JP2020150410A - Information processing system and information input/output device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an information processing system that can add an extended function other than a pre-installed basic function to an information input/output device, and can cause the information input/output device to execute the extended function in conjunction with a server device.SOLUTION: In an information processing system, when an input receiving unit is instructed by a user to execute a predetermined extended function, an information input/output device 20 transmits information on the extended function to a server device 1 and causes the server device 1 to process the information on the specific extended function received from the information input/output device 20. The server device 1 execute proposal information transmission processing to determine whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function already additionally set in the information input/output device 20 on the basis of predetermined reference information, and transmit propose information prompting the execution of the extended function determined to be executed to the information input/output device 20, and the information input/output device 20 executes proposal information output processing to output the proposal information received from the server device 1 to the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention comprises an output unit that performs information communication with an operating device installed in a facility and outputs information on the operation of the operating device to a user, and a user related to the operation of the operating device. An information input / output device including an input receiving unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation inputs is provided, and the information input / output device is configured to enable information communication with a server device via an information communication network. The functions that can be executed by the input / output device include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device, and are unique to the user when the information input / output device executes the basic function. The switch operation of is set in advance in a state in which the processing performed by the information input / output device with respect to the basic function is associated with the switch operation, and the switch operation is performed with any of the plurality of the operation target switches. The present invention relates to an information processing system defined in combination with an operation input method for the operation target switch, and an information input / output device used in the information processing system.

Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-219000) includes an information input / output device (remote control 2) that performs information communication with an operating device (heat source device 1a) installed in a facility, and the information input / output device is provided. As the device, a system capable of information communication with a server device (server 3) via an information communication network is described.

The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include the basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device. For example, in the case of a remote controller in which the operating device 10 is a water heater and the information input / output device 20 is provided attached to the water heater, there are basic functions such as a hot water supply execution function, a bath hot water filling function, and a bath reheating function. Then, the remote controller has an "operation on / off" switch for switching the execution / stop of the hot water supply execution function, a "bath automatic" switch for instructing the start of bath hot water filling, and a command for instructing the start of bath reheating. When an operation target switch such as the "removal" switch is provided and a predetermined operation input (for example, one short-time press operation) is performed on each operation target switch, the remote controller executes each function. Is determined to have been ordered.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-219000

It is preferable that an extended function other than the above basic function can be added to the information input / output device. However, when an extended function that is not installed in advance is added to the information input / output device, an operation target switch for the user to command the execution of the extended function is also required.
Further, if the information input / output device can construct a system that executes the extended function in conjunction with the external server device, it is preferable that the high performance of the server device can be used.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to add an extended function different from the pre-installed basic functions to the information input / output device, and the information input / output device is an external server. The point is to provide an information processing system capable of executing an extended function in conjunction with the device, and an information input / output device used in the information processing system.

The characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention for achieving the above object is to perform information communication with an operating device installed in a facility and output information on the operation of the operating device to a user. An information input / output device including an output unit for performing the above operation and an input receiving unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation inputs by the user regarding the operation of the operating device.
The information input / output device is configured to enable information communication with a server device via an information communication network.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device.
A state in which the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the basic function and the processing performed by the information input / output device regarding the basic function are set in advance. Has been
The switch operation is an information processing system defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of the switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include an extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function, and the said regarding the extended function. It is additionally set in a state associated with the processing performed by the information input / output device, and the server device stores that the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function. Send to the server device
The server device is configured to process information about the specific extended function received from the information input / output device.
Based on the predetermined reference information, the server device determines whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function already additionally set in the information input / output device, and determines that it is preferable to execute the extended function. Proposal information transmission processing for transmitting the proposal information prompting the execution of the extended function to the information input / output device is performed.
The information input / output device is in that it performs a proposal information output process for outputting the proposal information received from the server device to the user.

According to the above feature configuration, the information input / output device can be additionally equipped with an extended function different from the basic function installed in the information input / output device. When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function and the information input / output device regarding the extended function. Additional settings are made in association with the processing performed in. As a result, when the input receiving unit receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device can determine that the execution of the extended function is instructed without being confused with the basic function.
In addition, when the input / output device receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function to the server. It is transmitted to the device, and the server device performs processing related to a specific extended function received from the information input / output device. Therefore, an extended function other than the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input / output device, and the information input / output device can provide an information processing system capable of executing the extended function in cooperation with an external server device. ..

Further, it is preferable that the server device is executed by the user based on the predetermined reference information even if the execution of the extended function already set in the information input / output device is not instructed. Proposal information transmission processing is performed to determine whether or not the proposal information is transmitted to the information input / output device to transmit the proposal information prompting the execution of the extended function determined to be preferably executed. That is, there is an advantage that the user is encouraged to execute the extended function already set in the information input / output device at a preferable timing. Then, if the user wishes to execute the extended function, the user may perform a switch operation corresponding to the extended function.

Another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is that, as one of the extended functions, the server is provided with respect to an operating device for temperature control capable of performing at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility. There is a device control function that sends operation start and operation stop switching commands from the device.
In the proposed information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data on the environment of the facility as the reference information, and if the operating device for temperature control is started or stopped, the environment of the facility is preferable. When it is predicted that the device control function will be executed, the information input / output device determines that the device control function is preferably executed, and prompts the execution of the device control function determined to be executed. The point is to send to.

According to the above-mentioned feature configuration, as one of the extended functions, a command for switching operation start and operation stop from the server device is given to the operating device for temperature control that can perform at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility. A device control function is provided to send. By operating the switch corresponding to this device control function on the information input / output device, the user can operate the temperature control operating device without operating a dedicated remote controller or the like for controlling the temperature control operating device. Operation start and operation stop can be executed.
Furthermore, the server device analyzes the collected data on the facility environment as reference information in the proposal information transmission process, and predicts that the facility environment will approach a favorable environment if the operation device for temperature control is started or stopped. If so, it is determined that the device control function is preferably performed. That is, the user is prompted to execute the operating device for temperature control at a timing when it is preferable to start and stop the operation. Then, if the user wishes to execute the device control function, he / she may perform a switch operation corresponding to the device control function.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is, as one of the extended functions, a work request function for requesting maintenance work for the operating device to be monitored installed in the facility.
In the proposed information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data on the state of the operating device to be monitored as the reference information, and determines that it is preferable to request the maintenance work of the operating device to be monitored. When the work request function is executed, it is determined that the work request function is preferably executed, and the proposed information prompting the execution of the work request function determined to be executed is transmitted to the information input / output device. It is in.

According to the above feature configuration, as one of the extended functions, a work request function for requesting maintenance work for the operating equipment to be monitored installed in the facility is prepared. By operating the switch corresponding to this work request function on the information input / output device, the user can monitor the monitoring target even if he / she does not make a telephone call to the distributor or maintenance company of the monitoring target operating device. You can request maintenance work for the operating equipment of.
Further, when it is determined that it is preferable that the server device analyzes the collected data on the status of the operating device to be monitored as reference information in the proposal information transmission process and requests the maintenance work of the operating device to be monitored. It is determined that it is preferable that the work request function is executed. That is, even if the user is not concerned about the state of the operating device to be monitored, the user is encouraged to execute the work request function at a preferable timing. Then, if the user wishes to execute the work request function, he / she may perform a switch operation corresponding to the work request function.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is an output unit that performs information communication with an operating device installed in a facility and outputs information on the operation of the operating device to a user. An information input / output device including an input receiving unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation input by the user regarding the operation of the operating device.
The information input / output device is configured to enable information communication with a server device via an information communication network.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device.
A state in which the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the basic function and the processing performed by the information input / output device regarding the basic function are set in advance. Has been
The switch operation is an information processing system defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of the switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include an extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function, and the said regarding the extended function. Additional settings are made in association with the processing performed by the information input / output device.
When the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function. Send to the server device
The server device is configured to process information about the specific extended function received from the information input / output device.
The server device is in that it processes information about the extended function by using the collected data about the state of the operating device or the collected data about the environment of the facility.

According to the above feature configuration, the information input / output device can be additionally equipped with an extended function different from the basic function installed in the information input / output device. When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function and the information input / output device regarding the extended function. Additional settings are made in association with the processing performed in. As a result, when the input receiving unit receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device can determine that the execution of the extended function is instructed without being confused with the basic function.
In addition, when the input / output device receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function to the server. It is transmitted to the device, and the server device performs processing related to a specific extended function received from the information input / output device. Therefore, an extended function other than the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input / output device, and the information input / output device can provide an information processing system capable of executing the extended function in cooperation with an external server device. ..

In addition, the server device processes information about the extension using the collected data about the status of the operating equipment or the collected data about the environment of the facility. That is, the server device can appropriately process the information related to the extended function in consideration of the latest state of the operating device used by the user or the latest environment of the facility in which the user is active.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is, as one of the extended functions, a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device, and the specific operating device of the specific operating device. The point is that the verification result of the state is transmitted to the information input / output device so as to be output to the user in the information input / output device.
Here, the information input / output device may transmit information regarding the specific extended function to the server device and data regarding the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility to the server device. Good.

According to the above feature configuration, as one of the extended functions, a device status verification function for verifying the status of a specific operating device installed in the facility is provided. When the user commands the execution of this device status verification function, the server device analyzes the collected data related to the status of the specific operating device, and the verification result of the status of the specific operating device is the user in the information input / output device. It is transmitted to the information input / output device so that it is output to. That is, for example, when there is concern about the state of a specific operating device, the user can obtain a verification result based on the latest state of the specific operating device by operating a switch corresponding to this device state verification function. Can be done.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is, as one of the extended functions, a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the result of analyzing the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device is the specific operating device. When the content is that a problem has occurred in the above, the information on how to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device is output to the user in the information input / output device. The point is to execute the process of transmitting to the information input / output device.

According to the above-mentioned feature configuration, the user of the operating device in which the problem is occurring can receive information from the server device about how to deal with the problem in the information input / output device. As a result, it can be expected that the state of the operating device in which the problem is occurring will be improved by the user taking the countermeasure.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is, as one of the extended functions, a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the result of analyzing the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device is the specific operating device. When the content is that a problem has occurred in the above, the point is to execute a process of dealing with the problem occurring in the specific operating device.

According to the above feature configuration, it can be expected that the state of the operating device in which the problem is occurring will be improved by the server device taking the countermeasures.

Yet another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is, as one of the extended functions, with respect to an operating device for temperature control capable of performing at least one of a cooling operation and a heating operation in the facility. There is a temperature control function that sends operation control commands from the server device.
When the server device processes information related to the temperature control function set as one of the extended functions,
The collected data on the environment of the facility is analyzed, the operating conditions of the operating equipment for temperature control for bringing the environment of the facility closer to a preferable environment are determined, and the operation according to the operating conditions is performed for the temperature control. The point is that an operation control command to be performed by the operating device is transmitted to the operating device for temperature control.
Here, the information input / output device may transmit information about the extended function to the server device and data about the environment of the facility to the server device.

According to the above-mentioned feature configuration, as one of the extended functions, the temperature control is performed by transmitting an operation control command from the server device to the temperature control operation device capable of performing at least one of the cooling operation and the heating operation in the facility. Features are available. When the user commands the execution of this temperature control function, the server device analyzes the collected data on the facility environment and determines the operating conditions of the temperature control operating equipment to bring the facility environment closer to the favorable environment. Then, an operation control command for causing the temperature control operating device to perform the operation according to the operating conditions is transmitted to the temperature control operating device. In other words, by operating the switch corresponding to this temperature control function, the user does not need to operate a dedicated remote controller or the like for controlling the operating device for temperature control, and the latest facility transmitted from the server device. The operating equipment for temperature control can be automatically operated according to the operation control command based on the environment of the facility, and the environment of the facility can be brought closer to the preferable environment.

The characteristic configuration of the information input / output device according to the present invention for achieving the above object is characterized in that it includes the functions of the information input / output device used in the above-mentioned information processing system.

It is a figure which shows the structure of an information processing system. It is a figure which shows the specific example of an information input / output device. It is a figure explaining the example of the information stored in the information input / output device and the server device. It is a figure which shows the display screen example of a terminal device. It is a flowchart explaining the information processing performed by the information input / output device. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input / output device and a server device. It is a figure which shows the specific example of an information input / output device. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input / output device and a server device. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input / output device and a server device. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the information input / output device of another configuration.

The information processing system and the information input / output device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system. The information processing system according to the present embodiment includes an information input / output device 20, and the information input / output device 20 is configured to enable information communication with the server device 1 via the information communication network 5. As shown in the figure, the server device 1 is communicably connected to a plurality of facilities 6 via an information communication network 5. The facility 6 is provided with operating devices 10 and 31, an information input / output device 20 such as a kitchen remote controller, and a router 7. The operating device 10 and the information input / output device 20 are capable of information communication via a wired or wireless communication line 8 inside the facility 6. Further, the information input / output device 20 and the router 7 can communicate with each other via the communication line 8. In addition, the facility 6 is provided with an information input / output device 30 such as a bathroom remote controller and a terminal device 9 such as a smartphone or a computer device connected to the router 7 via a communication line 8. FIG. 1 shows an example in which a terminal device 9 such as a smartphone is connected to the server device 1 via a router 7, but the terminal device 9 such as a smartphone does not go through the router 7 but via a mobile communication network. It may be connected to the server device 1.
In the following description, the configuration of the information input / output device 20 as the kitchen remote controller will be described, but the information input / output device 30 as the bathroom remote controller may be configured to perform the same function as the information input / output device 20. ..

The information input / output device 20 has an output unit 21 that performs information communication with the operating device 10 installed in the facility 6 and outputs information on the operation of the operating device 10 to the user, and the operating device 10 The input receiving unit 22 has a plurality of switches for receiving operation input by the user regarding the operation of the above. Information output methods by the output unit 21 include output of voice information and output of character information. In addition, the information input / output device 20 includes a control unit 23, a storage unit 24, and a communication unit 25. The communication unit 25 is a device for communicating with the operating device 10 by wire or wirelessly and communicating with the server device 1 via the router 7. The control unit 23 is a device for controlling the operation of the information input / output device 20. The storage unit 24 is a device that stores information handled by the information input / output device 20. Since the information input / output device 20 is a device connected to the information communication network 5, it has unique identification information in the information communication network 5. For example, the identification information given to the information input / output device 20 is a unique MAC address or the like in the information communication network 5, and is stored in the storage unit 24 at the time of manufacturing or shipping.

The server device 1 can perform information communication with the information input / output device 20 installed in the facility 6 via the information communication network 5. The server device 1 includes a server-side control unit 2 that performs information processing, a server-side storage unit 3 that stores information, and a server-side communication unit 4 that communicates with information input / output devices 20 and terminal devices 9.

The operating devices 10 and 31 are devices used by the users of the facility 6. For example, the operating device 10 is a power generation device such as a water heater or a fuel cell used to supply hot water to a bath water filling or hot water supply. The operating device 10 of the present embodiment includes an operating unit 11, a device control unit 12, a device storage unit 13, and a device communication unit 14. The operating unit 11 is, for example, a heater for heating in the case of the above-mentioned water heater, and a device such as a fuel cell in the case of a power generation device. The device control unit 12 is a device that controls the operation unit 11 and collects device operation information. The device storage unit 13 is a device that stores information handled by the operating device 10. The device communication unit 14 is a device for communicating with the information input / output device 20 by wire or wirelessly.
The operating device 31 is an operating device for temperature control such as an air conditioner and a floor heating device capable of adjusting the temperature of the facility 6, and a lighting device provided in the facility 6.

Further, the measurement results of various sensors 32 provided in the facility 6 are transmitted to the information input / output device 20. The various sensors 32 are, for example, temperature sensors that measure indoor temperature and outdoor temperature, sensors that acquire information indicating the operating states of the above-mentioned operating devices 10 and 31, and the like.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a specific example of the information input / output device 20. 2 (a) and 2 (b) are examples of cases where the output unit 21 and the input reception unit 22 are separately provided, and FIG. 2 (c) shows the output unit 21 and the input reception unit 22. This is an example of a case where a touch panel type display device is used and integrally provided.

The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device 20 include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device 10. For example, in the case of a remote controller in which the operating device 10 is a water heater and the information input / output device 20 is provided attached to the water heater, there are basic functions such as a hot water supply execution function, a bath hot water filling function, and a bath reheating function.

The hot water supply execution function is a function of heating water when a predetermined amount of flowing water is detected. In this case, the "operation on / off" switch 22a for switching the execution / stop of the hot water supply execution function provided in the information input / output device 20 is used. When the "operation on / off" switch 22a is pressed once (operation input) in the hot water supply operation off state, the information input / output device 20 switches the hot water supply operation "on" to the water heater as the operating device 10. introduce. As a result, the water heater is in a hot water supply permission state in which heating is performed when a predetermined amount of flowing water is detected. On the other hand, when the "operation on / off" switch 22a is pressed once (operation input) in the hot water supply operation on state, the information input / output device 20 operates the hot water supply operation to the water heater as the operating device 10. Communicate "off". As a result, the water heater is in a state where hot water supply is not permitted without heating even if a predetermined amount of flowing water is detected.

The bathtub filling function is a function to store hot water in the bathtub. In this case, the "bath automatic" switch 22b provided in the information input / output device 20 for instructing the start of bath water filling is used. When the "bath automatic" switch 22b is pressed once in the automatic off state (operation input), the information input / output device 20 instructs the water heater to execute a hot water filling operation for storing hot water at a set temperature in the bathtub to a set water level. ..

The bath reheating function is a function that heats the hot water stored in the bathtub to a set temperature. The "removal" switch 22c provided in the information input / output device 20 for instructing the start of bath reheating is used. The information input / output device 20 executes a reheating operation to heat the hot water stored in the bathtub to a set temperature when the "reheating" switch 22c is pressed once in the reheating off state (operation input). To command.

In this way, a state in which the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device 20 executes the basic function is associated with the processing performed by the information input / output device 20 regarding the basic function. Is preset in. Further, the switch operation is defined by a combination of an operation target switch among a plurality of switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch.

The output unit 21 of the information input / output device 20 is provided with a communication availability display area 21a that outputs information indicating whether or not the information input / output device 20 is in a state of being able to perform information communication with the router 7 to the user. Has been done. Then, the user can recognize whether or not the information input / output device 20 is in a state where it can perform information communication with the router 7 and the server device 1 by looking at the image shown in the communication availability display area 21a.

In addition to the basic functions described above, the functions that can be executed by the information input / output device 20 include extended functions that can be additionally set in the information input / output device 20.
In addition to the above-mentioned "operation on / off" switch 22a, "bath automatic" switch 22b, and "removal" switch 22c, the input receiving unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 has an "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and It also has an "extended function No. 2" switch 22e. The "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e command the execution of an extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device 20 among the functions that can be executed in the information input / output device 20. It is a switch operated by the user when doing so.

Table 1 below shows the functions that can be executed by the information input / output device 20, the operation of the operating device 10, the unique switch operations (operation target switches and operation input methods) required for the user, and information input. It shows the relationship with the processing performed by the output device 20.

As shown in Table 1, when the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device 20, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device 20 executes the extended function, and the switch operation thereof. Additional settings are made for the extended function in a state associated with the processing performed by the information input / output device 20.

In this embodiment, two extended functions are configured to be additionally set in the information input / output device 20. Then, when the input input / output device 20 receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and provides information on the extended function. Send to server device 1. To give a specific example, when the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d is pressed once, the information input / output device 20 transmits to the server device 1 that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" is instructed. .. Further, when the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e is pressed once, the information input / output device 20 transmits to the server device 1 that the execution of the "extended function No. 2" is instructed.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a procedure for additionally setting the extended function to the information input / output device 20 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the information input / output device 20 and the server device 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the terminal device 9.
As shown in FIG. 3, the storage unit 24 of the information input / output device 20 stores basic function information and extended function information. The basic function information is information about the above-mentioned hot water supply execution function, information about the bath hot water filling function, and information about the bath reheating function. The extended function information is information about the extended function additionally set in the information input / output device 20. In the case of the example shown in FIG. 3, the information input / output device 20 indicates that some extended function has been set in "extended function No. 1" and no extended function has been set in "extended function No. 2". It is stored in the storage unit 24. In this case, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 executes the "extended function No. 1" when the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d for which the extended function has already been set is pressed once. The command is transmitted to the server device 1, but no processing is performed even if the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e for which the extended function is not set is pressed once. That is, the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e is disabled.

User information (information about the user), device information for each model number, extended function candidate information, and the like are stored in the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1. User information (information about the user) includes the user's name, address, telephone number, customer number (user ID), login password, model number of the remote controller as the information input / output device 20, remote controller ID (for example, MAC address, etc.). ), The set extended function (relationship between the switch number for the extended function and the extended function), the notification destination address information, the information of the operating device to be remotely controlled (for example, the operating device 31 in FIG. 1) and the like.

In addition, the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1 stores device information for each model number of various remote controllers in a format in which the remote controller model number and device information (switch arrangement) can be identified. For example, if the remote controller model number is "001-A001 type", the server-side storage unit 3 is provided with an output unit 21 and an input reception unit 22 separately as shown in FIG. Five switches, an "on / off" switch 22a, an "automatic bath" switch 22b, a "removal" switch 22c, an "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, and an "extended function No. 2" switch 22e, are provided. Is remembered.

Then, the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1 stores information about candidates for extended functions that can be added to the information input / output device 20. In the example shown in FIG. 3, as extension function candidates, there are a notification function (“I'm home” function), a device control function, a work request function, a device status verification function, a temperature control function, and the like. The extended functions that can be added to the information input / output device 20 are not limited to those illustrated in this embodiment.

Next, an example of a method in which the user additionally sets the extended function to the switch (input receiving unit 22) for the extended function of the information input / output device 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is an example of a display screen of a terminal device 9 such as a user's computer device. The user accesses a predetermined URL in which the extended function can be set by using the terminal device 9, and the user is authenticated by the server device 1 after inputting the user ID and the login password. Later, a screen as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the user's terminal device 9. On this display screen, the name of the user and the model number of the information input / output device 20 (remote controller) used by the user are displayed in the user information display area 40.

In the set function display area 42, a list of functions already set in the user's information input / output device 20 is displayed. In this case, it is shown that the hot water supply execution function, the bath hot water filling function, and the bath reheating function are set as basic functions. In the unset function display area 43, a list of functions that can be additionally set in the user's information input / output device 20 is displayed.

For example, if the user selects and operates the add button 44 while the "work request function" in the unset function display area 43 is selected, the "work request function" is additionally set in the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e. .. On the other hand, when the delete button 45 is selected and operated while "extended function No. 1" in the set function display area 42 is selected, the "device control function" set in the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d Is canceled. In this way, the user can add and delete extended functions to the information input / output device 20.

The user can change his / her own user information by selecting and operating the registration information change button 41 on the display screen shown in FIG. For example, the user can change the address, telephone number, login password, and the like. In addition, the address of the notification destination (e-mail address) used in the notification function described later can be added or deleted, and the remote-controlled operating device 31 used in the device control function and the temperature control function can be added. It can be deleted.

Next, a specific example of information processing performed by the information input / output device 20 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating information processing performed by the information input / output device 20.
In step # 10 of FIG. 5, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 determines whether or not the switch operation corresponding to the extended function has been accepted. If the switch operation is not accepted, the process returns to the beginning of this flowchart, and if the switch operation is accepted, the process proceeds to step # 11. For example, when some kind of extended function is set in the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, when the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d is used as an operation target switch and an operation is performed according to a predetermined operation input method. , The control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 determines that the switch operation corresponding to the extended function set in the “extended function No. 1” switch 22d has been accepted.

After that, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 performs a switch operation verification process in step # 11, a communication status verification process in step # 12, and then to the server device 1 as described above in step # 13. Perform transmission processing. In step # 11, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 makes an inquiry by voice information for confirming whether or not to execute the extended function, assuming that the user makes a mistake in the switch operation, for example. To the user with text information. In step # 12, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 may, for example, determine whether or not information communication can be performed with the router 7, that is, information communication with the server device 1. Verify if it can be done. Then, when the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 cannot perform information communication with the server device 1, after the input reception unit 22 receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user. , The output unit 21 notifies the user of information that information communication cannot be performed with the server device 1.

Next, a specific example of the extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device 20 will be described.

[Notification function ("I'm home" function)]
The notification function (“I'm home” function) transmits a predetermined notification from the server device 1 to the notification destination address (information about the user) related to the user stored in the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1. It is a function, specifically, when the user presses the switch for the extended function, the registered terminal device 9 is notified that the switch has been pressed. For example, when a child returns home and presses a switch for an extended function, a notification is transmitted to a terminal device 9 such as a smartphone used by the child's parent.

Explaining the specific procedure, when the notification function ("I'm home" function) is set in the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, the child returns home to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d. When the pressing operation is performed once for a short time, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function set in the "extended function No. 1" is instructed, and executes the "extended function No. 1". And the unique identification information (remote ID (for example, MAC address)) for identifying the user are transmitted to the server device 1. Then, the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and refers to the notification destination address (e-mail address) set by the user. Send a message that there are returnees. When a plurality of notification destination addresses are stored in the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1, the user has a notification function in the switch (input reception unit 22) for the extended function of his / her own information input / output device 20. ("I'm home" function) should be additionally set, and the notification destination address to which the notification should be sent should be set.

[Device control function]
The device control function is an air conditioner or floor that can remotely control the registered device when the user presses the switch for the extended function, for example, at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility 6. This is a function in which the server device 1 transmits a switching command for starting and stopping the operation to the operating device (operating device 31) for temperature control such as a heating device. In addition, when the user presses the switch for the extended function, the server device 1 transmits a switching command for starting and stopping the operation to the registered lighting device (operating device 31). It may be a control function.

To explain the specific procedure, when the device control function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, the user presses the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d once for a short time. When this is performed, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function set in the "extended function No. 1" is instructed, and the information indicating that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" is instructed. And unique identification information (remote ID (for example, MAC address)) for identifying the user is transmitted to the server device 1. Then, the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and determines that the execution of the device control function is instructed. Then, the server device 1 identifies an operating device to be remotely controlled (for example, an operating device 31 such as a temperature control operating device or a lighting device) stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and refers to the operating device 31. The process of transmitting an ON command or an OFF command is performed.

When such a device control function is additionally set in the information input / output device 20, the server device 1 proposes to transmit the proposal information prompting the execution of the device control function to the information input / output device 20 as necessary. The information transmission process may be performed by the following procedure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating information processing performed between the information input / output device 20 and the server device 1. In this example, the server device 1 stores the extended function additionally set in the information input / output device 20 in the server side storage unit 3, and has already been additionally set in the information input / output device 20 based on the predetermined reference information. Proposal information transmission processing for determining whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function being executed, and transmitting the proposal information prompting the execution of the extended function determined to be executed to the information input / output device 20. Then, the information input / output device 20 performs a proposal information output process for outputting the proposal information received from the server device 1 to the user.

Specifically, in the information input / output device 20, the device control function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, with the air conditioner (an example of the operating device 31 for temperature control) as the operating device to be controlled. .. Further, the server device 1 stores in the server side storage unit 3 that the device control function for controlling the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is additionally set in the information input / output device 20. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the information input / output device 20 sends data collected from various sensors 32 (for example, indoor temperature and outdoor temperature of the facility 6) to the server device 1 at a predetermined timing as the reference information. It is transmitted (process # 20, process # 23), and the data is collected by the server device 1 (process # 21, process # 24). Alternatively, the server device 1 may collect data such as the outdoor temperature at the facility 6 (that is, at the user's address) from an external device such as a weather information provider.

Then, the server device 1 analyzes the collected data on the environment of the facility 6 (for example, the indoor temperature and the outdoor temperature of the facility 6) as reference information, and if the operation device 31 for temperature control is started or stopped, the facility When the environment of 6 is predicted to approach a favorable environment, it is determined that the device control function is preferably executed, and the proposal information for prompting the execution of the device control function determined to be executed is input. It is transmitted to the output device 20.
For example, if the indoor temperature at the facility 6 is lower than the predetermined low temperature side reference temperature (for example, less than 8 ° C), or if the indoor temperature at the facility 6 is as low as the outdoor temperature (for example, less than 8 ° C), the server. The device 1 predicts that if the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) starts operating, the room temperature will rise and the environment of the facility 6 will approach a favorable environment (“Proposed” in step # 25). On the other hand, when the indoor temperature in the facility 6 is higher than the reference temperature on the high temperature side (for example, 18 ° C or higher), or when the indoor temperature in the facility 6 is significantly higher than the outdoor temperature (for example, the temperature difference is 10 ° C or higher). The server device 1 determines that it is not necessary to start the operation of the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) because the facility 6 is already in a favorable environment (“No proposal” in step # 22).

Then, when the server device 1 determines that "there is a proposal" in step # 25, the server device 1 transmits the proposal information prompting the execution of the device control function determined to be preferably executed to the information input / output device 20 (process # 25). 26). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of the information input / output device 20, and is a state in which the information input / output device 20 is subjected to the proposal information output process for outputting the proposal information received from the server device 1 to the user. It is a figure which shows (step # 27, step # 28 of FIG. 6). Specifically, in Fig. 7 (a), the proposal information "The room temperature is low, do you want to start the operation of the air conditioner? Please press the extended function No. 1 switch to start the operation." Is output. Audio is output from unit 21. In Fig. 7 (b) and Fig. 7 (c), the proposal information "The room temperature is low, do you want to start the operation of the air conditioner? Please press the extended function No. 1 switch to start the operation." Is output. Characters are output from unit 21.

In this way, the user is prompted to execute the temperature control operating device 31 at a timing when it is preferable to start and stop the operation. Then, if the user wishes to execute the device control function, he / she may perform a switch operation corresponding to the device control function.
After that, the user who received the provision of such proposal information received the extension function No. 1 in which the device control function as described above was additionally set. When one switch is pressed, the device control function is executed in the above procedure, and the operation of the user's air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is started.

[Work request function]
The work request function is a function in which when the user presses a switch for an extended function, maintenance work is requested for the operating devices 10 and 31 to be monitored installed in the facility 6.
Explaining the specific procedure, when the work request function is set in the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, for example, when a problem such as hot water not being supplied from the water heater occurs, the user "extended". When the "function No. 1" switch 22d is pressed once for a short time, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function set in the "extended function No. 1" is instructed. , Information that the execution of "extended function No. 1" is instructed and unique identification information (remote ID (for example, MAC address)) for identifying the user are transmitted to the server device 1. Then, the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and tells the person in charge of maintenance work of the water heater the address of the user, the model of the water heater, and the like. Notify the information (information about the user) and request maintenance work.

Similar to the case of the device control function described above, when such a work request function is additionally set in the information input / output device 20, the server device 1 proposes to prompt the execution of the work request function as necessary. The proposal information transmission process for transmitting information to the information input / output device 20 may be performed by the following procedure.

Specifically, in the information input / output device 20, the work request function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d with the water heater (operating device 10) as the operating device to be monitored. Further, the server device 1 stores in the server side storage unit 3 that the work request function for monitoring the water heater (operating device 10) is additionally set in the information input / output device 20. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the information input / output device 20 uses data collected from various sensors 32 (for example, the operating state of the combustor of the water heater as the operating device 10) as the reference information at a predetermined timing. Is transmitted to the server device 1 (process # 20, process # 23), and the data is collected by the server device 1 (process # 21, process # 24).

Then, it is determined that it is preferable that the server device 1 analyzes the collected data on the state of the water heater (operating device 10 to be monitored) as reference information and requests the maintenance work of the operating device 10 to be monitored. In this case, it is determined that the work request function is preferably executed, and the proposal information prompting the execution of the work request function determined to be executed is transmitted to the information input / output device 20. For example, when an ignition failure occurs in the combustor (operating unit 11) of the water heater (operating device 10 to be monitored), the server device 1 determines that it is preferable to request maintenance work of the water heater ((()). Step # 25 "with suggestions")). On the other hand, if the water heater (operating device 10 to be monitored) does not malfunction, the server device 1 determines that it is not necessary to request the maintenance work of the water heater (“Proposal” in step # 22. None ").

Then, when the server device 1 determines that "there is a proposal" in the process # 25, the server device 1 transmits the proposal information prompting the execution of the work request function determined to be preferably executed to the information input / output device 20 (process # 25). 26). For example, the proposal information "There is a possibility that the water heater may be defective. Please press the extended function No. 1 switch when requesting maintenance work." Is received by the information input / output device 20, and audio output or character output. (Step # 27, Step # 28).

In this way, even if the user is not concerned about the state of the operating device 10 to be monitored, the user is encouraged to execute the work request function at a preferable timing. Then, if the user wishes to execute the work request function, he / she may perform a switch operation corresponding to the work request function.
After that, the user who received the provision of such proposal information additionally set the work request function as described above, for example, the extension function No. When the switch 1 is pressed, the work request function is executed according to the procedure described above, so that the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3. The person in charge of maintenance work of the water heater is notified of information such as the address of the user and the model of the water heater (information about the user), and the maintenance work is requested.

[Device status verification function]
The device status verification function is a function in which when the user presses a switch for an extended function, the status of specific operating devices 10 and 31 installed in the facility 6 is verified. When the server device 1 processes information related to the device status verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device 1 analyzes the collected data related to the status of the specific operating devices 10 and 31, and the specific operating device 10 The verification result of the state of 31 is transmitted to the information input / output device 20 so that the information input / output device 20 outputs the verification result to the user. That is, for example, when the user is concerned about the state of the specific operating devices 10 and 31, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the device state verification function to bring the specific operating devices 10 and 31 to the latest state. Based on the verification result can be obtained.

Specifically, in the information input / output device 20, the water heater (specific operating device 10) is set as the operating device to be monitored, and the device state verification function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d. Further, the server device 1 stores in the server side storage unit 3 that the device state verification function for monitoring the water heater (specific operating device 10) is additionally set in the information input / output device 20. .. As shown in FIG. 8, for example, when the operating sound of the water heater (operating device 10) is different from the normal one, when the user presses the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d once for a short time ( In step # 30), the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function set in "extended function No. 1" has been instructed (step # 31). In addition, the information input / output device 20 collects data (data relating to the state of the water heater (specific operating device 10)) associated with the “extended function No. 1” (step # 32). In this case, the data regarding the state of the water heater (specific operating device 10) is the data regarding the state of the water heater (operating device 10) collected from various sensors 32. After that, the information input / output device 20 contains information that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" has been instructed, unique identification information for identifying the user (remote ID (for example, MAC address, etc.)), and information. The collected data is transmitted to the server device 1 (step # 33). The information input / output device 20 transmits data (data related to the state of the water heater (specific operating device 10)) associated with "extended function No. 1" when requested by the server device 1. Such modifications are also possible.

After that, the server device 1 that has received the information in step # 34 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and collects the collected water heater (specific operating device 10). ) Is analyzed, and a verification result of the state of the water heater such as whether or not the operation of the water heater is normal is created (step # 35). Then, the server device 1 transmits the verification result to the information input / output device 20 (step # 36). As a result, the verification result is received by the information input / output device 20 (process # 37) and output to the user (process # 38).

Further, when the verification result indicates that a problem has occurred in the specific operating device 10, the server device 1 replaces the process of transmitting the verification result to the information input / output device 20, or In addition to the process, a process of transmitting information about a method of dealing with the problem to the user or a process of dealing with the problem by the server device 1 itself may be executed.

The following is an example of the case where the server device 1 executes a process of transmitting information about how to deal with a problem to a user. For example, the server device 1 stores in advance in the server-side storage unit 3 a specific problem occurring in the operating device 10 and a countermeasure that the user can take to deal with the specific problem. Then, when the result of analyzing the collected data on the state of the specific operating device 10 is that the problem occurs in the specific operating device 10, the server device 1 outputs the verification result to the information input / output device 20. In place of or in addition to the process of transmitting to, the information input / output device 20 outputs information on how to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device 10 to the user. The process of transmitting to the information input / output device 20 is executed. As a result, the user of the operating device 10 in which the problem is occurring can receive information from the server device 1 about how to deal with the problem in the information input / output device 20. As a result, it can be expected that the state of the operating device 10 in which the problem is occurring will be improved by the user taking the countermeasure.

The following is an example of the case where the server device 1 executes a process of dealing with the problem by the server device 1 itself. For example, the server device 1 stores in advance in the server-side storage unit 3 a specific problem occurring in the operating device 10 and a countermeasure that can be taken on the server device 1 side for the specific problem. .. Then, when the result of analyzing the collected data on the state of the specific operating device 10 is that the problem occurs in the specific operating device 10, the server device 1 transmits the verification result to the information input / output device 20. In place of or in addition to the process of transmitting to, a process of dealing with a problem occurring in a specific operating device 10 is executed. For example, the server device 1 identifies a user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and is generated in the operating device 10 for the person in charge of maintenance work of the operating device 10. Inform them of the content of the problem and the user's address and telephone number, and request that the user be dispatched to facility 6 or contacted by telephone. In this case, as the above verification result, the server device 1 provides information including information including that a problem has occurred in the operating device 10 and that the maintenance worker has been dispatched or requested to be contacted by telephone. It may be transmitted to the input / output device 20.
In addition, the server device 1 stores the version information of the software operating in the information input / output device 20 in advance in the server-side storage unit 3, and the problem that occurs in the specific operating device 10 is information. If the cause is that the version of the software running on the I / O device 20 is not the appropriate version (that is, it is not the new version), the server device 1 transmits the appropriate version of the software to the information input / output device 20. Then, the countermeasure of rewriting the software running on the information input / output device 20 is executed. In this case, as the above verification result, the server device 1 inputs / outputs information including that a problem has occurred in the operating device 10 and that the software operating in the information input / output device 20 has been rewritten. It may be transmitted to the device 20. The content of the process executed by the server device 1 in order to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device 10 is not limited to the above example, and can be appropriately set.

[Temperature control function]
The temperature control function is a server device for a temperature control operating device (operating device 31) that can perform at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility 6 when the user presses the switch for the extended function. This is a function in which an operation control command is transmitted from 1. When the server device 1 processes information related to the temperature control function set as one of the extended functions, the server device 1 analyzes the collected data on the environment of the facility 6 and heats the environment of the facility 6 to bring it closer to a preferable environment. The operating conditions of the operating device 31 for adjustment are determined, and an operation control command for causing the operating device 31 for temperature control to perform the operation according to the operating conditions is transmitted to the operating device 31 for temperature control. That is, by operating the switch corresponding to this temperature control function, the user does not need to operate a dedicated remote controller or the like for controlling the operating device 31 for temperature control, and the facility is transmitted from the server device 1. The operating device 31 for temperature control can be automatically operated according to the operation control command based on the latest environment of 6, and the environment of the facility 6 can be brought closer to a preferable environment.

Specifically, in the information input / output device 20, the temperature control function performed by using the temperature control operating device (operating device 31) is set in the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d. Further, the server device 1 is additionally set with a temperature control function performed by using the temperature control operation device 31 in the information input / output device 20, that is, a temperature control function for controlling the temperature control operation device 31. This is stored in the server-side storage unit 3. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the user returns home and aims to adjust the temperature in the facility 6, the user once for a short time with respect to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d. When the push operation is performed (process # 40), the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution of the extended function set in "extended function No. 1" is instructed (process # 41). In addition, the information input / output device 20 collects data (data related to the environment of the facility 6) associated with "extended function No. 1" (process # 42). In this case, the data regarding the environment of the facility 6 is the indoor temperature of the facility 6 collected from various sensors 32 and the like. After that, the information input / output device 20 contains information that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" has been instructed, unique identification information for identifying the user (remote ID (for example, MAC address, etc.)), and information. The collected data is transmitted to the server device 1 (step # 43). The information input / output device 20 can be modified so that the data associated with the "extended function No. 1" (data related to the environment of the facility 6) is transmitted when requested by the server device 1.

After that, the server device 1 that has received the information in step # 44 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and analyzes the collected data on the environment of the facility 6. Then, the operating conditions of the operating device 31 for temperature control for bringing the environment of the facility 6 closer to the preferable environment are created (process # 45). For example, the server device 1 creates an operating condition that the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is operated for cooling at a set temperature of 25 ° C. Then, the server device 1 transmits an operation control command for causing the temperature control operation device 31 to perform the operation according to the operation conditions to the temperature control operation device 31 of the facility 6 (process # 46). In addition, the server device 1 transmits the content (command result) of the operation control command to be performed by the operation device 31 for temperature control to the terminal device 9 of the user (process # 47). As a result, in the facility 6, the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is operated for cooling at a set temperature of 25 ° C., and the user can recognize this.

<Another Embodiment>
<1>
In the above embodiment, the information processing system of the present invention has been described with specific examples, but its configuration can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the configurations of the information input / output device 20, the operating device 10, the server device 1, etc., and the information stored in them have been described with specific examples, but they are described for the purpose of illustration. These are things, and their contents can be changed as appropriate.

<2>
In the above embodiment, the information input / output device 20 is provided with a dedicated "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and an "extended function No. 2" switch 22e operated by the user when instructing the execution of the extended function. Although an example of this case has been described, it is not necessary to provide such a dedicated “extended function No. 1” switch 22d and “extended function No. 2” switch 22e.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of the information input / output device 20 having a different configuration. As shown in FIG. 10, the input receiving unit 22 of the information input / output device 20 has an “operation on / off” switch 22a, a “bath automatic” switch 22b, and a “removal” switch 22c as in the above embodiment. However, it does not have the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e.

Table 2 below shows the functions that can be executed by the information input / output device 20 having the configuration shown in FIG. 10, the operations of the operating device 10, and the unique switch operations (operation target switches and operations) required for the user. The relationship between the input method) and the processing performed by the information input / output device 20 is shown.

As shown in Table 2, two extended functions are configured to be additionally set in the information input / output device 20. For example, in the instruction manual that can be referred to by the user, one long press operation for the "removal" switch 22c corresponds to the execution command of the "extended function No. 1", and 1 for the "bath automatic" switch 22b. It is described that the long press operation corresponds to the execution command of "extended function No. 2". Then, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 notifies the server device that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" is instructed when the "removal" switch 22c is pressed and held once. Communicate to 1. Further, the control unit 23 of the information input / output device 20 notifies the server device that the execution of the "extended function No. 2" is instructed when the "bath automatic" switch 22b is pressed and held once. Communicate to 1.

<3>
In the above embodiment, the user has described an example in which the terminal device 9 is used to additionally set the extended function to the switch (input receiving unit 22) for the extended function of the information input / output device 20. The device may be used. For example, the user may use his / her own information input / output device 20 to additionally set the extended function to the switch for the extended function.

<4>
In the above embodiment, the switch operation is performed not only by receiving the physical operation of the user, but also by receiving the voice of the user, the gesture of the user, and the like. Including. The switch included in the input receiving unit 22 is not only a switch that receives a physical operation of the user and switches the state, but also a virtual switch that receives an input such as a user's voice or a gesture and switches the state. Including the case of a switch. When the switch operation is performed by receiving the voice of the user, the voice recognized by the microphone as the input receiving unit 22 included in the information input / output device 20 may be, for example, the voice instructing the execution of "extended function No. 1". For example, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution command of "extended function No. 1" has been executed (switch operation has been performed). Alternatively, when the switch operation is performed by a gesture, the gesture of a person recognized by the camera as the input receiving unit 22 included in the information input / output device 20 is, for example, a gesture instructing the execution of "extended function No. 1". If so, the information input / output device 20 determines that the execution command of "extended function No. 1" has been executed (switch operation has been performed). Further, when the information input / output device 20 can identify an individual by voice recognition or face recognition using the input reception unit 22, the user who can command the execution of "extended function No. 1" is limited to a preset person. You may limit it.

<5>
In the above embodiment, it can be assigned to the input receiving unit 22 of the user's information input / output device 20 based on the remote control model number and the device information (switch arrangement) stored in the server side storage unit 3 of the server device 1. An example of specifying the number of extended functions has been described. For example, a configuration is adopted in which the number of extended functions that can be assigned to the input receiving unit 22 is transmitted in advance from the information input / output device 20 to the server device 1. You may.

<6>
In the above embodiment, the contents of the extended functions that can be added to the information input / output device 20 have been described with specific examples, but the contents of each extended function can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the case where the device control function, which is one of the extended functions, is a function of transmitting an operation start / stop switching command from the server device 1 to the temperature control operating device 31 is exemplified. However, the server device 1 may transmit not only a command for starting the operation of the operating device 31 for temperature control but also a command including specific operating conditions. For example, the server device 1 may transmit an operation start command including an operation condition that the air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is operated for cooling at a set temperature of 25 ° C.

<7>
In the above embodiment, predetermined reference information, data on the state of operating equipment, data on the environment of the facility, and the like have been described with specific examples, but the contents thereof can be set as appropriate. For example, the reference information may include information such as the detection result of the presence or absence of the user by the motion sensor and the power consumption in the facility 6. The data regarding the state of the operating device may include information such as error information of the operating device and cumulative operating time / number of operations. The data on the environment of the facility may include information such as the temperature of tap water supplied to the facility 6.

<8>
The configurations disclosed in the above embodiment (including another embodiment) can be applied in combination with the configurations disclosed in other embodiments as long as there is no contradiction, and are disclosed in the present specification. The embodiment described is an example, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this, and can be appropriately modified without departing from the object of the present invention.

According to the present invention, an extended function other than the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input / output device, and the information input / output device can execute the extended function in conjunction with an external server device. It can be used for information processing systems that can confirm user behavior and information input / output devices used in the information processing systems.

1 Server device 5 Information and communication network 6 Facility 10 Operating equipment (water heater)
20 Information input / output device (kitchen remote control)
21 Output unit 22 Input reception unit 22b "Furo automatic" switch 22c "Chase" switch 22d "Expansion function No. 1" switch 22e "Expansion function No. 2" switch 30 Information input / output device (bathroom remote controller)
31 Operating equipment 32 Various sensors

Claims (11)

Information communication is performed with the operating equipment installed in the facility, and an output unit that outputs information on the operation of the operating equipment to the user and an operation input by the user regarding the operation of the operating equipment are received. It is equipped with an information input / output device equipped with an input receiving unit having a plurality of switches.
The information input / output device is configured to enable information communication with a server device via an information communication network.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device.
A state in which the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the basic function and the processing performed by the information input / output device regarding the basic function are set in advance. Has been
The switch operation is an information processing system defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of the switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include an extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function, and the said regarding the extended function. It is additionally set in a state associated with the processing performed by the information input / output device, and the server device stores that the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function. Send to the server device
The server device is configured to process information about the specific extended function received from the information input / output device.
Based on the predetermined reference information, the server device determines whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function already additionally set in the information input / output device, and determines that it is preferable to execute the extended function. Proposal information transmission processing for transmitting the proposal information prompting the execution of the extended function to the information input / output device is performed.
The information input / output device is an information processing system that performs proposal information output processing that outputs the proposal information received from the server device to a user. As one of the extended functions, a device that transmits an operation start / stop switching command from the server device to an operating device for temperature control that can perform at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility. Has a control function
In the proposed information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data on the environment of the facility as the reference information, and if the operating device for temperature control is started or stopped, the environment of the facility is preferable. The information input / output device determines that it is preferable to execute the device control function when it is predicted that the device control function is to be executed, and prompts the execution of the device control function determined to be executed. The information processing system according to claim 1, which is transmitted to. As one of the extended functions, there is a work request function for requesting maintenance work for the operating equipment to be monitored installed in the facility.
In the proposed information transmission process, the server device determines that it is preferable to analyze the collected data on the state of the operating device to be monitored as the reference information and request maintenance work of the operating device to be monitored. When the work request function is executed, it is determined that the work request function is preferably executed, and the proposal information for prompting the execution of the work request function determined to be executed is transmitted to the information input / output device. Item 1. The information processing system according to item 1. Information communication is performed with the operating equipment installed in the facility, and an output unit that outputs information on the operation of the operating equipment to the user and an operation input by the user regarding the operation of the operating equipment are received. It is equipped with an information input / output device equipped with an input receiving unit having a plurality of switches.
The information input / output device is configured to enable information communication with a server device via an information communication network.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include basic functions that are pre-installed with respect to the operation of the operating device.
A state in which the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the basic function and the processing performed by the information input / output device regarding the basic function are set in advance. Has been
The switch operation is an information processing system defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of the switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch.
The functions that can be executed by the information input / output device include an extended function that can be additionally set in the information input / output device.
When the extended function is additionally set in the information input / output device, the unique switch operation required for the user when the information input / output device executes the extended function, and the said regarding the extended function. Additional settings are made in association with the processing performed by the information input / output device.
When the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user, the information input / output device determines that the execution of the extended function is instructed, and outputs information about the extended function. Send to the server device
The server device is configured to process information about the specific extended function received from the information input / output device.
The server device is an information processing system that processes information related to the extended function by using the collected data related to the state of the operating device or the collected data related to the environment of the facility. As one of the extended functions, there is a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device, and the specific operating device of the specific operating device. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the verification result of the state is transmitted to the information input / output device so as to be output to the user in the information input / output device. As one of the extended functions, there is a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the result of analyzing the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device is the specific operating device. When the content is that a problem has occurred in the above, the information on how to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device is output to the user in the information input / output device. The information processing system according to claim 4 or 5, which executes a process of transmitting to an information input / output device. As one of the extended functions, there is a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility.
When the server device processes information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the result of analyzing the collected data related to the state of the specific operating device is the specific operating device. The information processing system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein when the content is that a problem has occurred in the above, the process of dealing with the problem occurring in the specific operating device is executed. Claims 5 to 7 that the information input / output device transmits information about the specific extended function to the server device, and also transmits data about the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility to the server device. The information processing system according to any one of the above. As one of the extended functions, there is a temperature control function for transmitting an operation control command from the server device to an operation device for temperature control that can perform at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility.
When the server device processes the information about the temperature control function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the environment of the facility and brings the environment of the facility closer to a preferable environment. 4. The operation condition of the temperature control operating device is determined, and an operation control command for causing the temperature control operation device to perform an operation according to the operation condition is transmitted to the temperature control operation device. Information processing system described in. The information processing system according to claim 9, wherein the information input / output device transmits information related to the extended function to the server device and data related to the environment of the facility to the server device. An information input / output device having a function as the information input / output device used in the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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