Thermal sensation estimation device, thermal sensation estimation method, and thermal sensation estimation program

Abstract

The walking speed scale receiving unit (111) receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the user's walking speed. The walking time acquiring unit (120) acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time. The thermal sensation estimating unit (130) converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for estimating a user's thermal sensation after walking. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for controlling an air conditioner. With this technology, when a user (subject) returns indoors after an outdoor activity, outdoor movement data (movement amount, movement speed) is acquired. Next, the user's metabolic rate is calculated based on the acquired data. The air conditioner is then controlled so that the PMV (Performance Comfort Value), which is based on the user's metabolic rate, the air conditioner's airflow temperature, the air conditioner's airflow humidity, etc., falls within a comfortable range.

[0003] Outdoor movement data is obtained using smartphone location information. Smartphone location information is obtained using satellite positioning systems (GPS, GNSS, etc.), but includes an error of about 1 to 100 meters. For this reason, the accuracy of movement data obtained using smartphone location information is low. GPS is an abbreviation for Global Positioning System. GNSS is an abbreviation for Global Navigation Satellite System. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2008 / 087959 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The technology in Patent Document 1 uses low-precision movement data, making it impossible to accurately calculate the user's metabolic rate, and therefore making it impossible to optimally control the air conditioner for the user.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to enable more accurate estimation of a user's thermal sensation after walking. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The thermal sensation estimation device of the present disclosure comprises: a walking speed scale receiving unit that receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation unit that estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, using the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; Equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to more accurately estimate the thermal sensation of a user after walking. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 3 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a walking speed based on position information. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7]11 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a third embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a sixth embodiment. [Figure 19] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 21] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a walking area in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a walking area in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a seventh embodiment. [Figure 25] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 26]FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 27] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a walking start area in the eighth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of an eighth embodiment. [Figure 30] 13 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the eighth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 32] 13 is a flowchart of positioning function control (A) in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 33] 13 is a flowchart of positioning function control (B) in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 20 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a ninth embodiment. [Figure 35] FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a tenth embodiment. [Figure 36] 22 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the tenth embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a tenth embodiment. [Figure 38] 22 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the tenth embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 40] 22 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 41] FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of an eleventh embodiment. [Figure 42] 22 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 43] FIG. 23 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 44] 23 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 45] FIG. 23 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of a twelfth embodiment. [Figure 46] 23 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 47] FIG. 1 is a hardware configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In the embodiments and drawings, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description of elements denoted by the same reference numerals as those already described will be omitted or simplified as appropriate. Arrows in the drawings primarily indicate the flow of data or the flow of processing.

[0011] Embodiment 1 A method for estimating a user's thermal sensation after walking will be described with reference to Figs.

[0012] ***Configuration Description***

[0013] The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 is realized by a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking. Examples of the user terminal are a smartphone and a wearable terminal. An example of the wearable terminal is a smart watch.

[0014] The thermal sensation estimation device 100 is a computer including hardware such as a processor 101, a memory 102, an auxiliary storage device 103, a communication device 104, and an input / output interface 105. These pieces of hardware are connected to each other via signal lines.

[0015] The processor 101 is an IC that performs arithmetic processing and controls other hardware. For example, the processor 101 is a CPU. IC is an abbreviation for Integrated Circuit. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit.

[0016] The memory 102 is a volatile or non-volatile storage device. The memory 102 is also called a primary storage device or a main memory. For example, the memory 102 is a RAM. Data stored in the memory 102 is saved in the secondary storage device 103 as needed. RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory.

[0017] The auxiliary storage device 103 is a non-volatile storage device. For example, the auxiliary storage device 103 is a ROM, a HDD, a flash memory, or a combination thereof. Data stored in the auxiliary storage device 103 is loaded into the memory 102 as needed. ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory. HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive.

[0018] The communication device 104 is a receiver and a transmitter. For example, the communication device 104 is a communication chip or an NIC. The communication of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 is performed using the communication device 104. NIC is an abbreviation for Network Interface Card.

[0019] The input / output interface 105 is an input device, an output device, and an input / output port. For example, the input device is a touch panel and a microphone, and the output device is a display and a speaker. Input and output of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 is performed using the input / output interface 105.

[0020] The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes elements such as a walking speed scale receiving unit 111, a walking time acquisition unit 120, and a thermal sensation estimation unit 130. The walking time acquisition unit 120 includes a walking time reception unit 121. These elements are realized by software.

[0021] The auxiliary storage device 103 stores a thermal sensation estimation program for causing the computer to function as a walking speed scale receiving unit 111, a walking time acquiring unit 120, and a thermal sensation estimation unit 130. The thermal sensation estimation program is loaded into the memory 102 and executed by the processor 101. The auxiliary storage device 103 also stores an OS. At least a part of the OS is loaded into the memory 102 and executed by the processor 101. The processor 101 executes a thermal sensation estimation program while running the OS. OS is an abbreviation for Operating System.

[0022] Input and output data of the thermal sensation estimation program are stored in the storage unit 190. The memory 102 functions as the storage unit 190. However, a storage device such as the auxiliary storage device 103, a register in the processor 101, or a cache memory in the processor 101 may function as the storage unit 190 instead of or together with the memory 102.

[0023] The thermal sensation estimation program can be recorded (stored) in a computer-readable manner on a non-volatile recording medium such as an optical disk or a flash memory.

[0024] ***Explanation of Operation*** The operation procedure of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 corresponds to a thermal sensation estimation method, and the operation procedure of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 corresponds to a processing procedure by a thermal sensation estimation program.

[0025] A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S011 , the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100 .

[0026] The walking speed scale is a scale that represents the walking speed of the user. The walking speed is the speed of the user while walking. For example, the walking speed scale is expressed as a three-level ordinal scale of "slow," "normal," and "fast." However, the walking speed scale may be expressed as a two-level ordinal scale or a four-level or more ordinal scale.

[0027] The walking speed scale is input using a user interface, i.e., the walking speed scale is a value declared by the user (declared value).

[0028] For example, a walking speed measure may be taken as follows: First, after walking, the user operates the user terminal to activate the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Next, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 displays a scale input screen on the display. The scale input screen has a graphical user interface (GUI) for inputting the walking speed scale. Next, the user operates the user terminal to input the walking speed scale into the scale input screen. Then, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the input walking speed scale.

[0029] In step S012, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. The walking time information indicates the walking time. The walking time indicates the length of time that the user has been walking. Specifically, the walking time is the total time that the user has been walking.

[0030] Specifically, the walking time receiving unit 121 receives walking time information input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. The walking time information is input using a user interface. In other words, the walking time is a value declared by the user (declared value).

[0031] For example, walking time information is received as follows: First, after walking, the user operates the user terminal to activate the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Next, the walking time receiving unit 121 displays a time input screen on the display. The time input screen has a graphical user interface (GUI) for inputting the walking time. Next, the user operates the user terminal to input walking time information into the time input screen. Then, the walking time receiving unit 121 receives the input walking time information.

[0032] Steps S011 and S012 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S011 and S012, the process proceeds to step S013.

[0033] In step S013, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information.

[0034] The thermal sensation is estimated using an estimation model with usage information as input. A multiple regression model or a machine learning model is used as the estimation model. When a machine learning model is used, it may be a support vector machine, a random forest, or XGBoost.

[0035] The thermal sensation may be expressed as a real number or an ordinal scale. For example, thermal sensation is expressed as a number from 1 to N. For example, thermal sensation is expressed on an N-level ordinal scale including "cold," "normal," "hot," etc.

[0036] After step S013, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0037] ***Effects of the First Embodiment*** In the first embodiment, by using a walking speed scale (value declared by the user) instead of walking speed based on position information, it is possible to more plausibly estimate the thermal sensation of the user after walking. The estimated thermal sensation can be used, for example, to optimally control the indoor unit of a packaged air conditioner (PAC).

[0038] The walking speed based on the position information will be described with reference to FIG. The walking speed is calculated using location information as follows. The location information is obtained using GPS or GNSS. (1) The distance between two points is calculated based on the location information of the two points, and the walking speed between the two points is calculated based on the distance between the two points and the walking time between the two points. Then, the walking speed from the start point to the end point of the walk is averaged. (2) The distance between the two points is calculated based on the location information of the two points, and the total walking distance is calculated by adding up the distance between the two points. The walking speed is then calculated by dividing the total walking distance by the total walking time. The accuracy of location information is approximately 1 to 100 meters. Therefore, the distance between two points can have an error of up to 200 meters. This means that in (1), the walking speed between two points can be inaccurate. If location information is obtained once every 10 seconds, the total walking distance can have an error of up to 1,200 meters per minute. This means that in (2), the walking speed can be inaccurate. Users are not always walking, but may stop when waiting at traffic lights, etc. Therefore, location information is used to determine whether a user is walking or stopped in order to determine the walking time or total walking time. However, as mentioned above, the accuracy of walking speed may be low, so it is considered difficult to determine whether a user is walking or stopped by threshold judgment, etc. Another possible method is to use an acceleration sensor built into the device to determine whether the user is walking or stopped. However, the measurement values ​​of the acceleration sensor depend on the model / individual, and using an acceleration sensor increases the power consumption of the device. For these reasons, using an acceleration sensor is considered to be unrealistic.

[0039] Thus, it is considered inappropriate to use walking speed based on location information. Therefore, in the first embodiment, a thermal sensation after walking is estimated based on the walking speed scale of the user (an ordinal scale such as slow, normal, fast, etc.) and the walking time of the user. Although the walking speed scale is a declared value and therefore depends on the user's subjectivity, a unique walking speed scale can be obtained for all users. This makes it possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking more plausibly. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking regardless of the device used, regardless of who is using which smartphone. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking while reducing the power consumption of the device.

[0040] Embodiment 2 The embodiment in which the thermal sensation after walking is estimated by taking the walking environment into consideration instead of the walking speed scale will be described below with reference to Figs. 4 and 5, mainly with respect to the points that differ from the first embodiment.

[0041] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. The thermal sensation estimation program causes the computer to function as the walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111 .

[0042] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S021, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information.

[0043] The walking environment information is environmental information of a walking area. A walking area is an area where the user walks. The environmental information is information about the outdoor environment that affects the user's thermal sensation. For example, the walking environment information indicates the temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc. of Ofuna A-chome, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture.

[0044] Walking environment information is acquired as follows. The walking area information is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The walking area information indicates a walking area. The walking environment acquisition unit 112 transmits walking area information to the environmental information server and receives environmental information of the walking area from the environmental information server. The received environmental information becomes walking environment information. The environmental information server is a device that provides environmental information. An example of an environmental information server is a weather forecast server, which is used by meteorological agencies or commercial services to provide local weather information.

[0045] The walking environment information may be acquired as follows: An outdoor unit for an air conditioner is referred to as an outdoor unit. Various sensors are attached to the outdoor unit. These sensors include a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. Data obtained by the various sensors is called sensor data. The sensor data indicates temperature, humidity, and the like. The walking environment acquisition unit 112 communicates with outdoor units installed in the walking area to receive sensor data from various sensors. The received sensor data becomes walking environment information.

[0046] The environmental information may be information about an indoor environment. Various sensors are installed inside the building. The walking environment acquisition unit 112 communicates with various sensors in buildings erected in the walking area to receive sensor data. The received sensor data becomes walking environment information.

[0047] In step S022, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. Step S022 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0048] Steps S021 and S022 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S021 and S022, the process proceeds to step S023.

[0049] In step S023, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S023 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which the walking speed scale is replaced with walking environment information.

[0050] After step S023, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0051] ***Effects of the Second Embodiment*** The sensation of warmth and coldness after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the area where you were walking (high / low temperature, etc.). In the second embodiment, environmental information (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.) of the walking route and walking time are used to estimate the thermal sensation after walking. By using environmental information instead of walking speed, it is possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking more plausibly. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking regardless of the device used, regardless of who is using which smartphone. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate thermal sensation after walking while reducing the power consumption of the device.

[0052] Embodiment 3 The embodiment for estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of attributes related to the user's walking will be described below with reference to Figs. 6 to 9, mainly with respect to the differences from the first embodiment.

[0053] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking attribute receiving unit 141. The thermal sensation estimating program further causes the computer to function as a walking attribute accepting unit 141.

[0054] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S031, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S031 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0055] In step S032, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. Step S032 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0056] In step S33, the walking attribute receiving unit 141 receives the walking attribute information input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100.

[0057] The walking attribute information indicates walking attributes that affect the thermal sensation of the user. The walking attributes are attributes related to the user's walking, and include user attributes and walking conditions. Examples of user attributes include whether the user is sensitive to heat or cold, whether the user sweats a lot, body fat percentage, and age. Examples of walking conditions include whether the walking route is in the shade or in the sun, and whether the baggage is heavy or not.

[0058] The walking attribute information is input using a user interface.

[0059] For example, the walking attribute information is received as follows: First, after walking, the user operates the user terminal to activate the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Next, the walking attribute receiving unit 141 displays an attribute input screen on the display. The attribute input screen has a graphical user interface (GUI) for inputting walking attribute information. Next, the user operates the user terminal to input walking attribute information into the attribute input screen. Then, the walking attribute receiving unit 141 receives the input walking attribute information.

[0060] Steps S031 to S033 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S031 to S033, the process proceeds to step S034.

[0061] In step S034, the thermal sensation estimation unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale, the acquired walking time information, and the received walking attribute information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S034 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which walking attribute information is included in the usage information.

[0062] After step S034, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0063] ***Effects of the Third Embodiment*** The thermal sensation after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the user's walking attribute information (sensitivity to heat / cold, body fat percentage, age, etc.). In the third embodiment, the user's walking attribute information is also used to estimate the thermal sensation, thereby enabling more accurate estimation of the thermal sensation after walking.

[0064] ***Example of Embodiment 3*** The third embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 8 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 in the case where the third embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the third embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S031B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S031B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Steps S032 and S033 are as described in the third embodiment. In step S034B, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the acquired walking environment information, the acquired walking time information, and the received walking attribute information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S034B corresponds to step S023 (see embodiment 2) in which the walking attribute information is included in the usage information.

[0065] Embodiment 4 The embodiment for estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of the walking date and time will be described below with reference to Figs. 10 to 13, mainly in terms of differences from the first embodiment.

[0066] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking date and time acquisition unit 142. The thermal sensation estimating program also causes the computer to function as a walking date and time acquiring section 142 .

[0067] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S041, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S041 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0068] In step S042, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. Step S042 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0069] In step S043, the walking date and time acquisition unit 142 acquires walking date and time information.

[0070] The walking date and time information is data indicating the walking date and time. The walking date and time corresponds to the date and time when the user was walking.

[0071] Walking date and time information is acquired as follows. The walking date and time acquisition unit 142 acquires the current date and time from the OS or the Internet. The acquired data indicating the current date and time becomes walking date and time information.

[0072] Steps S041 to S043 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S041 to S043, the process proceeds to step S044.

[0073] In step S044, the thermal sensation estimation unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale, the acquired walking time information, and the acquired walking date and time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S044 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which walking date and time information is included in the usage information.

[0074] After step S044, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0075] ***Effects of the Fourth Embodiment*** The sensation of warmth after walking depends not only on the walking speed and duration, but also on the thermal environment (high / low temperature, etc.) of the area where you walked. The time of day and the thermal environment correspond. For example, the temperature tends to be high at 1:00 PM in August. In the fourth embodiment, it is assumed that the date and time correspond to the thermal environment, and an estimation model corresponding to the current date and time information is used, thereby enabling more accurate estimation of the thermal sensation after walking.

[0076] ***Example of Embodiment 4*** The fourth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 in the case where the fourth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the fourth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S041B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S041B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Steps S042 and S043 are as described in the third embodiment. In step S044B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 converts the acquired walking environment information, the acquired walking time information, and the acquired walking date and time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S044B corresponds to step S023 (see embodiment 2) in which the walking date and time information is included in the usage information.

[0077] Embodiment 5. The embodiment for estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of the walking environment will be described below with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, mainly with respect to the differences from the first embodiment.

[0078] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking environment acquisition unit 112. The thermal sensation estimating program also causes the computer to function as a walking environment acquiring unit 112 .

[0079] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S051, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S051 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0080] In step S052, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. Step S052 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0081] In step S053, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S053 is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment.

[0082] Steps S051 to S053 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S051 to S053, the process proceeds to step S054.

[0083] In step S054, the thermal sensation estimation unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale, the acquired walking time information, and the acquired walking environment information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S054 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which walking environment information is included in the usage information.

[0084] After step S054, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0085] ***Effects of the Fifth Embodiment*** The sensation of warmth and coldness after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the area where you were walking (high / low temperature, etc.). In the fifth embodiment, the thermal sensation after walking is estimated by using environmental information (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.) of the walking route, thereby enabling more accurate estimation of the thermal sensation after walking.

[0086] Embodiment 6 The embodiment for acquiring walking environment information using the positioning function will be described below with reference to Figs. 16 to 19, mainly focusing on the differences from the fifth embodiment.

[0087] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes hardware called a positioning device 106. The positioning device 106 has a positioning function for measuring the position of the user terminal at each time. For example, the positioning device 106 is a receiver for a satellite positioning system (GPS, GNSS, etc.).

[0088] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S061, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S061 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0089] In step S062, the walking time acquisition unit 120 acquires walking time information. Step S062 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0090] In step S063, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information.

[0091] Specifically, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires environmental information of the area corresponding to the location information of the user terminal. The acquired environmental information becomes walking environment information.

[0092] Walking environment information is acquired as follows. First, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires the position information of the user terminal using the positioning function of the user terminal. Then, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 transmits the location information of the user terminal to the environmental information server, and receives environmental information of the area where the user terminal is located from the environmental information server. The received environmental information becomes walking environment information.

[0093] Steps S061 to S063 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S061 to S063, the process proceeds to step S064.

[0094] In step S064, the thermal sensation estimation unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale, the acquired walking time information, and the acquired walking environment information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S064 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which walking environment information is included in the usage information.

[0095] After step S064, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0096] ***Effects of the Sixth Embodiment*** The sensation of warmth and coldness after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the area where you were walking (high / low temperature, etc.). In the sixth embodiment, the thermal sensation after walking is estimated by using environmental information (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.) of the walking route, thereby enabling more accurate estimation of the thermal sensation after walking.

[0097] ***Example of the sixth embodiment*** The sixth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 18 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 in the case where the sixth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 19 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the sixth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. Steps S063 and S062 are as described in the sixth embodiment. In step S064B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S064B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment.

[0098] Embodiment 7 The embodiment in which the walking time is calculated using the position information will be described below, mainly with reference to Figs. 20 to 25, in terms of differences from the first embodiment.

[0099] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes hardware called a positioning device 106. The positioning device 106 has a positioning function for measuring the position of the user terminal at each time. For example, the positioning device 106 is a receiver for a satellite positioning system (GPS, GNSS, etc.). The walking time acquisition unit 120 includes a walking time calculation unit 122 instead of the walking time acceptance unit 121 .

[0100] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S071, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S071 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0101] In step S072, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking time information.

[0102] Specifically, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking time as follows: Data indicating the calculated walking time becomes walking time information. First, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking start time based on the walking area information and the position information of the user terminal at each time.

[0103] The walking area information is data indicating a walking start area and a walking end area, and is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The walking start area is an area that includes a walking start point, which corresponds to the point where the user starts walking. The walking end area is an area that includes the walking end point, which corresponds to the point where the user's walking ends.

[0104] Examples of the walking start area and the walking end area will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23. FIG. In Figure 22, the walking start point and walking end point are set in advance. The walking start area is represented by a circle with the walking end point as its center and the distance from the walking end point to the walking start point as its radius. The walking end area is represented by a circle with the walking end point as its center and a certain distance as its radius. The certain distance is set in advance. In Figure 23, the walking start area is represented by a circle with a radius of a certain distance centered on the walking start point. The walking end area is represented by a circle with a radius of a certain distance centered on the walking end point. The certain distance is set in advance. However, the walking start area and the walking end area may be areas of a shape other than a circle. For example, the walking start area and the walking end area may be areas of a rectangular shape. Furthermore, the walking start area and the walking end area may be areas of different shapes.

[0105] Returning to FIG. 21, the description of step S072 continues.

[0106] The location information of the user terminal at each time is acquired using the positioning function of the user terminal.

[0107] The walking start time is the time when the user terminal enters the walking start area.

[0108] Next, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking end time based on the walking area information and the position information of the user terminal at each time. The walking end time is the time when the user terminal enters the walking end area.

[0109] Then, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking time using the walking start time and the walking end time.

[0110] Specifically, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the length of time from the walking start time (t1) to the walking end time (t2). The calculated length of time is the walking time (Δt). The walking time (Δt) is calculated using the following formula: Δt=t2-t1

[0111] The walking time calculation unit 122 may calculate the walking time (Δt) by subtracting the walking stop time (t3). The walking stop time (t3) is the length of time during which walking was stopped between the walking start time and the walking end time. For example, a time period during which the position of the user terminal has not changed for a certain period of time is considered to be a time period during which walking was stopped. Note that if the position of the user terminal has not changed by a certain distance, the position of the user terminal is considered to have not changed. The walking time (Δt) is calculated using the following formula: Δt=t2-t1-t3

[0112] Steps S071 and S072 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S071 and S072, the process proceeds to step S073.

[0113] In step S073, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S073 is the same as step S013 in the first embodiment.

[0114] After step S073, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0115] ***Effects of the Seventh Embodiment*** The walking time may vary from day to day, so to accurately estimate the thermal sensation, it is necessary to obtain the walking time every time. In the seventh embodiment, the walking time is automatically calculated using the location information, thereby saving the user the trouble of inputting the information.

[0116] ***Example of Embodiment 7*** The seventh embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 24 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 when the seventh embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 25 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the seventh embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S071B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S071B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Step S072 is as explained in the seventh embodiment. In step S073B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S073B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment.

[0117] Embodiment 8 The embodiment in which the walking time is calculated using the location information and beacon information will be described below with reference to Figs. 26 to 30, mainly with respect to the differences from the seventh embodiment.

[0118] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a beacon information receiving unit 143. The thermal sensation estimation program also causes the computer to function as a beacon information receiving section 143.

[0119] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S081, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S081 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0120] In step S082, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking time information.

[0121] Specifically, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking time as follows: Data indicating the calculated walking time becomes walking time information. One or more walking end areas are set, and a beacon is provided in each walking end area. For example, the beacon is provided in a building that is the destination of the user's walking. A beacon transmits beacon information. The beacon information is data including an individual identifier. The individual identifier identifies one beacon. For example, an individual identification number is used as the individual identifier. When a user terminal enters the communication area of ​​any beacon, the beacon information receiving unit 143 receives the beacon information transmitted from that beacon. The communication area of ​​a beacon is the area within which the beacon information can reach. First, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking start time based on the walking area information and the position information of the user terminal at each time. The walking area information indicates the walking start area. Next, the walking time calculation unit 122 obtains the time when the beacon information is received. The obtained time becomes the walking end time. Then, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking time using the walking start time and the walking end time.

[0122] An example of the walking start area will be described with reference to FIG. The starting point of the walk is set in advance. The walking end point is the position of the beacon identified by the individual identifier indicated in the received beacon information. The walking start area is represented by a circle with the walking end point as its center and the distance from the walking end point to the walking start point as its radius.

[0123] The walking start area is calculated as follows. A beacon list is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The beacon list indicates, for each beacon, an individual identifier and location information in association with each other. First, the walking time calculation unit 122 acquires, from the beacon list, location information associated with the same individual identifier as the individual identifier indicated in the received beacon information. Then, the walking time calculation unit 122 calculates the walking start area by setting the position indicated in the acquired position information as the walking end point.

[0124] Returning to FIG. 27, the explanation will be continued.

[0125] Steps S081 and S082 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S081 and S082, the process proceeds to step S083.

[0126] In step S083, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S083 is the same as step S013 in the first embodiment.

[0127] After step S083, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0128] ***Effects of the eighth embodiment*** Embodiment 8 teeth, The walking time is calculated automatically using location information and beacon information. This saves the user the trouble of having to enter information. It also allows for more accurate calculation of walking time.

[0129] ***Example of Embodiment 8*** The eighth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 29 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 when the eighth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 30 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the eighth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S081B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S081B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Step S082 is as described in the eighth embodiment. In step S083B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S083B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment.

[0130] Embodiment 9 The mode of suppressing power consumption in a user terminal will be described below, mainly with reference to FIGS. 31 to 34, with respect to the differences from the eighth embodiment.

[0131] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a positioning function control unit 144. The thermal sensation estimation program also causes the computer to function as a positioning function control unit 144 .

[0132] ***Explanation of Operation*** The positioning function control (A) will be described with reference to FIG. Positioning function control (A) is an example of positioning function control. The positioning function control is a process included in the thermal sensation estimating method, and is executed by the positioning function control unit 144.

[0133] In step S091A, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has entered the walking start area. The detection is performed using walking area information and location information of the user terminal at each time. The detection may be performed by the walking time calculation unit 122.

[0134] Then, the positioning function control unit 144 turns off the positioning function of the user terminal. That is, the positioning function control unit 144 turns off the communication device 104.

[0135] In step S092A, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has entered the walking end area. In other words, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has approached the walking end point. Specifically, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that beacon information has been received. The positioning function control unit 144 may detect that the radio wave intensity at the time of receiving the beacon information is equal to or greater than a threshold.

[0136] In step S093A, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has left the walking end area. Specifically, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the beacon information has not been received. The positioning function control unit 144 may detect that the radio wave intensity when the beacon information is received is below a threshold.

[0137] Then, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the positioning function of the user terminal. That is, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the communication device 104.

[0138] The positioning function control (B) will be described with reference to FIG. Positioning function control (B) is an example of positioning function control.

[0139] In step S091B, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has entered the walking start area. Then, the positioning function control unit 144 turns off the positioning function of the user terminal. Step S091B is the same as step S091A.

[0140] In step S092B, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has entered the walking end area. Step S092B is the same as step S092A.

[0141] In step S093B, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has left the walking end area. The detection method is the same as that in step S093A. Then, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the positioning function of the user terminal in a suppressed setting. That is, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the communication device 104 in a suppressed setting. The suppression setting is a setting for suppressing power consumption by the positioning function. For example, in the suppression setting, at least one of the frequency and accuracy of positioning is lower than in the default setting.

[0142] In step S094B, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the user terminal has approached the walking start point. Specifically, the positioning function control unit 144 detects that the distance from the user terminal to the walking start point has become equal to or less than a certain distance.

[0143] Then, the positioning function control unit 144 returns the settings of the positioning function of the user terminal to the default settings. That is, the positioning function control unit 144 returns the settings of the communication device 104 to the default settings. The default setting is the setting before the positioning function is turned off (normal).

[0144] ***Effects of the 9th embodiment*** Using a smartphone's positioning function consumes power. In the ninth embodiment, parameters such as turning the positioning function on / off, the frequency of positioning, and the accuracy of positioning are switched depending on the location information. This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the smartphone while saving the user the trouble of inputting information.

[0145] ***Example of Embodiment 9*** The ninth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 34 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 when the ninth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. The operation of the positioning function control unit 144 is as explained in the ninth embodiment.

[0146] Embodiment 10 The embodiment for controlling an air conditioner or the like based on the estimated thermal sensation will be described below with reference to Figs. 35 to 38, mainly in terms of the differences from the first embodiment.

[0147] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called an equipment control unit 151. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes the computer to function as an equipment control unit 151.

[0148] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S101, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S101 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0149] In step S102, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking time information. Step S102 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0150] Steps S101 and S102 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S101 and S102, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0151] In step S103, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S103 is the same as step S013 in the first embodiment.

[0152] In step S104, the equipment control unit 151 controls the designated equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation. The designated equipment is the designated heating and cooling equipment. The designated equipment is registered in advance. Heating and cooling equipment is equipment that affects people's sense of warmth and cold. Examples of heating and cooling equipment include air conditioners, electric fans, ventilation equipment, and lighting equipment.

[0153] Specifically, the equipment control unit 151 adjusts the settings of the designated equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation and the user's favorite settings for the designated equipment.

[0154] The designated equipment is controlled as follows: Favorite setting information is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The favorite setting information is data indicating the user's favorite settings for the designated equipment. First, the equipment control unit 151 determines the settings of the designated equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation and the favorite settings indicated in the favorite setting information. Then, the equipment control unit 151 communicates with the designated equipment to change the settings of the designated equipment to the determined settings.

[0155] For example, an air conditioner, which is a designated piece of equipment, is controlled as follows. The favorite setting information indicates a favorite temperature. If the estimated thermal sensation is a value of +2 or more, the equipment control unit 151 sets the air volume setting to "strong wind" and the air direction setting to "swing." Setting the air direction to "swing" causes the air to blow towards the user. Since the state of high thermal sensation is considered to last for about several minutes, the equipment control unit 151 may change the air volume setting to "weak wind" and the air direction setting to "horizontal" after a certain period of time has passed. Setting the air direction to "horizontal" prevents the air from blowing towards the user. The equipment control unit 151 sets the temperature setting to the favorite temperature. The equipment control unit 151 may correct the favorite temperature based on the estimated thermal sensation, and set the temperature setting to the corrected favorite temperature. Because the state of high thermal sensation is considered to last for several minutes, the equipment control unit 151 may change the temperature setting to the favorite temperature before correction after a certain period of time has elapsed.

[0156] For example, an air conditioner, which is a designated piece of equipment, is controlled as follows. The favorite setting information indicates a favorite air volume and a favorite air direction. If the estimated thermal sensation is a value of +2 or more, the equipment control unit 151 sets the air volume setting to "strong wind" and the air direction setting to "swing." Because the state of high thermal sensation is considered to last for about several minutes, the equipment control unit 151 changes the air volume setting to the favorite air volume and the air direction setting to the favorite air direction after a certain period of time has passed.

[0157] For example, if the type of the designated equipment is a fan or a ventilation device and the estimated thermal sensation is high, the equipment control unit 151 increases the airflow rate. For example, if the type of the specified equipment is lighting equipment and the estimated thermal sensation is high, the equipment control unit 151 lowers the color temperature of the lighting.

[0158] After step S104, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0159] ***Effects of the 10th embodiment*** In the tenth embodiment, the settings of a designated air conditioner are automatically changed based on the estimated thermal sensation. This makes it possible to use the designated air conditioner to achieve comfortable air conditioning control based on the thermal sensation after walking.

[0160] ***Example of Embodiment 10*** The tenth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 37 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 when the tenth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 38 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the tenth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S101B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S101B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Step S102 is as explained in the tenth embodiment. In step S103B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S103B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment. Step S104 is as explained in the tenth embodiment.

[0161] Embodiment 11 The embodiment for controlling an air conditioner or the like based on the estimated thermal sensation will be described below with reference to Figs. 39 to 42, mainly with respect to the points that differ from the tenth embodiment.

[0162] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a nearby facility identification unit 152. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes the computer to function as a nearby facility identification unit 152.

[0163] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S111, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S111 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0164] In step S112, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking time information. Step S112 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0165] Steps S111 and S112 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S111 and S112, the process proceeds to step S113.

[0166] In step S113, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S113 is the same as step S013 in the first embodiment.

[0167] In step S114, the nearby equipment identifying unit 152 receives beacon information from at least one of the plurality of heating and cooling equipment.

[0168] The plurality of heating and cooling facilities are provided at different positions. Each heating and cooling unit is equipped with a beacon. A beacon transmits beacon information. The beacon information is data including an individual identifier. The individual identifier identifies one beacon. For example, an individual identification number is used as the individual identifier.

[0169] Then, the nearby equipment specifying unit 152 selects one of the heating and cooling equipment based on the beacon information reception result. The selected heating and cooling equipment is referred to as nearby equipment. The nearby equipment is heating and cooling equipment that is installed near the user after walking.

[0170] The nearby facilities are identified as follows: A list of heating and cooling equipment is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The list of heating and cooling equipment indicates the equipment identifier and the beacon identifier for each heating and cooling equipment in association with each other. When beacon information is received from one heating / cooling equipment, the nearby equipment identification unit 152 selects from the heating / cooling equipment list an equipment identifier associated with the same beacon identifier as the individual identifier indicated in the received beacon information. The heating / cooling equipment identified by the selected equipment identifier becomes the nearby equipment. When beacon information is received from two or more heating and cooling equipment, the nearby equipment identification unit 152 selects from the heating and cooling equipment list an equipment identifier associated with the same beacon identifier as the individual identifier indicated in the beacon information with the strongest radio wave strength at the time of reception or the beacon information with the shortest radio wave reach. The heating and cooling equipment identified by the selected equipment identifier becomes the nearby equipment. When Bluetooth (registered trademark) is used to communicate beacon information, radio wave strength is used. When wireless communication called UWB is used to transmit beacon information, the radio wave reach is utilized. UWB is an abbreviation for Ultra Wide Band.

[0171] Step S114 may be performed before step S113.

[0172] In step S115, the equipment control unit 151 controls the nearby equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation. The method for controlling the nearby equipment is the same as the method for controlling the designated equipment in step S104 of the tenth embodiment.

[0173] After step S115, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0174] ***Effects of the 11th embodiment*** In the eleventh embodiment, the setting of a nearby air conditioner is automatically changed based on the estimated thermal sensation. This allows the nearby air conditioner to be used to provide a comfortable atmosphere based on the thermal sensation after walking. air Harmonized control can be achieved.

[0175] ***Example of Embodiment 11*** The eleventh embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 41 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 when the eleventh embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 42 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the eleventh embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S111B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S111B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Step S112 is as explained in the tenth embodiment. In step S113B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S113B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment. Steps S114 and S115 are as described in the eleventh embodiment.

[0176] Embodiment 12 The embodiment for recommending a comfortable area in accordance with an estimated thermal sensation will be described below with reference to Figs. 43 to 46, mainly focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0177] ***Configuration Description*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a comfort area recommendation unit 160. The thermal sensation estimating program also causes the computer to function as a comfort area recommending unit 160 .

[0178] ***Explanation of Operation*** A thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to FIG. In step S121, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives the walking speed scale input to the thermal sensation estimation device 100. Step S121 is the same as step S011 in the first embodiment.

[0179] In step S122, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking time information. Step S122 is the same as step S012 in the first embodiment.

[0180] Steps S121 and S122 may be executed in reverse order. After steps S121 and S122, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0181] In step S123, the thermal sensation estimating unit 130 converts the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information into usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S123 is the same as step S013 in the first embodiment.

[0182] In step S124, the comfort area recommendation unit 160 selects a comfort area based on the estimated thermal sensation and the available area list. The comfort area is one of several use areas. The available area list shows area identifiers and area environment information for each available area in association with each other. The use area is an area that can be used by the user after walking. For example, the use areas are multiple rooms in a building that is the destination of the walk. For example, a room number is used as an area identifier. The area environment information is data that indicates the environment of the area in which the user is using the device, such as the set temperature and humidity. For example, if the estimated thermal sensation is higher than a certain level, the comfortable area recommendation unit 160 selects an area identifier associated with area environment information indicating a set temperature lower than a certain level from the usage area list. The usage area identified by the selected area identifier becomes the comfortable area.

[0183] The comfortable area recommendation unit 160 may select a comfortable area by referring to information such as the travel distance from the building entrance to each area, the degree of congestion in each area, and the user's area selection preferences. The degree of congestion indicates whether there are many or few people. The area selection preferences indicate specific areas preferred by the user, the length of the travel distance, the number of users, the humidity level, etc.

[0184] Then, the comfortable area recommendation unit 160 presents the comfortable area information. The comfort area information is data indicating the selected comfort area, such as the area identifier of the comfort area. For example, the comfortable area recommendation unit 160 displays the comfortable area information on a display.

[0185] After step S124, the processing of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0186] ***Effects of the 12th embodiment*** In the twelfth embodiment, a comfortable area for the user is recommended based on the estimated thermal sensation and area environment information, thereby making it possible to suggest a comfortable area based on the thermal sensation after walking.

[0187] ***Example of Embodiment 12*** The twelfth embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment. FIG. 45 shows the configuration of a thermal sensation estimating device 100 when the twelfth embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111. FIG. 46 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimating method in the case where the eleventh embodiment is applied to the second embodiment. In step S121B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S101B is the same as step S021 in the second embodiment. Step S122 is as explained in the twelfth embodiment. In step S123B, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information. Step S123B is the same as step S023 in the second embodiment. Step S124 is as explained in the twelfth embodiment.

[0188] ***Supplementary explanation of implementation form*** The hardware configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a processing circuit 109 . The processing circuit 109 is hardware that realizes a walking speed scale receiving unit 111, a walking time acquisition unit 120, and a thermal sensation estimation unit 130. The processing circuit 109 also realizes elements such as a walking environment acquisition unit 112, a walking attribute reception unit 141, a walking date and time acquisition unit 142, a beacon information receiving unit 143, a positioning function control unit 144, an equipment control unit 151, a nearby equipment identification unit 152, and a comfortable area recommendation unit 160. The processing circuitry 109 may be dedicated hardware, or may be a processor 101 that executes a program stored in memory 102 .

[0189] When processing circuitry 109 is dedicated hardware, processing circuitry 109 may be, for example, a single circuit, a multiple circuit, a programmed processor, parallel programmed processors, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof. ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit. FPGA is an abbreviation for Field Programmable Gate Array.

[0190] The thermal sensation estimation device 100 may include a plurality of processing circuits instead of the processing circuit 109.

[0191] In the processing circuit 109, some functions may be realized by dedicated hardware, and the remaining functions may be realized by software or firmware.

[0192] In this way, the functions of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 can be realized by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination of these.

[0193] Each embodiment is an example of a preferred embodiment and is not intended to limit the technical scope of the present disclosure. Each embodiment may be implemented in part or in combination with other embodiments. Two or more embodiments (or examples) may be implemented in combination. Procedures described using flowcharts, etc. may be modified as appropriate.

[0194] The "part" of each element of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 may be read as a "process," a "step," a "circuit," or a "circuitry." [Explanation of symbols]

[0195] 100 Thermal sensation estimation device, 101 Processor, 102 Memory, 103 Auxiliary storage device, 104 Communication device, 105 Input / output interface, 106 Positioning device, 109 Processing circuit, 111 Walking speed scale reception unit, 112 Walking environment acquisition unit, 120 Walking time acquisition unit, 121 Walking time reception unit, 122 Walking time calculation unit, 130 Thermal sensation estimation unit, 141 Walking attribute reception unit, 142 Walking date and time acquisition unit, 143 Beacon information reception unit, 144 Positioning function control unit, 151 Equipment control unit, 152 Nearby equipment identification unit, 160 Comfort area recommendation unit, 190 Memory unit.

Claims

1. a walking speed scale receiving unit that receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation unit that estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, using the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; A thermal sensation estimation device comprising: the thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The walking time acquisition unit determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation device.

2. a walking speed scale receiving unit that receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation unit that estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, using the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; A thermal sensation estimation device comprising: the thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, and includes a beacon information receiving unit; the beacon information receiving unit receives beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in the walking end area, The walking time acquisition unit determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation device.

3. a positioning function control unit that turns off the positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area; The thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 2 .

4. a walking environment acquisition unit that acquires walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area where the user walks; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation unit that estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, the usage information being the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information; A thermal sensation estimation device comprising: the thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The walking time acquisition unit determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation device.

5. a walking environment acquisition unit that acquires walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area where the user walks; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation unit that estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, the usage information being the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information; A thermal sensation estimation device comprising: the thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, and includes a beacon information receiving unit; the beacon information receiving unit receives beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in the walking end area, The walking time acquisition unit determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation device.

6. a positioning function control unit that turns off the positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area; The thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 5.

7. By a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, receiving a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; The received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information are used as usage information, and the thermal sensation of the user after walking is estimated based on the usage information. A method for estimating thermal sensation, The user terminal determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation method.

8. By a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, receiving a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; The received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information are used as usage information, and the thermal sensation of the user after walking is estimated based on the usage information. A method for estimating thermal sensation, The user terminal receiving beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in the walking end area; determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation method.

9. The user terminal turns off a positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area. The thermal sensation estimation method according to claim 8.

10. By a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, acquire walking environment information indicating an environment of a walking area in which the user walks; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; The acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information are used as usage information, and the thermal sensation of the user after walking is estimated based on the usage information. A method for estimating thermal sensation, The user terminal determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation method.

11. By a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, acquire walking environment information indicating an environment of a walking area in which the user walks; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; The acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information are used as usage information, and the thermal sensation of the user after walking is estimated based on the usage information. A method for estimating thermal sensation, The user terminal receiving beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in the walking end area; determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation method.

12. The user terminal turns off a positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area. The thermal sensation estimation method according to claim 11.

13. a walking speed scale receiving process for receiving a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of the user; a walking time acquisition process for acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation process for estimating a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, using the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the above. the computer is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The walking time acquisition process includes: determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation program.

14. A walking speed scale receiving process for receiving a walking speed scale input as a scale representing a user's walking speed; a walking time acquisition process for acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation process for estimating a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information, using the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; Beacon information reception processing; A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the above. the computer is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The beacon information reception process receives beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in a walking end area, The walking time acquisition process includes: determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation program.

15. The computer is caused to execute a positioning function control process that turns off the positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area. The thermal sensation estimation program according to claim 14.

16. A walking environment acquisition process for acquiring walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area where the user walks; a walking time acquisition process for acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation process for estimating a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information; A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the above. the computer is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The walking time acquisition process includes: determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and a walking end area and position information of the user terminal at each time; Based on the walking area information and position information of the user terminal at each time, a time when the user terminal enters the walking end area is calculated as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation program.

17. A walking environment acquisition process for acquiring walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area where a user walks; a walking time acquisition process for acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as a walking time; a thermal sensation estimation process for estimating a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information; Beacon information reception processing; A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the above. the computer is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, The beacon information reception process receives beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in a walking end area, The walking time acquisition process includes: determining a time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as a walking start time based on walking area information indicating a walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time; The time when the beacon information is received is determined as a walking end time; The walking time is calculated using the walking start time and the walking end time. Thermal sensation estimation program.

18. The computer is caused to execute a positioning function control process that turns off the positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area. The thermal sensation estimation program according to claim 17.

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