JP7175223B2 - Information processing system and information input/output device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention provides an output unit that performs information communication with an action device installed in a facility and outputs information regarding the action of the action device to a user, and an information input/output device including an input reception unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation inputs, wherein the information input/output device is configured to be capable of information communication with a server device via an information communication network; The functions that can be executed by the input/output device include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operation device, and specific functions required of the user when the information input/output device executes the basic function. and a process performed by the information input/output device relating to the basic function are set in advance in association with each other, and the switch operation is any one of the plurality of switches to be operated. , an information processing system defined in combination with an operation input method for the operation target switch, and an information input/output device used in the information processing system.

Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-219000) includes an information input/output device (remote control 2) that performs information communication with an operating device (heat source device 1a) installed in a facility, and the information input/output device A system is described in which the device can communicate information with a server device (server 3) via an information communication network.

Functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include basic functions pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operating device. For example, if the operating device 10 is a water heater and the information input/output device 20 is a remote control attached to the water heater, there are basic functions such as a hot water supply function, a bath hot water filling function, and a bath reheating function. And the remote control has a "run on/off" switch for switching the hot water supply execution function execution / stop, a "furo automatic" switch for commanding the start of bath hot water filling, and a command to start bath reheating. When a predetermined operation input (for example, one time short-time pressing operation) is performed on each operation target switch, the remote control executes each function is commanded.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-219000

It is preferable if the information input/output device can be added with extended functions other than the basic functions described above. However, when adding an extended function that is not installed in advance to the information input/output device, an operation target switch is also required for the user to command the execution of the extended function.
Furthermore, if it is possible to construct a system in which the information input/output device cooperates with an external server device to execute its extended functions, it is preferable in that the high performance of the server device can be utilized.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and its object is to add an extended function to an information input/output device that is different from the pre-installed basic functions, and to enable the information input/output device to be used as an external server. An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system capable of executing extended functions in conjunction with a device, and an information input/output device used in the information processing system.

The information processing system according to the present invention for achieving the above object is characterized by performing information communication with operation equipment installed in a facility, and outputting information regarding the operation of the operation equipment to a user. and an input reception unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation input by the user regarding the operation of the operation device,
The information input/output device is configured to be capable of information communication with the server device via an information communication network,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operating device,
A specific switch operation required of a user when the information input/output device executes the basic function and a process performed by the information input/output device related to the basic function are set in advance in a state of being associated with each other. has been
An information processing system in which the switch operation is specified by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include extended functions that can be additionally set to the information input/output device,
When the extended function is additionally set to the information input/output device, the specific switch operation required of the user when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the is additionally set in association with processing performed by the information input/output device, and the server device stores that the extended function is additionally set in the information input/output device;
When the input reception unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extension function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extension function is commanded, and outputs information about the extension function. send to the server device;
configured to cause the server device to process information about the specific extension function received from the information input/output device;
Based on predetermined reference information, the server device determines whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function that has already been additionally set in the information input/output device, and determines that it is preferable to be executed. performing a proposal information transmission process for transmitting proposal information prompting execution of the extended function to the information input/output device;
The information input/output device performs a proposal information output process of outputting the proposal information received from the server device to the user.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the information input/output device can be additionally equipped with an extended function different from the basic function installed in the information input/output device. When an extended function is added to an information input/output device, the information input/output device requires a specific switch operation when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the information input/output device regarding the extended function. It is additionally set in a state associated with the processing performed in . As a result, the information input/output device can determine that the execution of the extended function has been commanded without confusion with the basic function when the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user.
In addition, when the input receiving unit receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extended function has been commanded, and sends information about the extended function to the server. It is transmitted to the device, and causes the server device to perform processing related to the specific extended function received from the information input/output device. Therefore, it is possible to provide an information processing system in which an extended function different from the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input/output device, and the information input/output device can execute the extended function in conjunction with an external server device. .

Further, it is preferable that the user executes the extended function based on the predetermined reference information, even if the execution of the extended function that has already been additionally set in the information input/output device is not instructed to the server device. Then, a proposal information transmission process is performed for transmitting to the information input/output device proposal information prompting execution of the extended function determined to be preferable to be executed. In other words, there is an advantage that the user can be prompted to execute the extended function that has already been additionally set in the information input/output device at a favorable timing. Then, if the user wishes to execute the extended function, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the extended function.

Another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is that, as one of the extended functions, the server There is a device control function that sends a switching command for operation start and operation stop from the device,
In the proposal information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data related to the environment of the facility as the reference information, and if the operation device for temperature control is started or stopped, the environment of the facility is preferable. the information input/output device determines that the device control function is preferably executed when it is predicted that the at the point of sending to

According to the above characteristic configuration, as one of the extended functions, a switching command to start and stop the operation from the server device to the operating device for temperature control that can perform at least one of the cooling operation and the heating operation in the facility. A device control function is provided to transmit By operating a switch corresponding to this device control function on the information input/output device, the user can control the operating device for temperature control without operating a dedicated remote control for controlling the operating device for temperature control. Operation start and operation stop can be performed.
Furthermore, in the proposal information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected facility environment data as reference information, and predicts that the facility environment will approach a favorable environment if the operation of the operating device for temperature control is started or stopped. determines that the appliance control function should preferably be performed if In other words, the user can be prompted to start and stop the operation of the operating device for temperature control at the desired timing. Then, if the user wishes to execute the device control function, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the device control function.

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

According to the above characteristic configuration, as one of the extended functions, a work request function is provided for requesting maintenance work for the operating device to be monitored installed in the facility. By operating a switch corresponding to this work request function on the information input/output device, the user can access the monitoring target without having to make a phone call to the dealer or maintenance company of the operation device to be monitored. can request maintenance work for operating equipment.
Further, in the proposal information transmission process, the server apparatus analyzes the collected data regarding the state of the operating device to be monitored as reference information, and when it is determined that it is preferable to request maintenance work for the operating device to be monitored. In the meantime, it determines that the work order function should be performed. In other words, even if the user is not concerned about the state of the operating device to be monitored, the user can be prompted to execute the work request function at a time when it is preferable. Then, if the user wishes to execute the work request function, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the work request function.

Still another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention is an output unit that performs information communication with operation equipment installed in a facility and outputs information regarding the operation of the operation equipment to a user. and an input reception unit having a plurality of switches for receiving operation input by the user regarding the operation of the operation device,
The information input/output device is configured to be capable of information communication with the server device via an information communication network,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operating device,
A specific switch operation required of a user when the information input/output device executes the basic function and a process performed by the information input/output device related to the basic function are set in advance in a state of being associated with each other. has been
An information processing system in which the switch operation is specified by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include extended functions that can be additionally set to the information input/output device,
When the extended function is additionally set to the information input/output device, the specific switch operation required of the user when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the It is additionally set in association with the processing performed by the information input/output device,
When the input reception unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extension function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extension function is commanded, and outputs information about the extension function. send to the server device;
configured to cause the server device to process information about the specific extension function received from the information input/output device;
The server device processes the information on the extended function by using the collected data on the state of the operating device or the collected data on the environment of the facility.

According to the above characteristic configuration, the information input/output device can be additionally equipped with an extended function different from the basic function installed in the information input/output device. When an extended function is added to an information input/output device, the information input/output device requires a specific switch operation when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the information input/output device regarding the extended function. It is additionally set in a state associated with the processing performed in . As a result, the information input/output device can determine that the execution of the extended function has been commanded without confusion with the basic function when the input receiving unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extended function from the user.
In addition, when the input receiving unit receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extended function has been commanded, and sends information about the extended function to the server. It is transmitted to the device, and causes the server device to perform processing related to the specific extended function received from the information input/output device. Therefore, it is possible to provide an information processing system in which an extended function different from the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input/output device, and the information input/output device can execute the extended function in conjunction with an external server device. .

In addition, the server device uses the collected operational equipment status data or the collected facility environment data to process information about the enhanced functionality. In other words, the server device can appropriately process the information about the extended functions in consideration of the latest state of the operating device used by the user or the latest environment of the facility where the user is active.

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

According to the above characteristic configuration, as one of the extended functions, a device state verification function for verifying the state of a specific operating device installed in the facility is provided. When the user instructs the execution of this device status verification function, the server device analyzes the collected data regarding the status of the specific operating device, and the verification result of the status of the specific operating device is sent to the user by the information input/output device. Send to the information input/output device so that it is output to In other words, for example, if the user is concerned about the state of a specific operating device, by operating a switch corresponding to this device state verification function, the verification result based on the latest state of the specific operating device can be obtained. can be done.

According to still another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention, as one of the extended functions, there is a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility,
When the server device processes the information about the device status verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the status of the specific operating device, , the information input/output device outputs information on how to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device to the user. The point is that the process of transmitting to the information input/output device is executed.

According to the above-described characteristic configuration, the user of the operating device having the problem can receive information on how to deal with the problem from the server device at the information input/output device. As a result, it can be expected that the state of the operating device in which the problem has occurred will be improved by the user taking action.

According to still another characteristic configuration of the information processing system according to the present invention, as one of the extended functions, there is a device state verification function for verifying the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility,
When the server device processes the information about the device status verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the status of the specific operating device, , the problem occurring in the specific operating device is dealt with.

According to the above-described characteristic configuration, it can be expected that the state of the operating device in which the problem has occurred will be improved by the server device executing the countermeasure.

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

According to the above-described characteristic configuration, as one of the extended functions, a temperature control device for transmitting an operation control command from the server device to a temperature control operation device capable of performing at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility. function is provided. When the user commands the execution of this temperature control function, the server device analyzes the collected facility environment data and determines the operating conditions of the temperature control operating devices to bring the facility environment closer to the preferred environment. Then, an operation control command for causing the operating device for temperature control to operate according to the operating conditions is transmitted to the operating device for temperature control. In other words, by operating a switch corresponding to this temperature control function, the user can access the latest facility information sent from the server device without operating a dedicated remote controller or the like for controlling the operation equipment for temperature control. It is possible to automatically operate the operation device for temperature control according to the operation control command based on the environment of (1), and bring the environment of the facility closer to the preferable environment.

A characteristic configuration of an information input/output device according to the present invention for achieving the above object is characterized by having the functions of the information input/output device used in the information processing system described above.

It is a figure which shows the structure of an information processing system. It is a figure which shows the specific example of an information input-output apparatus. It is a figure explaining the example of the information memorize|stored in information input-output equipment and a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the example of a display screen of a terminal device. It is a flow chart explaining information processing performed by information input-and-output equipment. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input-output device and a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the specific example of an information input-output apparatus. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input-output device and a server apparatus. It is a figure explaining the information processing performed between an information input-output device and a server apparatus. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the information input-output apparatus of another structure.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Functions that can be executed by the information input/output device 20 include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the action device 10 . For example, if the operating device 10 is a water heater and the information input/output device 20 is a remote control attached to the water heater, there are basic functions such as a hot water supply function, a bath hot water filling function, and a bath reheating function.

The hot water supply execution function is a function of heating water when a predetermined water flow rate is detected. In this case, an "operation ON/OFF" switch 22a provided in the information input/output device 20 is used for switching between execution and stop of the hot water supply execution function. When the "operation on/off" switch 22a is pressed once (operation input) in the hot water supply operation OFF state, the information input/output device 20 turns on the hot water supply operation of the water heater as the operating device 10. introduce. As a result, the water heater enters a hot water supply permission state in which heating is performed when a predetermined water flow rate is detected. On the other hand, when the "operation on/off" switch 22a is pressed once (operation input) in the hot water supply operation state, the information input/output device 20 instructs the water heater as the operation device 10 to start the hot water supply operation. Transmits "off". As a result, the water heater enters a hot water supply disallowed state in which heating is not performed even if a predetermined water flow rate is detected.

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

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

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

The output unit 21 of the information input/output device 20 is provided with a communication enable/disable display area 21a for outputting to the user information indicating whether or not the information input/output device 20 is in a state capable of performing information communication with the router 7. It is Then, the user can recognize whether or not the information input/output device 20 can perform information communication with the router 7 and the server device 1 by looking at the image displayed in the communication availability display area 21a.

Functions that can be executed by the information input/output device 20 include extended functions that can be additionally set to the information input/output device 20 in addition to the basic functions described above.
The input reception unit 22 of the information input/output device 20 includes the above-described "operation on/off" switch 22a, "bath automatic" switch 22b and "reheating" switch 22c, as well as "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and It also has an "extended function No. 2" switch 22e. The "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e instruct the information input/output device 20 to execute an extended function that can be additionally set among the functions executable by the information input/output device 20. This switch is operated by the user when

Table 1 below lists the functions that can be executed by the information input/output device 20, the operation of the action device 10, the specific switch operations (operation target switch and operation input method) required of the user, and the information input. It shows the relationship with the processing performed by the output device 20 .

As shown in Table 1, when an extended function is added to the information input/output device 20, a specific switch operation required of the user when the information input/output device 20 executes the extended function, and The extended function is additionally set in association with the processing performed by the information input/output device 20 .

In this embodiment, two extended functions are configured to be additionally settable in the information input/output device 20 . When the input receiving unit 22 receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, the information input/output device 20 determines that execution of the extended function has been commanded, and outputs information about the extended function. Send to the server device 1 . As a specific example, when the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d is pressed once, the information input/output device 20 notifies the server device 1 that the execution of the "extended function No. 1" has been commanded. . Further, when the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e is pressed once, the information input/output device 20 notifies the server device 1 that the execution of the "extended function No. 2" has been commanded.

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

The server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1 stores user information (information about users), device information by model number, advanced function candidate information, and the like. User information (information about the user) includes the user's name, address, telephone number, customer number (user ID), login password, model number of the remote controller as the information input/output device 20, remote controller ID (for example, MAC address, etc.). ), extended functions that have already been set (relationship between switch numbers for extended functions and extended functions), notification destination address information, and information on remote-controlled operating devices (for example, operating device 31 in FIG. 1).

In addition, the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1 stores device information for each model number of various remote controllers in a format that allows identification of the remote controller model number and device information (switch arrangement). For example, in the server-side storage unit 3, if the model number of the remote control is "001-A001 type", an output unit 21 and an input reception unit 22 are separately provided as shown in FIG. Five switches are provided: ON/OFF switch 22a, automatic bath switch 22b, reheating switch 22c, extended function No. 1 switch 22d, and extended function No. 2 switch 22e. is stored.

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

Next, a method example in which the user additionally sets an extended function to the switch (input reception unit 22) for the extended function of his/her own information input/output device 20 will be described. FIG. 4 is an example of a display screen of a terminal device 9 such as a user's computer device. The user uses the terminal device 9 to access a predetermined URL for setting extended functions, and after entering the user ID and login password, the user is authenticated by the server device 1. After that, a screen as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the terminal device 9 of the user. In this display screen, the name of the user and the model number of the information input/output device 20 (remote controller) used by the user are displayed in the user information display area 40 .

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

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

The user can change his/her own user information by selecting and operating the registration information change button 41 on the display screen shown in FIG. For example, users can change their address, phone number, login password, and so on. In addition, it is possible to add or delete addresses of notification destinations (e-mail addresses) used in the notification function to be described later, and to add or delete operating devices 31 to be remotely controlled to be used in the device control function or the temperature control function. Deletion can be performed.

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

After that, the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20 performs switch operation verification processing in step #11, performs communication status verification processing in step #12, and performs communication status verification processing to the server device 1 as described above in step #13. Perform transmission processing. In step #11, the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20, for example, assuming a case where the user operates the switch erroneously, sends an inquiry as voice information to confirm whether or not to execute the extended function. and text information to the user. In step #12, the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20 determines, for example, whether information communication can be performed with the router 7, that is, whether information communication can be performed with the server device 1. Verify whether it is possible or not. When the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20 cannot perform information communication with the server device 1, after the input reception unit 22 receives a switch operation corresponding to a predetermined extended function from the user, , the output unit 21 notifies the user of information indicating that information communication with the server device 1 cannot be performed.

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

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

To explain the specific procedure, when the notification function (“I’m home” function) is set to the “extended function No. 1” switch 22d, when the child comes home, the “extended function No. 1” switch 22d When the short press operation is performed once, the information input/output device 20 determines that execution of the extended function set in "extended function No. 1" has been commanded, and executes "extended function No. 1". and unique identification information (remote controller ID (eg, MAC address)) for identifying the user are sent to the server device 1 . Then, the server device 1 refers to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3 to identify the user, and to the notification destination address (e-mail address) set by the user, Send a message that someone is home. When a plurality of notification destination addresses are stored in the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1, the user can set the switch (input reception unit 22) for the extension function of his/her own information input/output device 20 to the notification function. ("I'm home" function) and set which notification destination address to send the notification to.

[Equipment control function]
When the user presses the switch for the extended function, the device control function can remotely control the registered device, for example, at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility 6. This is a function in which a switching command for starting and stopping operation is transmitted from the server device 1 to an operating device (operating device 31) for temperature control such as a heating device. In addition, when the user presses the switch for the extended function, the server device 1 sends a switching command to start and stop the operation to the registered lighting device (operating device 31). It may be a control function.

Specifically, when the device control function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, the user presses the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d once for a short period of time. Then, the information input/output device 20 determines that execution of the extended function set in "extended function No. 1" has been commanded, and outputs information indicating that execution of "extended function No. 1" has been commanded. and unique identification information (remote control ID (for example, MAC address)) for specifying the user are transmitted to the server device 1 . Then, the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and determines that execution of the device control function has been commanded. Then, the server device 1 identifies an operating device to be remotely controlled (for example, an operating device 31 such as a temperature control operating device or a lighting device) stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and performs a command on the operating device 31. , and performs processing for transmitting an ON command, an OFF command, or the like.

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

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

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

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

Then, if the server device 1 determines that "there is a proposal" in step #25, the server device 1 transmits to the information input/output device 20 proposal information prompting execution of the device control function determined to be preferably executed (step #25). 26). FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of the information input/output device 20. The information input/output device 20 is in a state in which the proposed information output process for outputting the proposed information received from the server device 1 to the user is performed. (Steps #27 and #28 in FIG. 6). Specifically, in FIG. 7(a), the suggestion information "The room temperature is dropping. Do you want to start the air conditioner? If you want to start the operation, press the extended function No. 1 switch." is output. A voice is output from the unit 21 . In FIGS. 7(b) and 7(c), the suggestion information "The room temperature is dropping. Do you want to start the air conditioner? If you want to start the operation, press the extended function No. 1 switch." is output. Characters are output from the unit 21 .

In this way, the user can be prompted to start and stop the operation of the operating device 31 for temperature control at preferable timings. Then, if the user wishes to execute the device control function, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the device control function.
After that, the user who has been provided with such proposal information may use the extended function No. 1 in which the device control function as described above is additionally set. When the 1 switch is pressed, the operation of the user's air conditioner (operating device 31 for temperature control) is started by executing the device control function according to the above procedure.

[Work request function]
The work request function is a function of requesting maintenance work for the operating devices 10 and 31 to be monitored installed in the facility 6 when the user presses the switch for the extended function.
To explain the specific procedure, when the work request function is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d, for example, when a problem such as hot water not being supplied from the water heater occurs, the user selects "extended When the "Function No. 1" switch 22d is pressed once for a short period of time, the information input/output device 20 determines that execution of the extended function set in "Extended Function No. 1" has been commanded. , and information to the effect that the execution of “extended function No. 1” has been commanded, and unique identification information (remote control ID (eg, MAC address)) for specifying the user are transmitted to the server device 1 . Then, the server device 1 identifies the user by referring to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3, and informs the person in charge of the maintenance work of the water heater of the user's address, model of the water heater, etc. information (information about the user) to request maintenance work.

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

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

Then, the server device 1 analyzes the collected data regarding the state of the water heater (the operating device 10 to be monitored) as reference information, and determines that it is preferable to request maintenance work for the operating device 10 to be monitored. In this case, it determines that the work request function should be executed, and transmits to the information input/output device 20 proposal information prompting the execution of the work request function determined to be preferable. For example, when an ignition failure occurs in the combustor (operation unit 11) of the water heater (operation device 10 to be monitored), the server device 1 determines that it is preferable to request maintenance work for the water heater (( Step #25 "Proposal Available")). On the other hand, if no malfunction has occurred in the water heater (operating device 10 to be monitored), the server device 1 determines that it is not necessary to request maintenance work for the water heater ("Proposal in step #22"). none").

Then, if the server apparatus 1 determines that "there is a proposal" in step #25, the server apparatus 1 transmits to the information input/output device 20 proposal information prompting execution of the work request function determined to be preferably executed (step #25). 26). For example, the information input/output device 20 receives the suggestion information "There is a possibility that the water heater is malfunctioning. If you want to request maintenance work, please press the extended function No. 1 switch." (step #27, step #28).

In this way, even if the user is not concerned about the state of the monitored operating device 10, the user can be prompted to execute the work request function at a time when it is preferable. Then, if the user wishes to execute the work request function, the user can operate the switch corresponding to the work request function.
After that, the user who has been provided with such proposal information may use, for example, extended function No. 1, in which the above-described work request function is additionally set. When the 1 switch is pressed, the work request function is executed according to the procedure described above, so that the server device 1 refers to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3 to identify the user, Information such as the address of the user and the model of the water heater (information about the user) is notified to the person in charge of the maintenance work of the water heater, and the maintenance work is requested.

[Equipment status verification function]
The device state verification function is a function that verifies the states of specific operating devices 10 and 31 installed in the facility 6 when the user presses the switch for the extended function. When processing information related to the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device 1 analyzes collected data related to the states of the specific operating devices 10 and 31, 31 state verification result is sent to the information input/output device 20 so that it is output to the user. That is, for example, when the user is concerned about the state of a specific operating device 10, 31, the user can check the latest state of the specific operating device 10, 31 by operating a switch corresponding to the device state verification function. It is possible to obtain verification results based on

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

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

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

The following is an example of a case in which the server device 1 executes processing for transmitting information about how to deal with a problem to the user. For example, the server device 1 stores in advance in the server-side storage unit 3 a specific problem occurring in the operating device 10 and a user-executable coping method for the specific problem. Then, if the result of analyzing the collected data on the state of the specific operating device 10 indicates that a problem has occurred in the specific operating device 10, the server device 1 sends the verification result to the information input/output device 20. Instead of or in addition to the process of transmitting to A process of transmitting to the information input/output device 20 is executed as follows. As a result, the user of the operating device 10 having the problem can receive information on how to deal with the problem from the server device 1 at the information input/output device 20 . As a result, it can be expected that the state of the operating device 10 in which the problem has occurred will be improved by the user taking the countermeasure.

The following is an example of a case where the server device 1 executes processing in which the server device 1 itself handles the problem. For example, the server device 1 stores in advance in the server-side storage unit 3 a specific problem occurring in the operating device 10 and a coping method that can be executed on the server device 1 side for the specific problem. . Then, if the result of analyzing the collected data on the state of the specific operating device 10 indicates that a problem has occurred in the specific operating device 10, the server device 1 sends the verification result to the information input/output device 20. Instead of, or in addition to, the process of sending to a specific operating device 10, a process of dealing with a problem occurring in a particular operating device 10 is performed. For example, the server device 1 refers to the user information stored in the server-side storage unit 3 to identify the user, and informs the person in charge of maintenance work of the operating device 10 that The contents of the problem and the user's address and telephone number are notified, and the user is requested to be dispatched to the facility 6 or to be contacted by telephone. In this case, the server device 1, as the verification result, provides information including information such as that a problem has occurred in the operating device 10 and that a request for dispatch or telephone contact has been made to the person in charge of maintenance work. It may be transmitted to the input/output device 20 .
In addition, the server device 1 stores in advance the version information of the software running on the information input/output device 20 in the server-side storage unit 3, so that a problem occurring in a specific operating device 10 can be If the cause is that the version of the software running on the input/output device 20 is not the appropriate version (that is, it is not the new version), then the appropriate version of the software is sent from the server device 1 to the information input/output device 20. Then, the software running on the information input/output device 20 is rewritten. In this case, the server device 1 inputs and outputs information including information such as that a problem has occurred in the operating device 10 and that the software operating in the information input/output device 20 has been rewritten as the verification result. It may be sent to device 20 . It should be noted that the details of the processing executed by the server device 1 to deal with a problem occurring in a specific operating device 10 are not limited to the above examples and can be set as appropriate.

[Temperature control function]
The temperature control function is a server device for a temperature control operating device (operating device 31) that can perform at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility 6 when the user presses the switch for the extended function. 1 to transmit an operation control command. When processing information related to the temperature control function set as one of the extended functions, the server device 1 analyzes collected data related to the environment of the facility 6 and adjusts the temperature to bring the environment of the facility 6 closer to a preferable environment. The operating conditions of the operating device 31 for temperature control are determined, and an operation control command is sent to the operating device 31 for temperature control to cause the operating device 31 for temperature control to operate according to the operating conditions. In other words, by operating a switch corresponding to the temperature control function, the user can access the facility information sent from the server device 1 without operating a dedicated remote controller or the like for controlling the operating device 31 for temperature control. The operation device 31 for temperature control can be automatically operated according to the operation control command based on the latest environment of 6, and the environment of the facility 6 can be brought closer to the preferable environment.

Specifically, in the information input/output device 20, a temperature control function performed by using a temperature control operating device (operating device 31) is set to the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d. In addition, the server device 1 is additionally set with a temperature control function that is performed by using the temperature control operating device 31 in the information input/output device 20, that is, a temperature control function that controls the temperature control operating device 31. is stored in the server-side storage unit 3. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the user returns home and intends to adjust the temperature in the facility 6, the user presses the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d once for a short period of time. When the push operation is performed (step #40), the information input/output device 20 determines that execution of the extended function set in "extended function No. 1" has been commanded (step #41). In addition, the information input/output device 20 collects data associated with "extended function No. 1" (data relating to the environment of the facility 6) (step #42). In this case, the data regarding the environment of the facility 6 is the room temperature of the facility 6 collected from the various sensors 32, and the like. After that, the information input/output device 20 receives information indicating that execution of "extended function No. 1" has been commanded, unique identification information (remote controller ID (eg, MAC address, etc.)) for specifying the user, The collected data are transmitted to the server device 1 (step #43). It should be noted that the information input/output device 20 can be modified so as to transmit the data associated with the "extended function No. 1" (data relating to the environment of the facility 6) when requested by the server device 1. FIG.

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

<Another embodiment>
<1>
In the above embodiment, the information processing system of the present invention has been described with a specific example, but the configuration can be changed as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the configuration of the information input/output device 20, the operation device 10, the server device 1, etc., and the information stored in them have been described with specific examples. and their contents can be changed as appropriate.

<2>
In the above embodiment, the information input/output device 20 is provided with the dedicated "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and "extended function No. 2" switch 22e operated by the user when instructing the execution of the extended function. Although an example of a case in which there is such a dedicated "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and "extended function No. 2" switch 22e may not be provided.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a specific example of the information input/output device 20 having another configuration. As shown in FIG. 10, the input reception unit 22 of this information input/output device 20 has a "operation ON/OFF" switch 22a, an "automatic bath" switch 22b, and a "reheating" switch 22c as in the above embodiment. does not have the "extended function No. 1" switch 22d and the "extended function No. 2" switch 22e.

Table 2 below lists the functions executable by the information input/output device 20 having the configuration shown in FIG. input method) and the processing performed by the information input/output device 20. FIG.

As shown in Table 2, the information input/output device 20 is configured to be additionally settable with two extended functions. For example, in an instruction manual that users can refer to, it is written that one long-pressing operation on the "reheating" switch 22c corresponds to an execution command of "extended function No. 1", and that the "automatic bath" switch 22b It is described that one long-pressing operation corresponds to an execution command of "extended function No. 2". When the "reheating" switch 22c is pressed once for a long time, the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20 notifies the server device that execution of "extended function No. 1" has been commanded. 1. Further, the control unit 23 of the information input/output device 20 notifies the server device that the execution of the "extended function No. 2" has been commanded when the "automatic bath" switch 22b is pressed once for a long time. 1.

<3>
In the above-described embodiment, the user uses the terminal device 9 to add and set an extended function to the switch (input reception unit 22) for the extended function of the information input/output device 20 of the user. A device may be used. For example, the user may use his/her own information input/output device 20 to additionally set the extension function to the switch for the extension function.

<4>
In the above embodiments, switch operations are performed not only by receiving the user's physical actions, but also by receiving the user's voice and by receiving the user's gestures. include. The switch included in the input receiving unit 22 is not only a switch whose state is changed by receiving a physical action of the user, but also a virtual switch whose state is changed by receiving an input such as voice or gesture of the user. Including the case of a switch. If the switch operation is performed by receiving the user's voice, the voice recognized by the microphone as the input receiving unit 22 provided in the information input/output device 20 may be, for example, the voice commanding the execution of "extended function No. 1". For example, the information input/output device 20 determines that an execution command for "extended function No. 1" has been issued (switch operation has been performed). Alternatively, when the switch operation is performed by a gesture, the human gesture recognized by the camera as the input reception unit 22 provided in the information input/output device 20 is, for example, a gesture for commanding the execution of "extended function No. 1". If so, the information input/output device 20 determines that an execution command for "extended function No. 1" has been issued (switch operation has been performed). In addition, when the information input/output device 20 can identify an individual by voice recognition or face recognition using the input reception unit 22, the user who can command the execution of "extended function No. 1" is limited to a preset person. may be restricted.

<5>
In the above-described embodiment, based on the remote control model number and device information (switch layout) stored in the server-side storage unit 3 of the server device 1, Although an example of specifying the number of extension functions has been described, for example, a configuration is adopted in which the information input/output device 20 transmits in advance the number of extension functions that can be assigned to the input reception unit 22 to the server device 1. may

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

<7>
In the above-described embodiment, specific examples were given for the predetermined reference information, the data regarding the state of the operating device, the data regarding the environment of the facility, and the like, but the contents thereof can be set as appropriate. For example, the reference information may include information such as the presence or absence of the user detected by a human sensor and power consumption at the facility 6 . The data regarding the state of the operating device may include information such as error information of the operating device, cumulative operating time, and number of operating times. The data on the facility environment may include information such as the water temperature of the tap water supplied to the facility 6 .

<8>
The configurations disclosed in the above embodiments (including other embodiments) can be applied in combination with configurations disclosed in other embodiments unless there is a contradiction. The described embodiment is an example, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to this, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the object of the present invention.

According to the present invention, an extended function different from the pre-installed basic function can be added to the information input/output device, and the information input/output device can execute the extended function in conjunction with an external server device. The present invention can be used for an information processing system capable of confirming user's behavior and an information input/output device used in the information processing system.

1 server device 5 information communication network 6 facility 10 operating device (water heater)
20 Information input/output device (kitchen remote control)
21 Output unit 22 Input reception unit 22b “Auto bath” switch 22c “Reheating” switch 22d “Extended function No. 1” switch 22e “Extended function No. 2” switch 30 Information input/output device (bathroom remote controller)
31 operating equipment 32 various sensors

Claims (11)

An output unit that performs information communication with an action device installed in a facility, outputs information regarding the action of the action device to a user, and receives an operation input from the user regarding the action of the action device. An information input/output device comprising an input reception unit having a plurality of switches,
The information input/output device is configured to be capable of information communication with the server device via an information communication network,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operating device,
A specific switch operation required of a user when the information input/output device executes the basic function and a process performed by the information input/output device related to the basic function are set in advance in a state of being associated with each other. has been
An information processing system in which the switch operation is defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include extended functions that can be additionally set to the information input/output device,
When the extended function is additionally set to the information input/output device, the specific switch operation required of the user when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the is additionally set in association with processing performed by the information input/output device, and the server device stores that the extended function is additionally set in the information input/output device;
When the input reception unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extension function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extension function is commanded, and outputs information about the extension function. send to the server device;
configured to cause the server device to process information about the specific extension function received from the information input/output device;
Based on predetermined reference information, the server device determines whether or not it is preferable to execute the extended function that has already been additionally set in the information input/output device, and determines that it is preferable to be executed. performing a proposal information transmission process for transmitting proposal information prompting execution of the extended function to the information input/output device;
The information input/output device is an information processing system that performs a proposal information output process of outputting the proposal information received from the server device to a user. As one of the extended functions, a device for transmitting an operation start/stop switching command from the server device to a temperature control operation device capable of performing at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility. has a control function,
In the proposal information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data related to the environment of the facility as the reference information, and if the operation device for temperature control is started or stopped, the environment of the facility is preferable. the information input/output device determines that the device control function is preferably executed when it is predicted that the 2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information is transmitted to. As one of the extended functions, there is a work request function for requesting maintenance work for operating equipment to be monitored installed in the facility,
In the proposal information transmission process, the server device analyzes the collected data regarding the state of the operating device to be monitored as the reference information, and determines that it is preferable to request maintenance work for the operating device to be monitored. determining that the work request function is preferable to be executed, and transmitting to the information input/output device the proposal information prompting the execution of the work request function that is determined to be preferable to be executed. Item 1. The information processing system according to item 1. An output unit that performs information communication with an action device installed in a facility, outputs information regarding the action of the action device to a user, and receives an operation input from the user regarding the action of the action device. An information input/output device comprising an input reception unit having a plurality of switches,
The information input/output device is configured to be capable of information communication with the server device via an information communication network,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include basic functions that are pre-loaded with respect to the operation of the operating device,
A specific switch operation required of a user when the information input/output device executes the basic function and a process performed by the information input/output device related to the basic function are set in advance in a state of being associated with each other. has been
An information processing system in which the switch operation is defined by a combination of an operation target switch among the plurality of switches and an operation input method for the operation target switch,
The functions that can be executed by the information input/output device include extended functions that can be additionally set to the information input/output device,
When the extended function is additionally set to the information input/output device, the specific switch operation required of the user when the information input/output device executes the extended function, and the It is additionally set in association with the processing performed by the information input/output device,
When the input reception unit receives the switch operation corresponding to the predetermined extension function from the user, the information input/output device determines that execution of the extension function is commanded, and outputs information about the extension function. send to the server device;
configured to cause the server device to process information about the specific extension function received from the information input/output device;
The server device is an information processing system that processes information about the extended function using collected data about the state of the operating device or collected data about the environment of the facility. As one of the extended functions, there is a device status verification function for verifying the status of the specific operating device installed in the facility,
When processing information about the device state verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes collected data about the state of the specific operating device, 5. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein the state verification result is transmitted to the information input/output device so as to be output to the user at the information input/output device. As one of the extended functions, there is a device status verification function for verifying the status of the specific operating device installed in the facility,
When the server device processes the information about the device status verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the status of the specific operating device, , the information input/output device outputs information on how to deal with the problem occurring in the specific operating device to the user. 6. An information processing system according to claim 4 or 5, which executes a process of transmitting to an information input/output device. As one of the extended functions, there is a device status verification function for verifying the status of the specific operating device installed in the facility,
When the server device processes the information about the device status verification function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the status of the specific operating device, 6. The information processing system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, when the contents indicate that a problem has occurred in the operating device, a process of dealing with the problem occurring in the specific operating device is executed. 8. The information input/output device transmits information on the specific extension function to the server device, and transmits data on the state of the specific operating device installed in the facility to the server device. The information processing system according to any one of . As one of the extended functions, there is a temperature control function of transmitting an operation control command from the server device to a temperature control operation device capable of performing at least one of cooling operation and heating operation in the facility,
When processing the information about the temperature control function set as one of the extended functions, the server device analyzes the collected data about the environment of the facility and brings the environment of the facility closer to a preferable environment. determining an operating condition of said operating device for temperature control, and transmitting an operation control command for causing said operating device for temperature control to operate according to said operating condition to said operating device for temperature control. The information processing system according to . 10. The information processing system according to claim 9, wherein said information input/output device transmits information on said extended function to said server device and also transmits data on environment of said facility to said server device. An information input/output device having a function as the information input/output device used in the information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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