JP2024028468A - Water treatment equipment, water treatment system, water treatment method, computer equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a water treatment system that meets a wide variety of water demands without requiring infrastructure costs such as large-scale water treatment equipment. [Solution] A water treatment device that includes a reception unit that receives input of water, and one or more installation mechanisms that can install a module for water treatment, and the module is configured to: Multiple types of modules are available for selection, and by installing a module in at least part of one or more installation mechanisms, water treatment functions corresponding to the module's function can be applied to water received at the reception department. is configured to provide. [Selection diagram] Figure 2

Description

The present disclosure relates to a water treatment device, a water treatment system, a water treatment method, and a computer device.

Large-scale water treatment facilities are in operation to meet the demand for water in each region. For example, as water treatment equipment, predetermined equipment such as filtration equipment, dust removal equipment, settling tanks, ozone contact layers, and activated carbon adsorption ponds are installed to meet the water demand (number of households, etc.) in each region. By preparing water, we can perform everything from water intake to purification. Furthermore, various technologies such as sludge treatment are used as equipment for sewage treatment, for example. For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2001-353497 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technology for treating wastewater.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-353497

Such water treatment systems have been provided to local residents as public services by local governments such as local governments. However, in order to operate a water treatment system using large-scale water treatment equipment, the cost of installing infrastructure tends to increase.

In addition, water has a wide variety of uses. For example, some water is used for drinking, some water is used to wash dishes after a meal, and some water is used to flush the toilet.

Therefore, when large-scale water treatment facilities are operated, they tend to be large-scale facilities that combine water treatment devices to meet a variety of uses.

Furthermore, even if large-scale water treatment facilities are installed, there is a risk that they will not be able to meet the diverse demands for water.

On the other hand, even if relatively small-scale water treatment facilities capable of treating a certain amount of water were introduced in each region, there is a risk that they would not be able to cope with the instantaneous increase in water demand. For example, the amount of water demanded may vary depending on weather conditions. Furthermore, it may be difficult to predict in advance that demand for water treatment for specific uses such as drinking uses and shower uses will arise due to the occurrence of a disaster. However, when trying to transport water itself in response to the demand for water that may occur in various places, it may not be easy to transport the water because of its large weight. Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a water treatment system that can respond to various changes in water demand in various places.

According to one embodiment, a water treatment device is provided. The water treatment device includes a movement mechanism for moving the water treatment device, a reception unit that receives input of water, and one or more installation mechanisms capable of installing a water treatment module, and the module is a module. Multiple types of modules are available for selection depending on the function of the module, and by installing the module in at least a part of one or more installation mechanisms, the function of the module is It is configured to provide water treatment functions according to the requirements.

According to one embodiment, a computer device including a control unit and a storage unit is provided. The water treatment device used by the user includes a reception unit that receives water input, a treatment unit that performs water treatment on the water, and a transmission unit that transmits the measurement results of the water treatment status to the computer device. The control unit is a computer device that predicts demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is placed based on information received from the water treatment device.

According to one embodiment, a method of operating a computer device comprising a controller and a storage is provided. A water treatment device used by a user includes a reception unit that receives input of water, a processing unit that performs water treatment on water, and a transmission unit that transmits measurement results of water treatment status to a computer device. The method includes the steps of a control unit of a computer device receiving information from a water treatment device, and predicting demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is located based on the information received from the water treatment device. I do.

According to one embodiment, a water treatment system is provided. It includes a water treatment device and a computer device. The water treatment device includes a movement mechanism for moving the water treatment device, a reception unit that receives input of water, and one or more installation mechanisms capable of installing a water treatment module, the module is , multiple types of modules are available for selection depending on the function of the module, and by installing the module in at least a part of one or more installation mechanisms, the module can be used for water received at the reception department. The system is configured to provide water treatment functions according to the functions of the system. The control unit of the computer device predicts demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is located based on information received from the water treatment device.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a water treatment system that can respond to various changes in water demand in various places without requiring infrastructure costs such as large-scale water treatment equipment.

1 is a diagram showing an outline of a water treatment system 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a water treatment system 1. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a water treatment device 30. FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a plurality of installation mechanisms for receiving installation of water treatment modules 40 in the water treatment device 30. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a server 20. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a terminal device 10. FIG. It is a diagram showing the data structure of a water treatment module database 281, a water treatment device database 282, and a user information database 283 stored in the server 20. 3 is a diagram showing a flow of processing for accumulating the results of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30 in the server 20. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing in which the server 20 presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the use of the water treatment device 30 specified by the user. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a process flow in which the server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in which the server 20 presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the water treatment performance of the water treatment device 30. FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the process which prompts a user to move the water treatment apparatus 30 according to the demand for water treatment in each place. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on the terminal device 10. FIG. It is a figure showing an outline of water treatment system 2 concerning a 2nd embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a data structure of external environment information 284 in Embodiment 2. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation of each device that constitutes the water treatment system 2 of the second embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the water treatment device 30. FIG.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

<Summary>
In the following embodiment, a water treatment system 1 for providing a water source will be described.

Users use water for various purposes in their daily lives. For example, a user ingests drinking water to stay hydrated. In addition to this, water is also used to wash dirt adhering to articles; for example, water is used by users to wash dishes after a meal. In addition, users use water for showers, baths, laundry, toilets, drink servers, room humidification, and other uses.

<Embodiment 1>
In the embodiment, a water treatment device 30 that has a water treatment function and can provide a water source will be described, and a water treatment system 1 that is realized by installing water treatment devices 30 in various places will be described. .

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a water treatment system 1. As shown in FIG. The water treatment system 1 includes water treatment devices 30 installed in various places (the example in FIG. 1 shows water treatment devices 30A, 30B, and 30C), and a server that can communicate with these water treatment devices 30 (see FIG. (not shown). In the illustrated example, the water treatment device 30A and the water treatment device 30C have a moving mechanism 370. The moving mechanism 370 has, for example, wheels, and enables the water treatment device 30 to travel by driving the wheels or the like. Note that the water treatment device 30B does not have a moving mechanism 370 and does not have a self-propelled function.

Water treatment equipment 30 is installed in various places. For example, the water treatment device 30A is installed on land 5 outdoors. By installing a water treatment device 30A on outdoor land 5, water can be used outdoors for various purposes such as drinking, showering, and toilet use. For example, the water treatment device 30A can provide a water purification function to purify water so that the user can drink it.

For example, the water treatment device 30B is installed to provide a water treatment function to the building 6. The water treatment device 30B is installed inside or outside the building 6.

For example, the water treatment device 30C is installed in a mobile object 7 such as an automobile to provide a water treatment function. The water treatment device 30B is mounted inside or outside the moving body 7. For example, the moving object 7 may be a camping car or the like, which is equipped with various facilities that use water, such as a kitchen for cooking, a toilet, and the like. The water treatment device 30C provides water treatment functions according to various uses of water used in the mobile body 7.

Although the example in FIG. 1 shows an example in which the water treatment device 30 is used as one independent device, the water treatment function can be expanded by incorporating the function of the water treatment device 30 into equipment such as a building. It is also possible to provide For example, the water treatment device 30 may be incorporated into a washing machine, sink, water purifier, shower room, bathroom, toilet, bathtub, humidifier, dehumidifier, air conditioner, etc. in a building. As will be described later, the water treatment device 30 is provided with a water treatment module 40 to provide a water treatment function. Water treatment functions may be provided to users by incorporating a combination of water treatment modules 30 into equipment such as buildings.

Each water treatment device 30 transmits the water treatment function it provides and the history of water treatment to the server. Thereby, the server can accumulate information about the demand for water treatment in the environment where each water treatment device 30 is installed.

<Overall system configuration diagram>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the water treatment system 1.

As shown in FIG. 2, the water treatment system 1 includes a terminal device 10 (in the illustrated example, a terminal device 10A and a terminal device 10B are shown), a server 20, and a water treatment device 30 (in the illustrated example, water treatment device 30A and water treatment device 30B). The terminal device 10, the server 20, and the water treatment device 30 are communicatively connected via the network 80. As illustrated, the water treatment device 30 (water treatment device 30B) may communicate with the server 20 via the terminal device 10 (terminal device 10B).

The terminal device 10 is a device operated by each user. The terminal device 10 is realized by a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet that is compatible with a mobile communication system. In addition, the terminal device 10 may be, for example, a stationary PC (Personal Computer) or a laptop PC. As shown as a terminal device 10B in FIG. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a communication IF (Interface) 12, an input/output IF 13, a memory 15, a storage section 16, and a processor 19. The server 20 includes a communication IF 22 , an input/output IF 23 , a memory 25 , a storage 26 , and a processor 29 .

The terminal device 10 is communicably connected to the server 20 via the network 80. The terminal device 10 includes communication equipment such as a wireless base station 81 compatible with communication standards such as 5G and LTE (Long Term Evolution), and a wireless LAN router 82 compatible with wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standards such as IEEE802.11. It is connected to the network 80 by communicating.

The communication IF 12 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the terminal device 10 communicates with an external device.

The input device 13 is an input device (for example, a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing device such as a mouse, a keyboard, etc.) for receiving input operations from a user.

The output device 14 is an output device (display, speaker, vibrator, etc.) for presenting information to the user.

The memory 15 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

The storage unit 16 is a storage device for storing data, and is, for example, a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

The processor 19 is hardware for executing a set of instructions written in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

The server 20 acquires the history of water treatment in each water treatment device 30 and holds it as a database. The server 20 predicts water treatment demand based on data accumulated in the database.

The communication IF 22 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the server 20 communicates with external devices.

The input/output IF 23 functions as an interface with an input device for accepting input operations from a user and an output device for presenting information to the user.

The memory 25 is for temporarily storing programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

The storage 26 is a storage device for storing data, and is, for example, a flash memory or an HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

The processor 29 is hardware for executing a set of instructions written in a program, and is composed of an arithmetic unit, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

Next, each device constituting the water treatment system 1 will be explained.

<Configuration of water treatment device 30>
First, the water treatment device 30 that constitutes the water treatment system 1 will be explained.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the water treatment device 30. As shown in FIG. 3, the water treatment device 30 has a water treatment module installation mechanism 32. The water treatment module installation mechanism 32 has a plurality of installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, 33C, . . . ).

The plurality of installation mechanisms are mechanisms for accepting installation of the water treatment module 40. In the illustrated example, water treatment modules 40A and 40B are shown as water treatment modules 40. The water treatment device 30 includes a water reception section 36 that supplies water to be treated to the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, and a water treatment module 36 that supplies water that has been treated by each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 to the outside. It has a treated water output section 37 that outputs the water to the treated water. The water reception unit 36 receives water supply from outside the water treatment device 30, for example, by a pump or the like. The treated water output unit 37 outputs the water treated by the water treatment module 40 to the outside of the water treatment device 30. Note that drainage after the user uses the output water can also be input to the water reception unit 36.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of a plurality of installation mechanisms for accepting installation of water treatment modules 40 in water treatment apparatus 30. FIG. 4(A) is a front view of the insertion surface 31 for accepting installation of the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment apparatus 30. FIG. 4(B) is a diagram showing the appearance of the insertion surface 31 when viewed from an oblique direction. FIG. 4(C) is a diagram showing another example for installing water treatment modules 40 in a plurality of installation mechanisms.

As shown in FIG. 4(A), the water treatment device 30 has a plurality of installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, 32C, . . . ) on the insertion surface 31. In the illustrated example, each of the installation mechanisms has a similar structure to which the water treatment module 40 can be connected. The water treatment module 40 is prepared depending on the function, but has a size corresponding to the structure of the installation mechanism.

Each installation mechanism provides the function of the water treatment module 40 to the user by installing the water treatment module 40 having a certain volume. For example, each installation mechanism has a connection for connecting to the water treatment module 40. The connecting portion includes, for example, a pump mechanism for supplying water to be treated to the water treatment module 40, and a discharge mechanism for discharging treated water treated by the water treatment module 40. The water treatment module 40 has a connection part at an end for connection with an installation mechanism. Thereby, the installation mechanism and the water treatment module 40 can be connected at the connection part, and the functions that each water treatment module 40 has are provided to the water treatment apparatus 30.

As shown in FIG. 4(B), the water treatment device 30 has a door 33 for covering the insertion surface 31. The water treatment device 30 is about to receive the installation of the water treatment module 40A through the installation mechanism. By inserting the water treatment module 40A into the insertion surface 31, the water treatment module 40 can be installed in the installation mechanism.

In the illustrated example, the water treatment device 30 has 16 installation mechanisms (installation mechanisms 32A, 32B, . . .・32P). As shown in FIG. 4(B), the water treatment module 40 may have an appearance (for example, the color of the water treatment module 40) that can be identified by the user, depending on the function and performance.

In the example of FIG. 4(B), the size of the water treatment module 40 is equal to the predetermined unit, but depending on the water treatment function required of the water treatment module 40, the water treatment module 40 may be It may be necessary to make it larger than the unit.

In FIG. 4(C), a larger water treatment module 40 than the example in FIG. 4(B) can be installed in the water treatment device 30. As shown in FIG. 4(C), a water treatment module 40B whose size on a unit basis is twice that of the insertion surface 31 is shown. Furthermore, a water treatment system 40C having a unit size four times that of the insertion surface 31 may also be installed in the water treatment apparatus 30.

Each water treatment module 40 includes one having a water treatment function, such as a filter. Moreover, each water treatment module 40 includes a function for supplying energy for operating the water treatment device 30, such as a function for supplying electric power, in addition to a function for water treatment. As described above, by mounting each of the water treatment modules 40, the water treatment device 30 provides the user of the water treatment device 30 with the functions of the water treatment modules 40 installed therein.

As described above, since the water treatment device 30 has a configuration in which the water treatment module 40 can be installed, it can also be regarded as a pod that can accommodate the water treatment module 40.

Returning to FIG. 3, the description of the configuration of the water treatment device 30 will be continued.

The water treatment device 30 has a configuration for communicating with an external device and a configuration for performing data processing. The water treatment device 30 includes a plurality of antennas (antennas 311, 312), wireless communication units (first wireless communication unit 321, second wireless communication unit 322) corresponding to each antenna, and an operation reception unit 330 (touch-sensitive device 331 and display 332), an audio processing section 340, a microphone 341, a speaker 342, a position information sensor 350, a camera 360, a movement mechanism 370, a storage section 380, and a control section 390. include.

The water treatment device 30 has functions and configurations that are not particularly shown in FIG. It also has a power supply circuit (such as a power supply circuit that controls power supply). As shown in FIG. 3, each block included in the water treatment device 30 is electrically connected by a bus or the like.

Note that the water treatment device 30 does not need to have all the configurations shown in FIG. 3, and may have some of the configurations. For example, the water treatment device 30 may not have a part of the configuration that the terminal device 10 that can communicate with the water treatment device 30 has. For example, the water treatment device 30 may not have a configuration for notifying the user, such as the audio processing unit 340, the microphone 341, the speaker 342, and the like. Further, the water treatment device 30 may not have a configuration that can be sensed even in the terminal device 10, such as the position information sensor 350 and the camera 360. Furthermore, there may be cases where the water treatment device 30 does not need to have an antenna and a wireless communication section in accordance with a plurality of communication standards, such as being compatible with either a mobile communication system or short-range wireless communication.

The antenna 311 radiates a signal emitted by the water treatment device 30 as a radio wave. Further, the antenna 311 receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to the first wireless communication unit 321.

The antenna 312 radiates a signal emitted by the water treatment device 30 as a radio wave. Further, the antenna 312 receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to the second wireless communication unit 322.

The first wireless communication unit 321 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 311 so that the water treatment device 30 communicates with other wireless devices. The second wireless communication unit 322 performs modulation and demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 312 so that the water treatment device 30 communicates with other wireless devices. The first wireless communication unit 321 and the second wireless communication unit 322 are communication modules including a tuner, an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) calculation circuit, a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) calculation circuit, a high frequency circuit, and the like. The first wireless communication unit 321 and the second wireless communication unit 322 perform modulation/demodulation and frequency conversion of wireless signals transmitted and received by the water treatment device 30 and provide received signals to the control unit 390.

The operation reception unit 330 has a mechanism for accepting user input operations. Specifically, operation reception unit 330 is configured as a touch screen and includes a touch sensitive device 331 and a display 332. Touch sensitive device 331 receives input operations from a user of water treatment device 30 . The touch sensitive device 331 uses, for example, a capacitive touch panel to detect the position of the user's touch on the touch panel. The touch sensitive device 331 outputs a signal indicating the user's touch position detected by the touch panel to the control unit 390 as an input operation. Note that the operation reception unit 330 may accept input operations using a physically deformable mechanism such as a button.

The display 332 displays data such as images, videos, and text under the control of the control unit 390. The display 332 is realized by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, electronic paper, or the like.

The audio processing unit 340 modulates and demodulates the audio signal. The audio processing unit 340 modulates the signal provided from the microphone 341 and provides the modulated signal to the control unit 390. The audio processing unit 340 also provides an audio signal to the speaker 342. The audio processing unit 340 is realized, for example, by a processor for audio processing. The microphone 341 receives a voice input and provides a voice signal corresponding to the voice input to the voice processing unit 340. The speaker 342 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 340 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the water treatment device 30 .

The position information sensor 350 is a sensor that detects the position of the water treatment device 30, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. A GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. The satellite positioning system receives signals from at least three or four satellites, and detects the current position of the water treatment device 30 equipped with a GPS module based on the received signals. The position detected by this GPS module can be used, for example, when notifying the server 20 of the position information of the water treatment device 30.

The camera 360 is a device that receives light with a light receiving element and outputs it as a photographed image. The camera 360 is, for example, a depth camera that can detect the distance from the camera 360 to the object to be photographed.

The storage unit 380 is configured with, for example, a flash memory, and stores data and programs used by the water treatment device 30. In one aspect, the storage unit 380 stores user information 381 and water treatment history information 382.

The user information 381 is information about a user who receives the water treatment function provided by the water treatment device 30. The user information includes information for identifying the user, information on the water treatment module 40 used by the user, information on the water treatment module 40 owned by the user, and the like.

The water treatment history information 382 is information indicating the results sensed by various sensors included in the water treatment device 30. For example, the water treatment history information 382 holds a history of water treatment performed in each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32.

The control unit 390 controls the operation of the water treatment device 30 by reading a program stored in the storage unit 380 and executing instructions included in the program. Control unit 390 is, for example, an application processor. The control unit 390 functions as an input operation reception unit 391, a transmission/reception unit 392, a data processing unit 393, and a notification control unit 394 by operating according to a program.

The input operation reception unit 391 performs a process of accepting a user's input operation on an input device such as the touch sensitive device 331. The input operation reception unit 391 determines whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, or a drag (swipe) operation based on the information of the coordinates where the user touches the touch sensitive device 331 with a finger or the like. Determine the type of operation, such as whether it exists. Further, the input operation reception unit 391 acquires information such as a position specified by the user on the display 332 using a pointing device or the like.

The transmitting/receiving unit 392 performs processing for the water treatment device 30 to transmit and receive data with an external device such as the server 20 according to a communication protocol.

The data processing unit 393 performs calculations on the data input by the water treatment device 30 according to a program, and outputs the calculation results to a memory or the like. For example, the data processing unit 393 performs a process of causing the water treatment history information 382 to hold the history of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30, and a process of causing the water treatment history information 382 to hold the history of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40, Perform processing such as sending to.

The notification control unit 394 performs a process of notifying information to the user. The notification control unit 394 performs, for example, a process of displaying a display image on the display 332, a process of causing the speaker 342 to output audio, and a process of causing the camera 360 to generate vibration.

<Functional configuration of server 20>
Next, the configuration of the server 20 will be explained.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the functional configuration of the server 20. As shown in FIG. 5, the server 20 functions as a communication section 201, a storage section 202, and a control section 203.

The communication unit 201 performs processing for the server 20 to communicate with external devices (for example, the terminal device 10 and the water treatment device 30).

The storage unit 202 stores data and programs used by the server 20. The storage unit 202 stores a water treatment module database 281, a water treatment device database 282, a user information database 283, and external environment information 284.

The water treatment module database 281 is a database regarding specifications of the water treatment module 40. Details will be described later.

The water treatment device database 282 is a database about the settings of the water treatment device 30 and the history of how the water treatment device 30 was used by the user. Details will be described later.

The user information database 283 is a database for holding information on each user who uses the water treatment device 30. Details will be described later.

The external environment information 284 is information regarding the environment in which the water treatment device 30 is installed. For example, the server 20 acquires parameters that affect water demand for the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and stores them in the external environment information 284. For example, parameters that affect water demand include data related to the climate conditions surrounding the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed (weather, temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc.), data related to water users (influx of people , runoff, etc.), data on local water sources (river flow rate, groundwater volume, etc.), and other information.

The control unit 203 performs functions shown as various modules by the processor of the server 20 performing processing according to a program.

The operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires the user's operation content when the server 20 receives information input from the user of the terminal device 10 or the like. For example, when the server 20 presents a screen using the browser of the terminal device 10 and accepts a user's operation, the operation content acquisition module 2041 acquires the user's operation content.

The reception control module 2042 controls the process by which the server 20 receives signals from an external device according to a communication protocol.

The transmission control module 2043 controls the process by which the server 20 transmits a signal to an external device according to a communication protocol.

The water demand prediction module 2044 predicts the demand for water in each region. The water demand prediction module predicts the use of water and the amount of water required at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed based on the storage contents of each database stored in the storage unit 202.

For example, the water demand prediction module 2044 predicts the use and demand for water in each region based on the water treatment equipment database 282 and the track record of water treatment performed in the water treatment equipment 30 installed in each region. . For example, by creating a trained model based on time-series data of the water treatment performance of the water treatment equipment 30 accumulated in the water treatment equipment database 282, the water demand prediction module 2044 uses the learned model. water demand can be predicted based on

For example, the water demand prediction module 2044 may predict the demand for water in each region based on information about the environment in each region shown in the external environment information 284. By creating a trained model based on time-series data of environmental information in each region and the performance of water treatment in water treatment equipment 30 installed in each region, the water demand prediction module 2044 can It is possible to predict water demand based on the predicted results of environmental information and the trained model.

The combination identification module 2045 identifies a combination of water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment apparatus 30. The combination specifying module 2045 specifies a combination of water treatment modules 40 that is suitable for the use according to the use specified by the user. Further, the combination identification module 2045 identifies a combination of water treatment modules 40 to meet the water demand according to the water demand prediction result by the water demand prediction module 2044, regardless of the user's specification.

<Configuration of terminal device 10>
Next, the configuration of the terminal device 10 will be explained.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the terminal device 10. As shown in FIG. 6, the terminal device 10 includes a plurality of antennas (an antenna 111, an antenna 112), a wireless communication section (a first wireless communication section 121, a second wireless communication section 122) corresponding to each antenna, and an operation A reception unit 130 (including a touch sensitive device 131 and a display 132), an audio processing unit 140, a microphone 141, a speaker 142, a position information sensor 150, a camera 160, a storage unit 180, a control unit 190, including.

Among the configurations of the terminal device 10, the configurations equivalent to the water treatment device 30 will not be repeated because they are the same as each configuration of the water treatment device 30. In other words, the antenna (111, 112) of the terminal device 10, the wireless Communication unit (first wireless communication unit 121, second wireless communication unit 122), operation reception unit 130, touch sensitive device 131, display 132, audio processing unit 140, microphone 141, speaker 142, position information sensor 150, The camera 160 includes an antenna (311, 312) of the water treatment device 30, a wireless communication unit (first wireless communication unit 321, second wireless communication unit 322), an operation reception unit 330, a touch sensitive device 331, a display 332, and an audio Functional descriptions of the processing unit 340, microphone 341, speaker 342, position information sensor 350, and camera 360 will not be repeated. Note that the position information sensor 150 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 10.

The motion sensor 170 includes an acceleration sensor and an angular velocity sensor, and outputs sensing data regarding the movement of the terminal device 10. The terminal device 10 detects the tilt of the terminal device 10, the fact that the terminal device 10 is being swung, etc. based on the sensing data.

The storage unit 180 is configured with, for example, a flash memory, and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 10. In one aspect, storage unit 180 stores user information 181 and water treatment history information 182.

User information 181 is information about a user who uses water treatment device 30. The user information includes information for identifying the user, information on the water treatment module 40 used by the user, information on the water treatment module 40 owned by the user, and the like.

The water treatment history information 182 is information indicating the results sensed by various sensors included in the water treatment device 30. The water treatment history information 182 holds a history of water treatment performed by the water treatment apparatus 30 in each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32.

The control unit 190 controls the operation of the terminal device 10 by reading a program stored in the storage unit 180 and executing instructions included in the program. Control unit 190 is, for example, an application processor. The control unit 190 functions as an input operation reception unit 191, a transmission/reception unit 192, a data processing unit 193, and a display control unit 194 by operating according to a program.

The input operation reception unit 191 performs a process of accepting a user's input operation on an input device such as the touch sensitive device 131. The input operation reception unit 191 determines whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, or a drag (swipe) operation, based on information on the coordinates of the user's finger or the like in contact with the touch-sensitive device 131. Determine the type of operation, such as whether it exists.

The transmitting/receiving unit 192 performs processing for the terminal device 10 to transmit and receive data with an external device such as the server 20 according to a communication protocol.

The data processing unit 193 performs calculations on the data input by the terminal device 10 according to a program, and outputs the calculation results to a memory or the like. For example, the data processing unit 193 performs a process of acquiring the results of water treatment performed in the water treatment device 30 (sensing results in the water treatment device 30) from the water treatment device 30 and transmitting it to the server 20; In response to this, a process is performed in which the combination of water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment apparatus 30 is presented on the display 132 or the like.

The notification control unit 194 performs a process of displaying a display image on the display 132, a process of causing the speaker 142 to output audio, and a process of causing the camera 160 to generate vibration.

<Data structure>
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the data structure of the water treatment module database 281, water treatment device database 282, and user information database 283 stored in the server 20.

As shown in FIG. 7, each record in the water treatment module database 281 includes the item "module identification information (ID)," the item "type/function," the item "size/size," and the item "sensing possible." including "data".

The item "module identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each of the plurality of types of water treatment modules 40.

The item "type/function" indicates the type into which the water treatment module 40 is classified and the function that the water treatment module 40 exhibits.

(i) Some types of water treatment modules 40 have the function of performing water treatment on inflowing water. For example, the water treatment module 40 provides a function of removing substances larger than a predetermined size using a filter, or a function of removing microorganisms (bacteria) by an optical method (such as ultraviolet irradiation) or a chemical method. There are things to do.

(ii) The types of water treatment modules 40 include those having a function of providing an energy source for operating the water treatment device 30. For example, the water treatment module 40 may include a solar cell or the like to provide a power supply function for operating the water treatment device 30. In other words, such a water treatment module 40 causes the water treatment device 30 to exhibit a water treatment function by supplying power to the water treatment device 30.

(iii) Types of water treatment modules 40 include those that provide water with properties required by the user. For example, the water treatment module 40 includes one that provides a hot water supply or cooling function when a user has a demand for hot or cold water for showering or drinking purposes, and one that provides a function that generates moisture from the air. It will be done.

The item “size/size” indicates the size that the water treatment module 40 occupies when installed in the water treatment device 30. In this embodiment, as explained in FIG. 4 and the like, the water treatment device 30 has a plurality of installation mechanisms. As in the example of FIG. 4, each of these installation mechanisms may be used as a slot, and the size of each water treatment module 40 may be defined in the item "size/size."

For example, a water treatment module whose item "module identification information (ID)" is "FL01" occupies one slot among the slots of the water treatment device 30 when installed in the water treatment device 30 (example in FIG. 4). water treatment module 40A).

Further, for example, a water treatment module whose item "module identification information (ID)" is "FL02" occupies two slots (water treatment module 40B in the example of FIG. 4).

The item “sensable data” indicates objects that can be sensed by the water treatment module 40.

(i) Sensing targets include items that change before and after water treatment. For example, sensing items may be included to evaluate purification performance through water treatment. More specifically, when the water treatment module 40 has a filter or the like to provide the function of obtaining purified water, the concentration of substances or microorganisms to be removed in the water before it is treated with the filter or the like, or after it is treated with the filter. The concentration in the water may be the sensing target.

(ii) Sensing targets include items related to the amount of water treated. For example, the amount of water flowing into the water treatment module 40 may be the subject of sensing.

(iii) Sensing targets include items for evaluating the functions of the water treatment module 40. For example, when the water treatment module 40 provides power, the amount of power generation may be the subject of sensing. Furthermore, when the water treatment module 40 generates moisture from the air, the amount of water generated may be a subject of sensing.

Each of the records in the water treatment equipment database 282 includes an item "Pod identification information (ID)", an item "User identification information (ID)", an item "Pod position information", an item "Slot usage status", It includes the item "designated use", the item "operation start date", and the item "sensing data".

The item “pod identification information (ID)” is information for identifying each water treatment device 30.

The item “user identification information (ID)” is information for identifying each user who uses the water treatment device 30.

The item "pod location information" indicates the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed (for example, information specified by latitude and longitude, or information specified by address). For example, the information acquired by the position information sensor 350 of the water treatment apparatus 30 or the position information acquired by the user using the terminal device 10 may be used as the position where the water treatment apparatus 30 is installed.

The item “slot usage status” indicates a status in which a plurality of installation mechanisms (a plurality of slots) included in the water treatment device 30 are used by the water treatment module 40, as shown in FIG. The item "slot usage status" may include information on the usage status of each of the plurality of installation mechanisms (the usage status of each slot). The item "slot usage status" includes, for example, information that identifies each of a plurality of installation mechanisms, information (module ID) that identifies the type of water treatment module 40 installed in the installation mechanism, and information about the water treatment device 30. Information on the number of installation mechanisms provided may also be retained. The item "slot usage status" may include information on installation mechanisms (empty slots) that are not in use.

The item “designated usage” indicates the usage specified by the user in the water treatment device 30 and the usage status of each slot for realizing the usage. For example, in the illustrated example, among the plurality of installation mechanisms (each slot) of the water treatment device 30, the function of "dish washing" (that is, water is used for washing after meals) is performed. This indicates that four installation mechanisms (slots "SL01", "SL02", "SL03", and "SL04") are used for the purpose of this.

The item “operation start date” indicates the timing at which the water treatment device 30 starts providing the water treatment function. The item “operation start date” includes information on the timing (date, date and time, etc.) when the water treatment device 30 started providing water treatment functions by the combination of water treatment modules 40 shown in the item “slot usage status”. You can also use it as

The item “sensing data” indicates sensing results sensed by each water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. In the item "sensing data", information indicating timing of sensing in each slot and data of sensing results may be stored in association with each other.

Each record in the user information database 283 includes the item "User identification information (ID)", the item "Pod identification information (ID) in use", the item "Module held", and the item "Currently in use". module" and the item "schedule."

The item “user identification information (ID)” is information for identifying each user who uses the water treatment device 30.

The item “used pod identification information (ID)” indicates information (pod ID) for identifying the water treatment device 30 used by the user.

The item “module held” indicates information (module ID) for identifying the module held by the user among the water treatment modules 40 that can be installed in the water treatment device 30. That is, candidates for the water treatment module 40 that can be installed in the water treatment device 30 by the user are shown. For example, when the user performs an operation to obtain the water treatment module 40 (such as an operation to purchase the water treatment module 40), information about the water treatment module 40 held by the user is updated in the server 20.

The item “module in use” indicates the water treatment module 40 that the user is using by installing it in the water treatment device 30. The item “module in use” may be updated by the server 20 acquiring information that identifies the water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. For example, the user may operate the terminal device 10 to specify the water treatment module 40 installed in the water treatment device 30. Further, in the water treatment device 30, by installing the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, the water treatment device 30 may be able to acquire the identification information held in the water treatment module 40.

The item "schedule" includes information on the user's schedule. For example, the server 20 acquires information about a user's schedule from a server device that provides a calendar application. The schedule information includes, for example, a subject, a location, a date and time, and information on the contents of the schedule.

For example, the server 20 may predict the demand for water treatment in the water treatment device 30 based on information about the user's schedule. For example, it is possible to estimate whether or not there is a demand for water and the amount of water that is in demand at a certain date and time, based on information such as the subject and location of the schedule information. For example, if schedule information includes information such as "cooking" in the subject, schedule content, etc., it can be inferred that there is a demand for water for the purpose of "washing dishes."

The server 20 also compares the user's schedule information with the actual value of the sensing results in the water treatment device 30 (item “sensing data” in the water treatment device database 282), and performs water treatment based on the schedule information. A trained model can be created to output the demand forecast results. The server 20 can estimate the demand for water treatment before and after the date and time shown in the schedule based on the learned model and the user's schedule shown in the item "schedule".

<Operation>
The operation of each device in the water treatment system 1 will be explained below.

Specifically, (i) a process of accumulating in the server 20 the results of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment device 30 will be described. Further, as a process for presenting to the user combinations of water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment device 30, (ii) a process for presenting combinations of water treatment modules 40 according to the application specified by the user; (iii) water treatment A process of predicting the demand for water treatment at the location where the device 30 is installed and presenting combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user; (iv) combinations of water treatment modules 40 according to the water treatment performance of the water treatment device 30; The process of presenting this to the user will be explained. Furthermore, when the water treatment device 30 can be moved, (v) a process for prompting the user to move the water treatment device 30 according to the demand for water treatment in each region will be described.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a flow of processing for accumulating the results of water treatment performed by the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment apparatus 30 in the server 20.

In step S801, the water treatment device 30 (control unit 390) identifies each of the water treatment modules 40 installed in each slot of the water treatment module installation mechanism 32, and identifies the water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32. The combination of water treatment modules 40 that are present is specified. The water treatment device 30 transmits the specified combination of water treatment modules 40 to the server 20.

In step S853, the server 20 (control unit 203) receives information identifying the water treatment apparatus 30, information identifying the user, information for identifying the water treatment apparatus 30, and information for identifying the user from the terminal device 10 of the water treatment apparatus 30 or the user of the water treatment apparatus 30. The water treatment device 30 starts to perform water treatment based on the information indicating the position, the combination of water treatment modules 40 installed in each slot of the water treatment device 30, the purpose of the water treatment module 40, and the combination of the water treatment modules 40. Information such as the start date of operation is recorded in the water treatment equipment database 282. Regarding the usage of the water treatment module 40, for example, the user performs an operation to specify the usage of the water treatment equipment 30 on the terminal device 10 or the water treatment equipment 30, and the terminal device 10 or the water treatment equipment 30 selects the designated usage. It may also be transmitted to the server 20. Further, the operation start date may be specified by the user, or may be specified by the timing when the terminal device 10 or water treatment device 30 transmits the combination of water treatment modules 40 to the server 20, or when the server 20 sends the combination of water treatment modules 40 to the server 20. The server 20 may specify the combination based on the timing of receiving the combination.

In step S805, the water treatment device 30 acquires sensing results regarding the processing of the water treatment module 40 using various sensor devices, and sequentially transmits the sensing results to the server 20.

In step S855, the server 20 receives the sensing results in the water treatment device 30 from the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10, and stores them in the water treatment device database 282.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a process flow in which the server 20 presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the use of the water treatment apparatus 30 specified by the user.

In step S931, the terminal device 10 (control unit 190) receives designation of one or more uses of the water treatment device 30 from the user. The terminal device 10 transmits the specified purpose to the server 20.

In step S953, the server 20 specifies the necessary water treatment module 40 by referring to the water treatment module database 281 according to the use specified by the user for the water treatment device 30. For example, the server 20 specifies the water treatment module 40 according to the purpose by holding information that associates the purpose that can be specified by the user with the identification information of the water treatment module 40 . The server 20 responds with the combination of water treatment modules 40 to the terminal device 10. Furthermore, by referring to the user information database 283, the server 20 responds with information on water treatment modules 40 that are not held by the user, among the combinations of water treatment modules 40 that correspond to the user's purpose. Further, the server 20 responds to the terminal device 10 with the number of slots required for the specified combination of water treatment modules 40.

In step S935, the terminal device 10 presents the information indicating the combination of water treatment modules 40 received from the server 20 to the user by displaying it on the display 132 or the like. In the combination of water treatment modules 40, if there is a water treatment module 40 that the user does not hold, the terminal device 10 presents the water treatment module 40 to the user as a water treatment module 40 necessary for the purpose specified by the user. The terminal device 10 determines the number of slots required for the combination of water treatment modules 40 and the availability of the slots of the water treatment modules 40. For example, if the water treatment device 30 does not have the necessary number of slots available to realize the purpose specified by the user, the terminal device 10 notifies the user to that effect.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in which the server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed and presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user.

In step S1053, the server 20 obtains information on the environment at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed (information on local climate conditions, information on local water sources, etc.) by referring to the external environment information 284. The server 20 predicts the demand for water treatment at the location where the server 30 is installed based on environmental information.

In step S1055, the server 20 identifies candidates for combinations of water treatment modules 40 that meet the prediction results based on the water demand prediction results, and transmits the identified candidates to the user's terminal device 10.

In step S1035, the terminal device 10 receives information on candidate combinations of water treatment modules 40 from the server 20, and presents the received candidate combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user.

Thereby, the user can be prompted to change the combination of water treatment modules 40 according to the predicted water demand.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a flow of processing in which the server 20 presents combinations of water treatment modules 40 to the user according to the water treatment performance of the water treatment apparatus 30.

In step S1153, the server 20 determines the user's water treatment purpose based on the sensing result of the water treatment device 30 by referring to the water treatment device database 282. For example, the server 20 holds information specifying the expected amount of water treatment (amount of water flowing into the water treatment module 40) for each application, and the sensing results of the water treatment device 30 and the expected By comparing the amount of water treatment, the frequency of use of the application is determined. When the frequency of use of water treatment for a specific application is lower than a specified value, it can be determined that the user is not using the water treatment device 30 for that application.

Furthermore, when the frequency of use of the water treatment device 30 for a specific application is greater than a specified value, it can be determined that the user has a relatively large number of opportunities to use the water treatment device 30 for that purpose.

Furthermore, if there is a use that is used relatively frequently among the uses specified by the user, it can be estimated that the user also uses uses related to the use. For example, if the user specifies that the water will be used for the purpose of "dish washing" and the water treatment module 40 purifies water using a filter or the like, the actual Suppose that there are cases where the amount of water treated by the water treatment module 40 is large. In this case, the server 20 can estimate that the water treatment module 40 is also used for purposes other than "dishwashing."

In step S1155, the server 20 specifies the combination of water treatment modules 40 to be presented to the user based on the result of determining the usage based on the sensing results of the water treatment modules 40, and selects the combination of the specified water treatment modules 40. It is transmitted to the terminal device 10.

In step S1135, the terminal device 10 presents the candidate combinations of water treatment modules 40 received from the server 20 to the user.

As described above, the user can be prompted to change the combination of water treatment modules 40 based on the water treatment performance in the water treatment device 30.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a flow of a process that prompts the user to move the water treatment device 30 according to the demand for water treatment in each region.

In step S1353, the server 20 refers to the water treatment equipment database 282 and the external environment information 284 to determine whether water treatment in each region is possible based on the sensing results of the water treatment equipment 30 installed in each region and information on the environment in each region. Forecast demand for. For example, by performing the processes described in steps S1053 and S1153, the server 20 calculates the demand for water treatment in each region and the demand for water treatment devices 30 necessary to meet the demand (such as the number of water treatment devices 30). ) to predict.

In step S1355, the server 20 refers to the water treatment device database 282 to obtain the status of the water treatment devices 30 arranged in various locations. The server 20 determines the destination of the water treatment equipment 30 in each region so that the predicted demand for water treatment in each region predicted in step S1353 can be met. For example, if there is a first area with a small number of water treatment devices 30 in accordance with the prediction of demand for water treatment in each region, among a plurality of areas in which there is a surplus in the number of water treatment devices 30 with respect to the prediction, , the second area is specified based on the distance to the first area, the travel time, and the amount of energy required to move the water treatment device 30.

For example, among the plurality of areas, a second area that requires a short travel time to move the water treatment device 30 is specified based on the route (distance, road congestion, etc.) to the first area. For example, in the event of a disaster, when the supply amount from tap water etc. is expected to decrease in relation to the water demand, the water treatment function by the water treatment device 30 is provided as soon as possible in response to the water demand (waste water can be reused). Therefore, the water treatment device 30 may be moved from an area where the travel time is short.

In addition, when it is assumed that the demand for water treatment in each region will fluctuate due to seasonal changes, etc., the amount of energy required to move the water treatment equipment 30 will be reduced (the amount of energy required for transportation will be reduced). ), the target water treatment device 30 to be moved may be specified.

In step S1357, the server 20 notifies the user of each water treatment device 30 of information on the destination of the water treatment device 30.

In step S1335, the terminal device 10 presents the destination of the water treatment device 30 to the user.

Note that the water treatment device 30 does not necessarily need to be associated with the information of the user. For example, the water treatment device 30 may be installed in a public facility, a highly public place (such as a park), and the user's information may not be associated with it, or the administrator's information may be associated with it. The water treatment device 30 may be made to travel by itself from the first area to the second area by remote control via communication or by the water treatment device 30 automatically traveling based on map information or the like.

<Screen example>
An example of a screen in a situation where information is notified to a user will be explained. As described above, the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 presents information to the user, but in the explanation of screen examples below, an example in which information is presented by the user's terminal device 10 will be described.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on the terminal device 10. As shown in FIG.

13(A), FIG. 13(B), and FIG. 13(C) are examples of screens in which combinations of water treatment modules 40 according to the application of the water treatment apparatus 30 are presented to the user.

FIG. 13A corresponds to the processing in steps S931 and S935. As shown in FIG. 13A, the terminal device 10 displays on the display 132 a position display section 132A, a purpose display section 132B, a module information display section 132G, and an operation button 132C. The server 20 transmits information to be displayed on the terminal device 10 by referring to the water treatment device database 282.

The position display section 132A is an area for presenting to the user the position where the water treatment device 30 is installed.

The usage display section 132B is an area for presenting to the user the usage set for the water treatment device 30 (for example, the usage specified by the user).

The module information display section 132G is an area for presenting combinations of water treatment modules 40 installed in the water treatment apparatus 30 to the user. As shown in the module information display section 132G, the terminal device 10 displays the combination of modules necessary for the water treatment device 30 to perform the function of the application "shower", and the combination of modules necessary for the water treatment device 30 to perform the function of the application "shower", as well as the combination of modules required for the water treatment module 40 ( The water treatment modules 40) necessary for the user to receive functions from the water treatment device 30 according to the purpose are displayed.

The operation button 132C is an area for displaying information for guiding the user on how to install the water treatment module 40 in the water treatment apparatus 30. For example, in response to a user's operation to specify the operation button 132C, the terminal device 10 displays the position of the slot in which each water treatment module 40 is installed in the water treatment device 30, etc. displayed on the module information display section 132G. .

FIG. 13(B) corresponds to the process of step S1035. As shown in FIG. 13B, the terminal device 10 predicts the water demand at the location where the water treatment device 30 is installed, according to the predicted water demand results in each region, as shown in the module information display section 132G. The results and combinations of water treatment modules 40 that can match the water demand based on the prediction results are displayed. For example, when a shortage in the supply amount relative to the demand for water is predicted, the server 20 causes the terminal device 10 to display combinations of water treatment modules 40 that can resolve the shortage.

FIG. 13C corresponds to the process in step S1135. As shown in FIG. 13C, the terminal device 10 displays the result of estimating the user's usage based on the history of the user's use of the water treatment device 30, as shown in the module information display section 132G. In the module information display section 132G, the terminal device 10 displays combinations of water treatment modules 40 that correspond to the estimated user's usage.

The terminal device 10 allows the user to use the water treatment module 40 that the user does not own on the screen (the screen that displays the water treatment module 40 that the user does not own) by purchasing, etc. screen (or a button that transitions to the screen) may be displayed.

FIG. 13(D) shows a situation in which guidance for moving the water treatment device 30 according to the demand for water in each region is presented to the user.

FIG. 13(D) corresponds to the process in step S1335. As shown in FIG. 13(D), the terminal device 10 displays a guide display section 132J and a route display section 132K on the display 132.

Note that the water treatment apparatus 30 may not be owned by the user, and the water treatment apparatuses 30 installed in various places may be moved by automatic driving or transportation depending on the predicted demand for water treatment.

Alternatively, FIG. 13(D) may be a screen presented to the administrator who manages the water treatment device 30.

The guide display section 132J is an area for displaying a destination when the water treatment device 30 is moved in accordance with the prediction result of demand for water treatment in each region. Information regarding the time required to move the water treatment device 30 and the timing at which the water treatment device 30 should be moved may be displayed on the guide display section 132J.

The route display section 132K is an area for allowing the user to view the method of moving the water treatment device 30 from the current value to the destination and the moving route. For example, in response to a user's operation on the route display section 132K, a transition may be made to a screen that displays information such as how to move, or the route display section 132K may display information such as the moving route. .

As described above, the water treatment system 1 is configured so that the water treatment modules 40 can be rearranged according to the purpose in the water treatment equipment 30 installed in various locations, thereby reducing the infrastructure cost of large-scale water treatment equipment. It is possible to meet a wide variety of water demands without the need for water.

<Embodiment 2>
A water treatment system according to another embodiment will be described. Note that in the description of Embodiment 2, the term "water treatment device" includes the "water treatment device 30" described in Embodiment 1, and refers to water supplied to the environment or used water. A device that performs water treatment such as removing foreign substances using a filter. That is, the "water treatment device" includes devices other than the water treatment device 30 that perform water treatment. Furthermore, in the description of the second embodiment, "water usage equipment" refers to equipment installed in response to situations in which users use water.

In the description of Embodiment 2, various water usage equipment and water treatment devices (including the water treatment device 30 described in Embodiment 1) are used in each environment such as a house, an apartment complex, and a mobile object (camper, aircraft, etc.). In other words, if a water treatment device other than the water treatment device 30 (installed in a house, etc.) is made available, a trained model for predicting water demand and water usage status in each environment is required. Explain how to create one. As described in the first embodiment, the environments in which water is used include outdoor land 5, indoor buildings 6, and moving objects 7.

In addition, in the second embodiment, by distributing the created trained model to the water treatment equipment or the user's terminal (including the terminal device 10 described in the first embodiment), information can be notified to the user and the water We will explain how to enable various processes such as maintenance and management of processing equipment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an overview of the water treatment system 2 according to the second embodiment. As shown as a water treatment system 2, the server 20 outputs outputs from various devices such as water treatment devices (including the water treatment device 30), water usage equipment, and terminal devices 10 placed in each environment in connection with water treatment. The water treatment data set, which is a data group, is received and accumulated. For example, the server 20 senses water usage equipment (61A, 61B, . . . ) installed in an environment (60A, 60B) where water treatment equipment (including water treatment equipment other than the water treatment equipment 30) operates. The water treatment data set includes sensing data, various data sensed along with the operation of water treatment devices (for example, water treatment devices 30A and 30B), and the like. Water usage equipment is equipment that allows users to use water, and various water usage equipment is prepared depending on the situation where users use water, such as shower rooms, kitchens, and laundry. . For example, various water treatment modules installed in the water treatment device 30 may be equipped with various sensors.

Here, the water treatment data set includes, for example, the following:

(A) Parameters for driving the various hardware that makes up the water treatment system 2, water usage equipment, and parameters for driving the pumps of the water treatment equipment (1) Pump drive values (voltage, current), cumulative drive time, Pump maintenance record (2) Pump service life

・Parameters related to tank operation control (1) Tank capacity, material, and service life (2) Changes in tank capacity (3) Accumulated operating time of tank, maintenance records

・Parameters related to valve operation control (1) Valve drive value (voltage, current), cumulative drive time, operating time/timing (2) Valve service life

(B) Sensing results - Sensing results of various sensors that can sense underwater (for example, the following items can be sensed by sensors)
(1) Flow rate, pressure, water level, temperature (2) pH, electrical conductivity, redox potential, alkalinity, ion concentration (3) Turbidity, color, viscosity, dissolved oxygen (4) Odor, ammonia nitrogen, Nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, total nitrogen, residual chlorine, total phosphorus, total organic carbon, total inorganic carbon, total trihalomethane (5) Detection results of microbial sensors, chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand,
(6) Cyanide, mercury, oil, surfactant (7) Detection results of optical sensor, detection results of TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor (8) Mass spectrometry results, fine particles, zeta potential, surface potential

・Gas sensor sensing results (for example, the following items can be sensed by the sensor)
(1) Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia, methane, propane, propane alcohol, VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), organic solvents, trimethylamine, methyl mercaptan, hydrogen sulfide, methyl sulfide, methyl disulfide, oxygen, nitrogen, chlorine, Flammable gas

・Image data (1) Biological treatment tank monitoring image data (2) Tank monitoring image data (3) Filter monitoring image data (4) Piping monitoring image data

・Water quality data (1) Data on water quality standard items (51 items, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) of tap water quality standards (2) Data on sewage treatment

(c) Other information/environmental information (1) Atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity (2) Information indicating the location of the environment

・User data (1) User attributes (gender, nationality, place of residence)
(2) User usage patterns (cleaning use, drinking use)

The server 20 generates a learned model based on the water treatment data set collected from the environment (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates. For example, the server 20 generates a learned model by performing machine learning based on water treatment data sets accumulated by sensing in each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment apparatus operates. The server 20 may store the learned model in association with information that specifies each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates.

The server 20 transmits the generated trained model to computers such as the water treatment device 30 and the terminal device 10. Based on the information that specifies the environment in which the water treatment device operates, the server 20 connects the trained model based on the water treatment data set obtained by sensing in the environment to the water treatment device that is associated with the information that specifies the environment. It is transmitted to the processing device 30 or the user's terminal device 10. Thereby, the server 20 can distribute the learned model to the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10 for each of the environments (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates.

Here, water utilization equipment and water treatment equipment may be installed in one or more in a single house, or in an apartment complex. In addition, water usage equipment and water treatment equipment may be installed at campgrounds, travel destinations, places where people temporarily stay, etc. In addition, water usage equipment and water treatment equipment are sometimes installed in commercial facilities such as restaurants. Water usage equipment is installed in response to situations in which users use water, and for example, the following situations may occur.

The situations in which users use water include (a) users using body washing equipment; Places where body washing equipment is placed include shower rooms, bathrooms, hand washing areas, foot washing areas, and animal body washing areas.

The situations in which users use water include (a) users using equipment for washing clothes; Clothes washing equipment includes washing machines and the like.

As a situation in which a user uses water, (c) the user may use a washing device for food ingredients and tableware, for example, the user uses the washing device in the kitchen.

(d) When a user uses water, the user may use a water supply device. For example, a user uses a water purifier to obtain drinking or cooking water.

These water usage facilities have pipes, faucets, etc. for supplying and draining water, and the amount of water used is recorded. Additionally, the water usage equipment may be one that uses water collected from nature (river, marsh, lake, seawater, well water, rainwater), or one that uses treated water that has been treated with a water treatment device. It may be.

By including a filter, the water treatment device can remove foreign matter of a predetermined size or more and foreign matter of a predetermined length or more. For example, a water treatment device uses a filter to remove dirt, stones, soil, sand, hair, grime, excrement, food, and the like.

Water treatment equipment can remove metal molecules and pesticide molecules by being equipped with a reverse osmosis membrane.

These water treatment devices (including the water treatment device 30) operate under computer control to determine the flow rate of water to be treated by the water treatment device and the content of the water to be treated (which filter to pass through). can be controlled.

For example, by controlling the operation of the valves of a water treatment device by a computer, it is possible to control which filter of the water treatment device the water to be treated passes through. For example, by controlling a valve, water to be treated can be made to pass through one filter, multiple filters, or none of the filters. can.

For example, by controlling the operation of a pump in a water treatment device by a computer, it is possible to control the amount of water and the pressure of water sent out by the pump.

Moreover, water treatment equipment and water treatment apparatuses can sense changes in water pressure and water volume by having various sensors. Examples of the sensor include a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor, an electrical conductivity sensor, and an odor sensor. By providing a pressure sensor in the piping used in water treatment equipment or water treatment equipment, the pressure of water in the piping can be sensed. In addition, by installing a flow rate sensor and an odor sensor in the pipes, etc. that flow the treated water after being treated by the water treatment device, it is possible to sense the amount of water treated by the water treatment device and the intensity of the odor. . For example, an electrical conductivity sensor can sense the electrical conductivity of untreated water before being treated by a water treatment device.

Such sensors are installed, for example, in pipes, faucets, and the like.

<Data structure>
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the data structure of external environment information 284 in the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, each record of the external environment information 284 includes the item "Environmental identification information (ID)", the item "Parameters affecting water demand in the environment", and the item "Sensing data of water treatment equipment". ” and other items.

The item "environment identification information (ID)" is information for identifying each environment in which the water treatment device operates. The environment in which a water treatment device operates refers to, for example, a residence where one or more households reside, a building used as a business office, a facility where multiple residences or business offices are concentrated, and the like. The item "environment identification information (ID)" may include information on the location of the environment in which the water treatment device operates.

The item "parameters that affect the demand for water in the environment" is a parameter related to the amount of water supplied and the amount of water demanded in the environment.

For example, regarding parameters related to the amount of water supplied and the amount of water demanded, environmental factors include factors such as the location and position of water use, the situation in which water is used, temperature, humidity, vibration, and atmospheric pressure. Further, regarding the parameters, factors based on the usage mode include the method of using water, the usage, etc. Further, regarding the parameters, temporal factors include the frequency with which the user uses water, the time period during which water is used for one use, and the like. Specifically, it may include the following.

(i) Parameters that influence consumers' motivation to use water include, for example, parameters of climate conditions. The climate condition parameters include the weather, temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc. in the environment (location) where the water treatment device is installed.

(ii) Parameters that affect the amount of water demanded include, for example, information on users who use water in the environment. For example, parameters that affect the amount of water demanded include information on the number of users who use water in the environment, and information on the number of people flowing in and out of the environment per unit time. Furthermore, information on the time period during which people stay in a residence or the like may be included as a parameter that affects the amount of water demanded.

(iii) Parameters related to the amount of water supplied to the environment include, for example, information on water sources available in the environment. For example, the water source information may include information such as the flow rate of a river, the amount of underground water, and the quality of water.

The item "sensing data of water utilization equipment" includes data that can be sensed in the environment (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment device operates. For example, when various sensors (gas sensors, etc.) are installed in the environment, the sensing results of the sensors are included. It also includes information on the computer-controlled operating status of water usage equipment (tanks, etc.) installed in the environment (60A, 60B). It also includes information on water quality sensed by various sensors included in water usage equipment and water treatment equipment.

As explained above, the server 20 accumulates water treatment datasets acquired in the environment (60A, 60B) in which the water treatment equipment operates in the external environment information 284, etc., and performs machine learning based on the water treatment datasets. By doing so, a trained model can be generated. Note that various methods such as deep learning can be used as the machine learning method.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the operation of each device constituting the water treatment system 2 of the second embodiment. Note that, although the water treatment device 30 described in Embodiment 1 is illustrated as an example of the water treatment device, the present invention is not limited thereto.

In step S1601, the water treatment device 30 uses parameters that control the operation of the water treatment device 30 (drive values for valve control, drive values for pump control, etc.) of the water treatment device 30, various sensors of the water treatment device 30 (underwater sensor etc.) is transmitted to the server 20 as a water treatment data set.

In step S1653, the server 20 receives a water treatment data set from the water treatment apparatus 30 for the water treatment apparatus 30 in each environment. The server 20 stores the received water treatment data set in the water treatment device database 282 in association with information that identifies each water treatment device 30.

In step S1611, the terminal device 10 transmits the data acquired in each environment to the server 20 as a water treatment data set. The terminal device 10 transmits, for example, parameters that affect water demand in each environment, sensing data of water usage equipment, etc. to the server 20.

In step S1655, the server 20 acquires the data acquired in each environment from the terminal device 10 (or a computer other than the terminal device 10 in the environment) and creates a water treatment data set in a database (external environment information 284, etc.). Accumulate in. The server 20 associates information with information that specifies the environment in which the water treatment device operates (for example, information that identifies users who use the environment, identification information of the water treatment device 30, position information where the water treatment device 30 is placed, etc.). and accumulate water treatment datasets as a database.

In step S1657, the server 20 generates a trained model for each environment based on the water treatment data set acquired for each environment. The server 20 generates a learned model based on various water treatment data sets in association with information specifying the environment in which the water treatment device 30 operates.

In step S1659, the server 20 transmits the trained model to the computers in each environment. The server 20 distributes the learned model generated for each environment to the terminal device 10 or water treatment device 30 of each environment based on information specifying each environment.

In step S1603, the water treatment device 30 receives the learned model from the server 20.

In step S1605, the water treatment device 30 presents the user with the processing results using the trained model.

In step S1613, the terminal device 10 receives the trained model.

In step S1615, the terminal device 10 presents the processing results using the learned model to the user.

In the above description of the second embodiment, the learned model generated by the server 20 is distributed to the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30, and the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30 receives the learned model, An example in which processing results based on a learned model are presented to the user (S1605, S1615) has been described.

In addition, the server 20 holds learned models generated for each environment, and performs processing based on the learned models in response to access from the terminal device 10 or water treatment device 30 of each environment. The processing results may be transmitted to the terminal device 10 or the water treatment device 30. In other words, the server 20 is responsible for the processing in steps S1605 and S1615, and the server 20 transmits the processing results based on the learned model to the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10 in response to access from the water treatment device 30 or the terminal device 10. It may also be transmitted to the terminal device 10.

By each device of the water treatment system 2 performing the processing as described above, the trained model can be distributed to each household, for example. Thereby, it is possible to perform processing based on the water demand forecast and present the processing results to the user.

For example, presenting the processing results using the learned model to the user (S1605, S1615) includes the following.

(1) Processing related to water supply For example, when the amount of water supplied to an environment can fluctuate, adjusting the amount of water used in each environment and the method of water treatment with water treatment equipment. can be encouraged. When water from a water source is shared by multiple people, the time and amount of water used may differ in each environment (for example, each household). While predicting water demand according to changes in weather conditions, the inflow and outflow of people (estimated based on the number of users using the airport, number of hotel reservations, etc. in the case of tourist destinations), Based on the learned model generated for each environment, it is possible to perform controls such as reusing the water treated in the water treatment equipment of each environment so that the amount of water supplied from the water source is not insufficient.

(2) Estimation of functions necessary for water treatment For example, the terminal device 10 uses the learned model to estimate the functions required for water treatment based on information on pump drive values and other information (for example, weather information, etc.). Predict the operating status of the water treatment equipment pump when the information changes. For example, the terminal device 10 obtains a forecast of weather information such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc. by using a trained model, and calculates water demand based on the weather information shown in the forecast based on the operating status of the pump. Estimate based on predictions. The terminal device 10 estimates the demand for water by using the trained model, and determines the functions required for the water treatment device 30 (for example, the functions to be installed in the water treatment device 30) according to the demand for water. It is possible to estimate the combination of treatment modules 40 (filter, pump performance, piping specifications, etc.) that can handle the predicted amount of water treatment.

In addition, since the pump controls the flow rate and water pressure of water that passes through the filter provided in the water treatment device, the terminal device 10 uses the trained model to present the predicted electricity bill to the user. In addition, it is possible to display the filter replacement time, and to place an order for filter replacement based on the filter inventory status.

(3) How to handle treated water The terminal device 10 uses the learned model to predict the properties of the treated water treated by the water treatment device, and notifies the user according to the prediction result. Decide on the content. For example, the terminal device 10 predicts the sensing results of various sensors of the treated water treated by the water treatment device when the sensing results of the pre-treatment water flowing into the water treatment device fluctuate. Predict the properties of water after treatment with the equipment. For example, the terminal device 10 or the like can determine whether or not the treated water may be allowed to flow directly into a river, soil, etc. based on the properties of the water (such as the degree of removal of pollutants).

<Other examples of configuration of water treatment device 30>
The water treatment apparatus 30 described in the first and second embodiments above has a water treatment module 40 having a predetermined shape installed in the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 (installation mechanism 32A, 32B,...).

In addition, there are methods for connecting a plurality of water treatment modules 40 to each other, methods for connecting a mechanism for supplying water to be treated to the water treatment modules 40, and methods for discharging treated water. As a method of connecting the discharge mechanism and the water treatment module 40, for example, the following may be used.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the water treatment device 30. As illustrated, a plurality of water treatment modules 40 may be lined up and connected by piping 42. Further, by having a connection mechanism 43 for connecting to another water treatment module 40 at a predetermined location on the exterior of the water treatment module 40, a plurality of water treatment modules 40 may be connected to each other by arranging, stacking, etc.

FIG. 17(A) shows an example in which a plurality of water treatment modules 40 are arranged horizontally and connected by piping 42. For example, the water treatment modules 40 are arranged on the floor, and the pipes 42 are connected to the water treatment modules 40. As shown in the figure, a water treatment module 40A-01 and a water treatment module 40A-02 are connected by a pipe 42. Furthermore, the water treatment module 40A-02 and the water treatment module 40A-03 are connected by a pipe 42.

In addition, the piping 42 may have a structure that branches the water to be treated and flows, and the branching direction may be controlled by a valve.

FIG. 17(B) shows an example in which the water treatment modules 40 are connected to each other by a mechanism provided in the water treatment modules 40. For example, a mechanism for connecting to another water treatment module 40 is provided on an arbitrary surface such as a side surface of the water treatment module 40. For example, the water treatment module 40 may have a concave portion and a convex portion at any location, and the water treatment modules 40 may be combined with each other by fitting the concave and convex portions.

In the example of FIG. 17(B), each water treatment module 40 is connected by stacking a plurality of water treatment modules 40. In the example of FIG. 17(B), the water treatment module 40A-01 and the water treatment module 40A-02 are connected to each other by a connection mechanism 43 (indicated by a dotted line). Similarly, the water treatment module 40A-02 and the water treatment module 40A-03, and the water treatment module 40A-03 and the water treatment module 40A-04 are connected by a connection mechanism 43.

As described above, whether the water treatment module 40 is inserted into the water treatment module installation mechanism 32 shown in FIG. 4 or when a plurality of water treatment modules 40 are connected to each other as shown in FIG. , the piping 42, the connection mechanism 43, the water passing through the filter provided in the water treatment module 40, etc. can be sensed by various sensor devices. The server 20 updates the water treatment device database 282 based on the sensing results of the water treatment device 30.

<Additional notes>
The matters explained in each of the above embodiments are additionally described below.

(Additional Note 1) A water treatment device (30) that can be equipped with a moving mechanism (370) for moving the water treatment device, a reception section (36) that receives input of water, and a module for water treatment. , one or more installation mechanisms (32), and a plurality of types of modules are selectably prepared according to the function of the module (281), and at least one of the one or more installation mechanisms (32) is provided. By installing a module in the reception section, water treatment functions corresponding to the functions of the module are provided to the water received at the reception section.

(Additional Note 2) The multiple types of modules include at least a module that has a function of purifying water with a filter, a module that has a function of supplying electricity, a module that has a function of generating water from the air, and a module that has a function of generating water from the air. (281) The water treatment device according to (Additional Note 1), including a module having a function of heating or cooling water.

(Additional Note 3) The water treatment device further includes a sensing unit (32) that measures the water received at the reception unit or the water treatment status performed by the module installed in the installation mechanism, and a sensing unit (32) that measures the water received at the reception unit or the water treatment status performed by the module installed in the installation mechanism, and transmits the sensing results of the sensing unit to an external device. The water treatment device according to (Appendix 2), comprising a transmitter (390, 311, 321, 312, 322) that transmits to a computer device.

(Additional note 4) The water treatment device includes a discharge section (37) that discharges treated water treated by the module installed in the installation mechanism, and a reception section that discharges treated water that is used by the user. The water treatment device according to (Appendix 1) or (Appendix 3), which receives the subsequent wastewater as input.

(Additional Note 5) A computer device (20) including a control unit (203, 29) and a storage unit (202, 25, 26), and a water treatment device (30) used by a user that receives water input. It includes a reception unit (36) that receives water, a processing unit (32) that performs water treatment on water, and a transmission unit (392, 311, 321, 312, 322) that transmits measurement results of water treatment status to a computer device. , a computer device in which a control unit of the computer device predicts demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is placed based on information received from the water treatment device (2044, S1353).

(Additional Note 6) The computer device according to (Additional Note 5), which determines a moving destination of the water treatment equipment at each location based on the predicted result of water treatment demand at each location (S1355).

(Additional Note 7) Based on the determination result of the movement destination of the water treatment equipment at each position, transmitting a signal for moving the water treatment equipment at each position to each determined movement destination (S1357), The computer device according to (Appendix 6).

(Additional Note 8) The water treatment device is equipped with one or more installation mechanisms (32A, 32B,...) in which water treatment modules can be installed as a treatment section, and the modules are installed according to the function of the module. Multiple types of modules are available for selection (281, 40A, 40B,...), and by installing the module in at least a part of one or more installation mechanisms, the It is configured to provide a water treatment function according to the function of the module for water, and the sensing unit ( 32) and a transmitting unit (392) that transmits the sensing result of the sensing unit to the computer device, and the control unit of the computer device transmits the sensing result of the water treatment device at each position (282). The computer device according to any one of (Appendix 5) to (Appendix 7), which predicts demand for water treatment.

1 water treatment system, 10 terminal device, 20 server, 30 water treatment device, 32 water treatment module installation mechanism, 40 water treatment module.

Claims (10)

A water treatment device,
a moving mechanism for moving the water treatment device;
A reception section that accepts input of water,
and one or more installation mechanisms capable of installing a module for water treatment,
The module includes a plurality of types of modules that can be selected depending on the function of the module,
By installing the module in at least a part of the one or more installation mechanisms, it is configured to provide a water treatment function according to the function of the module to the water received at the reception section. , water treatment equipment. The plurality of types of modules include at least a module having a function of purifying water with a filter, a module having a function of supplying electricity, a module having a function of generating water from the air, and a module having a function of heating water. or a module having a cooling function. The water treatment device according to claim 1. The water treatment device further includes:
a sensing unit that measures the water received by the reception unit or the water treatment status performed by the module installed in the installation mechanism;
The water treatment device according to claim 2, further comprising a transmitting section that transmits the sensing result of the sensing section to an external computer device. The water treatment device includes:
comprising a discharge part for discharging treated water treated by the module installed in the installation mechanism,
The water treatment device according to claim 1, wherein the reception unit receives, as the input, wastewater after the discharged treated water has been used by a user. A computer device comprising a control unit and a storage unit,
The water treatment equipment used by the user is
A reception section that accepts input of water,
a treatment unit that performs water treatment on the water;
a transmitting unit that transmits the measurement results of the water treatment status to the computer device,
The control unit of the computer device includes:
A computer device that predicts water treatment demand at a location where the water treatment device is located based on information received from the water treatment device. The computer device according to claim 5, wherein a destination of the water treatment equipment at each location is determined based on a predicted result of the water treatment demand at each location. 7. A signal for moving the water treatment apparatus at each position to each determined movement destination is transmitted based on a determination result of the movement destination of the water treatment apparatus at each position. computer equipment. The water treatment device includes, as the treatment section, one or more installation mechanisms capable of installing water treatment modules,
The module includes a plurality of types of modules that can be selected depending on the function of the module,
By installing the module in at least a part of the one or more installation mechanisms, the water treatment function according to the function of the module is provided to the water received at the reception section. ,
a sensing unit that measures the water received by the reception unit or the water treatment status performed by the module installed in the installation mechanism;
and a transmitting unit that transmits the sensing result of the sensing unit to the computer device,
The control unit of the computer device includes:
The computer device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, which predicts demand for water treatment at each location based on the sensing results of the water treatment device at each location. A method of operating a computer device comprising a control unit and a storage unit, the method comprising:
The water treatment equipment used by the user is
A reception section that accepts input of water,
a treatment unit that performs water treatment on the water;
a transmitting unit that transmits the measurement results of the water treatment status to the computer device,
In the method, the control unit of the computer device:
receiving information from the water treatment device;
and predicting demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is located based on information received from the water treatment device. A water treatment system,
including a water treatment device and a computer device;
A water treatment device,
a moving mechanism for moving the water treatment device;
A reception section that accepts input of water,
and one or more installation mechanisms capable of installing a module for water treatment,
The module includes a plurality of types of modules that can be selected depending on the function of the module,
By installing the module in at least a part of the one or more installation mechanisms, the water treatment function according to the function of the module is provided to the water received at the reception section. ,
The control unit of the computer device includes:
A water treatment system that predicts demand for water treatment at a location where the water treatment device is located based on information received from the water treatment device.