification screen displayed on display 102 of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 5, an example of a message notification screen 600 according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this example, as an example, a case where four notification objects provided so as to be selectable are displayed is shown. Specifically, the case where the first notification object 618, the second notification object 616, the third notification object 612, and the fourth notification object 602 are displayed is shown. Two objects are provided in the notification object. Specifically, a message object 606 indicating the specific contents of the notification object and an outline object 604 indicating an outline of the message object indicated by the notification object are provided.

  The first to fourth notification objects 618, 616, 612, and 602 are arranged such that the second notification object 616 overlaps the first notification object 618, and the first notification object The second notification object 616 is arranged so that at least a part is displayed to the extent that the outline object 618 can be recognized. Similarly, the third notification object 612 is arranged so as to overlap the second notification object 616, and at least a part of the second notification object 616 is displayed so that the outline object of the second notification object 616 can be recognized. In addition, a third notification object 612 is arranged. Similarly, the fourth notification object 602 is arranged so as to overlap the third notification object 612, and at least a part of the third notification object 612 is displayed so that the outline object can be recognized. In addition, a fourth notification object 602 is arranged.

  Further, the notification object further includes a delete button 607 for receiving an instruction to delete the notification object, and a “detail” button 608 for receiving an instruction for transition to a screen where the detailed contents of the notification object can be confirmed. It is done. In this example, only the fourth notification object 602 is provided with the delete button 607 and the “details” button 608 in an effective state.

  Further, the message notification screen 600 is provided with an “end” button 610 for accepting the end of the display of the message notification screen 600, and the message notification screen 600 is displayed by accepting a user operation instruction for the “end” button 610. finish. That is, the display of the screen is finished, and the home appliance monitor screen 500 described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating transition from the home appliance monitor screen to the message notification screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 6, in the embodiment of the present invention, there are two methods for transition from home appliance monitor screen 500 to message notification screen 600, and one is a message automatically when a notification condition is satisfied. The notification screen 600 is displayed. The other is a case where the user selects the “notification” button 510 on the home appliance monitor screen 500 as described above.

  Therefore, when the notification condition is satisfied, the information is surely transmitted to the user, such as when the user wants to be alerted or when an important message is notified by automatically transitioning to the message notification screen. It is possible. In addition, when the user wants to confirm the information notified on the message notification screen 600 again, the user can change to the message notification screen according to the user's intention by selecting the “notification” button 510. It also serves for convenience.

  As shown here, when the “details” button provided in the notification object is pressed, the screen changes to a screen on which the detailed content can be confirmed as will be described later.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating another example of a message notification screen displayed on display 102 of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 7, an example of a message notification screen 600 similar to that described in FIG. 5 is shown.

  In this example, as an example, a message notification screen 650 when a selectable third notification object 612 is selected is shown. As described above, each notification object is provided so as to be selectable. In this example, the third notification object 612 is selected, and the display order of the notification objects is switched to the fourth notification object 602. A case where the third notification object 612 is displayed on the notification object 602 in a state where it is arranged is shown.

  Further, the case where the valid / invalid state of the erased object and the detailed object in the notification object changes according to the display order is shown. That is, when the display order of the fourth notification object 602 is the highest, the erase object and the detailed object of the fourth notification object 602 are made valid. On the other hand, the deleted object and the detailed object of the third notification object 612 whose display order is lower are invalidated.

  On the other hand, when the display order of the third notification object 612 is higher, the erase object and the detailed object of the third notification object 612 are in a valid state. On the other hand, the deleted object and the detailed object of the fourth notification object 602 whose display order is lower are invalidated.

  With this process, the deletion object is valid only for the notification object when the display order is the highest order, so it is possible to prevent the user from deleting the notification object without confirming the lower notification object. It is possible to notify the user of a message that is information.

<Specific examples of notification objects on the message notification screen>
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a notification object according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  With reference to FIG. 8, a specific example of the notification object stored in the memory 101 as data 305C related to the notification object displayed on the message notification screen will be described here.

  Specifically, notification objects of “A peak cut-related”, “B solar cell-related”, “C setting-related”, “D target achievement rate-related”, and “E easy amount related” are shown.

  Here, the notification object “A peak cut-related” displays, for example, a message for prompting power saving when the set peak power is exceeded. A specific example of the message will be described later. In addition, as an outline object indicating the outline of the message, an object of an image in which the peak waveform is cut with scissors is set in association with an object whose outline is easily recognized intuitively.

  The notification object “B solar cell related” displays, for example, a message for prompting power saving when power purchase is continued or power is likely to be sold. A specific example of the message will be described later. In addition, as an outline object indicating the outline of the message, an object that easily recognizes the outline intuitively, symbolizing an ecological thing such as a solar cell, and an object of an image of a plant leaf are set in association with each other. It shall be.

  The notification object “C setting related” displays, for example, a message for prompting the setting when the target value, conversion of electricity charges, etc. are not set. A specific example of the message will be described later. Further, it is assumed that the outline object indicating the outline of the message is set in association with the object of the driver image in order to symbolize the setting as an object whose outline is easy to recognize intuitively.

  For example, the notification object “D target achievement rate related” displays a message according to the target achievement rate set for each device. A specific example of the message will be described later. In addition, as an outline object indicating the outline of the message, an object that easily recognizes the outline intuitively is set in association with a trophy image object in order to symbolize the achievement of the goal.

  The notification object “E measurable amount related”, for example, displays a message when a power saving effect is converted into an amount for notification, or when the time zone of the electricity bill is changed to promote power saving. A specific example of the message will be described later. In addition, as an outline object indicating the outline of the message, an object that is easy to recognize the outline intuitively, and symbolizing power saving, saving, etc., an object of an image of a pig piggy bank is associated and set. Shall.

  Each notification object has a priority, and “A peak cut related” has the highest priority, “B solar cell related”, “C setting related”, “D target achievement rate related”, “ “E. Money amount related” is shown in the order of lower priority. The priority is used when setting a priority order to be described later.

  The notification object is an example, and is not limited to the content, and other notification objects can be used as a matter of course.

  The outline object set in association with the notification object is an example, and any object that can easily recognize the outline of the message can be used as the outline object indicating the outline of the message. Is possible.

Hereinafter, the process of the home controller 100 will be described.
<Display processing of home controller 100>
FIG. 9 is a main flow diagram illustrating display processing of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 9, first, it is determined whether or not the power is turned on (step S2). Specifically, it is determined whether or not a power button (not shown) provided in the home controller 100 is pressed to turn on the power.

  If it is determined in step S2 that the power supply has been turned on (YES in step S2), then information relating to power consumption is acquired (step S4).

  Next, a management screen display process is executed (step S6). Details of the management screen display processing will be described later.

  Next, it is determined whether the operation is finished (step S8). If it is determined in step S8 that the operation has ended (YES in step S8), the process ends (END).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S8 that the operation has not ended, the process returns to step S4 and the above processing is repeated. For example, when the operation is finished, when a power button (not shown) is pressed again, the process is finished.

  In this example, a case where various processes are executed by automatically starting and executing a program stored in the memory 101 when the power button is pressed is described. It is also possible to start and execute various processes. The same applies to the following processing.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating management screen display processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 10, first, a home appliance monitor screen is displayed (step S10). Specifically, the home appliance monitor screen described in FIG. 4 is displayed based on the information regarding power consumption.

Next, it is determined whether or not there is an operation input (step S12).
If it is determined in step S12 that there is an operation input (YES in step S12), it is next determined whether or not the “notification” button is pressed (step S14). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the “notification” button 510 described in FIG. 4 has been pressed.

  If it is determined in step S14 that the “notification” button has been pressed (YES in step S14), then a message notification screen display process is executed (step S16). The message notification screen display process will be described later.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the “notification” button has not been pressed (NO in step S14), it is determined whether or not another function button has been pressed (step S22).

  If it is determined in step S22 that the other function button has been pressed (YES in step S22), the other function screen is displayed (step S24). Then, the process ends (return).

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S22 that no other function button is pressed (NO in step S22), for example, in the case of an invalid operation input, the process returns to step S12.

  If it is determined in step S12 that there is no operation input (NO in step S12), a process for confirming whether the notification condition is satisfied is executed (step S18). Processing for confirming whether the notification condition is satisfied will be described later.

Next, it is determined whether the notification condition is satisfied (step S20).
If it is determined in step S20 that the notification condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to the message notification screen display process in step S16.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S20 that the notification condition is not satisfied, the process ends (return). That is, the home appliance monitor screen is displayed based on the information regarding power consumption.

<Setting of Notification Object Table 305A>
First, the notification object table 305A for registering notification objects to be displayed on the message notification screen will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating notification object table 305A according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 11, here is shown a notification object table in which information regarding a plurality of notification objects can be registered.

  In this example, a case where information about four notification objects is registered will be described as an example. However, information about more notification objects can be registered. Even when four or more notification objects are registered, a maximum of four notification objects according to the set priority order are displayed.

  Specifically, the case where notification objects of messages corresponding to “012”, “005”, “009”, and “008” are stored for the identification information (ID) is shown.

  In addition to the identification information, the message content corresponding to the message object of the notification object is stored. Further, flag information indicating unread / read is also stored as the status of the notification object. In this example, as the status of the message corresponding to the identification information (ID), the notification objects of the messages “012” and “005” are in the read state, and the notifications of the messages “009” and “008” are notified. A case where the object is in an unread state is shown.

  Further, a case is shown in which priorities are set corresponding to the notification objects. The priority order setting method will be described later.

  In this example, as an example, the priorities are (4), (4), (4), (4), (0) corresponding to the notification objects of the messages corresponding to the identification information (ID) “012”, “005”, “009”, “008”. 3), (2), and (1) are set.

  By referring to the notification object table 305A, the notification object displayed on the message notification screen is specified, and the arrangement or the like of the notification object for each layer is set.

Next, the notification object condition table 305B will be described.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a notification object condition table 305B according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 12, here, notification objects “A peak cut related”, “B solar cell related”, “C setting related”, “D target achievement rate related”, and “E easy amount related” are displayed respectively. A table in which the content of the message to be displayed is associated with the display condition and the end condition is shown. Here, the displayed message content is, for example, static message information that is not affected by information regarding power consumption input from the outside after the message is displayed, and is input from the outside even after the display. Dynamic message information that is updated from time to time based on information about power consumption is not included. It is assumed that the content of the static message information is predetermined. Note that a part of the message content may be static message information that is processed and edited including numerical data such as a result value related to power management calculated based on information related to power consumption or the name of an appliance. good.

  Specifically, as an example, “A peak cut related” has multiple messages “A-1 The electricity used is likely to exceed the target soon.” “A-2 The electricity used is the target. "Would you like to search for home appliances that could save electricity?" And "A-3 Electricity used has decreased from the target." Display conditions for displaying each message. It is shown.

  Specifically, the display condition of the notification object including the message “A-1” is satisfied when the rate up to the set peak power value exceeds a predetermined value. Further, when the set peak power value is exceeded, the display condition of the notification object including the message “A-2” is satisfied. When the peak power value becomes equal to or smaller than the predetermined value after exceeding the set peak power value, the notification object display condition including the message “A-3” is satisfied.

  In addition, an end condition is indicated. Specifically, the notification object including the message “A-1” exceeds the set peak power value when the set peak power value is exceeded or exceeds the predetermined value. If the peak power value becomes equal to or less than the predetermined value after the completion, the notification object termination condition is satisfied. Moreover, the notification object including the message “A-2” satisfies the termination condition of the notification object when the peak power value becomes equal to or lower than the predetermined value after exceeding the predetermined value of the set peak power value. In addition, the notification object including the message “A-3” satisfies the termination condition of the notification object when the rate up to the set peak power value exceeds a predetermined value.

  As shown in this example, when the end condition of the notification object including the message “A-1” and the display condition of the notification object including the message “A-2” are associated with each other, If the end condition is satisfied, the other display condition is satisfied. That is, it is determined whether the message “A-1” needs to be updated, and when it is determined that the message needs to be updated, the display of the notification object including the message “A-1” is finished. A notification object including a message “A-2” is newly displayed.

  In "B solar cell related", there are multiple messages "B-1 Electricity will be sold soon. Would you like to save more power?" "B-2 Would you like to confirm the current power generation performance?" “B-3 Exceeded maximum power generation so far!” Is provided in advance, and display conditions for displaying each message are shown.

  Specifically, the display condition of the notification object including the message “B-1” is satisfied when the purchased power is equal to or less than a predetermined amount. When the day ends (20:00 o'clock), the notification object display condition including the message “B-2” is satisfied. In addition, when the maximum power generation amount is updated and when the end of the day is reached (20:00), the display condition of the notification object including the message “B-3” is satisfied.

  In addition, an end condition is shown. Specifically, the notification object including the message “B-1” is switched to the power sale state or when the purchased power becomes a predetermined amount or more. The termination condition for the notification object is satisfied. In addition, the notification object including the messages “B-2” and “B-3” satisfies the end condition of the notification object at 0:00 on the night of the occurrence date.

  Since “C setting-related”, “D target achievement rate-related”, and “E medium amount related” are the same methods as described above, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  If the end condition is not indicated, it may not be ended unless the user deletes it, or it is determined that the condition is satisfied when the end condition is the next day. Anyway.

  In the notification object table 305A described above, an ID indicating a corresponding message is registered when the display condition is satisfied. Furthermore, the message content to be displayed is also registered.

  Also, identification information (ID) is assigned to each message, and in this example, as an example, the case where identification information (ID) “001” to “013” is assigned is shown. ing. The identification information number and the notification object are associated with each other. For example, identification information (ID) “001” to “003” is associated with “A peak cut related”. Further, identification information (ID) “004” to “006” is associated with “B solar cell related”. The identification information (ID) “007” and “008” is associated with “C setting related”. The identification information (ID) “009” to “011” is associated with “D target achievement rate related”. Further, the identification information (ID) “012” and “013” are associated with “E measurable amount related”.

  Therefore, the summary object is also specified according to the identification information (ID). That is, for example, when identification information (ID) “001” is registered as a notification object, a summary object corresponding to “A peak cut related” is displayed as a notification object together with a message object (message content).

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating processing for confirming establishment of the notification condition according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 13, first, in step S100, the notification object table 305A is referred to, and it is determined whether or not the end condition is satisfied based on the notification object condition table 305B (step S100). Specifically, with reference to the notification object table 305A, it is determined whether or not the termination condition is satisfied according to the acquired information regarding the power consumption regarding the notification object of the message corresponding to the registered identification information (ID). To do.

  For example, as described above, when the notification object including the message “A-1” corresponding to the identification information (ID) “001” is registered in the notification object table 305A, according to the acquired information on the power consumption. When the set peak power value is exceeded, it is determined that the end condition is satisfied.

  If it is determined in step S100 that the end condition is satisfied based on the notification object condition table 305B (step S102), the deletion update process of the notification object table 305A is executed (step S102). Specifically, data related to the corresponding notification object registered in the notification object table 305A is deleted.

  For example, as described above, when the notification object including the message “A-1” corresponding to the identification information (ID) “001” is registered in the notification object table 305A, according to the acquired information on the power consumption. When the set peak power value is exceeded, data related to the notification object is deleted from the table. By deleting a notification object that does not require notification of a message from the notification object table 305A by this processing, it is possible to notify only a message (information) that leads to an energy saving / power saving action useful for the user.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the end condition is not satisfied (NO in step S100), the display condition is newly satisfied based on the notification object condition table 305B with reference to the notification object table 305A. It is determined whether or not (step S104). Specifically, referring to the notification object table 305A, for the notification object of the message corresponding to the unregistered identification information (ID), it is determined whether the display condition is satisfied according to the acquired information regarding power consumption. To do.

  For example, when it is determined that the set peak power value has been exceeded according to the acquired information on power consumption, the display condition of the notification object including the message “A-2” is satisfied based on the above-described condition table 305B. to decide.

  If it is determined in step S104 that the display condition is newly satisfied based on the notification object condition table 305B with reference to the notification object table 305A (YES in step S104), the notification object table 305A is added. Update processing is executed (step S106). Details of the additional update process of the notification object table 305A will be described later.

  For example, as described above, when the display condition is satisfied, identification information (ID) “002” corresponding to the notification object including the message “A-2” is added to the notification object table 305A. The message content and flag information are set to unread. A notification object that needs to be notified of a message by this process is additionally updated in the notification object table 305A, so that it is possible to notify a message (information) that leads to an energy saving / power saving action useful for the user. Note that the number of notification objects to be added is not limited to one, and a plurality of notification objects may be additionally updated as long as display conditions are satisfied.

  Next, it is set that the notification condition is satisfied (step S108). With this setting, the message notification screen display process is executed as described above.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S104 that the display condition is newly not satisfied based on the notification object condition table 305B with reference to the notification object table 305A (NO in step S104), the notification condition is satisfied. Since the process has not been completed, the process is terminated (return).

  In this example, with reference to the notification object table 305A, whether or not the display condition is satisfied according to the acquired information on the power consumption regarding the notification object of the message corresponding to the identification information (ID) that is not registered. However, the present invention is not limited to identification information (ID) that is not registered. That is, according to the acquired information on power consumption, it is determined only whether the display condition is satisfied, and if necessary, the notification object of the message corresponding to the same identification information (ID) is displayed, and the user You may make it call attention to.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating additional update processing of notification object table 305A according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 14, first, the number of notification objects to be added is confirmed (step S110). Specifically, the number of notification objects that satisfy the display condition is confirmed.

  Next, it is determined whether there is a free area necessary for registration in the notification object table 305A (step S112). The notification object table 305A in this example can register data regarding a finite number of notification objects, and notification objects exceeding the set number cannot be registered, so whether or not there is a free area for registration. to decide.

  If it is determined in step S112 that there is a free area in the notification object table 305A (YES in step S112), an additional process is executed on the notification object table 305A (step S114).

Then, the process ends (return).
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S112 that there is no free space in the notification object table 305A (NO in step S112), the notification object is deleted based on the read and priority (step S116). Specifically, as an example, the read notification object is preferentially deleted. However, when there are a plurality of read notification objects, the notification object having a low priority is deleted according to the priority. If it is not possible to secure a free area in the notification object table 305A simply by deleting a read notification object, an unread notification object with a low priority is deleted according to the priority. The deletion method is not limited to the method, and can be changed as appropriate.

  Then, after the free space is secured, in step S114, additional processing is executed on the notification object table 305A (step S114). Specifically, identification information (ID), message content, and flag information (unread) corresponding to a message that satisfies the display condition are registered.

Then, the process ends (return).
With this processing, the notification object table 305A can be set, and a message notification screen can be displayed using the notification object table 305A.

<Message notification screen display processing (part 1)>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a message notification screen display process (No. 1) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  With reference to FIG. 15, first, the notification object table 305A is referred to (step S30).

  Next, layer allocation processing is executed according to the notification object table 305A (step S32). When a plurality of notification objects are registered in the notification object table 305A, the notification objects are arranged in a plurality of layers having a stacked structure provided corresponding to the plurality of notification objects (up to four as an example). Details of the layer assignment processing will be described later.

Next, the display order setting process for the assigned layer is executed (step S34).
Next, a message notification screen is displayed according to the display order (step S36). As an example, the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG. 5 is displayed.

  Next, the notification object table 305A is updated (step S38). Specifically, in the notification object table 305A, the status of the notification object arranged in the highest layer having the highest display order is updated from unread to read. This is because the uppermost layer having the highest display order is displayed in a state where the user can recognize the entire surface of the notification object arranged in the layer. Specifically, when the status of the notification object table 305A is unread for the fourth notification object 602 displayed on the message notification screen 600 described in FIG. 5, it is updated to read. If the status of the corresponding notification object in the notification object table 305A has already been read, the status is not updated.

Then, the process proceeds to the next process (CC).
<Layer stack structure when executing layer assignment processing>
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a layered structure of layers according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 16, the layer structure of the message notification screen according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided according to the number of notification objects to be displayed extracted from notification object table 305A.

  Specifically, when the number of notification objects to be displayed extracted from the notification object table 305A is four, four layers are provided. In this example, the case where the 1st-4th layer 702-708 is provided as an example is shown.

  And in each layer, a notification object is arranged based on information about the extracted notification object, and an area for arranging the notification object is designated in advance for each layer, and an area for arranging the notification object is: Different in the XY coordinate system.

  The display order of the plurality of layers is shown as a case where the display order is given priority in the order of the first to fourth layers 702 to 708 as an initial state. Specifically, the fourth layer 708 is set to display order (1), the third layer 706 is set to display order (2), the second layer 704 is set to display order (3), and the first layer 702 is set to display order (4). The case has been shown. The notification objects in which the respective layers are arranged are displayed according to the display order. The display order can be changed, and the order is changed as necessary.

  Each notification object is provided with an area for displaying an icon object indicating an outline of information related to power management of the appliance and a message object indicating the notification content, and a lower layer (for example, in the XY coordinate system (for example, The notification object of the upper layer (for example, the second layer) is arranged at a position where the icon object indicating the outline of the information (message) related to the power management of the appliance of the notification object arranged in the first layer can be recognized.

  Specifically, the first notification object 618 is arranged in the first area 710 of the first layer 702, taking the first to fourth notification objects 618, 616, 612, and 602 of FIG. In the second layer 704, the second notification object 616 is arranged in the second area 712 having a position different from that of the first area 710. Similarly, the third notification object 612 is arranged in the third area 714 in the third layer 706. In the fourth layer 708, the fourth notification object 602 is arranged in the fourth area 716.

  The first area 710, the second area 712, and the third area 714 have different positions, but are set so that the areas partially overlap. The second area 712 is set so that the areas overlap with each other, although the positions of the second area 712 are different from those of the third area 714 and the fourth area 716. The third area 714 has a position different from that of the fourth area 716 but is set so that the areas partially overlap.

  The position of each area provided in each layer indicates the outline of information (message) related to the power management of the appliance of the notification object arranged in the lower layer (for example, the first layer) when the notification object is arranged. The notification object of the upper layer (for example, the second layer) is set so as to be arranged at a position where the icon object shown can be recognized.

  Then, after the notification object is arranged in the area, the message notification screen shown in FIG. 5 is displayed by being displayed according to the display order.

  In this regard, when the message notification screen is displayed according to the display order shown in FIG. 16, the display area of the third notification object 612 arranged in the third area 714 of the display order (2) is the display order (3 ), (4) The positions of the areas provided in the respective layers are set so as to be larger than the display areas of the second notification object 616 and the first notification object 618 arranged in the second area 712 and the first area 710. Has been. That is, the position of the area provided in each layer is set so that the notification object of the middle order display layer is larger than the display area of the notification object of the lower layer.

  With the setting of the area, as shown in FIG. 5, the second notification object 616 is arranged so as to overlap the first notification object 618 and the outline object of the first notification object 618 can be recognized. That is, the second notification object 616 is arranged and displayed so that at least a part is displayed. Similarly, the third notification object 612 is arranged so as to overlap the second notification object 616, and the outline object of the second notification object 616 is recognizable, that is, at least a part is displayed. The third notification object 612 is arranged and displayed so that Similarly, the fourth notification object 602 is arranged so as to overlap the third notification object 612, and the outline object of the third notification object 612 is recognizable, that is, at least a part is displayed. The fourth notification object 602 is arranged and displayed so that

  Therefore, even if the message content of the notification object placed in the lower layer is not displayed, the user can display a part of the summary object of the notification object placed in the lower layer so that it can be recognized. Therefore, by identifying the outline object, it is possible to grasp the outline of the message contents of the notification object arranged in the lower layer.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5, a case is shown in which the trophy is displayed as a recognizable part as a part of the outline object of the third notification object 612, and from this display, the third notification object 612 is displayed. It is possible to easily recognize that the third notification object 612 is a notification regarding the message content related to the goal achievement rate corresponding to the trophy.

  Similarly, the case where the leaves of the plant are displayed to a level that can be recognized as a part of the outline object of the second notification object 616 is shown, and the outline object of the second notification object 616 is identified from the display. Then, the second notification object 616 can easily grasp that the notification is related to the message content related to the solar cell corresponding to the leaf of the plant.

  Similarly, as a part of the summary object of the first notification object 618, a case where the piggy bank is displayed to an extent that can be recognized is shown. From the display, the summary object of the first notification object 618 is displayed. By identifying, it is possible to easily grasp that the first notification object 618 is a notification regarding the message content regarding the amount of money corresponding to the pig money box.

  Thereby, for example, even in the case of a notification object with a lower display order, since a part of the summary object of the notification object is displayed in a recognizable state, the summary of the notification object can be easily obtained. It is possible to grasp, and the user can easily select a notification object to be confirmed according to the user's interest or the like, such as which information is to be preferentially confirmed according to the grasped content. In other words, on the message notification screen that notifies messages (information) that lead to energy-saving and power-saving behavior, even if multiple messages are notified, the user can present an overview of each message so that the user can easily grasp the outline. There is a merit to work in the point of encouraging energy saving and power saving action.

<Layer assignment processing>
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating layer allocation processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 17, first, priority order setting processing is executed (step S70). Details of the priority setting process will be described later.

  Then, a notification object is extracted according to the set priority order (step S71). In this example, information on up to four notification objects is extracted from the notification object table 305A as the number of notification objects to be extracted. If the number of pieces of information related to the notification object registered in the notification object 305A is smaller than that, all the information is extracted.

  Next, the object is arranged at a predetermined position of the corresponding layer in accordance with the set priority order (step S72).

Then, the process ends (return).
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating details of priority setting processing according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 18, in the priority order setting process, first, it is determined whether or not there is an unread notification object in notification object table 305A (step S80).

  Specifically, it is determined whether there is an unread notification object in the status associated with the registered notification object in the notification object table 305A.

  Next, when it is determined in step S80 that there are unread notification objects (YES in step S80), it is determined whether there are a plurality of unread notification objects (step S82).

  If it is determined in step S82 that there are a plurality of unread notification objects (YES in step S82), priorities are set according to the priorities for the unread notification objects (step S84). The priority is a preset priority for the notification object described in FIG.

  Then, priorities are set according to the priorities for the remaining read notification objects (step S86).

Then, the process ends (return).
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S82 that there are not a plurality of unread notification objects (NO in step S82), the priority of the unread notification objects is set to (1) (step S88).

  Then, priorities are set according to the priorities for the remaining read notification objects (step S86).

Then, the process ends (return).
If it is determined in step S80 that there is no unread notification object (NO in step S80), that is, if it is determined that all are read notification objects, then whether there are a plurality of read notification objects or not. It is determined whether or not (step S90).

  If it is determined in step S90 that there are a plurality of already-read notification objects (YES in step S90), the priority is set according to the priority for the read notification object (step S86).

Then, the process ends (return).
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S90 that there are not a plurality of read notification objects (NO in step S90), the priority is set to (1) for the read notification object (step S92).

Then, the process ends (return).
With this processing, it is possible to set the priority order of the notification objects stored in the notification object table 305A. Then, according to the priority order, a maximum number of four notification objects, that is, information on the notification objects corresponding to the higher priority orders (1) to (4) are extracted, and the notification object is sent to a predetermined layer according to the above-described layer allocation process. Can be arranged.

  For example, in the notification object table 305A described with reference to FIG. 11, notification objects of messages corresponding to identification information (ID) “012”, “005”, “009”, “008” are registered. As the status of the object, read, read, unread, and unread states are registered.

  Therefore, according to the above flow, the unread notification object is prioritized, and the identification information (ID) “008” is set to the priority (1) based on the priority. Next, the identification information (ID) “009” is set to the priority order (2). Next, the identification information (ID) “005” is set to the priority order (3). Next, the identification information (ID) “012” is set to the priority order (4).

  Thereby, according to the priority order, the notification object is arranged in a predetermined layer according to the above-described layer allocation processing, and the message notification screen 600 of FIG. 5 is displayed.

<Message notification screen display process (2)>
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating message notification screen display processing (part 2) according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 19, after updating notification object table 305A (CC), it is next determined whether or not there is an operation input on the message notification screen (step S40).

  If it is determined in step S40 that there is an operation input on the message notification screen (YES in step S40), it is determined whether or not the end button has been pressed (step S42). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the end button 610 provided on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S42 that the end button has been pressed (YES in step S42), the process ends (return). When the end button 610 provided on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG. 5 is pressed, the display process of the message notification screen 600 ends and the home appliance monitor screen 500 is displayed again.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S42 that the end button has not been pressed (NO in step S42), it is determined whether or not the delete button has been pressed (step S44). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the delete button 607 provided in the fourth notification object 602 displayed on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S44 that the delete button has been pressed (YES in step S44), the notification object table 305A is updated (step S46). Specifically, the data in the notification object table 305A is deleted for the fourth notification object 602 displayed on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG. Then, the process proceeds to the next process (AA). Specifically, the process returns to step S30 in FIG. Accordingly, the updated message notification screen is displayed by referring to the notification object table 305A, the layer allocation process, and the like again. That is, only the first to third notification objects 618, 616, and 612 are displayed on the message notification screen in the case of FIG.

  On the other hand, if information about the fifth notification object corresponding to the priority (5) is registered in the notification object table 305A, the priority is advanced, and according to the same method as described above, A new fifth notification object is displayed on the message notification screen.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S44 that the delete button has not been pressed (NO in step S44), it is determined whether or not the “detail” button has been pressed (step S48). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the “detail” button 608 provided in the fourth notification object 602 displayed on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG. 5 has been pressed.

  If it is determined in step S48 that the “details” button has been pressed (YES in step S48), a detail screen for displaying the detailed contents regarding the notification object is displayed (step S50). The details screen will be described later.

  Next, when it is determined in step S48 that the “details” button has not been pressed (NO in step S48), it is determined whether or not a notification object having a lower display order has been selected (step S52). Specifically, it is determined whether any of the first to third notification objects 618, 616, and 612 displayed on the message notification screen 600 described with reference to FIG.

  If it is determined in step S52 that a notification object with a lower display order has been selected (YES in step S52), the display order is updated (step S54). Specifically, the display order of the layer in which the selected notification object is arranged is set to (1), and the display order of the remaining layers is reset (updated) according to the previous display order.

  Then, the process proceeds to the next process (BB). Specifically, the process returns to step S36 in FIG. Therefore, the updated message notification screen is displayed according to the updated display order. For example, when the third notification object 612 is selected as shown in FIG. 7, the display order of the notification object is updated, the display order of the layer in which the third notification object 612 is arranged becomes (1), and the fourth The display order of the layer in which the notification object 602 is arranged is set to (2). The other display order of the second notification object 616 and the first notification object 618 is displayed in the same order.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S52 that a notification object having a lower display order has not been selected (NO in step S52), it is determined that the operation input is invalid, and the process returns to step S40.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S40 that there is no operation input (NO in step S40), a process for confirming whether the notification condition is satisfied is then executed (step S64).

Specifically, processing for confirming the establishment of the notification condition described in FIG. 13 is executed.
Next, in step S66, it is determined whether the notification condition is satisfied (step S66).

  If it is determined in step S66 that the notification condition is satisfied (YES in step S66), the process proceeds to the next process (AA). Specifically, the process returns to step S30 in FIG.

  Accordingly, the updated message notification screen is displayed by referring to the notification object table 305A, the layer allocation process, and the like again. Since the notification condition is satisfied, a new notification object is displayed on the message notification screen. That is, even when the message notification screen 600 is displayed, if the notification condition is confirmed and the notification condition is satisfied, the message notification screen is updated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S66 that the notification condition is not satisfied (NO in step S66), it is determined whether a predetermined period has elapsed since the message notification screen was displayed (step S56). For example, it is assumed that 5 minutes is set as an example of the predetermined period.

  If it is determined in step S56 that the predetermined period has elapsed since the message notification screen was displayed (YES in step S56), the notification object table 305A is referred to (step S58).

  Next, with reference to the notification object table 305A, it is determined whether there is a notification object having an unread status (step S60).

  If it is determined in step S60 that a notification object having an unread status exists (YES in step S60), the display order is updated (step S62). Specifically, the display order of notification objects that are in an unread status is set to (1). When there are a plurality of unread notification objects, the display order may be set to (1) in order according to the priority.

  Then, the process proceeds to the next process (BB). Specifically, the process proceeds to step S36 in FIG. Therefore, the updated message notification screen is displayed according to the updated display order. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the status of the third notification object 612 is unread, the display order of the notification object is updated, and the display order of the layer in which the third notification object 612 is arranged becomes (1). The display order of the layer in which the fourth notification object 602 is arranged is set to (2). The other display order of the second notification object 616 and the first notification object 618 is displayed in the same order.

  As a result of this processing, when a predetermined period has elapsed, the display order of notification objects having an unread status arranged in a lower layer is updated, and the display order becomes (1), so that there is no user operation. Since it is possible to present an unread notification object to the user, it is convenient for the user.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S56 that the predetermined period has not elapsed (NO in step S56), or if it is determined in step S60 that there is no notification object having an unread status (NO in step S60). Returns to step S40.

<Detailed explanation>
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating another message notification screen displayed on display 102 of home controller 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 20, here, message notification screen 600 # is shown as an example.

  Specifically, the notification object 630 is displayed on the message notification screen 600 #, and the “detail” button 634 is provided on the notification object 630.

  Here, as the message object content in the notification object 630, “the home appliance most saved from the previous month is an air conditioner. It was a saving of about 300 yen (the amount is easy to pay)”.

  Then, by pressing the “details” button 634, the screen transitions to a screen where the detailed content can be confirmed.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a detailed screen according to the embodiment of the present invention.
With reference to FIG. 21, as an example, a graph of power consumption in August 2011 is shown as a screen for confirming the detailed contents. Specifically, the power consumption of each day for the home appliance “air conditioner” saved in relation to FIG. 20 is shown in a bar graph, and it is possible to grasp in detail the transition of power consumption for one month It is. The line graph shows the change in power consumption for each day of the previous month.

  As a comparison between this month and the previous month, the total amount of electricity and the approximate amount of money are compared. Specifically, the total power amount of the previous month (July) is 135 kwh, the approximate amount is 2835 yen, the total power amount of this month (August) is 120 kwh, and the approximate amount is 2535 yen. The difference in the approximate amount is 300 yen.

  In addition, in this example, although the case where the detailed screen about household appliance "air conditioner" was displayed was demonstrated as an example, it is naturally possible to display about the detailed screen of another household appliance. That is, on the detailed screen, it is possible to display data related to dynamic power consumption in the home appliances 200A to 200E, for example, power consumption or power consumption.

<Specific example of notification object>
In the above-described example, the notification object is used as the object form. However, the notification object is not limited to this form, and various forms can be used.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a modification of the form of the notification object according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 22A, another form of the whipping is shown, and it is possible to make the wiping out like a cloud.

  Further, the notification object may be displayed in a form like a card as shown in FIG.

  Alternatively, not only a planar object but also a three-dimensional notification object can be displayed as shown in FIG.

  The said form is an example and it is also possible to use the notification object which has the form of an image, such as a petal, a star shape, a hand, and a face.

[Other embodiments]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the network system 1 according to the above-described embodiment, the home appliances 200 </ b> A to 200 </ b> E measure power consumption and transmit data related to power consumption to the home controller 100. On the other hand, in network system 1 # according to the present embodiment, home appliances 200A to 200E do not transmit data related to power consumption to home controller 100. That is, instead of the home appliances 200A to 200E, a communication device attached to an outlet for supplying power to the home appliances 200A to 200E measures the power consumption of each of the home appliances 200A to 200E, and the data related to the power consumption is sent to the home controller. 100 is transmitted.

<Another example of overall configuration of network system>
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of network system 1 # according to the modification of the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 23, network system 1 # according to the modification of the embodiment of the present invention is installed, for example, in a house or an office. Network system 1 # includes home appliances (electric appliances) such as an air conditioner 200A, a television 200B, a microwave oven 200C, a refrigerator 200D, and a light 200E.

  Network system 1 # includes a solar power generation device 200X, a storage battery 200Y, and a power conditioner 200Z for controlling them.

  In network system 1 # according to the modification of the embodiment of the present invention, communication device 400A for air conditioner 200A is installed between air conditioner 200A and the outlet of air conditioner 200A. In other words, communication device 400A is plugged into an outlet of air conditioner 200A, and adapter 250A of air conditioner 200A is plugged into communication device 400A. Similarly, a communication device 400B for the television 200B is installed between the television 200B and the outlet of the television 200B. In other words, communication device 400B is plugged into the outlet of television 200B, and adapter 250B of television 200B is plugged into communication device 400B. A communication device 400C for the microwave oven 200C is installed between the microwave oven 200C and the outlet of the microwave oven 200C. In other words, the communication device 400C is plugged into the outlet of the microwave oven 200C, and the adapter 250C of the microwave oven 200C is plugged into the communication device 400C. Communication device 400D for refrigerator 200D is installed between refrigerator 200D and the outlet of refrigerator 200D. In other words, the communication device 400D is plugged into the outlet of the refrigerator 200D, and the adapter 250D of the refrigerator 200D is plugged into the communication device 400D. A communication device 400E for the light 200E is installed between the light 200E and the outlet of the light 200E. In other words, the communication device 400E is plugged into the outlet of the light 200E, and the adapter 250E of the light 200E is plugged into the communication device 400E.

  Network system 1 # includes home controller 100 for controlling home appliances 200A to 200E, solar power generation device 200X, storage battery 200Y, power conditioner 200Z for controlling them, and the like. The home controller 100 can perform data communication with the home appliances 200A to 200E, the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 200X, the storage battery 200Y, and the power conditioner 200Z for controlling them via a wired or wireless network 401. The home controller 100 uses, for example, a wireless LAN, ZigBee (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wired LAN (Local Area Network), or PLC (Power Line Communications) as the network 401. The home controller 100 may be portable, may be detachable from a base placed on a table, or may be fixed to a wall of a room.

  In network system 1 # according to the present embodiment, home controller 100 obtains power consumption of home appliances 200A to 200E via communication devices 400A to 400E, as compared to network system 1 according to the above-described embodiment. Is different. Other configurations are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof will not be repeated. In the configuration of the network system 1 #, it is possible to execute the same processing as described above.

  In the present example, the configuration in which the home controller 100 performs data communication with each electrical appliance to acquire data has been mainly described. However, a server that collects data (not shown) is provided, and the server is connected to each electrical appliance. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which data is accumulated through data communication, and the home controller 100 acquires the data accumulated in the server.

<Modified example of program>
The processing according to the above-described embodiment is realized by software that executes the CPU 110. Such software may be stored in the memory 101 in advance. The software may be stored in a storage medium and distributed as a program product. Alternatively, the software may be provided as a program product that can be downloaded by an information provider connected to the so-called Internet.

  Such software is read from the storage medium by using a reading device (not shown), or downloaded by using the communication interface 105 and temporarily stored in the memory 101. The CPU 110 stores the software in the form of an executable program in the memory 101 and then executes the program. Note that the storage medium and the program can be realized in the same manner as the recording medium and program according to the home controller 100.

[Still another embodiment]
It goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied to a case where it is achieved by supplying a program to the home controller 100, the home appliances 200A to 200E, other mobile phones, and the like. Then, a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer of the system or apparatus (or CPU or MPU (Micro Processing Unit)) is stored in the storage medium. The effect described in the above-described embodiment can also be obtained by reading and executing the program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code However, it is needless to say that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 network system, 100 home controller, 101, 201 memory, 102 display, 103 tablet, 105, 205 communication interface, 106 touch panel, 107 speaker, 108 clock, 110, 210 CPU, 200A air conditioner, 200B TV, 200C microwave oven, 200D Refrigerator, 200E light, 200X solar power generation device, 200Y storage battery, 200Z power conditioner, 207 air conditioning unit, 209 sensor.

Claims (15)

A power management device for managing the power of an appliance,
A display unit;
An operation input unit that operates according to the display content of the display unit;
A controller for controlling display contents to be displayed on the display unit;
A memory for storing a plurality of objects associated with a plurality of predetermined conditions, respectively, for presenting information related to power management of the appliance via the display unit;
The controller is
When at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, a corresponding object stored in the memory is displayed,
In the case of displaying a plurality of objects, the plurality of objects are respectively arranged on a plurality of layers of a laminated structure provided corresponding to the plurality of objects,
The position of the plurality of objects is different for each of the layers, and the object of the upper layer is disposed at a position where the outline of the information regarding the power management of the appliance of the object disposed in the lower layer can be recognized. Power management device. The controller is
When displaying the plurality of objects, set the priority order of the plurality of objects according to a predetermined method,
The power management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of objects are respectively arranged on the plurality of layers according to a predetermined display order according to a set priority order. The controller is
When the plurality of objects are displayed on the display unit, it is determined whether there is a selection for one of the plurality of objects from the user,
The power management apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when there is a selection, the display order is changed so that the layer on which the selected object is arranged is the highest layer. Each of the objects can be set to valid / invalid, and an erasure object that receives an end of display of the object according to an instruction is provided.
4. The power management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller effectively sets only an erasure object of an object arranged in the highest layer in the display order among the plurality of objects. 5.   The power management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein static message information related to power management of the electric appliance is displayed in each object. Each object is provided with a detailed object capable of receiving an instruction to acquire detailed information regarding power management of the appliance.
The controller is
Determine whether there is acceptance for the detailed object,
The power management apparatus according to claim 5, wherein when it is determined that the information has been received, dynamic information related to power management of the electric appliance is displayed on the display unit. The controller is
Determining whether at least one of the plurality of objects needs to update static message information regarding power management of the appliance being presented;
If you decide that you need to update, stop displaying the corresponding object that is displayed,
The power management apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the corresponding object including updated static message information related to power management of the appliance is displayed. When displaying the first to third objects as the plurality of objects, they are arranged on the upper, middle and lower layers according to the display order,
The area of the second object arranged in the middle layer partially overlaps the area of the first object arranged in the upper layer,
The region of the third object arranged in the lower layer partially overlaps the regions of the first and second objects arranged in the upper and middle layers, respectively. The power management device according to any one of the above.   The first to third objects are arranged so that the display area of the second object arranged in the middle layer is equal to or larger than the display area of the third object arranged in the lower layer. The power management apparatus according to claim 8.   The controller changes a display order of the plurality of layers provided corresponding to each of the plurality of objects when a predetermined condition is satisfied when the plurality of objects are displayed on the display unit. The power management apparatus according to claim 1.   The object includes a first object associated with a summary of information regarding power management of the appliance of the object, and a second object presenting message information regarding power management of the appliance. The power management apparatus according to any one of the above.   The said controller arrange | positions the object of the said upper layer so that at least one part of the 1st object arrange | positioned at the said lower layer may be displayed when displaying the said several object. Power management device. A power management device for managing the power of an appliance,
A display unit;
An operation input unit that operates according to the display content of the display unit;
A controller for controlling display contents to be displayed on the display unit;
A memory for storing a plurality of objects associated with a plurality of predetermined conditions, respectively, for presenting information related to power management of the appliance via the display unit;
The controller is
When at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, a corresponding object stored in the memory is displayed,
When displaying multiple objects, display the multiple objects so that they overlap each other.
A power management apparatus that displays the positions of the plurality of objects so as to be different for each object, and displays the upper object so that an outline of information regarding power management of the appliance of the lower object can be recognized. A control method of a power management apparatus that has a display unit and manages power of an electric appliance,
Determining whether at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied;
When at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, a plurality of items associated with the plurality of predetermined conditions, respectively, for presenting information related to power management of the electric appliance via the display unit Displaying a corresponding object with reference to a memory storing the object of
The displaying step includes
When displaying the plurality of objects, placing the plurality of objects on a plurality of layers of a laminated structure provided corresponding to the plurality of objects, respectively;
The step of arranging the objects of the upper layer at positions where the outline of the information regarding the power management of the appliances of the objects arranged in the lower layer is recognizable while the positions of the plurality of objects are different for each layer A method for controlling the power management apparatus. A control program for a power management apparatus for managing the power of an appliance having a display unit, the computer,
Determining whether at least one of a plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied;
When at least one of the plurality of predetermined conditions is satisfied, a plurality of items associated with the plurality of predetermined conditions, respectively, for presenting information related to power management of the electric appliance via the display unit Displaying a corresponding object with reference to a memory storing the object of
The displaying step includes
When displaying the plurality of objects, placing the plurality of objects on a plurality of layers of a laminated structure provided corresponding to the plurality of objects, respectively;
The step of arranging the objects of the upper layer at positions where the outline of the information regarding the power management of the appliances of the objects arranged in the lower layer is recognizable while the positions of the plurality of objects are different for each layer A control program for a power management apparatus that executes processing.

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