JP7766802B2 - Service setting device, control system, service management method and program - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a service setting device, a control system, a service management method, and a program.

Technology is known for providing services through the cooperation of multiple devices. To provide such services through the cooperation of multiple devices, each of the linked devices must have the resources necessary for the service. However, the resources required for services that can be provided through the cooperation of multiple devices increase as the number or types of devices increase. This poses a challenge: the resources required for each device increase, increasing the likelihood of resource shortages.

As a countermeasure to such resource shortages, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that prevents program download failures due to memory shortages and failures to execute downloaded programs by selecting and downloading functions when downloading a program from a management device.

JP 2002-215409 A

The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 completely excludes certain programs from download targets, which means that the functions executable by the system may deviate from user needs. Given these circumstances, there is a need for a system that, with limited resources, can flexibly provide services that link multiple devices in accordance with user needs.

This disclosure has been made to solve the problems described above, and aims to provide a service setting device, etc. that can flexibly provide services tailored to user needs with limited resources.

In order to achieve the above object, a service setting device according to the present disclosure includes:
A service setting device communicably connected to a plurality of devices,
a specifying means for specifying a plurality of available services, each of which is a service that can be provided by a function possessed by at least one of the plurality of devices;
The system further comprises a presentation means for presenting to a user at least one of a first combination pattern in which some services are excluded from the plurality of available services and a second combination pattern in which the function of at least one service from the plurality of available services is restricted when the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide the plurality of available services identified by the identification means.

In the present disclosure, when the resources possessed by multiple devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide multiple available services, the service setting device presents the user with at least one of the following combination patterns: a first combination pattern that excludes some of the multiple available services, and a second combination pattern that restricts the functionality of at least one of the multiple available services. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, services can be flexibly provided to meet the user's needs, even with limited resources.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a control system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a service setting device according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a control system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an example of functions possessed by a plurality of devices in the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an example of device information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows a first example of a service list according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a second example of a service list according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an example of a list of available services in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a list of unavailable services in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen on which a user specifies a desired available service in the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of resources required to provide a plurality of available services in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing examples of combination patterns that can be enabled in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of restriction of a function of a service in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first example of a screen for selecting a combination pattern to be activated in the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of a screen for selecting a combination pattern to be activated in the first embodiment; FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of service setting performed by a service setting device according to the first embodiment; FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of processing executed by a control system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for confirming agreement regarding the use of personal information in the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen presenting devices recommended for addition in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 shows an example of a screen for inputting a device to be added in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen presenting services that can be provided when a device is added in the third embodiment.

The following describes the embodiments in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or equivalent parts in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals.

(Embodiment 1)
1 shows the overall configuration of a control system 1 according to embodiment 1. As an example, the control system 1 is a system that controls a plurality of devices 20 arranged in a house H, and provides various services through cooperation between the plurality of devices 20.

As shown in FIG. 1, the control system 1 comprises an access point 10, multiple devices 20, ie, devices 20-1 to 20-5, and a service setting device 30.

The access point 10, multiple devices 20, and service setting device 30 are communicatively connected via a home network 90. The home network 90 may be, for example, a wireless network using a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wired network using Ethernet (registered trademark).

The access point 10 is a wired or wireless communication device, for example a wireless LAN router. The access point 10 constructs an in-home network 90 that allows devices 20 to communicate with each other.

Each device 20, i.e., device 20-1 to device 20-5, is installed within the home H. Each device 20 is a device equipped with communication capabilities and communicates via the home network 90. Each device 20 is, for example, a home appliance such as an air conditioner, fan, speaker, lighting, or refrigerator, various sensors that measure temperature, humidity, etc., or a control device connected to the home appliance.

Alternatively, device 20 may be a gateway that converts messages between the home network 90 and an external network. In this case, the gateway has data collection and device control functions used by all services that support access from the external network.

Each device 20 communicates with each other through the application layer, which is the upper layer of a wired or wireless connection in the home network 90. As an example, the communication protocol used is "Matter," a standard for smart homes. However, it is not limited to "Matter," and any general communication protocol may also be used.

As a specific example of each device 20, the following will be described: device 20-1 is an air conditioner, device 20-2 is a controller, device 20-3 is a fan, device 20-4 is a temperature sensor, and device 20-5 is a humidity sensor. As an example, device 20-2 is a HEMS (Home Energy Management System) controller.

The service setting device 30 is, for example, an information processing device such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, or laptop computer. The service setting device 30 presents to the user services that can be realized by combining multiple devices 20 connected to the home network 90. As an example, the service setting device 30 provides a smart home appliance service. Furthermore, the service setting device 30 performs the necessary settings on the target devices 20 so that the presented services can actually be provided.

Such service presentation and configuration is performed when the user wishes to know the services that can be performed by multiple devices 20 installed in the home H, for example, when the number of devices 20 installed in the home H is increased, decreased, updated, etc.

In addition, the service setting device 30 is not limited to a smartphone, tablet terminal, laptop computer, etc., but may also be other devices with a user interface, such as a television, smart speaker, gateway, etc.

As shown in FIG. 2, the service setting device 30 includes a control unit 31, a memory unit 32, an operation unit 33, a display unit 34, and a communication unit 35.

The control unit 31 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). The CPU is also called a central processing unit, central arithmetic unit, processor, microprocessor, microcomputer, etc., and functions as a central arithmetic processing unit that executes processing and calculations related to the control of the service setting device 30. In the control unit 31, the CPU reads programs and data stored in the ROM and uses the RAM as a work area to perform overall control of the service setting device 30.

The storage unit 32 is equipped with non-volatile semiconductor memory such as flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), and serves as a so-called secondary storage device or auxiliary storage device. The storage unit 32 stores programs and data used by the control unit 31 to perform various processes. It also stores data generated or acquired by the control unit 31 as a result of performing various processes.

The operation unit 33 is equipped with input devices such as a touch panel, touchpad, keyboard, mouse, physical buttons, etc., and accepts operational input from the user. By operating the operation unit 33, the user can input various instructions into the service setting device 30.

The display unit 34 is equipped with a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel. The display unit 34 is driven by a display drive circuit and displays various images under the control of the control unit 31.

The communication unit 35 has a communication interface for communicating with devices external to the service setting device 30. For example, the communication unit 35 connects to a home network 90 and a wide area network such as the Internet in accordance with well-known communication standards such as LAN and Ethernet (registered trademark), and communicates with external devices including multiple devices 20.

Next, the functional configuration of the control system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. As shown in Figure 3, the service setting device 30 functionally comprises a network search unit 301, which is an example of a collection means, a service management unit 302, which is an example of a specification means, a resource determination unit 303, which is an example of a determination means, a service adjustment unit 304, which is an example of a presentation means, a service determination unit 305, which is an example of a selection means, and a service setting unit 306, which is an example of a setting means.

Each of these units is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. Software and firmware are written as programs and stored in ROM or memory unit 32. In control unit 31, the CPU executes the programs stored in ROM or memory unit 32 to realize the functions of each unit.

The network search unit 301 searches the home network 90 via the communication unit 35 and collects device information DI from multiple devices 20 connected to the home network 90. As an example, the network search unit 301 performs a network search using DNS-SD (DNS-Based Service Discovery) standardized by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), but may also perform a network search using other protocols.

After establishing a connection with each device 20, the network search unit 301 collects device information DI from each device 20. Note that the network search unit 301 periodically collects device information DI from each device 20 in order to respond to functional changes that accompany updates to the device 20.

Device information DI is information about each device 20, and specifically includes function information indicating the functions possessed by each device 20 and resource information indicating the resources possessed by each device 20. In other words, the network search unit 301 collects function information and resource information from each device 20 as device information DI.

Function information is information indicating the functions possessed by each device 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, has the function of "HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) control" and the function of "temperature measurement," device 20-2, which is a controller, has the function of "remote control," device 20-3, which is a fan, has the function of "air flow control," device 20-4, which is a temperature sensor, has the function of "temperature measurement," and device 20-5, which is a humidity sensor, has the function of "humidity measurement." The network search unit 301 collects information indicating such functions from each device 20 as function information.

Resource information is information indicating the resources possessed by each device 20. Here, resources refer to software or hardware resources that can be used to realize the functions possessed by each device 20. Specifically, resources include memory capacity such as RAM and ROM, and processor processing speed. The network search unit 301 collects, as resource information, information from each device 20 indicating the total amount of resources possessed by each device 20.

After collecting function information and resource information from each device 20, the network search unit 301 stores device information DI, which includes the collected function information and resource information, in the storage unit 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the device information DI includes, as function information, information indicating whether each device 20 has individual functions such as "basic function," "HVAC control," "remote control," "airflow control," etc. For example, device 20-1 has the functions of "basic function," "HVAC control," and "temperature measurement," but has no other functions. Furthermore, device 20-2 has the functions of "basic function" and "remote control," but has no other functions.

Here, the "basic functions" in the device information DI are basic functions that each device 20 has in common, such as communication functions, control functions, etc. Note that functions that each device 20 does not have can be added as needed.

Furthermore, the device information DI includes, as resource information, information on the ROM and RAM capacities of the memory resources possessed by each device 20. For example, each of devices 20-1 to 20-5 has, as memory resources, a 50 KB ROM and a 2 KB RAM.

Returning to Figure 3, the service management unit 302 identifies services provided by functions possessed by at least one of the multiple devices 20 based on the function information collected by the network search unit 301.

First, the service management unit 302 identifies multiple available services by comparing the function information of each device 20 collected by the network search unit 301 with a pre-set service list SL. Each of the multiple available services is a service that can be provided by a function possessed by at least one device 20 among the multiple devices 20 installed in the home H.

The service list SL is a list that predefines services that can be realized by combining the functions of multiple devices 20 that may be installed in the home H. The service list SL is set in advance and stored in the memory unit 32.

Figures 6 and 7 show examples of service lists SL when the service classifications are "air conditioning control service" and "lighting control service," respectively. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the service list SL specifies the correspondence between services and the functions of the equipment 20 required for the services.

In the service list SL, services represent services that are actually provided to users based on the control of each device 20. The service categories "air conditioning control service" and "lighting control service" represent comprehensive names that combine multiple services.

The service list SL indicates with a "◯" the functions of the device 20 that are required to realize each service, and with a "-" the functions of the device 20 that are not required to realize each service. Based on the service list SL, for example, it can be deduced that to realize the service "Air conditioner control by remote control" shown in Figure 6, the "HVAC control" function and the "remote control" function are required. Furthermore, it can be deduced that to realize the service "Automatic lighting control based on human presence detection" shown in Figure 7, the "human presence detection" function and the "lighting control" function are required.

The service management unit 302 identifies the services that can be provided by referring to this service list SL and the function information collected by the network search unit 301. Specifically, if all of the functions required for a certain service defined in the service list SL are included in the function information collected by the network search unit 301, the service management unit 302 extracts that service from the service list SL as a service that can be provided.

For example, in the service list SL shown in Figure 6, providing the service "Air conditioner control by remote control" requires the functions of "HVAC control" and "remote control." On the other hand, in the device information DI shown in Figure 5, the function of "HVAC control" is provided in device 20-1, and the function of "remote control" is provided in device 20-2. Therefore, the service of "Air conditioner control by remote control" can be provided by combining device 20-1 and device 20-2.

The service management unit 302 extracts such available services from the service list SL and generates an available service list ASL. The available service list ASL is a list showing multiple available services extracted from the service list SL. For example, as shown in Figure 8, the service management unit 302 extracts the following services as available services: "Air conditioner control using a remote control," "Air conditioning and ventilation control in conjunction with a fan," "Automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity," and "Remote control from outside the home."

Furthermore, if any of the functions required for a certain service defined in the service list SL is not included in the function information collected by the network search unit 301, the service management unit 302 extracts that service from the service list SL as an unavailable service.

For example, in the service list SL shown in Figure 6, providing the service "automatic air conditioning control based on human presence detection" requires the functions of "HVAC control," "remote control," and "human presence detection." On the other hand, in the device information DI shown in Figure 5, the "HVAC control" function is provided in device 20-1, and the "remote control" function is provided in device 20-2, but the "human presence detection" function is not provided in any of devices 20-1 to 20-5. Therefore, the service of "automatic air conditioning control based on human presence detection" cannot be provided even when devices 20-1 to 20-5 are combined.

The service management unit 302 extracts such unavailable services from the service list SL and generates an unavailable service list USL. The unavailable service list USL is a list showing multiple unavailable services extracted from the service list SL. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the service management unit 302 extracts the service "automatic air conditioning control based on human presence detection" as an unavailable service.

After generating the available service list ASL and the unavailable service list USL in this manner, the service management unit 302 secondly allows the user to specify multiple services that the user wishes to use from among the identified available services.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the service management unit 302 displays a list of available services included in the available service list ASL and a list of unavailable services included in the unavailable service list USL on the display unit 34. The service management unit 302 then accepts a designation as to whether the user wishes to use each of the multiple available services.

The user operates the operation unit 33 to designate the service they wish to use as "Use" from among the multiple available services displayed on the display unit 34. Note that by default, all available services displayed on the display unit 34 are set to "Use," and the user may operate the operation unit 33 to change the available services they do not wish to use to "Do not use," thereby removing them.

In this way, the service management unit 302 identifies as multiple available services, each of which is a service that can be provided by the functions possessed by at least one of the multiple devices 20 and which has been designated as a service that the user wishes to use.

Returning to Figure 3, the resource determination unit 303 determines whether the resources possessed by the multiple devices 20 are insufficient with respect to the resources required to provide the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302. Since the multiple available services are services identified based on the functions possessed by each device 20, the functions required to provide those services are satisfied by each device 20. On the other hand, there is a possibility that the resources required to provide the multiple available services are not sufficient for each device 20.

Therefore, the resource determination unit 303 determines whether a resource shortage will occur in any of the multiple devices 20 when multiple available services are provided. As a result, the resource determination unit 303 determines whether the multiple available services can be enabled.

Specifically, the resource determination unit 303 refers to the resource information collected from each device 20 by the network search unit 301. The resource determination unit 303 then determines whether the resources consumed by each device 20 when simultaneously providing all of the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302 exceed the upper limit of the resources possessed by each device 20.

As an example, Figure 11 shows the memory usage of each device 20 when three services, "Service 1" to "Service 3," are specified as available services that the user wishes to use. "Service 1" to "Service 3" in Figure 11 are services specified by the user from the available service list ASL, and are, as examples, "Air conditioner control by remote control," "Air conditioning and ventilation control in conjunction with a fan," and "Automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity," all selected on the selection screen in Figure 10. Furthermore, the memory usage in Figure 11 shows the required ROM and RAM capacity, expressed as a percentage (%) of the upper limit, when all of "Service 1" to "Service 3" are executed simultaneously in each device 20.

In the example of Figure 11, when all of "Service 1" to "Service 3" are executed simultaneously, the RAM usage in device 20-1 is 90% of the upper limit, while the ROM usage is 120% of the upper limit, exceeding the upper limit. On the other hand, the ROM and RAM usage in devices 20-2 and 20-3 is less than the upper limit.

In this way, if the memory usage of at least one of the multiple devices 20 exceeds the upper limit, the resource determination unit 303 determines that there is a resource shortage. On the other hand, if the memory usage of all of the multiple devices 20 does not exceed the upper limit, the resource determination unit 303 determines that there is no resource shortage, i.e., that there are sufficient resources.

Returning to Figure 3, if the resource determination unit 303 determines that the resources possessed by multiple devices 20 are insufficient compared to the resources required to provide multiple available services, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a feasible service combination pattern within the resource constraints of each device 20. In this way, the service adjustment unit 304 adjusts the services to be provided to the user.

Specifically, the service adjustment unit 304 generates at least one of the following combination patterns: (1) a first combination pattern that excludes some services from the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302, and (2) a second combination pattern that restricts the functionality of at least one service from the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302.

(1) First, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a first combination pattern by excluding some services from the multiple services identified by the service management unit 302. For example, if the service management unit 302 identifies N available services, the service adjustment unit 304 reduces the number of services from the N available services to generate a combination pattern that combines M available services, which is less than N.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, when "Service 1" to "Service 3" are identified by the service management unit 302, the service adjustment unit 304 generates, as the first combination pattern, "Combination Pattern 2" which excludes "Service 3" from "Service 1" to "Service 3", and "Combination Pattern 3" which excludes "Service 2" from "Service 1" to "Service 3".

"Combination Pattern 2" and "Combination Pattern 3" have one fewer service than "Combination Pattern 0," which combines "Service 1" to "Service 3." Therefore, even if all services included in the combination pattern are provided simultaneously, the memory usage required by each device 20 will not exceed the upper limit. In this way, "Combination Pattern 2" and "Combination Pattern 3" satisfy the resource constraints of each device 20 and can be enabled.

(2) Second, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a second combination pattern in which the functions of at least one of the multiple services identified by the service management unit 302 are restricted. Here, restricting the functions of a service is also called functional degeneration, and means disabling some of the functions used to realize the service or replacing them with simpler functions in order to reduce the amount of resources required to realize the service.

Here, the restriction of functions in the service is carried out by restricting at least one of the functions of data collection and device control. In other words, the second combination pattern is a combination pattern in which at least one of the functions of data collection and device control in at least one service out of the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302 is restricted.

Specifically, data collection means that one of the multiple devices 20 collects data via communication from at least one other device 20. Examples of data collection include device 20-2, which is a controller, acquiring temperature measurement data from device 20-4, which is a temperature sensor, and acquiring humidity measurement data from device 20-5, which is a humidity sensor. Device control means that one of the multiple devices 20 controls the operation of at least one other device 20. Examples of device control include device 20-2, which is a controller, controlling the air conditioning operation of device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, and controlling the air blowing operation of device 20-3, which is a fan. Such data collection and device control are performed by the application unit 203 of the target device 20.

Figure 13 shows two examples of data collection and device control, one with no functional restrictions and one with functional restrictions.

(I) If there are no restrictions on the function of the service, the application unit 203 executes a dedicated function for executing that service. Here, a dedicated function means a function that is prepared exclusively for that service and is not used in common among multiple services. Specifically, the application unit 203 executes a function to collect highly accurate data at a high frequency as a data collection function, which is a first example of a dedicated function. In addition, the application unit 203 executes feedback control as a device control function, which is a second example of a dedicated function.

As an example, we will explain the case where the target service is "automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity." Device 20-2, which is the controller, collects temperature measurement data in 0.1°C increments every 0.5 minutes from device 20-4, which is a temperature sensor, as data collection. Furthermore, device 20-2, which is the controller, performs feedback control on device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, and device 20-3, which is a fan, as device control.

Explaining feedback control in more detail, device 20-2 dynamically changes the airflow strength and set temperature depending on the difference from the target value. For example, during cooling, device 20-2 sets the airflow strength to "strong" and the set temperature 1°C lower if the difference between the target value and the room temperature is 3°C or more. Furthermore, device 20-2 sets the airflow strength to "weak" and changes the operating mode to fan mode if the difference between the target value and the room temperature is less than 3°C.

Note that feedback control is not limited to this and may be performed by combining multiple conditions. For example, device 20-2 may perform feedback control by combining, in addition to temperature, weather information, outside air temperature obtained from a sensor installed outdoors, etc. In this way, if the functionality of the service is not restricted, data collection and device control can be performed without restrictions, allowing the space to be air-conditioned to be controlled to a comfortable temperature range.

Next, referring to (II) and (III) in Figure 13, we will explain two examples of when the functionality of a service is restricted.

When the functions of a service are restricted, the service adjustment unit 304 restricts at least one of the data collection and device control functions of that service. Here, restricting the data collection function means, for example, reducing the frequency of data collection, the accuracy of the data collected by data collection, etc. Furthermore, restricting the device control function means, for example, simplifying the control algorithm that controls the device 20 to be controlled. Specifically, simplifying the control algorithm means reducing the frequency of sending control data to the device 20 to be controlled, or disabling an advanced control algorithm and replacing it with a simpler control algorithm.

(II) First, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a second combination pattern in which dedicated functions used exclusively for at least one of the multiple services that can be provided are simplified.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the service coordination unit 304 simplifies the data collection function to collect temperature data at a lower accuracy of 0.5°C increments and at a lower frequency of every 30 minutes compared to the case described in (I). The service coordination unit 304 also simplifies the equipment control function from the feedback control described in (I) to control that switches between operation and shutdown based on a threshold. By simplifying the dedicated functions in this way, the amount of resources required to realize the service can be reduced.

(III) Second, the service adjustment unit 304 generates, as a second combination pattern, a combination pattern in which a dedicated function used in at least one of the multiple available services is changed to a common function used in common among the multiple services. Here, a dedicated function is a function used exclusively by the target service, while a common function is a function used in common with services other than the target service. For example, the common function includes the basic functions described above.

As an example, if the second combination pattern generated by the simplification process (II) does not resolve the resource shortage, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a second combination pattern by the process (III).

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the service coordination unit 304 reuses the status collection function for cloud notification as a common function for data collection. In status collection for cloud notification, for example, temperature data in 1°C increments is collected every 30 minutes. In addition, the service coordination unit 304 reuses the function of remotely controlling air conditioning or fan operation to stop as a common function for equipment control. In this way, by reusing common functions, the amount of resources required to realize the service can be reduced.

Note that the restriction of service functions is not limited to such restriction of data collection or device control functions, and may also be performed, for example, by reducing the accuracy or frequency of measuring measurement data such as temperature, humidity, and _CO2 concentration using sensors. Specifically, reducing the accuracy of measuring measurement data involves coarsening the intervals at which the measurement data is measured or reducing the types of measurement data. Furthermore, while the above example describes simplifying feedback control as an example of simplifying control algorithms, another example of simplifying control algorithms may be disabling advanced control algorithms such as user learning of air conditioning operation or voice operation in conjunction with a smart speaker.

Returning to Figure 12, when "Service 1" to "Service 3" are identified by the service management unit 302, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a second combination pattern, "Combination Pattern 1," in which the functions of "Service 1" and "Service 2" of "Service 1" to "Service 3" are restricted. In other words, the service adjustment unit 304 generates a combination pattern in which the functions of some or all of the services are restricted without changing the number of services included in the combination pattern.

Since "Combination Pattern 1" has more limited functionality than "Combination Pattern 0," even if all services are provided simultaneously, the memory usage required by each device 20 will not exceed the upper limit. In this way, "Combination Pattern 1" satisfies the resource constraints of each device 20 and can be enabled.

Once feasible service combination patterns have been generated in this manner, the service-tailoring unit 304 presents the generated combination patterns to the user. Specifically, the service-tailoring unit 304 displays the screen shown in FIG. 14 on the display unit 34. On the screen shown in FIG. 14, the service-tailoring unit 304 notifies the user that "combination pattern 0" cannot be enabled, along with the reason that device 20-1 has insufficient resources. The service-tailoring unit 304 then presents "combination pattern 1" to "combination pattern 3" generated by the service-tailoring unit 304 as enableable combination patterns.

In addition, if there are a large number of combination patterns that can be enabled, the service adjustment unit 304 may present only some of the combination patterns that can be enabled, along with an indication that they are recommended combination patterns or only some of them. In this case, the service adjustment unit 304 may present them in order of the number of services included in the combination patterns. Furthermore, by allowing the user to specify whether to enable or disable each service, the user may be able to customize the services included in the combination patterns themselves.

On the other hand, if the resources possessed by the multiple devices 20 are sufficient to provide the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302, the service adjustment unit 304 presents the multiple available services as a combination pattern of services that can be activated.

Specifically, when the resource determination unit 303 determines that "combination pattern 0" can be activated, the service adjustment unit 304 displays the screen shown in Figure 15 on the display unit 34. On the screen shown in Figure 15, the service adjustment unit 304 notifies that "combination pattern 0," which is a combination of "service 1" to "service 3," can be activated, and presents "combination pattern 0" as an activatable combination pattern.

Returning to Figure 3, the service determination unit 305 allows the user to select a combination pattern to be activated from among the combination patterns that can be activated and are presented by the service adjustment unit 304. Specifically, the service determination unit 305 displays a message on the screen shown in Figure 14 or Figure 15 requesting the user to select a combination pattern to be activated.

For example, when the screen shown in FIG. 14 is displayed, the service determination unit 305 prompts the user to select a combination pattern to activate from "Combination Pattern 1" to "Combination Pattern 3." The user operates the operation unit 33 to select the combination pattern they wish to activate from the presented "Combination Pattern 1" to "Combination Pattern 3." When one of "Combination Pattern 1" to "Combination Pattern 3" is selected, the service determination unit 305 determines the selected combination pattern as the combination pattern to activate.

In response to this, when the screen shown in FIG. 15 is displayed, the service determination unit 305 prompts the user to select whether or not to enable "combination pattern 0." If the user wishes to enable "combination pattern 0," the user operates the operation unit 33 to select "combination pattern 0" as the combination pattern to be enabled. When "combination pattern 0" is selected, the service determination unit 305 determines "combination pattern 0" as the combination pattern to be enabled.

Returning to Figure 3, the service setting unit 306 performs settings, including the necessary control logic, on at least one target device 20 among the multiple devices 20 in order to realize the service of the combination pattern determined by the service determination unit 305.

Specifically, realizing a service requires not only the data model and communication protocol standardized by Matter, but also service settings for the data elements and data collection period to be collected from the target device 20, and settings for the control logic that the target device 20 will execute based on the collected data. Therefore, the service setting unit 306 instructs the target device 20 to establish a connection and grants the target device 20 the access rights necessary to realize the service. The service setting unit 306 then sets the service and control logic for the target device 20 according to the content of the service included in the combination pattern confirmed by the service confirmation unit 305.

The service setting unit 306 directly distributes information for setting the service and a program for setting the control logic to the target device 20. Alternatively, instead of distributing the information directly from the service setting device 30 to the target device 20, the service setting unit 306 may instruct the target device 20 to download the information from a server on the home network 90 or a wide area network.

As an example, Figure 16 shows how the service setting unit 306 sets the service and control logic for the target device 20 to realize the service of "automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity." If the combination pattern confirmed by the service confirmation unit 305 includes the service of "automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity," the service setting unit 306 instructs device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, device 20-4, which is a temperature sensor, and device 20-5, which is a humidity sensor, to establish the necessary connections via device 20-2, which is a controller.

More specifically, to be able to provide the "automatic air conditioning control based on temperature and humidity" service, it is necessary to establish three connections: between device 20-2 and device 20-1, between device 20-2 and device 20-4, and between device 20-2 and device 20-5. Therefore, the service setting unit 306 instructs device 20-2 to establish connections to device 20-1, device 20-4, and device 20-5.

Next, the service setting unit 306 sets the data elements to be collected and the period for collecting data for the target device 20. That is, as shown in FIG. 16, the service setting unit 306 sets device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, to collect indoor temperature information and humidity information, for example, every minute, from device 20-4, which is a temperature sensor, and device 20-5, which is a humidity sensor. For example, the service setting unit 306 sets the data elements to be collected and the period for collecting data to the contents of any of the data collection items (I) to (III) shown in FIG. 13.

The service setting unit 306 also sets control logic for the target device 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the service setting unit 306 sets control logic for device 20-1, which is an air conditioner, to turn air conditioning operation on/off, change the set temperature, etc., according to the collected temperature and humidity information. For example, the service setting unit 306 sets the control logic to one of the device control items (I) to (III) shown in FIG. 13.

Note that such control logic may be configured by enabling a function that is pre-installed within the device 20. Alternatively, the control logic may be configured by installing the control logic program from the service setting device 30 or a server on the Internet.

The service setting unit 306 performs such service settings and control logic settings for each service included in the combination pattern selected by the user. This setting process performs the settings necessary to realize the service, making it possible to provide each service included in the combination pattern selected by the user to the user without having to request the work from a dedicated worker.

Returning to Figure 3, each of the multiple devices 20 functionally comprises a device information management unit 201, a function management unit 202, and an application unit 203. Furthermore, although not shown, each of the multiple devices 20 also comprises a CPU, ROM, RAM, a display unit, an operation unit, a communication interface, and readable/writable non-volatile semiconductor memory. The functions of the device information management unit 201, the function management unit 202, and the application unit 203 are realized by the CPU executing programs stored in the ROM.

The device information management unit 201 manages device information DI related to its own device 20. When the device information management unit 201 receives a request for device information from the network search unit 301, it transmits device information DI including function information indicating the functions possessed by its own device 20 and resource information indicating the resources possessed by its own device 20 to the service setting device 30 in response to the request.

The function management unit 202 manages the functions possessed by its own device 20. Specifically, based on the settings received from the service setting unit 306, the function management unit 202 acquires application programs for executing the data collection and device control functions required to provide the service.

Such application programs may be provided by the service setting device 30 as pre-installed programs. Alternatively, the application programs may be provided directly by a server on the wide area network or home network 90 or via the service setting device 30.

The application unit 203 performs data collection and device control by executing the application program acquired by the function management unit 202. As a result, the application unit 203 executes each service included in the combination pattern selected by the user.

Next, the flow of processing executed in the control system 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 17. The service management method according to embodiment 1 is realized by the processing shown in Figure 17.

The process shown in Figure 17 begins when the user inputs an instruction to start the process into the service setting device 30. For example, if the user wishes to search for services that can be provided by multiple devices 20 installed in house H, the user operates the operation unit 33 of the service setting device 30 to launch dedicated application software. Then, when the user presses the start button displayed on the display unit 34, the process shown in Figure 17 begins.

When processing begins, the control unit 31 functions as a network search unit 301 and collects device information DI from each of the multiple devices 20 installed in the home H (step S101). Specifically, the control unit 31 searches the home network 90 and establishes connections with the multiple devices 20 connected to the home network 90. The control unit 31 then collects, as device information DI, function information indicating the functions possessed by each device 20 and resource information indicating the resources possessed by each device 20.

Once the device information DI is collected, the control unit 31 functions as the service management unit 302 and generates an available service list ASL (step S102). Specifically, the control unit 31 compares the function information collected from each device 20 with a pre-set service list SL. The control unit 31 then identifies services from the service list SL that can be provided using the functions included in the function information, and generates an available service list ASL. The control unit 31 also identifies services from the service list SL that cannot be provided using only the functions included in the function information, and generates an unavailable service list USL.

Once the available service list ASL is generated, the control unit 31 displays a screen such as that shown in Figure 10 and accepts the user's designation of multiple available services that they wish to use from the available service list ASL (step S103).

Upon receiving a specification of multiple available services that the user wishes to use, the control unit 31 functions as a resource determination unit 303 and determines whether the specified multiple available services can be enabled (step S104). Specifically, based on the resource information collected from each device 20, the control unit 31 determines whether the resources possessed by each device 20 are insufficient for the resources required to provide the multiple available services specified by the user.

If activation is not possible (step S104; NO), the control unit 31 functions as the service adjustment unit 304 and generates an activatable combination pattern as an alternative to the multiple available services for which the designation was accepted (step S105). Specifically, the control unit 31 generates at least one combination pattern of (1) a first combination pattern that excludes some services from the multiple available services, and (2) a second combination pattern that restricts the functionality of at least one service from the multiple available services, under the constraints of the resources of each device 20.

On the other hand, if activation is possible (step S104; YES), the control unit 31 skips the processing of step S105 because there is no need to generate alternative combination patterns that can be activated.

The control unit 31 then presents combination patterns that can be activated, for example, by displaying the screen shown in Figure 14 or 15 (step S106).The control unit 31 then functions as the service determination unit 305 and accepts the user's selection of the combination pattern to be activated (step S107).As a result, the control unit 31 determines the selected combination pattern as the combination pattern to be activated.

Once the combination pattern to be enabled is confirmed, the control unit 31 functions as the service setting unit 306 and sets the service (step S108). Specifically, in order to provide each service included in the confirmed combination pattern, the control unit 31 instructs the target device 20 to establish a connection and sets the necessary service settings and control logic.

When the service setting is received, the function management unit 202 in each device 20 acquires the functions necessary for the service (step S109). Specifically, the function management unit 202 acquires application programs for executing the data acquisition functions and device control functions necessary for providing the service based on the service provision content set by the service setting device 30.

Once the required functions have been acquired, the application unit 203 starts the service (step S110). Specifically, the application unit 203 executes the application program acquired by the function management unit 202 to perform data collection and device control. As a result, the application unit 203 executes each service included in the combination pattern selected by the user.

As described above, when the resources possessed by the multiple devices 20 are insufficient compared to the resources required to provide the multiple available services, the service setting device 30 according to embodiment 1 presents the user with at least one combination pattern: a first combination pattern that excludes some of the multiple available services, and a second combination pattern that restricts the functionality of at least one of the multiple available services. In this way, when the resources possessed by the multiple devices 20 are insufficient, the service setting device 30 according to embodiment 1 generates candidate combination patterns that satisfy the resource constraints and presents them to the user, allowing the user to select the combination pattern to activate. This makes it possible to provide services flexibly according to the user's needs, even with limited resources.

In particular, the resources required for services that can be provided through the cooperation of multiple devices 20 increase as the number or types of devices 20 increase. If the number or types of devices 20 installed in the home H increase, each device 20 will need to have more resources than it actually uses in order to have the resources necessary for all services that can be provided, which will lead to an increase in the cost of each device 20. When multiple devices 20 have insufficient resources, the service setting device 30 of embodiment 1 generates candidate combination patterns that satisfy resource constraints and presents them to the user, thereby making it possible to provide services without such an increase in cost.

Furthermore, the communications standard Matter combines data collection and device control functions to realize services, and standardization is underway on specifications that require the same data collection and device control functions on both communicating devices. Meanwhile, while Matter specifies network search and connection establishment procedures, the method for users to configure services and the association of services with devices are outside the scope of standardization and are not specified. Furthermore, the target of Matter standardization is local networks, and communication with external parties is outside the scope of the standard and is not specified. The method described in embodiment 1 can also be applied to such non-Matter targets.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment. Descriptions of the same configurations and functions as those of the first embodiment will be omitted where appropriate.

In embodiment 2, when a combination pattern to be activated is selected by the user, the service determination unit 305 obtains the user's consent to the use of personal information in the services included in the selected combination pattern.

Here, personal information refers to information about an individual user, such as the user's age, gender, address, number of people in the household, etc. For example, in a service related to air conditioning control, if air conditioning control is performed based on a weather forecast, information about the user's address is used. Alternatively, if air conditioning control is performed based on the number of people in the room, information about the number of people in the user's household is used.

In this way, when a service is provided through the cooperation of multiple devices 20, the user's personal information may be used depending on the content of the service. Therefore, when determining the service to be activated, the service determination unit 305 obtains the user's consent regarding the personal information that may be used in that service.

Specifically, when the service determination unit 305 receives a selection of a combination pattern to be activated from the user on the screen shown in FIG. 14 or 15, it displays, for example, the screen shown in FIG. 18 on the display unit 34. The screen shown in FIG. 18 includes a message indicating that the user's selection of a combination pattern constitutes consent to the use of personal information for the services included in that combination pattern. When the user selects the "Confirmed" button on such a screen, the user is deemed to have consented to the use of personal information for the services included in the selected combination pattern.

In addition, confirmation of the user's consent to the use of such personal information may not be limited to displaying the screen shown in Figure 18, but may also be done by voice notification.

In this way, in embodiment 2, when the service determination unit 305 determines the combination pattern to be activated, it obtains the user's consent to the use of personal information in the services included in that combination pattern. This makes it possible to smoothly start each service included in the combination pattern to be activated.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, a description will be given of a third embodiment. Descriptions of the same configurations and functions as those of the first and second embodiments will be omitted where appropriate.

In embodiment 3, the service management unit 302 presents to the user devices 20 that are recommended to be added to the multiple devices 20 installed in the house H and the services that can be provided when the devices 20 are added.

Specifically, as in embodiment 1, the service management unit 302 generates the unavailable service list USL by comparing the function information of each device 20 collected by the network search unit 301 with the service list SL. This allows the service management unit 302 to identify unavailable services that cannot be provided even when the functions of multiple devices 20 installed in the home H are combined.

In embodiment 3, the service management unit 302 identifies a missing device having a function that is missing from the identified unavailable service. The missing device is a device 20 having a function that is missing to realize the unavailable service, and is a new device 20 other than the multiple devices 20 installed in the house H.

When the missing equipment is identified, the service management unit 302 presents the identified missing equipment and the identified unavailable services to the user. As an example, as shown in FIG. 19, the service management unit 302 displays the identified missing equipment on the display unit 34 as a recommended device 20 to add, along with the model number of the missing equipment.

Furthermore, the service management unit 302 displays the identified unavailable services as services that are currently unavailable but will become available if the missing equipment is added. In the example of Figure 19, if a ventilation fan is newly added, the "ventilation and air conditioning coordination" service will become available, and if an air conditioner is newly added, the "air conditioning coordination control" service will become available.

In this way, by presenting recommended devices 20 to add and new services that will be available, users can easily see the options for realizing more advanced services.

Furthermore, in embodiment 3, the service management unit 302 may accept a selection of devices 20 to be added from the user and interactively simulate the effect of adding the devices 20. As an example, the service management unit 302 displays a screen on the display unit 34 for inputting the devices 20 to be added, as shown in FIG. 20. On the screen of FIG. 20, the service management unit 302 displays a list of model numbers of devices 20 that are candidates for addition. The user operates the operation unit 33 to input the number of devices 20 to be added in the field for the device 20 they wish to add.

When the input of the device 20 to be added is received in this manner, the service management unit 302 presents the services that can be provided by newly adding the input device 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 21, the service management unit 302 displays on the display unit 34 the services that can be provided before the input device 20 is added and the services that will be provided after the input device 20 is added.

For example, if a user inputs on the screen shown in Figure 20 that they will add one sensor, the service management unit 302 will display, as shown in Figure 21, that the new services "Automatically turn off lights when unattended" and "Automatically turn off air conditioning when unattended" will be available.

By presenting services that can be provided based on user input in this way, users can immediately see the benefits that can be obtained by adding various devices 20.

(Modification)
Although the embodiments have been described above, it is possible to combine the embodiments, or to modify or omit the embodiments as appropriate.

For example, in the above embodiment, the service management unit 302 allowed the user to select the service they wish to use from among multiple available services on the screen shown in Figure 10. However, the service management unit 302 may omit the process of allowing the user to select the service they wish to use. In this case, the processing from the resource determination unit 303 onwards is performed for all available services included in the available service list ASL.

Alternatively, a priority may be assigned to the service the user wishes to use. For example, the user selects the service they wish to use from among multiple available services by setting a priority of high, medium, or low. In this case, the higher the priority assigned to a service, the less likely that service is to be excluded or subject to functional restrictions in the process of generating an activatable pattern in the service adjustment unit 304. The user may also select the service they wish to use from among multiple available services by setting a priority such as required or functional restriction permission. In this case, a service set with a required priority will not be subject to exclusion in the process of generating an activatable pattern in the service adjustment unit 304. A service set with a functional restriction permission priority will likely be subject to functional restrictions in the process of generating an activatable pattern in the service adjustment unit 304.

In the above embodiment, the memory resources of ROM and RAM were used as examples of resources for which the resource determination unit 303 determines whether there is a shortage. However, the resource is not limited to a memory resource, and may be, for example, the processing speed of a processor, as long as it is a software or hardware resource that can be used to realize the functions of each device 20.

In the above embodiment, the service adjustment unit 304 generated both (1) a first combination pattern in which some services were excluded from the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302, and (2) a second combination pattern in which the functions of at least one of the multiple available services identified by the service management unit 302 were restricted. However, the service adjustment unit 304 may generate only one of these patterns. By only excluding a service or restricting the functions of a service, it is possible to generate a combination pattern that can be enabled within the resource constraints of the multiple devices 20.

In the above embodiment, the service list SL was stored in the memory unit 32 of the service setting device 30. However, the service list SL does not have to be stored in the service setting device 30, but may also be stored outside the service setting device 30. In this case, the service management unit 302 references the service list SL as needed via the wide area network or the home network 90. Furthermore, the service list SL is not limited to the "air conditioning control service" shown in Figure 6 and the "lighting control service" shown in Figure 7, and may also define the relationship between services and functions in other service categories.

In the above embodiment, the control system 1 has been described using the example of a house H as an application target. However, the application target of the control system 1 is not limited to ordinary houses such as the house H, but may also be apartment buildings, commercial facilities, office buildings, factories, etc.

In the above embodiment, the control unit 31 of the service setting device 30 functions as each unit shown in Figure 3 by having the CPU execute a program stored in the ROM or memory unit 32. However, the control unit 31 may be dedicated hardware. Dedicated hardware is, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a combination of these. When the control unit 31 is dedicated hardware, the functions of each unit may be realized by individual hardware, or the functions of each unit may be realized together by a single piece of hardware.

Furthermore, some of the functions of each unit may be realized by dedicated hardware, and other functions may be realized by software or firmware. In this way, the control unit 31 can realize each of the above-mentioned functions by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination of these.

By applying an operating program that specifies the operation of the service setting device 30 to an existing computer such as a personal computer or information terminal device, it is possible to make the computer function as the service setting device 30.

Furthermore, the method of distribution of such programs is arbitrary; for example, they may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disk ROM), DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), MO (Magneto Optical Disk), or memory card and distributed, or they may be distributed via a communications network such as the Internet.

This disclosure allows for various embodiments and modifications without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments are intended to explain the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. In other words, the scope of the disclosure is indicated by the claims, not the embodiments. Various modifications made within the scope of the claims and the meaning of equivalent disclosures are deemed to be within the scope of the disclosure.

This disclosure can be suitably adopted in service setting devices, etc., that can present available services to users.

1 Control system, 10 Access point, 20 (20-1 to 20-5) Equipment, 30 Service setting device, 31 Control unit, 32 Memory unit, 33 Operation unit, 34 Display unit, 35 Communication unit, 90 Home network, 201 Equipment information management unit, 202 Function management unit, 203 Application unit, 301 Network search unit, 302 Service management unit, 303 Resource determination unit, 304 Service adjustment unit, 305 Service determination unit, 306 Service setting unit, ASL Available service list, DI Equipment information, H Residence, SL Service list, USL Unavailable service list

Claims (12)

A service setting device communicably connected to a plurality of devices,
a specifying means for specifying a plurality of available services, each of which is a service that can be provided by a function possessed by at least one of the plurality of devices;
and a presentation means for presenting to a user at least one of a first combination pattern in which some services are excluded from the plurality of available services and a second combination pattern in which a function of at least one service of the plurality of available services is restricted when the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide the plurality of available services identified by the identification means.
Service setting device. a selection means for allowing the user to select a combination pattern to be enabled from among the combination patterns presented by the presentation means;
and a setting unit configured to set at least one target device among the plurality of devices, the setting including a required control logic, in order to realize the service of the combination pattern selected by the user.
The service setting device according to claim 1 . the selection means, when prompting the user to select the combination pattern to be enabled, obtains consent from the user regarding the use of personal information in services included in the combination pattern to be enabled.
3. The service setting device according to claim 2. a collection unit that collects, from each of the plurality of devices, function information indicating a function possessed by each device and resource information indicating a resource possessed by each device;
the identifying means identifies the plurality of available services based on the function information collected by the collecting means and a preset service list;
a determining unit that determines whether the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide the plurality of available services, based on the resource information collected by the collecting unit.
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the specifying means specifies, as the plurality of available services, services that can be provided by a function of at least one of the plurality of devices and that have been designated by the user as a service that the user desires to use;
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the specifying means specifies an unavailable service that cannot be provided even when the functions of the plurality of devices are combined, and presents to the user the unavailable service and a missing device having a function that is lacking in the identified unavailable service.
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the second combination pattern is a combination pattern in which at least one of a data collection function and a device control function in the at least one service is limited;
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the second combination pattern is a combination pattern in which functions dedicated to each of the at least one service are simplified;
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. the second combination pattern is a combination pattern in which a function dedicated to each of the at least one service is changed to a function commonly used among a plurality of services;
The service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A system comprising: the service setting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and the plurality of devices.
Control system. A service management method executed by a service setting device,
determining whether the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient with respect to resources required to provide a plurality of available services, each of which is a service that can be provided by a function possessed by at least one of the plurality of devices;
When the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide the plurality of available services, at least one combination pattern is presented to the user: a first combination pattern in which some services are excluded from the plurality of available services; and a second combination pattern in which a function of at least one service of the plurality of available services is restricted.
Service management methods. A computer that is connected to multiple devices so that they can communicate with each other.
a specifying means for specifying a plurality of available services, each of which is a service that can be provided by a function possessed by at least one of the plurality of devices;
and when the resources possessed by the plurality of devices are insufficient for the resources required to provide the plurality of available services identified by the identification means, the device functions as a presentation means for presenting to a user at least one combination pattern of a first combination pattern in which some services are excluded from the plurality of available services and a second combination pattern in which a function of at least one service of the plurality of available services is limited.
program.