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

Abstract

A walking speed scale reception unit (111) receives a walking speed scale that is inputted as a scale indicating the walking speed of a user. A walking time acquisition unit (120) acquires walking time information indicating, as a walking time, the length of time during which the user has walked. A thermal sensation estimation unit (130) uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as use information to estimate the thermal sensation of the user after a walk on the basis of the use information.

Description

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

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

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a technology for controlling an air conditioner. In 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 a PMV (physical comfort rating value) based on the user's metabolic rate, the air conditioner's airflow temperature, the air conditioner's airflow humidity, and the like, falls within a comfortable range.

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

[0004] International Publication No. 2008 / 087959

[0005] The technology of 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.

[0007] The thermal sensation estimation device of the present disclosure includes a walking speed scale receiving unit that receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing the walking speed of a user; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information that indicates the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; and a thermal sensation estimation unit that uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information and estimates the thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

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

[0009] 1 is a configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a first embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the first embodiment. A diagram for explaining walking speed based on position information. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a second embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the second embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a third embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the third embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an example of the third embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the third embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a fourth embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the fourth embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an example of the fourth embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the fourth embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a fifth embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the fifth embodiment. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to a sixth embodiment. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to the sixth embodiment. 1. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 6. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 6. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in embodiment 7. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in embodiment 7. A diagram showing an example of a walking area in embodiment 7. A diagram showing an example of a walking area in embodiment 7. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 7. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 7. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in embodiment 8. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in embodiment 8. A diagram showing an example of a walking start area in embodiment 8. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 8. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 8. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in embodiment 9. A flowchart of positioning function control (A) in embodiment 9. A flowchart of positioning function control (B) in embodiment 9. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 9. 10 is a block diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to embodiment 10. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method according to embodiment 10. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 according to an example of embodiment 10.12. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 10. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in embodiment 11. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in embodiment 11. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 11. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 11. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in embodiment 12. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in embodiment 12. A configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an example of embodiment 12. A flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method in an example of embodiment 12. A hardware configuration diagram of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 in an embodiment.

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

[0012] ***Configuration Description***

[0013] The configuration of a thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 is realized by a user terminal carried by a 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 smartwatch.

[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 of these. 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 a NIC. 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 are 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 acceptance 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 the thermal sensation estimation program while executing 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 unit such as the auxiliary storage unit 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] ***Description of Operation*** The operational procedure of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 corresponds to a thermal sensation estimation method. The operational procedure of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 corresponds to a processing procedure by a thermal sensation estimation program.

[0025] The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 2. 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 representing the walking speed of a user. The walking speed is the speed of a user while walking. For example, the walking speed scale is expressed as an ordinal scale with three levels: "slow," "normal," and "fast." However, the walking speed scale may also be expressed as an ordinal scale with two levels or four or more levels.

[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, the walking speed scale is received as follows: First, after walking, the user operates the user terminal to operate 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 represents the length of time the user has been walking. Specifically, the walking time is the total amount of time 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 operate 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 the 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 input of usage information. A multiple regression model, a machine learning model, or the like is used as the estimation model. When a machine learning model is used, a support vector machine, a random forest, or XGBoost, or the like is used.

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

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

[0037] ***Effects of First Embodiment*** In the first embodiment, by using a walking speed scale (a value declared by the user) instead of walking speed based on location information, it is possible to more plausibly estimate the thermal sensation of a 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 location information will be described with reference to FIG. 3 . The walking speed is calculated using the location information as follows: The location information is acquired using GPS, GNSS, or the like. (1) The distance between the 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. The walking speed from the start point to the end point of the walk is then averaged. (2) The distance between the two points is calculated based on the location information of the two points, and the distance between the two points is added up to calculate the total walking distance. The walking speed is then calculated by dividing the total walking distance by the total walking time. The accuracy of the location information is approximately 1 meter to 100 meters. Therefore, an error of up to 200 meters can occur in the distance between the two points. In other words, the accuracy of the walking speed between the two points in (1) may be low. If location information is acquired once every 10 seconds, an error of up to 1,200 meters / minute can occur in the total walking distance. In other words, the accuracy of the walking speed in (2) may be low. 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 in the device to determine whether a user is walking or stopped. However, the measurement values ​​of the acceleration sensor depend on the model / individual device, 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] As such, it is considered inappropriate to use walking speed based on location information. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the thermal sensation after walking is estimated based on the user's walking speed scale (an ordinal scale such as slow, normal, fast, etc.) and the user's walking time. 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 the thermal sensation after walking more plausibly. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking regardless of the device used, regardless of who is using which smartphone. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking while reducing the power consumption of the device.

[0040] Second Embodiment A second embodiment of the present invention, which estimates a thermal sensation after walking by taking into consideration the walking environment instead of the walking speed scale, will be described below with reference to Figs. 4 and 5, mainly with respect to differences from the first embodiment.

[0041] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. 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 a computer to function as the walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale acceptance unit 111.

[0042] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 5. 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 a 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] The walking environment information is acquired as follows: 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 the walking area information to an 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. Weather forecast servers are used by the Japan Meteorological Agency or commercial services, and provide weather information for each area.

[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. The various sensors include a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. Data obtained by the various sensors is referred to as sensor data. The sensor data indicates temperature, humidity, etc. The walking environment acquisition unit 112 communicates with outdoor units installed in the walking area and receives sensor data from the 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 a building. The walking environment acquisition unit 112 communicates with various sensors in buildings built in a 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 estimator 130 estimates the user's thermal sensation after walking based on the usage information, using the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information. Step S023 corresponds to step S013 (see embodiment 1) in which the walking speed scale is replaced with the walking environment information.

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

[0051] ***Effects of Embodiment 2*** The thermal sensation after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the place where the person walked (high / low temperature, etc.). In embodiment 2, the thermal sensation after walking is estimated using environmental information of the walking route (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.) and the walking time. By using environmental information instead of walking speed, it is possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking more plausibly. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking regardless of the device used, regardless of who is using which smartphone. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking while reducing the power consumption of the device.

[0052] Third Embodiment A third embodiment of estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of attributes related to the user's walking will be described below, focusing on differences from the first embodiment, with reference to Figs. 6 to 9 .

[0053] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking attribute receiving unit 141. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the walking attribute receiving unit 141.

[0054] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 7. 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 user's thermal sensation. 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 the sun, and whether the user has heavy luggage.

[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 operate 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 the walking attribute information. Next, the user operates the user terminal to input the walking attribute information into the attribute input screen. Then, the walking attribute receiving unit 141 receives the input walking attribute information.

[0060] The order of steps S031 to S033 may be reversed. After steps S031 to S033, the process proceeds to step S034.

[0061] In step S034, the thermal sensation estimator 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 the walking attribute information is included in the usage information.

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

[0063] ***Effects of Embodiment 3*** 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 embodiment 3, the thermal sensation is estimated using the user's walking attribute information as well. This makes it possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking with greater accuracy.

[0064] ***Example of Embodiment 3*** Embodiment 3 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 8 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 3 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 3 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S031B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S031B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Steps S032 and S033 are as described in Embodiment 3. In step S034B, the thermal sensation estimation 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] Fourth Embodiment A fourth embodiment of estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of the date and time of walking will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to Figs.

[0066] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking date and time acquisition unit 142. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the walking date and time acquisition unit 142.

[0067] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 11. In step S041, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives a 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 date and time of walking. The walking date and time corresponds to the date and time when the user was walking.

[0071] The 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 the walking date and time information.

[0072] The order of steps S041 to S043 may be reversed. After steps S041 to S043, the process proceeds to step S044.

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

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

[0075] ***Effects of the Fourth Embodiment*** The thermal sensation after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment (high / low temperature, etc.) of the area where the person walked. The date and time correspond to the thermal environment. For example, the temperature tends to be high at 1:00 PM in August. The fourth embodiment assumes that the date and time correspond to the thermal environment, and uses an estimation model that corresponds to the current date and time information. This makes it possible to estimate the thermal sensation after walking with greater accuracy.

[0076] ***Example of Embodiment 4*** Embodiment 4 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 12 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 4 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 4 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S041B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S041B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Steps S042 and S043 are as described in Embodiment 3. In step S044B, the thermal sensation estimation unit 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] Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment of estimating a thermal sensation after walking in consideration of the walking environment will be described below, mainly with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, in terms of differences from the first embodiment.

[0078] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a walking environment acquisition unit 112. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the walking environment acquisition unit 112.

[0079] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In step S051, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives a 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] The order of steps S051 to S053 may be reversed. After steps S051 to S053, the process proceeds to step S054.

[0083] In step S054, the thermal sensation estimator 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 the walking environment information is included in the usage information.

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

[0085] ***Effects of Embodiment 5*** The thermal sensation after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the area where the user walked (high / low temperature, etc.). In embodiment 5, the thermal sensation after walking is estimated using environmental information about the walking route (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.). This allows the thermal sensation after walking to be estimated more accurately.

[0086] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment of the present invention for acquiring walking environment information using a positioning function will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the fifth embodiment, with reference to Figs.

[0087] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 16. 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] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 17. In step S061, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives a 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] The walking environment information is acquired as follows. First, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires location 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 in which the user terminal is located from the environmental information server. The received environmental information becomes the walking environment information.

[0093] The order of steps S061 to S063 may be reversed. After steps S061 to S063, the process proceeds to step S064.

[0094] In step S064, the thermal sensation estimator 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 the walking environment information is included in the usage information.

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

[0096] ***Effects of the Sixth Embodiment*** The thermal sensation after walking depends not only on the walking speed and walking time, but also on the thermal environment of the area where the user walked (high / low temperature, etc.). The sixth embodiment estimates the thermal sensation after walking by using environmental information about the walking route (temperature, humidity, solar radiation, etc.). This allows the thermal sensation after walking to be estimated more accurately.

[0097] ***Example of Embodiment 6*** Embodiment 6 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 18 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 6 is applied to Embodiment 2. 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 estimation method when Embodiment 6 is applied to Embodiment 2. Steps S063 and S062 are as described in Embodiment 6. In step S064B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S064B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2.

[0098] Seventh Embodiment A seventh embodiment of calculating walking time using location information will be described below, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment, with reference to Figs.

[0099] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 20 . 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 a walking time acceptance unit 121.

[0100] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 21. 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. The walking area information is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The walking start area is an area that includes a walking start point. The walking start point corresponds to a point where the user starts walking. The walking end area is an area that includes a walking end point. The walking end point corresponds to a point where the user ends walking.

[0104] Examples of the walking start area and the walking end area will be described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. In Figure 22, the walking start point and the 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 the walking start point as its center and a certain distance 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. However, the walking start area and the walking end area may be areas of a shape other than circular. For example, the walking start area and the walking end area may be rectangular areas. 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 obtained 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 is stopped between the walking start time and the walking end time. For example, a time period during which the position of the user terminal does not change for a certain period of time is considered to be a time period during which walking has stopped. Note that if the position of the user terminal does not change by a certain distance, it is considered that the position of the user terminal has 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 estimator 130 uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as 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 process of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0115] ***Effects of the Seventh Embodiment*** Walking time may vary from day to day. In order to accurately estimate thermal sensation, it is necessary to acquire walking time each time. In the seventh embodiment, the walking time is automatically calculated using location information. This can save the user the trouble of having to enter information.

[0116] ***Example of Embodiment 7*** Embodiment 7 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 24 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 7 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 25 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 7 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S071B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S071B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Step S072 is as described in Embodiment 7. In step S073B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S073B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2.

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

[0118] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 26. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a beacon information receiving unit 143. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the beacon information receiving unit 143.

[0119] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 27. In step S081, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives a 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 installed in each walking end area. For example, a beacon is installed in a building that is the user's walking destination. The 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 ​​a 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 reaches. 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 calculates 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 a walking start area will be described with reference to Fig. 28. The walking start point is set in advance. The walking end point is the position of a beacon identified by an individual identifier shown in the received beacon information. The walking start area is expressed as 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 shows an individual identifier and location information for each beacon, with the individual identifier and location information associated 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, setting the location indicated in the acquired location information as the walking end point.

[0124] Returning to FIG. 27, the description will continue.

[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 estimator 130 uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as 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 process of the thermal sensation estimating method ends.

[0128] ***Effects of the Eighth Embodiment*** The eighth embodiment automatically calculates walking time 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*** Embodiment 8 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 29 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 8 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 30 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 8 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S081B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S081B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Step S082 is as described in Embodiment 8. In step S083B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S083B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2.

[0130] Ninth Embodiment A form for suppressing power consumption of a user terminal will be described below, mainly with respect to the differences from the eighth embodiment, with reference to Figs.

[0131] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 31. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a positioning function control unit 144. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes the computer to function as the positioning function control unit 144.

[0132] ***Description of Operation*** Positioning function control (A) will be described with reference to Fig. 32. Positioning function control (A) is an example of positioning function control. The positioning function control is a process included in the thermal sensation estimation 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 the walking area information and the position 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. In other words, 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 beacon information has no longer been received. The positioning function control unit 144 may detect that the radio wave intensity at the time of receiving the beacon information 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. 33. The positioning function control (B) is an example of the 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 the method in step S093A. Then, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the positioning function of the user terminal in a suppressed setting. In other words, the positioning function control unit 144 turns on the communication device 104 in a suppressed setting. The suppressed setting is a setting for suppressing power consumption by the positioning function. For example, in the suppressed 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 shorter than a certain distance.

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

[0144] ***Effects of the Ninth Embodiment*** Using the positioning function of a smartphone consumes power. In the ninth embodiment, parameters such as turning the positioning function on / off, positioning frequency, and positioning accuracy are switched according to the location information. This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the smartphone while eliminating the need for user input.

[0145] ***Example of Embodiment 9*** Embodiment 9 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 34 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 9 is applied to Embodiment 2. 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 described in Embodiment 9.

[0146] Tenth Embodiment A tenth embodiment of controlling an air conditioner or the like based on an estimated thermal sensation will be described with reference to Figs. 35 to 38, mainly focusing on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0147] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 35. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called an equipment control unit 151. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the equipment control unit 151.

[0148] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 36. In step S101, the walking speed scale receiving unit 111 receives a 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] The order of steps S101 and S102 may be reversed. After steps S101 and S102, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0151] In step S103, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as 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 designated thermal / cooling equipment. The designated equipment is registered in advance. The thermal / cooling equipment is equipment that affects a person's thermal sensation. Examples of thermal / cooling equipment include air conditioners, electric fans, ventilation systems, 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 pre-stored 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 for 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 changes the settings of the designated equipment to the determined settings by communicating with the designated equipment.

[0155] For example, an air conditioner, which is the designated equipment, is controlled as follows: The favorite setting information indicates a favorite temperature. If the estimated thermal sensation is a value of +2 or greater, 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 toward the user. Because the state of high thermal sensation is considered to last for 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 toward the user. The equipment control unit 151 sets the temperature to the favorite temperature. The equipment control unit 151 may correct the favorite temperature based on the estimated thermal sensation and set the temperature 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 passed.

[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 greater, 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 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 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 designated equipment is a lighting equipment and the estimated thermal sensation is high, the equipment control unit 151 decreases the color temperature of the lighting.

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

[0159] ***Effects of Embodiment 10*** 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*** Embodiment 10 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 37 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 10 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 38 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 10 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S101B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S101B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Step S102 is as described in Embodiment 10. In step S103B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S103B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2. Step S104 is as described in Embodiment 10.

[0161] Eleventh Embodiment A mode of controlling an air conditioner or the like based on an estimated thermal sensation will be described below with reference to Figs. 39 to 42, mainly focusing on the differences from the tenth embodiment.

[0162] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 39. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a nearby equipment identification unit 152. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the nearby equipment identification unit 152.

[0163] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 40. 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] The order of steps S111 and S112 may be reversed. After steps S111 and S112, the process proceeds to step S113.

[0166] In step S113, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as 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 identification unit 152 receives beacon information from at least one of the plurality of heating and cooling equipment.

[0168] The multiple heating and cooling devices are installed at different locations. Each heating and cooling device is equipped with a beacon. The 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] The nearby equipment identification unit 152 then selects one of the heating and cooling equipment units based on the beacon information received. The selected heating and cooling equipment unit is referred to as the nearby equipment unit. The nearby equipment unit is the heating and cooling equipment unit located near the user after walking.

[0170] Nearby equipment is identified as follows: A list of heating and cooling equipment is stored in advance in the storage unit 190. The heating and cooling equipment list shows an equipment identifier and a beacon identifier associated with each piece of heating and cooling equipment. When beacon information is received from one 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 received beacon information. The heating and 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 or the shortest radio wave reachable distance. 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 communicate beacon information, radio wave reachable distance is used. 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 in the tenth embodiment.

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

[0174] ***Effects of Eleventh Embodiment*** In the eleventh embodiment, the settings of a nearby air conditioner are automatically changed based on the estimated thermal sensation. This makes it possible to use a nearby air conditioner to achieve comfortable air conditioning control based on the thermal sensation after walking.

[0175] ***Example of Embodiment 11*** Embodiment 11 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 41 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 11 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 42 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 11 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S111B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S111B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Step S112 is as described in Embodiment 10. In step S113B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S113B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2. Steps S114 and S115 are as described in Embodiment 11.

[0176] Twelfth Embodiment A twelfth embodiment of the present invention, which recommends a comfortable area in accordance with an estimated thermal sensation, will be described below with reference to Figs. 43 to 46, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0177] ***Description of Configuration*** The configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 43. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 further includes an element called a comfort area recommendation unit 160. The thermal sensation estimation program further causes a computer to function as the comfort area recommendation unit 160.

[0178] ***Description of Operation*** The thermal sensation estimation method will be described with reference to Fig. 44. 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] The order of steps S121 and S122 may be reversed. After steps S121 and S122, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0181] In step S123, the thermal sensation estimator 130 uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as 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 list of use areas. The comfort area is one of multiple use areas. The list of use areas shows area identifiers and area environment information associated with each other for each use area. The use area is an area that can be used by the user after walking. For example, the multiple use areas are multiple rooms in a building that is the destination of the walk. For example, a room number is used as the area identifier. The area environment information is data indicating the environment of the use area. For example, the area environment information indicates the set temperature and set humidity. For example, if the estimated thermal sensation is higher than a certain level, the comfort area recommendation unit 160 selects an area identifier from the list of use areas associated with area environment information that indicates a set temperature that is lower than a certain level. The use area identified by the selected area identifier becomes the comfort 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 level of humidity, etc.

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

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

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

[0187] ***Example of Embodiment 12*** Embodiment 12 may be applied to Embodiment 2. FIG. 45 shows the configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 when Embodiment 12 is applied to Embodiment 2. The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a walking environment acquisition unit 112 instead of the walking speed scale receiving unit 111. FIG. 46 shows a flowchart of a thermal sensation estimation method when Embodiment 11 is applied to Embodiment 2. In step S121B, the walking environment acquisition unit 112 acquires walking environment information. Step S101B is the same as step S021 in Embodiment 2. Step S122 is as described in Embodiment 12. In step S123B, the thermal sensation estimation 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 S123B is the same as step S023 in Embodiment 2. Step S124 is as described in Embodiment 12.

[0188] ***Supplementary Information on the Embodiment*** The hardware configuration of the thermal sensation estimation device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 47 . The thermal sensation estimation device 100 includes a processing circuit 109. The processing circuit 109 is hardware that implements 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 implements elements such as a walking environment acquisition unit 112, a walking attribute receiving 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 circuit 109 may be dedicated hardware, or may be a processor 101 that executes a program stored in the memory 102.

[0189] When the processing circuit 109 is dedicated hardware, the processing circuit 109 may be, for example, a single circuit, a multiple circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, 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 that replace 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."

[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 Comfortable area recommendation unit, 190 Storage unit.

Claims

1. A thermal sensation estimating device comprising: a walking speed scale receiving unit that receives a walking speed scale input as a scale representing a user's walking speed; a walking time acquiring unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; and a thermal sensation estimating unit that uses the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information and estimates a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

2. A thermal sensation estimation device comprising: a walking environment acquisition unit that acquires walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area in which a user walks; a walking time acquisition unit that acquires walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; and a thermal sensation estimation unit that uses the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information and estimates the thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

3. The thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a walking attribute receiving unit that receives walking attribute information input as information indicating attributes related to the user's walking, and the thermal sensation estimation unit includes the received walking attribute information in the usage information and estimates the thermal sensation based on the usage information.

4. The thermal sensation estimation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a walking date and time acquisition unit that acquires walking date and time information indicating a walking date and time corresponding to a date and time when the user was walking, and the thermal sensation estimation unit includes the acquired walking date and time information in the usage information and estimates the thermal sensation based on the usage information.

5. The thermal sensation estimation device of claim 1, further comprising a walking environment acquisition unit that acquires walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area in which the user walks, and the thermal sensation estimation unit includes the acquired walking environment information in the usage information and estimates the thermal sensation based on the usage information.

6. The thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 2 or claim 5, wherein the thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, and the walking environment acquisition unit acquires environmental information of the area corresponding to location information of the user terminal as the walking environment information.

7. A thermal sensation estimation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the walking time acquisition unit receives the walking time information inputted through a user interface.

8. The thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, and the walking time acquisition unit determines the 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, determines the time when the user terminal enters the walking end area as a walking end time based on the walking area information and the position information of the user terminal at each time, and calculates the walking time using the walking start time and the walking end time. A thermal sensation estimation device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. The thermal sensation estimation device is a user terminal carried by the user while the user is walking, and is equipped with a beacon information receiving unit, wherein the beacon information receiving unit receives beacon information transmitted from a beacon provided in a walking end area, and the walking time acquisition unit determines, based on walking area information indicating the walking start area and position information of the user terminal at each time, the time when the user terminal enters the walking start area as the walking start time, determines the time when the beacon information is received as the walking end time, and calculates the walking time using the walking start time and the walking end time. A thermal sensation estimation device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. A thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 9, further comprising a positioning function control unit that turns off the positioning function of the user terminal when the user terminal enters the walking start area.

11. The thermal sensation estimation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising an equipment control unit that controls designated equipment that is designated as one of the thermal / cold equipment that affects a person's thermal sensation, and the equipment control unit controls the designated equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation.

12. A thermal sensation estimation device according to claim 11, wherein the equipment control unit adjusts settings of the designated equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation and the user's favorite settings for the designated equipment.

13. A thermal sensation estimation device as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising: a nearby equipment identification unit that receives beacon information from at least one of a plurality of hot and cold equipment pieces that are installed at different positions and affect a person's thermal sensation, and identifies one of the plurality of hot and cold equipment pieces as a nearby equipment based on the reception result of the beacon information; and an equipment control unit that controls the nearby equipment based on the estimated thermal sensation.

14. The thermal sensation estimation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a comfort area recommendation unit that selects one of a plurality of usable areas that may be used by the user after walking as a comfort area and presents comfort area information indicating the selected comfort area, and the comfort area recommendation unit selects the comfort area based on the estimated thermal sensation and area environment information indicating the environment of each of the usable areas.

15. A method for estimating a thermal sensation, comprising: receiving a walking speed scale input as a scale representing a user's walking speed; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; treating the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information; and estimating a thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

16. A method for estimating thermal sensation, comprising: acquiring walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area in which a user walks; acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; and treating the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information, and estimating the thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

17. A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the following steps: 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 walking time; and a thermal sensation estimation process for treating the received walking speed scale and the acquired walking time information as usage information and estimating the thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

18. A thermal sensation estimation program for causing a computer to execute the following steps: a walking environment acquisition process for acquiring walking environment information indicating the environment of a walking area in which a user walks; a walking time acquisition process for acquiring walking time information indicating the length of time the user has been walking as walking time; and a thermal sensation estimation process for treating the acquired walking environment information and the acquired walking time information as usage information and estimating the thermal sensation of the user after walking based on the usage information.

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